IKA Topolino Mobil, magnetic stirrer without heating, battery-powered, 0003381300

Electromagnetic rotational kinematics in microvolumes

The homogenisation of aqueous or low-viscosity samples in portable field diagnostics requires compact systems with a highly efficient ratio of energy consumption to mechanical torque transmission. The IKA topolino mobil operates as a purely electromagnetic stirrer (without a thermodynamic heating function) and is process-technically limited to a maximum working volume of 250 ml (based on water). The miniaturised drive train generates a continuously variable rotating magnetic field that synchronises the magnetic stirring bar in the vessel at a frequency of 300 to 1,800 revolutions per minute. This asymmetric speed range makes it possible to generate gentle diffusion flows at low frequencies for sensitive colorimetric titrations, whilst the maximum speed generates a strong axial flow vortex to mix reagents microkinetically in fractions of a second.

Energy self-sufficiency and system isolation

The fundamental innovation of this model lies in its complete energy decoupling from the mains supply. The topolino mobil is primarily powered by rechargeable NiMH batteries (AA standard) or conventional batteries. This infrastructural self-sufficiency makes the system ideally suited for use in self-contained glove boxes, anaerobic workbenches or compact CO₂ incubators, where the routing of stationary power cables through the housing walls would compromise the system’s hermetic seal (and thus the aerosol containment or the atmosphere). With a self-sufficient operating time of up to 12 hours, the system guarantees uninterrupted fluid-mechanical agitation far removed from laboratory infrastructure (field use).

Tribological material architecture and system statics

Despite its extreme miniaturisation, the device is subject to the chemical and physical requirements of instrumental analysis. The monolithic housing and base are entirely injection-moulded from high-density polypropylene (PP). This thermoplastic polymer exhibits excellent structural integrity and is highly chemically inert towards accidentally spilled acids, bases or organic solvents. The absence of a heating matrix prevents thermal stress on the housing material and eliminates the latent risk of sample denaturation due to unintended heat transfer.

Technical details

Kinematics & Fluid Mechanics

• Operating principle: Electromagnetic rotation
• Maximum stirring volume (H₂O): 250 ml
• Speed range: 300 – 1,800 rpm
• Speed adjustment: Continuously variable via analogue rotary potentiometer
• Maximum magnetic stir bar length: 30 mm
• Motor power input / output: 1.2 W / 0.8 W
• Motor type: Brushless DC motor (wear-free)

Energy management & self-sufficiency

• Primary power supply: Mains-independent rechargeable or battery operation (AA / Mignon)
• Maximum running time (rechargeable battery operation): approx. 8 to 12 hours (depending on viscosity)
• Secondary power supply: Mains adapter for continuous stationary operation
• Charging function: Integrated; charges rechargeable batteries whilst the device is connected to the mains

Materials Science & Dimensions

• Housing / base material: Polypropylene (PP)
• Base dimensions: Ø 70 mm
• System dimensions (W x H x D): 140 x 40 x 73 mm
• Weight: 0.13 kg (excluding batteries)

Safety & Environmental Conditions

• Permissible ambient temperature range: 5 – 40 °C (suitable for incubators)
• Permissible relative humidity: max. 80 %
• Protection class (according to DIN EN 60529): IP 20

Electrical & Infrastructure

• Voltage / frequency (mains adaptor): 100 – 240 V / 50/60 Hz
• DC input on the device: 9 V
• Current consumption: 300 mA

Contents of delivery

• 1 x IKA topolino mobil magnetic stirrer
• 4 x rechargeable NiMH batteries (type AA)
• 1 x mains adaptor (incl. adapter)

(Important note: Magnetic stirring rods for creating agitation in the vessel are not included!)

Individual requirements & accessories

The topolino mobil generates pure electromagnetic rotation, but requires a suitable rotor in the medium to induce the flow. Due to the spatial limitations of the system and the induced magnetic field, the length of the magnetic stirring rod must not exceed the absolute maximum of 30 mm; otherwise, at higher frequencies, the rotor will be thrown out of the magnetic field (decoupled) due to asymmetric slip. For aqueous micro-assays, we recommend standard PTFE-coated IKAFLON stirring rods (20 mm or 30 mm). Please contact our procurement service at any time for the fluid-dynamically correct configuration of your mobile setup.