Rocker Shaker- standard operating procedure

Contains the standard operating procedure for the Instrument Rocker Shaker (also called gel rockers). The working principle, components, applications and limitations

1. Rocker Shaker Standard Operating Procedure Presenter - Dr. Pranav U S (JR3) Moderator - Dr. Shoebul Haque (SR) Peer support - Dr. Shreedhar Angadi (JR3) Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, U.P., India E-mail: [email protected]

2. Contents Introduction Principle of operation Components Technical specifications Standard operating procedure Safety precautions Maintenance and troubleshooting Uses and applications Summary

3. Learning objective At the end of this session, the audience will be able to: Identify the instrument and describe the key components Comprehend the principle of operation and functionality of the Rocker Shaker Operate the instrument safely and efficiently Apply safety precautions to prevent hazards and contamination Utilize the instrument effectively for various laboratory applications

4. Introduction The Rocker Shaker is a laboratory instrument used for gentle mixing and agitation of solutions, gels, and biological samples It operates by providing a rocking motion, ensuring uniform distribution of substances without excessive turbulence

5. Principle of Operation The Rocker Shaker functions by tilting a platform back and forth at a controlled speed and angle with the help of a DC motor This motion enables effective mixing of samples while minimizing shear forces, making it suitable for sensitive biological applications

6. Components Speed adjustment knobs Digital display Non-slip mat Platform Start/ Stop switch Power Switch Indicator Light

7. Technical Specifications Power Supply: 230v AC Speed Range: 0 – 50 Oscillations / min Movement: See-Saw Maximum Load Capacity: 10 kg Platform Size: 25 x 25 cm Timer: 0-60 minutes

8. Standard Operating Procedures Pre-Operational Checks: Ensure the Rocker Shaker is placed on a stable, level surface Verify that the power cord is intact and connected to a proper power source Inspect the platform for cleanliness and secure any necessary accessories

9. Operation of Rocker Shaker: Place sample containers securely on the platform Adjust speed and tilt angle as per experiment requirements Turn on the power and set the timer Monitor operation for smooth movement without excessive noise or vibration Avoid overloading the platform beyond manufacturer recommendations

10. Post-Operational Steps: Switch off the power after use Remove all sample containers carefully Clean the platform with mild detergent or disinfectant Ensure the equipment is dry before storage Report any malfunctions to the supervisor

11. S afety Precautions: Do not touch the platform while in motion Keep hands away from moving parts Keep power cords away from water and chemicals Wear PPE when handling hazardous samples

12. Maintenance Inspect for wear and tear regularly Clean after each use to prevent contamination Schedule periodic servicing as per manufacturer instructions

13. Troubleshooting Malfunction Troubleshooting Rocker Shaker Not Turning On Ensure the power cord is properly plugged in Check the power switch and fuse Verify that the electrical outlet is functioning Excessive Noise or Vibration Ensure the instrument is placed on a stable, level surface Check for loose or unbalanced samples on the platform Irregular or Stopped Motion Confirm that the speed and tilt settings are correct Ensure the platform is not overloaded Check for obstructions in the moving parts Unresponsive Controls Reset the device and try adjusting the settings again

14. Uses and Applications Mixing biological samples in research and clinical laboratories Staining and destaining of gels in molecular biology Homogenizing reagents in chemical and biochemical studies Suspending cells in culture media Incubating membranes for blotting procedures

15. Summary A Rocker Shaker is used for gentle mixing and agitation of samples Works by tilting a platform back and forth at controlled speed Includes platform, speed control knob, power switch and digital display Avoid touching moving parts, wear PPE, and ensure stability while operating the device Essential in biological, chemical, and clinical research

16. References Rocker Shaker User Manual. MedPip . Available from: https://en.medpip.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Shakers-User-Manual-990727-EN.pdf Standard Operating Procedure for the Operation, Maintenance, and Calibration of Shaker. Research SOP. Available from: https://www.researchsop.com/2021/10/standard-operating-procedure-for.html Rocking Platform Shaker Instruction Manual. VWR International. Available from: https://us.vwr.com/assetsvc/asset/en_US/id/42510702/contents/manual-analog-rocking-platform-shakers.pdf MRC-Lab. What is a Laboratory Shaker? Uses, Purpose and Considerations. Available from: https://www.mrclab.com/what-is-a-laboratory-shaker-uses-purpose-and-considerations

17. Questions What is the working principle of Rocker Shaker ? Enumerate the components of the instrument ? Explain the standard operating procedure ? Applications of the instrument ?

18. THANK YOU