Ratek VM1 Vortex Mixer – User Manual
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Using The Vortex Mixer
Choosing a Suitable Vessel
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The Vortex Mixer should be used with slightly tapered vessels or parallel sided tubes for best results. Centrifuge tubes with
a tapered point are ideal and will locate neatly into the silicon mixing cup. Other flat bottom vessels can be used however
the resulting mixing action will not be as vigorous. The vessel should locate inside the silicon mixing cup.
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If the vessel does not locate inside the silicon mixing cup, it is too large for use with the mixer and should not be used.
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All vessels must be covered or sealed with an appropriate cap to prevent spillage during mixing.
Connecting Power
CAUTION
The equipment must only be used with a protective earth power socket. The earth contact provides protection to the user and
the equipment. If you do not have a protective earth power socket, or you are unsure as to whether you have a protective
earth power socket,
do not
connect the equipment. In such cases you should consult your workplace administrator or electrical
maintenance staff to determine if a protective earth power socket is available.
The mains power supply must be rated to match the power requirement as identified on the product identification label on the
bottom left corner of the rear panel. This is normally expressed in the format of Voltage Range and Frequency.
A surge protected power outlet is strongly recommended as it provides some protection for the equipment in areas of
poor electrical quality as well as providing some protection against lightning strikes. The equipment should be
operated on a good, reliable supply of power at all times.
Note: The Vortex Mixer should not be operated on the same electrical circuit as other high voltage household appliances such
as fridges, clothes dryers, washing machines or other continuous operation high voltage devices. These types of devices can
create power fluctuations that are undesirable for electrically sensitive equipment. Consult your workplace administrator or
electrical maintenance staff if you are unsure.
IMPORTANT : Use of an incorrect power supply will void the product warranty and waive all manufacturer liability for
any and all damage caused by such use. If you are unsure about the rating of your power supply, consult your
workplace administrator or electrical maintenance staff to determine if your power supply is suitable for use with this
product before connecting the power lead.
CAUTION
Regularly check the mains power lead condition over the life of the product, and do not operate the equipment if you suspect
there is damage to any part of the equipment or the mains power lead.
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Insert the plug end of the mains power supply lead firmly into a properly rated, protective earthed wall mounted power
supply outlet.
If there are double-adapters or oversized DC power packs causing obstruction of the mains power lead plug, these should first
be removed.
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Ensuring your hands are dry, switch on the power on the mains power supply outlet.
Changing Operating Modes
The Vortex Mixer features 2 operating modes as well as an adjustable mixing speed control.
The “Off/Auto” mode allows the operator to leave the mixer in a “ready to mix” state. The mixer will operate when pressure is
applied to the silicon mixing cup.
The “On” mode provides continuous mixing regardless of whether pressure is applied to the silicon mixing cup.
To change the operating mode
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Push the operating mode switch (element 2 in Figure 1) to the required setting.
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If “On” is selected the mixer will begin to mix and the speed can be adjusted.
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If “Off/Auto” is selected the mixer requires downward pressure on the silicon mixing cup to begin mixing.
