What is a laboratory homogenizer?

Homogenization is a chemical process where several insoluble substances are constantly and intensively mixed in order to create soluble suspensions or double emulsions.  The process of homogenization will depend on the materials the user intends to mix and how he will use them.

A homogenizer is a laboratory tool used to homogenize various samples. It's a simple device that's commonly used in laboratories to mix substances.

What is this team?

It consists of an electric motor with the drive shaft facing vertically and connected to a cup-shaped rubber piece mounted slightly off-center. The rubber part motor swings quickly in a circular motion. When a test tube or other appropriate container is pressed into the rubber cup (or touched to the edge of the tube), movement is transmitted to the liquid inside and a vortex is created. Most vortex mixers have a variable speed configuration and can be configured to operate continuously, or to operate only when downward pressure is applied to the rubber portion.

It is an ideal instrument to gently mix and achieve a forceful resuspension of cells and chemical and biological fluid components in tubes by using an eccentric mechanism. They usually have two modes of operation:

• Continuous Operation
• Impulse operation (activated by pressing the stopper with the bottom of the tube)

Vibration homogenizers are quite common in bioscience laboratories. In cell culture and microbiology laboratories that may be used to suspend cells. In a biochemical or analytical laboratory which may be used for mixing the reagents of a test or for mixing an experimental sample and a diluent.

When did they start to be used?

Vortex mixer or homogenizer was invented by the Kraft brothers (Jack A. Kraft and Harold D. Kraft) while working for Scientific Industries (a laboratory equipment manufacturer). The patent was filed by the Kraft brothers on April 6, 1959 and granted on October 30, 1962. The company continues to manufacture an original version of this vortex mixer.

What considerations should you consider?

Place the stirrer on a stable, level surface near a ground outlet. The surface should be clean and dustless to ensure that the feet hold firmly to the surface. Allow sufficient free space on all sides of the unit for adequate ventilation. With the switch OFF, connect the power cord to a ground power outlet.

What precautions should you take when using or working near a homogenizer?

• Never operate the unit if the shaking head is not securely attached.
• Always use unbreakable eye protection.
• Do not use or mix flammable solvents on or near the shaker.
• Shake hazardous samples in suitable holding vessels.
• Repairs should be done by qualified personnel.
• Impaired protection may be caused if used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer.

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