LPA Laboratory Equipment: Vortex Mixer

Key Features of Vortex Mixer

It is used in the TB laboratory to mix specimens with decontamination solutions and to homogenize solutions of TB bacilli for DNA extraction and during the preparation of the PCR Master Mix.

• During the DNA extraction step:
  • Growth from liquid culture is vortexed to break up clumped Mycobacterium tuberculosis
  • Homogenize bacilli
  • Mix specimens with decontamination solutions​
• Gentle vortex is used to mix reagents in PCR master mix tube.

Most vortex mixers have variable speeds and can run continuously or run only when a tube is inserted in the rubber cup.

The mixer must always be placed on a level and stable surface. Vortex mixing generates aerosol, must be placed towards the back of the biosafety cabinet.

Components and Mechanism of the Vortex Mixer

The vortex mixer has the following components:

• Electric motor
• On and off switch
• Knob for increasing or decreasing the speed
• Cupped rubber piece mounted on the center

Figure: Components of the Vortex Mixer

As the motor runs, the rubber piece oscillates rapidly in a circular motion.

When a sample tube is pressed into the rubber cup or touched to its edge, the motion is transmitted to the liquid inside and vortex is created.

Maintenance of Vortex Mixer

• Before and after use, wipe it with 70% ethanol.
• Clean and replace the rubber cup as needed​.

​

Resources

• Molecular Detection of Drug-resistant Tuberculosis by Line Probe Assay.

Kindly provide your valuable feedback on the page to the link provided HERE