IKA KS501 orbital shaker

Brand : IKA

Product Code : SKU 4828K SHAKER

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IKA KS 501 Digital Orbital Shaker

The IKA KS 501 Digital Orbital Shaker is a heavy-duty laboratory shaker designed for biological and microbiological growth studies, stock solution preparation, flask culture, extraction, sample preparation, and other applications requiring controlled orbital agitation. With a large 450 × 450 mm platform, 30 mm orbital motion, speeds up to 300 rpm, and a maximum permissible shaking weight of 15 kg including the installed attachment, the KS 501 provides substantial capacity for larger vessels and demanding laboratory workflows.

Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this IKA KS 501 Digital Orbital Shaker is inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. The unit includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.

Key Features

Heavy-duty orbital laboratory shaker
Adjustable speed range from 0–300 rpm
30 mm orbital motion
Maximum permissible shaking weight of 15 kg / 33 lb, including attachment
Large 450 × 450 mm platform area
Digital speed display
Continuous or timed operation
1–55 minute timer
Rated for 100% permissible ON time
Suitable for larger flasks, culture vessels, and bottles
Multiple attachment options for different vessel configurations
RS-232 and USB interfaces
115 V, 50/60 Hz configuration
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Overview

The IKA KS 501 Digital is a large-platform orbital shaker engineered for applications requiring greater vessel capacity and more substantial orbital movement than smaller benchtop shakers can provide. Its combination of a 30 mm orbit, speeds up to 300 rpm, and a permissible shaking weight of up to 15 kg makes it particularly useful for culture flasks, bottles, round-bottom flasks, and other larger laboratory vessels.

IKA specifically identifies the KS 501 for biological and microbiological growth testing as well as production of stock solutions. Its large mounting surface can also be configured for a variety of general-purpose mixing, extraction, dissolution, and sample-preparation workflows.

The digital speed display allows users to monitor shaker operation, while continuous and timed modes accommodate both extended procedures and defined shaking cycles. The shaker is rated for continuous operation, including demanding applications when operated within manufacturer load and speed limitations.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	IKA
Model	KS 501 Digital
Equipment Type	Orbital platform shaker
Motion	Orbital
Speed Range	0–300 rpm
Orbit / Shaking Stroke	30 mm
Maximum Permissible Shaking Weight	15 kg / 33 lb, including attachment
Platform Size	Approx. 450 × 450 mm / 17.7 × 17.7 in.
Speed Display	7-segment LED
Operating Modes	Timed or continuous
Timer Range	1–55 minutes
Permissible ON Time	100%
Motor Input	70 W
Motor Output	19 W
Interface	RS-232 and USB-B
Dimensions	Approx. 505"W × 120"H × 585"D mm
Weight	Approx. 26 kg / 57 lb
Permissible Ambient Temperature	5–50°C
Permissible Relative Humidity	80%
Protection Class	IP21
Electrical	115 V, 50/60 Hz
Condition	Used / Refurbished
Warranty	90 days from American Instrument Exchange

The 15 kg rating includes the attachment installed on the shaker. The attachment, clamps, vessels, samples, and other components therefore contribute to the total permissible shaking weight and should be considered when configuring the KS 501 for a particular application.

Common Applications

The IKA KS 501 Digital can support biological and microbiological growth studies, shake-flask culture, stock solution preparation, extraction procedures, dissolution, sample preparation, reagent mixing, media preparation, and other laboratory workflows requiring consistent orbital agitation.

Its 30 mm orbit is particularly useful for larger vessels where substantial liquid movement is desirable. The relatively large orbit should be considered when transferring a protocol from a smaller-orbit shaker, as identical rpm settings can produce substantially different mixing conditions.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The IKA KS 501 is well suited for biotechnology and pharmaceutical laboratories, microbiology facilities, molecular biology laboratories, academic and university research facilities, industrial research laboratories, food and beverage laboratories, environmental testing facilities, and quality-control operations.

Its combination of a large platform and substantial load capability also makes it useful in shared laboratory environments where researchers need to accommodate different vessel types and experimental configurations.

Shaking Performance & Orbital Motion

The IKA KS 501 Digital operates at speeds up to 300 rpm with a 30 mm orbital motion. The relatively large orbit produces substantial sample movement and makes the shaker particularly suitable for larger flasks, bottles, and culture vessels.

IKA specifies a maximum permissible shaking weight of 15 kg, including the installed attachment. This distinction is important because the attachment itself contributes to the total moving mass. A heavy platform or vessel-holding system therefore reduces the remaining permissible weight available for vessels and samples.

Actual shaking performance depends on total moving weight, operating speed, vessel geometry, liquid volume, sample characteristics, attachment configuration, and load distribution. Samples should be positioned to maintain balanced operation, particularly when working with heavier vessels or higher shaking speeds.

When transferring culture or mixing protocols from another orbital shaker, both rpm and orbit diameter should be considered. A 30 mm orbit can produce significantly different liquid movement from the 10 mm or 20 mm orbital motion found on smaller laboratory shakers.

Platform, Flask & Vessel Compatibility

IKA specifies a 450 × 450 mm platform area for the KS 501 Digital and offers several attachment systems that allow the shaker to accommodate different vessel types.

The KS 501 can be configured for round-bottom flasks, Erlenmeyer flasks, culture flasks, bottles, dishes, separatory funnels, and other laboratory vessels using compatible IKA attachments and clamps. IKA specifically identifies the shaker as suitable for vessels with volumes greater than 250 mL.

Because the attachment configuration can vary substantially, there is no single flask-capacity figure that applies to every KS 501. Practical capacity depends on the attachment installed on the specific shaker, clamp arrangement, vessel diameter and height, working volume, total moving weight, operating speed, and load distribution.

Customers planning to use specific flask sizes, bottles, culture vessels, dishes, or other containers should confirm the attachment and accessories included with the individual AIE unit before purchase.

Refurbishment & Testing

Used IKA KS 501 Digital Orbital Shakers from American Instrument Exchange are inspected and tested prior to shipment. The shaking mechanism is operated for extended periods to verify reliable orbital movement and proper response at applicable speed settings.

Testing includes evaluation of the drive mechanism, digital speed display, speed adjustment, timer, continuous-operation mode, controls, platform movement, and other applicable mechanical and electrical components. The shaker is cleaned and cosmetically prepared as appropriate before shipment.

Customers with specific operating requirements are encouraged to discuss them with American Instrument Exchange before shipment. When practical, AIE can simulate typical intended operating conditions to help verify shaker performance for the customer's anticipated application.

Shipping & Installation

The IKA KS 501 Digital measures approximately 505 mm wide by 120 mm high by 585 mm deep and weighs approximately 26 kg, or 57 lb, before attachment and sample loading.

The shaker should be installed on a sturdy, level laboratory bench capable of supporting the instrument, attachment, vessels, and samples. Sufficient clearance should be provided around the moving platform and installed vessels throughout the full 30 mm orbital motion.

Loads should be centered and distributed as evenly as practical. Particular attention should be given to total moving weight when using heavy attachments, large vessels, or substantial liquid volumes.

The AIE-listed unit is configured for 115 V, 50/60 Hz electrical service. Electrical requirements should be confirmed for the specific unit before installation.

Related Equipment

Laboratories using the IKA KS 501 Digital may also require incubators, CO2 incubators, centrifuges, water baths, laboratory refrigerators, laboratory freezers, balances, and other laboratory shakers. American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished laboratory equipment for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, clinical, and industrial research laboratories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shaker is the IKA KS 501?

The IKA KS 501 Digital is a large-platform orbital laboratory shaker designed for biological culture, stock solution preparation, mixing, extraction, and other applications requiring controlled orbital agitation.

What is the speed range of the IKA KS 501?

The KS 501 provides continuously adjustable shaking speeds from 0 to 300 rpm.

What is the orbit diameter?

IKA specifies a 30 mm orbital motion, or shaking stroke, for the KS 501 Digital.

What is the maximum load capacity?

IKA specifies a maximum permissible shaking weight of 15 kg, approximately 33 lb. Importantly, this figure includes the installed attachment rather than representing 15 kg of samples alone.

How large is the platform?

IKA specifies a platform area of approximately 450 × 450 mm, or about 17.7 × 17.7 inches.

How many flasks can the KS 501 hold?

There is no single flask-capacity figure that applies to every KS 501. Capacity depends on the attachment and clamps installed, flask dimensions, working volumes, total moving weight, operating speed, and load distribution.

What size vessels can be used on the KS 501?

IKA identifies the KS 501 as particularly suitable for vessels larger than 250 mL, including round-bottom flasks, Erlenmeyer flasks, culture flasks, and bottles. Other vessel types can be accommodated using compatible attachments.

Can the IKA KS 501 run continuously?

Yes. IKA specifies a 100% permissible ON time, and the shaker provides a continuous-operation mode for extended shaking procedures.

Does the KS 501 have a timer?

Yes. The integrated timer can be set from 1 to 55 minutes. The shaker can also be operated continuously.

Does the IKA KS 501 have computer connectivity?

Yes. Manufacturer specifications include both an RS-232 interface and USB-B connectivity for compatible communication and laboratory software applications.

Is the KS 501 suitable for microbial culture?

Yes. IKA specifically identifies biological and microbiological growth testing as an intended application. Its 30 mm orbit and large platform make it suitable for many shake-flask culture procedures when equipped with appropriate vessel attachments.

Is the attachment included with every KS 501?

Not necessarily. IKA sells multiple attachments for the KS 501, and the attachment configuration of a used unit can vary. Customers should verify the platform, clamps, and other accessories supplied with the specific American Instrument Exchange unit.

How does American Instrument Exchange test the IKA KS 501?

AIE operates the shaking mechanism for extended periods and verifies applicable speed settings, timer operation, continuous-operation mode, controls, digital display, and other mechanical and electrical functions before shipment.

Does this IKA KS 501 include a warranty?

Yes. This used and refurbished IKA KS 501 Digital Orbital Shaker includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.

Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Equipment

Ensure Accuracy, Safety, and Dependable Performance Across Applications

At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished laboratory equipment undergoes a rigorous, multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, operational safety, and long-term reliability. Whether the equipment is destined for research, diagnostics, quality control, or production environments, our thorough inspection and testing process is designed to meet the highest standards of laboratory excellence.

Why Testing Used Lab Equipment Is Essential

Before any refurbished laboratory equipment is returned to service, it must be carefully tested to verify:

• Functional integrity and operational performance
• Setpoint accuracy and repeatability (where applicable)
• User interface responsiveness and control features

Proper testing reduces the risk of equipment failure, measurement inaccuracies, or user hazards—helping to ensure consistent results in clinical, academic, biotech, and industrial labs.

Our standardized lab equipment testing procedures are tailored to each equipment type, ensuring every unit meets manufacturer specifications and industry benchmarks.

Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Equipment

1. Initial Visual Inspection

• Examine equipment housing for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check ports, power cords, and exterior components for tampering or deterioration
• Verify that internal and external parts (racks, shelves, connectors, accessories) are present and undamaged

2. Functional Startup and Operational Testing

• Power on the equipment and verify startup diagnostics
• Confirm functionality of displays, buttons, switches, and control panels
• Run basic functions to confirm proper response and behavior under standard operating conditions

3. Testing and Performance Verification

• Test internal sensors or control systems using industry-standard tools
• Perform operational tests to validate accuracy and consistency
• Verify key performance specifications such as temperature control, timing, speed, or measurement outputs, depending on equipment type

4. Mechanical and Electrical System Testing

• Evaluate motors, pumps, fans, or other moving parts for smooth operation
• Inspect and test wiring, relays, fuses, and circuit boards for safety and reliability
• Test power delivery and grounding compliance

5. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Ensure equipment is grounded and insulated to meet laboratory safety standards
• Test alarms, interlocks, emergency stops, or safety shutdown systems if applicable

6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation

• Perform extended runtime testing
• Document operational logs, testing results, and any repairs or adjustments made
• Complete a final inspection, thorough cleaning, and packaging for delivery

Trusted Quality from American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of experience in laboratory equipment refurbishment, American Instrument Exchange is committed to delivering certified, lab-ready instruments backed by expert testing. Our testing protocols ensure that each piece of equipment—regardless of type—is safe, accurate, and dependable from day one.

Whether you're equipping a startup lab or expanding a high-throughput facility, you can count on our refurbished laboratory equipment to perform with precision and reliability.

Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Equipment from American Instrument Exchange

At American Instrument Exchange, every piece of used laboratory equipment we offer undergoes a multi-step refurbishment process. Whether it's an analytical balance, centrifuge, freezer, oven, or any other essential lab instrument, our goal is to restore each unit to peak performance—ensuring accuracy, safety, and long-term reliability in scientific, clinical, industrial, and academic environments.

Why Choose Refurbished Lab Equipment from American Instrument Exchange?

• Thoroughly tested for performance, precision, and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience

Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol

Every instrument and system refurbished at American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, industry-aligned process:

1. Initial Intake & Inspection

• Complete visual and structural inspection for cosmetic damage, wear, or corrosion
• Mechanical assessment of hinges, seals, fasteners, motors, and moving parts
• Missing components and damaged items are documented for repair or replacement

2. Cleaning and Decontamination

• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe solutions
• Removal of biological, chemical, or particulate contamination
• Disassembly and cleaning of removable parts such as trays, shelves, and filters

3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair

• Replacement or repair of worn or broken mechanical parts
• Evaluation and servicing of control panels, sensors, switches, and displays
• Testing and repair of electrical wiring, fuses, circuit boards, and power supplies

4. Functional System Testing

• Assessment of all major functions specific to the equipment type (e.g., speed, temperature, force, weight, timing)
• Operation of control interfaces, programming menus, and digital displays
• Verification of stabilization time, responsiveness, and user input reliability

5. Testing and Performance Verification

• Testing of internal sensors, controllers, and measurement systems using certified tools
• Multi-point testing to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and performance consistency
• Confirmation of user-defined setpoints, timing sequences, or programmable cycles

6. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Testing of safety interlocks, alarms, and over-limit protection systems (as applicable)
• Electrical safety inspections, including grounding and insulation verification

7. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation

• Full operational testing under simulated lab conditions
• Completion of performance benchmarks, testing results, and repair logs
• Final cleaning and visual inspection

Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of experience in the laboratory equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted leader in high-quality refurbished lab instruments. Our refurbishment protocols ensure that every piece of equipment we sell is lab-ready—offering the precision, performance, and durability your team can count on.

Whether you’re outfitting a new lab or expanding an existing operation, choose American Instrument Exchange for tested, warrantied, and cost-effective laboratory equipment.

Warranty Information

All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,

Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”

Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.

Return & Cancellation Policy

American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.

Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.

Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.

Ongoing and Extended Support Options

American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.

For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.

For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty.
Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.

How do you test and recondition the equipment?

Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality.
We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.

How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?

We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.

Return and order cancellation policy

American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.

Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?

Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.

How does your price matching policy work?

We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.

Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?

Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.

1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.

Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?

Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.