subject: How Different Microplate Shakers Are Used In The Laboratory [print this page] Microplates are an extremely important part of biochemistry. They are small containers, typically made of plastic or sometimes even glass, and they are used for holding samples. As you probably know however it is sometimes necessary to mix the contents of the microplate, and this can lead to problems when you consider just how small these items are.
You could stir it of course, or you could shake it a bit, but as you probably know, it is a bit difficult to do these things. The plates are small, and finding something small enough to stir the sample adequately can be a real pain. For this reason it is necessary for us to utilize microplate shakers in the laboratory.
For this reason, it would be a great idea to utilize microplate shakers. The microplate closely resembles a laboratory scale, but it has an entirely different purpose. It essentially exists to mix your samples automatically in a way that you could never have achieved as a human being. There are actually two different types of microplate shakers that you should be aware of.
First there is the orbital microplate shaker. This type of shaker will actually rotate the sample, causing the liquids within to swirl. As it spins, it will mix the fluids simultaneously, ensuring that they will all be done at the same time. In other words, these mixers are for those who want speed and efficiency for an already long process.
The next type is the vibrating microplate shaker. One thing to note is that while the orbital shaker may move faster, the vibrating shaker can actually do the job more thoroughly. You can control the speed of the vibration through the use of a knob on the device, and this can be used depending upon exactly how sensitive the samples are, or when you need them done. Take note that higher speeds do not always produce the best results.
That being said, obtaining a shaking instrument is important for any laboratory setting. You can purchase them online, or you could go to a supply store. One other thing you could do is buy refurbished shakers until you are ready to take the leap into brand new equipment. If you really want to buy brand new, then you could always try leasing your equipment.
When you lease, you pay to keep the equipment for a certain period of time, and when that period is up, you can return it and lease a new set of equipment. The best part about this is that the next set you lease could be the next generation. Through this, your laboratory will always be up to date. It is definitely something to think about!
