Laboratory heating and mixing equipment is the backbone of many research, educational and industrial applications. Whether you’re running chemical reactions, preparing samples or teaching the next generation of scientists, having reliable hotplates and stirrers can make the difference between consistent results and costly mistakes. These instruments are designed for general laboratory use and support a wide range of applications, making them versatile and reliable for routine mixing in any laboratory.
OHAUS has engineered a range of laboratory hot plates, hot plate stirrers, and magnetic stirrers to meet various laboratory needs. From basic educational to advanced research environments, these precision instruments deliver the performance, safety and durability that professionals demand.
What are Laboratory Hotplates and Stirrers
Laboratory hotplates provide controlled, uniform heating for chemical reactions, sample preparation and general laboratory applications. Unlike standard heating devices, laboratory hot plates offer precise temperature control and even heat distribution across the entire top surface.
A hotplate stirrer is a laboratory device that combines both heating and magnetic stirring functions, with a top plate for sample placement and a dedicated speed control for precise stirring. This dual functionality ensures temperature distribution and sample mixing – critical for reactions that require both heat and agitation.
A magnetic stirrer operates without heat, using rotating magnetic fields to spin stir bars in solutions. This gentle agitation method works with everything from delicate biological samples to viscous chemical mixtures, providing contamination-free mixing without introducing external heating elements.
Hotplate stirrers are general laboratory instruments, easy to operate and clean, so suitable for many applications.
Some models have a ceramic top, which is durable and easy to clean after use.
The control panel has all the user needs, mains switch, temperature adjustment and speed control, for ergonomic design for easy and safe operation.
Heating water is a common application for these devices, such as boiling water for dissolving buffers or preparing media.
Different models are available, and models have different top plate materials or sizes to suit laboratory needs.
OHAUS Guardian Series: Two Tiers of Performance
Guardian 2000 Series: Practical and Affordable Performance
The Guardian 2000 series is OHAUS’s commitment to providing laboratory equipment at affordable price points. These instruments are designed for educational laboratories and routine applications where reliability and ease of use are key.
Features:
- Fast, reliable heating and stirring up to 15 litres
- Simple knob controls for easy operation
- Robust construction for daily use
- Built-in support rod holder for extra versatility
- PTFE-coated stir bars are included with stirring models
- Hot top indicator light for safety
The simple design makes Guardian 2000 instruments perfect for teaching labs where students need to focus on experimental procedures rather than complex equipment operation. The chemical-resistant housing is easy to clean and withstands frequent use; the support rod holder can hold additional laboratory accessories as needed.
Guardian 7000 Series: Performance and Safety Redefined
For labs that require advanced performance and extra safety features, the Guardian 7000 series delivers professional-grade performance. These instruments have sophisticated design elements that protect equipment and users while giving precise control over experimental parameters.
Features:
- SmartHousing™ design with chemical resistance
- Spill channelling system to protect internal components
- Bright, backlit LCD display
- Temperature, speed and time controls
- Visual status indicators for across-the-lab monitoring
- Enhanced safety protocols for demanding environments
SmartHousing™ is a major advancement in laboratory safety design. By channelling spills away from critical internal components, this feature protects the instrument’s longevity while reducing maintenance and potential safety hazards.
Heating-Only Solutions
OHAUS Guardian 2000 Hotplates
For applications where heat only is required, the Guardian 2000 hotplate series provides focused heating. These are ideal for educational labs and general laboratory environments where temperature control is the main requirement.
Available in three plate sizes, these hotplates accommodate different vessel sizes and experimental needs. The simple knob controls allow users to adjust temperature quickly and accurately, making them suitable for experienced researchers and students learning laboratory techniques.
The built-in support rod holder adds versatility to experimental setups, allowing users to secure additional equipment or accessories as needed. This thoughtful design feature maximises bench space while keeping experimental options open.
Magnetic Stirring Solutions
OHAUS Guardian 2000 Magnetic Stirrers
When experiments require mixing without heating, OHAUS magnetic stirrers provide reliable stirring up to 15 litres. These are perfect for temperature-sensitive reactions or procedures where external heat could compromise sample integrity. The magnetic stirring mechanism operates smoothly and quietly, with minimal laboratory noise, while providing consistent mixing action. PTFE-coated stir bars resist chemical attack and provide smooth rotation, efficient mixing across a wide range of solution viscosities.
Like other Guardian 2000 series instruments, these stirrers have durable, chemical-resistant housing that withstands daily laboratory use. The built-in support rod holder is consistent with other series components, allowing for integrated experimental setups.
Applications Across Laboratory Settings
Educational Laboratories
Teaching labs benefit from Guardian 2000 series reliability and simplicity. Students can focus on learning fundamental techniques without struggling with complex equipment interfaces. The simple controls and safety features give instructors confidence that the equipment will perform consistently across multiple class sections.
Research Environments
Advanced research applications require the extra capabilities of the Guardian 7000 series. The precise temperature control and advanced safety features support complex experimental protocols where variables must be controlled and monitored.
Industrial Quality Control
Industrial labs performing routine testing and quality control find Guardian series instruments provide the reliability for consistent results. The robust construction withstands frequent use while maintaining calibration accuracy over extended periods.
Safety Features and Design Considerations
Laboratory safety is the top priority in OHAUS instrument design. Hot top indicator lights give immediate visual confirmation of heating element status, preventing accidental contact with heated surfaces. The chemical-resistant housing materials protect against common laboratory chemicals while maintaining structural integrity.
SmartHousing™ in Guardian 7000 series instruments takes safety further by channelling spills away from internal components. This proactive approach reduces equipment damage risk while protecting users from chemical exposure.
Choosing the Right Solution
Selecting the right laboratory heating and stirring equipment depends on several factors, including application requirements, safety needs and budget. Educational labs benefit from Guardian 2000 series simplicity and affordability; research labs may require Guardian 7000 series advanced features.
Consider volume requirements when choosing plate sizes and stirring capacities. Applications that require larger volumes benefit from instruments designed to handle up to 15 litres. Chemical compatibility also matters for applications involving aggressive solvents or extreme pH conditions.
Your Next Step in Laboratory Excellence
OHAUS hotplates and stirrers are proven solutions for laboratory heating and mixing challenges. Whether you need basic heating functionality, advanced stirring capabilities or integrated heating and mixing performance, the Guardian series has options for your needs.
Reliable performance, safety features and affordable price, OHAUS instruments are a great addition to any lab. From student training to advanced research applications, these instruments deliver the consistency and durability you need for successful lab operations.
Ready to get started? Browse our full range of OHAUS hotplates and stirrers online today. Specs, prices and expert support to help you make the right choice for your lab.