Labnet VorTemp 56 User manual

VorTemp™ 56 Shaking Incubator
Instruction Manual
Catalog Numbers:
S2056A
S2056A-230V

Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction....................................................................................1
2.0 Packing ........................................................................................1
3.0 Specifications ..................................................................................1
4.0 Technical Description ...........................................................................1
4.1. Construction...............................................................................1
4.2. Main Components .........................................................................1
5.0 Accessories.....................................................................................2
5.1. Microtube Platform ........................................................................2
5.2. Microplate Holder Platform.................................................................3
6.0 Safety Information .............................................................................4
7.0 Installation.....................................................................................4
7.1. Device Placement ..........................................................................4
7.2. Attaching the Power Cord ..................................................................4
7.3. Starting Up Check List ......................................................................4
8.0 Operating Instructions ..........................................................................5
8.1. Control Panel ..............................................................................5
8.2. Basic Operation ............................................................................5
8.3. Shaking Without Heating...................................................................8
8.4. Heating Without Shaking...................................................................8
8.5. Additional Operations ......................................................................8
9.0 Troubleshooting ................................................................................9
10.0 Temperature Calibration ...................................................................... 10
11.0 Maintenance and Cleaning.................................................................... 10
12.0 Equipment Disposal .......................................................................... 10
13.0 Limited Warranty ............................................................................. 11

Instruction Manual | 1
1.0 Introduction
Congratulations on purchasing your Labnet VorTemp™ 56 Shaking Incubator, a benchtop shaker and
heating chamber for incubating and shaking sensitive samples. It replaces two devices, reducing both
time and space needed. It is suitable for biochemistry, microbiology and clinical laboratories in which
applications require temperature and shaking treatment.
2.0 Packing
The Labnet VorTemp 56 Shaking Incubator includes the following components:
VorTemp 56 Shaking Incubator (platforms sold separately)
Instruction Manual
3.0 Specications
Power 515W
Heater Power 500W
Motor Power 15W
Fuse 2 x 3.15A, 250V
2 x 6.3A, 115V
Environmental Temperature From 4°C to 65°C
Relative Humidity Up to 85% non-condensing
RPM Regulation Digital load independent, from 100 to 1,200 rpm in 10 rpm steps,
1,400 rpm (only at 60Hz)
Shaker Orbit 3 mm
Temperature Operating Range From 4°C above room temperature to 99.5°C
Temperature Sensor PT100
Heating-up Time Approx 5°C/min.
Temperature Uniformity ± 0.5°C
Timer From 30 sec. to 99 min. 50 sec. in 10 sec. steps, under 10 min.
in 1 sec. steps, timer HOLD function
Maximum Capacity 56 test tubes – 1.5, 0.7, 0.5, 0.25 mL
Dimensions (W x D x H) 10 x 13 x 9 in. (26.5 x 32.5 x 22.5 cm)
Weight 24 lbs. (11 kg)
4.0 Technical Description
4.1. Construction
The housing of VorTemp 56 is constructed of steel plate coated with highly resistant polyurethane
lacquer. The interior chamber is isolated with special thermal protection materials and insulation foam.
Both the shaking mechanism and temperature chamber regulated via microprocessors, which control all
sensors for motor speed, temperature and time.
4.2. Main Components
Drive Motor
Eccentricity control mechanism
Chamber Fan
Heating element
Temperature sensor
Temperature controlled chamber
Control electronics

2| VORTEMP™ 56 SHAKING INCUBATOR
The motor drives the eccentricity control mechanism which generates the orbital motion of the sample
platform.
The motion of the motor also drives the fan, which moves air over the heating element and throughout
the temperature chamber. The convection action of the airflow creates a very uniform temperature
environment throughout the chamber. Chamber conditions are monitored by the temperature sensor
and the control electronics regulate heater function to maintain the set temperature.
5.0 Accessories
Product Cat. No. Qty/Pk
1.5/2.0 mL platform/workstation for microtubes S2056-R 1
Microplate platform S2056-Q 1
Individual adapters for 0.5/0.6 mL tubes C1205 6
Individual adapters for 0.4 mL tubes C1206 6
Individual adapters for 0.2 mL thermal cycling tubes C1222 6
5.1. Microtube Platform
The Microtube Platform is intended for shaking 56 x 1.5/2 mL test tubes. There are accessory adapters
available which allow for running several different microtube sizes. In addition, the platform and
adapters are autoclavable.
Installing the microtube platform is very simple and requires no special tools. The unit comes pre-assembled
with four posts screwed into the shield plate. Then grip the microtube platform by the center knob and
align the four rubber grommets with the four posts of platform and press down gently.
For processing large sample quantities it is often more convenient to use more than one microtube
platform and switch between them.
NOTE: If you work with temperatures over 50°C, we recommend the use of special microtubes which
are designed for use in thermal cyclers. These tubes are molded from plastic designed to withstand
temperatures as high as 135°C. The thin-walled construction also allows for fast heat transfer and
reduced heating times.

Instruction Manual | 3
5.2. Microplate Holder Platform
CAUTION: Be careful if the unit has been used to heat samples because the internal components can
be extremely hot and can cause burns to uncovered skin. Always check the handle temperature before
changing the platform.
The Microplate Holder Platform is designed for shaking up to 4 microplates or 2 deep well microplates.
For a more precise temperature controlled environment we recommend inserting only one microplate
on the platform. Additional microplates can have an insulating effect on other plates, especially when
stacked. The working temperature range is ambient from +5°C to 45°C. Please note that the normal
maximum temperature for ordinary microplates is below 60°C. The platform is made of stainless steel
and is equipped with springs for keeping microplates secure.
The VorTemp™ 56 comes with the microtube platform installed. To install the microplate platform, first
you have to remove the microtube platform and then unscrew all four posts from the lower platform.
To attach the microplate platform (see the below picture), you must center the platform corner holes
with device shield plate. Make sure the alignment arrows are pointing towards the front of the unit and
then press the platform on the shield plate. Take the supplied nuts and washers and screw them on the
microtiter platform and tighten them with the included wrench. Then insert the microplates with your
samples and start the device.
NOTE: When you attach microplate platform, it must be attached so that arrows are pointed towards
the front of VorTemp.

4| VORTEMP™ 56 SHAKING INCUBATOR
6.0 Safety Information
NOTE: Be careful when changing the microtube platform, especially when you have used unit at
temperatures higher than 60°C. Always wear protective clothing before you handle a hot platform.
The unit will continue to shake for 5 seconds after the lid is opened. Be careful when opening the lid
as the parts inside may still be in motion. In addition, never touch the fan unless the unit is turned off
or unplugged.
Before cleaning the housing unplug the unit. The housing should only be cleaned with a damp cloth
and if necessary, a mild soap. Don’t use aggressive or aerosol cleaners.
Do not use the unit near sources of water. Take care to ensure that water will not spill in the device,
especially during cleaning procedures.
Make sure, that all test tubes are closed tightly before placing them into the unit to avoid spilling
samples inside the chamber.
In the case of a malfunction, unplug the device and contact your distributor for service.
Do not shake flammable or explosive samples.
7.0 Installation
7.1. Device Placement
When selecting the right place for device, please consider following:
Put the device on smooth, horizontal and stable place.
Leave at least 10 cm of space around the device for adequate air circulation.
Leave enough space around the device, for easy access and maintenance.
Don’t place the device where there are rapid temperature and humidity changes. Also avoid places where
the unit would be exposed to direct sunlight or next to devices that output large amounts of heat.
Avoid locations where the unit may be exposed to excessive shocks or vibrations.
Avoid locations subject to frequent power fluctuations or power losses.
Do not use the device in a flammable or explosive atmosphere.
NOTE: There has to be easy access to the shaker control panel and main plug in case of emergency.
7.2. Attaching the Power Cord
First connect the main power cord to the shaker then connect the plug end of the cord to a grounded
wall socket. Avoid lines on which powerful electric motors, refrigerators and similar devices are
connected.
Be careful when you plug the cord to a grounded wall socket.
Do not touch the plug with wet hands.
Do not pull the plug by the cord.
7.3. Starting Up Check List
Unpack and install the device as specified in the previous section.
Open the lid and attach the microtube platform or the microplate platform.
Close the lid.
Switch on the device using of the ON/OFF switch on the front panel The switch will illuminate to
indicate that power is on.
Check the running parameters and set new parameters if necessary. Please refer to the instructions
described in next chapters.

Instruction Manual | 5
8.0 Operating Instructions
8.1. Control Panel
88.8 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
1 2 3 4 6 7
5
Start
1. Power Key – switch ON (illuminates when on) or OFF.
2. Run – green signal light illuminated when the shaker is operating.
3. Time – yellow signal light illuminated when the unit is set to adjust time.
4. RPM – yellow signal light illuminated when the unit is set to adjust RPM.
5. Temperature – yellow signal light illuminated when shaker is set to adjust the set temperature.
6. Encoder Knob – by rotating the encoder right (+) or left (-) you are modifying the Time, Temperature or
RPM settings of the unit. Push in on the encoder to change between Time, Temperature and RPM set
values. If you rotate Encoder Knob quickly, then the adjustment increments are larger and it will allow
for values to be set more quickly.
7. Start/Stop Button –start or stop shaking.
8.2. Basic Operation
Press Power Key on control panel. On the LED display the unit will automatically detect the line
frequency F50 (50Hz) or F60 (60Hz).
F50 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start
After a 2 second delay the unit will then default to the time setting.
99.5 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start

6| VORTEMP™ 56 SHAKING INCUBATOR
Time Illuminated
With the Encoder knob, right (+) or left (-) sets the run time to the desire value from 30 sec to 99 min 50 sec:
99.5 = 99 min 50 sec
9.59 = 9 min 59 sec
0.30 = 30 sec
If you want the unit to run continuously, set Time on hold. The timer is set to hold when “HLd”
is displayed. Rotate the encoder under 0.30 or above 99.5 to set this hold function.
Push encoder knob to adjust the RPM setting
34 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start
RPM Illuminated
Rotating the encoder right (+) or left (-) set the rotating speed to the desired value:
34 = 340 rpm
90 = 900 rpm
By turning the RPM setting below 20, the shaking function can be turned off. When the shaker is off,
“OFF” is displayed.
OFF Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start
Push encoder knob to adjust the Temperature setting.
37.4 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start

Instruction Manual | 7
Temperature Illuminated
Rotating the encoder right (+) or left (-) set the temperature to the desired value:
37.4 = 37.4°C
If you want use shaker without temperature control activated turn the encoder under 0.5 or above
99.5 until the display reads “OFF”.
Press Start/Stop Button
Run and Time are illuminated. The timer will count down from set time value.
99.4 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start
NOTE: You cannot adjust the set time during shaking.
RMP Adjusting During a Run
Push the Encoder Knob until the RPM light is illuminated.
Rotate the encoder right (+) or left (-) until the new value is set. While adjusting the RPM, the light will pulse.
When you stop rotating the encoder knob, the RPM light will stop pulsing after 2 sec.
100 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start
Temperature Adjusting During a Run
Push the Encoder Knob until the RPM light is illuminated.
Rotate the encoder right (+) or left (-) until the new value is set. While adjusting the RPM, the light will pulse.
When you stop rotating the encoder knob, the RPM light will stop pulsing after 2 sec.
37.0 Stop
Encoder
Power
Run
Time [min]
RPM [x10]
Temp [°C]
Start
When the set time expires or if you press the Start/Stop button, “End” will be displayed and the Run
light will pulse. When the unit stops shaking, the last set values for Time, RPM and Temp will be saved
in memory.
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8| VORTEMP™ 56 SHAKING INCUBATOR
8.3. Shaking Without Heating
If you want shake samples without heating, set Temp to OFF.
8.4. Heating Without Shaking
If you want heat samples without shaking, set RPM to OFF.
NOTE: The shaker motor drives the fan, which circulates warm air throughout the chamber aiding in
temperature uniformity. If the shaker is set to OFF, the temperature control will not be as precise due to
lack of airflow over the heating element. Maximum set temperature in this program is 70°C.
8.5. Additional Operations
Viewing the set value for RPM during shaking
Set the unit to RPM Mode
Turn the encoder ONE CLICK right (+) or left (-). On the display the RPM light will pulse for 2 sec and
display will show the set RPM. After 2 sec the display will return to showing the actual RPM and the
light will stop pulsing.
Viewing the set value for Time during shaking
Set the unit to Time Mode
Turn the encoder ONE CLICK right (+) or left (-). On the display the Time light will pulse for 2 sec and
display will show the set Time. After 2 sec the display will return to showing the actual Time and the
light will stop pulsing.
Viewing the set value for Temperature during shaking
Set the unit to Temperature Mode
Turn the encoder ONE CLICK right (+) or left (-). On the display the Temperature light will pulse for 2
sec and display will show the set Temperature. After 2 sec the display will return to showing the actual
Temperature and the light will stop pulsing.