Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 Digital Shaker

Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 Digital Orbital Shaker

Brand : Thermo

Product Code : SKU 4825T SHAKER

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Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 Digital Orbital Shaker

The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 is a compact digital orbital shaker designed for microbial culture, molecular biology, protein expression, extraction procedures, staining and washing, and general laboratory mixing. With a broad 15–500 rpm speed range, 0.75-inch orbital motion, and maximum load capacity of 35 lb, the MaxQ 2000 combines substantial shaking capacity with a relatively compact benchtop footprint.

Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 is inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. It includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.

Key Features

Digital open-air orbital shaker
Variable speed from 15 to 500 rpm
0.75-inch / 19 mm orbital motion
Maximum load capacity of 35 lb / 15.9 kg
Solid-state DC brushless motor
Digital speed and timer controls
Soft-start operation helps minimize splashing
Suitable for continuous or timed shaking applications
Compact design for benchtop use
120 V electrical configuration
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Overview

The Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 is designed for laboratories that need dependable orbital agitation without the larger footprint of a floor-standing or enclosed incubated shaker. Its combination of digital controls, broad speed range, and substantial maximum load makes it suitable for both routine laboratory mixing and demanding microbial culture applications.

The digital control system allows researchers to select and monitor shaking speed while also supporting continuous or timed operation. A soft-start function gradually accelerates the platform toward the selected speed, helping reduce sudden vessel movement and splashing during startup.

Unlike an incubated shaker, the MaxQ 2000 does not provide its own temperature control. It can be used as a room-temperature benchtop shaker or installed in an appropriate temperature-controlled environment when an application requires shaking above or below ambient temperature.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Thermo Scientific
Model	MaxQ 2000
Equipment Type	Digital open-air orbital shaker
Control Type	Digital
Speed Range	15–500 rpm
Speed Accuracy	±1 rpm
Orbit	0.75 in. / 19 mm
Maximum Load	35 lb / 15.9 kg
Motor	Solid-state DC brushless
Operation	Continuous or timed
Operating Temperature	0°C to 40°C
Operating Humidity	20% to 80% RH, non-condensing
Manufacturer Chassis Dimensions	Approx. 17.4"L × 13.5"W × 6.4"H
Electrical	120 V, 50/60 Hz
Condition	Used / Refurbished
Warranty	90 days from American Instrument Exchange

Platform dimensions and vessel capacity depend on the platform and accessories installed on the individual shaker. Customers should confirm the specific platform, clamps, racks, and other accessories included with the AIE unit rather than relying on theoretical manufacturer flask capacities.

Common Applications

The Thermo MaxQ 2000 can support bacterial and yeast culture, recombinant protein expression, plasmid preparation, strain screening, media preparation, extraction procedures, solubility studies, hybridization, staining and destaining, washing procedures, and general laboratory mixing.

Its 15–500 rpm operating range allows the same shaker to accommodate relatively gentle mixing as well as more vigorous agitation for appropriately configured microbial cultures.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The MaxQ 2000 is well suited for biotechnology companies, microbiology laboratories, molecular biology groups, pharmaceutical research facilities, protein-expression laboratories, academic and university research facilities, fermentation and process-development laboratories, and industrial research or quality-control laboratories.

Its compact configuration can be particularly useful for laboratories that need additional culture or mixing capacity without dedicating floor space to a larger incubated shaker.

Shaking Performance & Orbital Motion

The MaxQ 2000 provides variable orbital shaking from 15 to 500 rpm using a 0.75-inch / 19 mm orbit. This combination supports a wide range of laboratory applications, from gentle sample agitation to higher-speed microbial shake-flask culture.

Orbit diameter is an important consideration when transferring an established protocol between shakers. Shakers operating at the same rpm can produce different liquid movement, mixing intensity, and oxygen-transfer characteristics when their orbit diameters differ. Vessel geometry, fill volume, platform configuration, and shaking speed should therefore all be considered when establishing operating conditions.

The MaxQ 2000 also incorporates soft-start operation to bring the platform up to speed gradually. This helps reduce sudden acceleration and liquid splashing, particularly when working with larger vessels or substantial liquid volumes.

Platform, Flask & Vessel Compatibility

The MaxQ 2000 can be equipped with different platforms, flask clamps, racks, and other vessel-holding accessories, giving laboratories considerable flexibility in configuring the shaker for different applications.

Actual vessel capacity, however, depends on the platform installed on the individual unit. Custom platforms, different clamp arrangements, vessel geometry, flask size, load distribution, and required clearance can all substantially change the practical capacity of a shaker.

For this reason, manufacturer flask-capacity figures should not automatically be assumed to represent the configuration of a particular used MaxQ 2000. American Instrument Exchange can confirm the platform and accessories supplied with the specific unit. Customers planning to use particular flasks, bottles, culture vessels, or other containers should verify compatibility before purchase.

The maximum rated platform load is 35 lb / 15.9 kg. Loads should be distributed as evenly as practical to promote smooth orbital operation and minimize vibration.

Refurbishment & Testing

Used Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 orbital shakers from American Instrument Exchange are inspected and tested prior to shipment. The shaking mechanism is operated for extended periods to verify reliable movement and performance across applicable setpoints.

Testing includes evaluation of platform movement, speed adjustment, digital controls, timer operation, display functions, motor performance, and other applicable mechanical and electrical components. The unit is also cleaned and cosmetically prepared as appropriate before shipment.

Customers with specific operating or testing requirements are encouraged to discuss them with American Instrument Exchange before shipment. While application-specific analytical testing may not always be possible, AIE can work to simulate typical operating conditions and address reasonable testing requests.

Shipping & Installation

The MaxQ 2000 shaker chassis measures approximately 17.4 inches long by 13.5 inches wide by 6.4 inches high. The actual operating footprint may be larger because the installed platform can extend beyond the shaker chassis.

The shaker should be installed on a stable, level surface capable of supporting the instrument, platform, accessories, vessels, and full operating load. Adequate clearance should be maintained around the moving platform so that the platform, clamps, and vessels cannot contact nearby walls or laboratory equipment.

This AIE unit is configured for 120 V electrical service.

When installing the MaxQ 2000 inside a compatible incubator, refrigerator, warm room, or environmental chamber, laboratories should also verify available clearance, electrical access, operating temperature, humidity, ventilation, and the effect of the shaker's heat output on the surrounding controlled environment.

Related Equipment

Laboratories using the Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 may also require incubators, CO2 incubators, centrifuges, water baths, laboratory refrigerators, laboratory freezers, and ultra-low temperature freezers. American Instrument Exchange carries a broad selection of used and refurbished laboratory equipment for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, clinical, and industrial laboratories.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of shaker is the Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000?

The MaxQ 2000 is a digital open-air orbital shaker designed for microbial culture, molecular biology, general mixing, extraction, washing, and other laboratory shaking applications.

What is the speed range of the MaxQ 2000?

The digital MaxQ 2000 operates from 15 to 500 rpm.

What is the orbit diameter?

The MaxQ 2000 uses a 0.75-inch / 19 mm orbital motion.

What is the maximum load capacity?

The shaker has a maximum rated platform load of 35 lb / 15.9 kg. Actual vessel capacity depends on the installed platform, clamps, vessel dimensions, total load, and load distribution.

How many flasks can the MaxQ 2000 hold?

There is no single flask capacity that applies to every MaxQ 2000. Capacity varies substantially according to the installed platform, flask clamps, vessel sizes, custom accessories, and required spacing. American Instrument Exchange can confirm the configuration of the specific unit before purchase.

Is the MaxQ 2000 an incubated shaker?

No. The MaxQ 2000 is an open-air orbital shaker and does not provide its own heating or cooling.

Can the MaxQ 2000 be operated inside an incubator?

It can be used in an appropriate temperature-controlled environment provided the installation remains within the shaker's specified environmental limits and there is adequate clearance and electrical access.

Is this the CO2-resistant MaxQ 2000 Plus?

No. This is the standard digital MaxQ 2000. Laboratories requiring prolonged operation in the elevated humidity and CO2 concentrations of a CO2 incubator should use equipment specifically designed for that environment, such as the MaxQ 2000 Plus CO2-resistant shaker.

Why is the 0.75-inch orbit important?

Orbit diameter influences liquid movement and mixing within a vessel. Along with rpm, vessel geometry, and fill volume, it can affect mixing intensity, aeration, and oxygen transfer. Both orbit and speed should be considered when transferring culture protocols between different shaker models.

Does American Instrument Exchange test the MaxQ 2000 before shipment?

Yes. Used and refurbished MaxQ 2000 shakers are inspected and tested by American Instrument Exchange prior to shipment, including evaluation of the shaking mechanism, controls, speed adjustment, timer, and other applicable functions.

Does this MaxQ 2000 include a warranty?

Yes. This used and refurbished Thermo Scientific MaxQ 2000 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.