Micro Magnetic Stirring Bars

Micro magnetic stirring bars are specialized laboratory tools designed for efficient mixing in very small volumes. These miniature stirring bars are essential for applications that require precise and thorough mixing in tiny vessels, such as microcentrifuge tubes, small vials, and other small-scale containers. Here’s an in-depth look at their features, applications, and benefits:

Design and Shape

Compact Size: Micro stirring bars are designed to be extremely small, allowing them to fit into microcentrifuge tubes, small vials, and other small-scale containers. Their size typically ranges from a few millimeters to a centimeter in length.
Various Shapes: They are available in different shapes, including cylindrical, oval, and barbell, to accommodate various mixing needs and vessel shapes. The shape is chosen to maximize the efficiency of mixing in small volumes.

Applications

Microcentrifuge Tubes: Ideal for mixing small samples in microcentrifuge tubes, which are commonly used in molecular biology, biochemistry, and clinical laboratories.
Small Vials: Used for preparing solutions in small vials, such as those used in chromatography and other analytical techniques.
Chemical Reactions: Suitable for small-scale chemical reactions where precise mixing is crucial to achieve uniform reaction conditions.
Biological Research: Used for mixing small biological samples, such as cell cultures, DNA/RNA samples, and other biological fluids, where consistent and gentle mixing is required.
Pharmaceuticals: Useful in the pharmaceutical industry for mixing small batches of formulations or conducting small-scale tests.

Benefits

Efficient Mixing: Despite their small size, micro stirring bars provide efficient and thorough mixing. Their design ensures that even the smallest samples are mixed uniformly.
Chemical Resistance: The PTFE coating provides excellent resistance to a wide range of chemicals, ensuring the stirring bar can be used safely with various substances.
Durability: The robust magnetic core and durable PTFE coating ensure long-lasting performance, even under continuous use in harsh conditions.
Versatility: Suitable for use in a variety of small vessels, making them versatile tools for different laboratory applications.
Precision: Ideal for applications that require precise control over mixing, such as in research and development, quality control, and analytical testing.

Tips for Use

Magnetic Stirrer Compatibility: Ensure the magnetic stirrer used is compatible with the small size of the micro stirring bar to achieve optimal performance. Some magnetic stirrers are specifically designed for micro-scale mixing.
Appropriate Vessel: Use micro stirring bars in appropriately sized small vessels to ensure effective mixing. The shape and size of the vessel should complement the stirring bar.
Cleaning and Maintenance: Regularly clean the stirring bars to remove any residues and maintain their chemical resistance and performance. PTFE-coated bars can usually be cleaned with mild detergents and rinsed thoroughly with water.

Comparison with Other Shapes

Standard Cylindrical Bars: Standard cylindrical bars are too large for very small vessels and do not provide the precise mixing required for micro-scale applications.
Oval Bars: Oval bars are effective for round bottom flasks but may not fit well in microcentrifuge tubes and small vials as micro stirring bars do.
Triangular Bars: Triangular bars generate strong turbulence and are suitable for larger volumes with sediments, while micro stirring bars are specifically designed for precise mixing in small volumes.

Summary

Micro magnetic stirring bars are essential tools for laboratories that frequently work with very small volumes. Their compact size and specialized design ensure efficient and thorough mixing in tiny vessels, making them suitable for a wide range of applications in molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmaceuticals, and analytical chemistry. The combination of a strong magnetic core and durable PTFE coating ensures long-lasting performance and excellent chemical resistance, making these stirring bars a valuable addition to any laboratory.

¹Alnico V magnets are composed primarily of aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), and cobalt (Co), along with small amounts of other elements such as copper (Cu) and titanium (Ti). The composition typically consists of approximately 9% aluminum, 24% nickel, 13% cobalt, 3% copper, and 1% titanium, with the remainder being iron (Fe). The exact composition may vary from batch to batch. Alnico V magnets are known for their strong magnetic properties and high resistance to demagnetization.

CARE INSTRUCTIONS

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of magnetic stirring bars, it's essential to handle and maintain them properly:

Cleaning: Regularly clean the stirring bars after each use to prevent buildup of residue or contamination. Use a suitable cleaning agent and rinse thoroughly with distilled water.
Storage: Store stirring bars away from strong magnetic fields and corrosive chemicals. Store them in a dry and clean environment to prevent damage.
Handling: Handle stirring bars with care to avoid chipping or breaking. Avoid dropping or banging them against hard surfaces.
Compatibility: Ensure that the stirring bars are compatible with the solvent or solution being stirred. Some chemicals can react with or damage certain types of stirring bars.
Usage: Use stirring bars within their specified temperature and chemical compatibility limits. Avoid overheating or exposing them to harsh chemicals.
Maintenance: Inspect stirring bars regularly for signs of damage or wear. Replace any damaged or worn bars to maintain optimal performance.

Following these care guidelines can help prolong the life of your magnetic stirring bars and ensure they perform effectively in your laboratory applications.

Optional but useful

Chempure® Magnetic Stirring Bar Retriever, PTFE

Cylindrical permanent magnet with sealed ends, designed for easy insertion or removal of bars.

BRAND® magnetic stirring bar retriever, PTFE L 350 mm

Chempure® Magnetic Stirring Bar Flexible Retriever, PTFE

Micro Magnetic stirring bars

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