IKA Topolino Mini Magnetic Stirrer without Heating, up to 250 ml, Plastic Base, 0003368000

For the rapid homogenisation of a small sample, a series of dilutions or the dissolution of a tablet in a few millilitres of buffer, there is no need for a full-size magnetic stirrer with a heating plate, which takes up unnecessary space on the laboratory bench. The IKA topolino (0003368000) is the most compact magnetic stirrer in the IKA range, with a round plastic base measuring 80 millimetres in diameter, a maximum stirring volume of 250 millilitres and a weight of just 0.484 kilograms.

The most compact model in the IKA range of stirrers

Measuring 95 x 37 x 115 millimetres and weighing 0.484 kilograms, the topolino is designed for use in the most confined spaces, such as right next to a microscope, in a fume cupboard or on an already cluttered workbench. The plastic (PP) base has a diameter of 80 millimetres and is designed for vessels with a stirring volume of up to 250 millilitres and a maximum load of 0.5 kilograms.

Continuously variable speed from 500 to 1,800 rpm

The stirring drive, with an output power of 0.8 watts, covers a continuously adjustable speed range from 500 to 1,800 revolutions per minute, which is sufficiently rated for small volumes of low-viscosity liquids. Stirring rods up to 30 millimetres in length can be used, adapted to the compact vessel size for which the topolino is designed.

No heating function, but uncompromisingly compact

Unlike the C-MAG and RCT/RET series, the topolino deliberately does not include a heating function. This keeps the design and weight to a minimum and makes the unit a pure stirring solution for applications where temperature control is not required.

Simple operation without a digital display

The topolino deliberately does not feature a display and is operated via a simple control knob that allows the speed to be adjusted continuously between 500 and 1,800 revolutions per minute. For small volumes, this straightforward operating logic is usually sufficient, as the exact speed rarely needs to be reproduced to the nearest second with such small sample quantities, unlike in larger processes where documentation is required.

Typical applications

As the smallest magnetic stirrer in the IKA range, the topolino is technically suitable for:

• Homogenising and dissolving small sample volumes of up to 250 millilitres
• Serial dilutions and sample preparation where space is limited
• Use in fume cupboards or in confined workspaces
• Portable use thanks to its low weight of 0.484 kilograms
• As a secondary unit for occasional stirring alongside a larger main unit

Selection guide: small volume or larger stirring volume

The required stirring volume is the key criterion when selecting the appropriate magnetic stirrer:

If volumes ranging from a few millilitres up to 250 millilitres are required without the need for heating, the topolino is the most compact and lightweight solution. As soon as larger volumes or a heating function are required, a C-MAG or RCT/RET model is essential; however, these models involve a significant increase in space requirements, weight and purchase price.

Differences compared to larger IKA magnetic stirrers

With a stirring capacity of 10 l and integrated heating, the IKA C-MAG HS 7 handles significantly larger batches, with a correspondingly larger dimensions of 220 x 105 x 335 millimetres and a weight of 5 kilograms, compared to the topolino’s 0.484 kilograms. Anyone looking for a portable, battery-powered alternative to the topolino will find the topolino mobil, a battery-powered version that does not require a mains connection. For applications requiring heating with a similarly small volume, the IKA Plate (RCT digital) is also available in the RCT series, albeit with a significantly higher maximum mixing capacity and a correspondingly larger design.

Technical details

Scope of delivery

• 1 x IKA topolino mini magnetic stirrer (0003368000)

Please enquire as to whether magnetic stirring bars and a mains cable are included; if required, these must be purchased separately.

Use, installation, maintenance and disposal

With an IP 21 protection rating, the topolino is protected against vertically falling dripping water and is designed for operation on a stable, level surface, such as directly next to a microscope, in a fume cupboard or on a mobile trolley for use at different workstations. Due to its low weight of 0.484 kilograms, care should be taken to ensure it is securely positioned so that the device does not shift due to vibration at higher speeds. The plastic base is easy to clean; chemical resistance to aggressive solvents should be checked on a case-by-case basis. At the end of its service life, as an electrical appliance, the device must not be disposed of with household waste but must be placed in the separate collection scheme for waste electrical and electronic equipment; the manufacturer’s WEEE registration number is DE 66784213.

Investment rationale: When the topolino is sufficient

For sample volumes of up to 250 millilitres without the need for heating, the topolino is the most cost-effective and compact solution within the IKA magnetic stirrer range, both in terms of purchase price and bench space requirements, particularly when several workstations are to be equipped simultaneously with a small, affordable stirrer. As soon as larger volumes need to be stirred on a regular basis or temperature control is required, it makes more sense to invest in a C-MAG or RCT/RET model with a correspondingly larger stirring capacity and heating function, as the topolino is not designed for these applications, either in terms of footprint or motor power. For workstations with varying requirements, a topolino may be worth considering as a secondary unit for small intermediate steps, in addition to a larger main unit.

Individual requirements and procurement service

Where required, suitable original accessories are available for the topolino, such as magnetic stirring bars in various shapes, beaker lids and a stirring bar remover, as well as certificates and documentation for qualification purposes. Through our procurement service, we also assist you with spare parts and the configuration of multiple workstations with standardised accessories. Further information and contact details can be found at lt-laborhandel.com/service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the topolino also heat?
No, the topolino is a magnetic stirrer only, without a heating function.

What voltage options does the topolino support?
According to the data sheet, the device covers a wide input range of 100 to 240 volts at 50 or 60 hertz and can therefore be operated in different countries without a separate voltage converter.

What is the maximum volume that can be stirred?
According to the manufacturer’s specifications, up to 250 millilitres of water, corresponding to a maximum load of 0.5 kilograms.

Are magnetic stirring bars included in the Scope of delivery?
We will confirm on request whether stirring bars are included; if required, they must be purchased separately.

How does the topolino compare in size to other IKA magnetic stirrers?
Measuring 95 x 37 x 115 millimetres and weighing 0.484 kilograms, it is the most compact and lightest model in the IKA magnetic stirrer range.

Is there a battery-powered alternative?
Yes, with the topolino mobil, IKA offers a battery-powered version that does not require a fixed mains connection.

Does the topolino fit inside a fume cupboard or under a microscope?
With a footprint of just 95 x 115 millimetres and a height of 37 millimetres, the topolino can be accommodated in very confined spaces, such as right next to other small appliances or measuring instruments.

Is the motor power sufficient for more viscous media?
With an output power of 0.8 watts, the drive is designed for low-viscosity, aqueous media in small volumes; for more viscous media, the more powerful C-MAG or RCT/RET models, with significantly higher motor power, are better suited.

Is the topolino suitable for continuous operation?
Its simple, robust design without a digital display is intended for straightforward routine operation; we can provide specific details on the permissible duty cycle on request.

How should the topolino be disposed of correctly?
As an electrical appliance, it should be taken to a waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) collection point rather than disposed of with household waste; the manufacturer’s WEEE registration number is listed in the section on ‘Use, Installation, Maintenance and Disposal’.