IKA MultiDrive MI 400.2 star blade, stainless steel, for MI 400, 0020023171

Kinetics of cutting and shear comminution on a scaled-up scale

In large-volume materials science and biological sample preparation, tough, elastic and extremely fibrous matrices (such as plastics, textiles, paper or dense root tissue) present a major physical challenge. Elastic materials absorb kinetic impact energy rather than breaking. The IKA MultiDrive MI 400.2 star blade is geometrically engineered for high-precision cutting and shear comminution in the scaled 400 ml grinding chamber. Driven by the MultiDrive base station at speeds of up to 30,000 revolutions per minute, the solid star blades sever the macromolecular fibre structures by applying massive, localised shear stresses. This pulling cut continuously disaggregates the sample material and transforms it into a homogeneous, free-flowing matrix, even with large batch volumes.

Macro-fluid dynamics and the prevention of rotational blockages

A fundamental mechanical problem in the high-speed grinding of long fibres—which is further exacerbated by increased flow turbulence in large-volume chambers—is the so-called wrapping effect. Fibrous materials tend to wrap themselves around the rotating tool shaft. This leads to an exponential increase in torsional resistance, which can cause the drive motor to overheat. The MI 400.2 star blade overcomes this rheological phenomenon thanks to its multi-bladed star geometry, which is calculated to match the radius of the 400-ml chamber. The enlarged blades direct the sample material radially outwards towards the chamber wall and systematically cut the fibres long before static wrapping structures can form around the shaft.

Material integrity and mechanical resilience

To withstand the continuous mechanical abrasion caused by tough polymers or woody biomass in large batches, the star blade is manufactured from solid, highly wear-resistant stainless steel. The blades retain their microscopic sharpness even during extended grinding intervals under high thermal stress. The corrosion-resistant, single-material design enables laboratories operating in accordance with strict GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) guidelines to carry out thorough chemical decontamination and residue-free thermal sterilisation in an autoclave, thereby preventing any carry-over between large batches.

Technical details

• Product type: Star blade (cutting tool for large volumes / spare part)
• Processing principle: Cutting and shear comminution
• Physical scope of application: Tough, elastic and fibrous sample matrices
• Compatibility (vessel): Exclusively suitable for the IKA MultiDrive MI 400 (400 ml chamber)
• Compatibility (drive): IKA MultiDrive basic and MultiDrive control
• Material: Solid, highly wear-resistant stainless steel
• Blade geometry: Scaled, multi-bladed star profile to prevent tangling
• Fitting: Tool-free, form-fit attachment to the drive shaft inside the vessel
• Cleaning and hygiene: Fully autoclavable and solvent-resistant

Contents

• 1 x IKA MultiDrive MI 400.2 star blade (stainless steel)

(Important note: The MultiDrive drive unit and the MI 400 grinding chamber are not included in the scope of delivery!)

Custom requirements & accessories

The MI 400.2 star blade is the most important wear part in terms of process engineering for high-volume cutting and comminution. Processing extremely tough or abrasive samples inevitably leads to gradual blunting of the cutting edges due to mechanical stress. A blunt blade drastically increases the thermodynamic stress on the sample (frictional heat). To ensure gentle, thermally stable preparation of large batches, we recommend having replacement blades ready at an early stage should cutting performance begin to decline. Please contact our procurement service at any time for the strategic procurement of laboratory consumables.