Modeler:

Brolan Waterland

Description: 

Vortexing many samples by hand can be tedious and error prone. Many vortexers are equipped to support multi-tube holders, but these units can individually cost >$150 rack. For <$10, this suite of parts can be 3D printed on any standard 3D printer and accommodate 1.5 mL (x56), 15 mL (x24), and 50 mL (x24) tubes. 

Assembly instructions: 

Detailed instructions for printing and assembly can be found in the following protocol:

https://dx.doi.org/10.17504/protocols.io.5qpvoj38zg4o/v1

Swapping tube size: 

To swap the tube size, first check the underside of the rack for an indent with a notched edge. There is a matching notch on one of the pillars on the base. Slide the rack over the threaded pilar, making sure to align the notch on the rack with the notched pilar. Then, make sure that all of the pillars on the base snap/fit into their respective indents on the rack. As a final precaution, screw the “rack fastener” all the way down onto the rack to make sure that the rack cannot come off during vortexing.  

Use: 

To use, place the tubes into the indents then screw on the top until hand tightened. Start the vortexer at low speed and turn up the power until it reaches your desired speed. 

If the unit is "chattery" or otherwise loud, confirm samples are reasonably balanced and/or adjust speed as needed. If that doesn’t help, make sure that the vortexer is on a solid surface that it has traction on.