New Homogenisers Mix Power with Versatility

Stuart’s new homogenisers, launching at ACHEMA 2009, offer fast sample processing for life science applications. A choice of specially designed stainless steel and disposable polycarbonate probes provide the versatility to handle volumes ranging from 0.03 ml up to 2 litres.

The Stuart SHM1 is a lightweight, variable speed homogeniser ideal for handheld use. Its high-speed, high-torque 125 watt motor spins the rotor shaft at up to 35,000 rpm, enabling most samples to be processed within 30 seconds. However, for applications requiring longer processing the SHM1 can also be stand-mounted.

The 700 watt SHM2 handles virtually any homogenising task, including cell disruption, emulsions, suspensions and protein extraction. Powerful enough to process larger volumes and very tough tissue, such as lung, the SHM2 is generally intended for stand-mounting but may be handheld for short processes.

Both homogenisers accommodate a dedicated range of precision engineered stainless steel probes: 5 mm flat head as well as 7, 10 and 20 mm saw tooth probes capable of processing hard or frozen tissue. Sample volumes extend from 0.03 ml up to 2 litres and all probes can be autoclaved. Stuart stands out from other manufacturers by also offering packs of disposable polycarbonate probes for use with the SHM1 and SHM2. These 7 mm saw tooth probes can process 0.25–30 ml samples.

Jackie Taylor, Stuart Product Manager, comments, ‘The new homogenisers are lightweight and ergonomically designed for ease of use. The availability of probes manufactured from polycarbonate, in addition to the usual stainless steel, offers a distinct advantage for labs where cross-contamination between samples must be avoided. These disposable probes are robust enough for processing hard tissue and, if necessary, can be dismantled and autoclaved up to seven times.’

All Stuart homogenisers are supplied with a tool kit for disassembling the probes for easy cleaning.