Omni Mixer
& Macro
User Manual
OMNI MIXER
HOMOGENIZER
www.omni-inc.com
This manual is a guide for the use of the Omni Mixer and Omni Macro Homogenizers and accessories.
Data herein has been veried and validated. It is believed adequate for the intended use of the instrument. If the
instrument or procedures are used for purposes over and above the capabilities specied herein, conrmation
of the validity and suitability should be obtained, otherwise Omni International does not guarantee results and
assumes no obligation or liability. This publication is not a license to operate under, or a recommendation to
infringe upon, any process patents.
Notes, cautions, and warnings within the text of this manual are used to emphasize important and critical
instructions.
This Omni International product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period
of THREE YEARS from the date of delivery. Omni International will repair or replace and return free of charge any
part which is returned to its factory within said period, transportation prepaid by user, and which is found upon
inspection to have been defective in materials or workmanship. For the rst 90 days, both parts and service are
without charge. For the balance of the period, parts will be provided but service will be charged at established
labor rates. This warranty does not include normal wear from use; it does not apply to any instrument or parts
which have been altered by anyone other than an employee of Omni International nor to any instrument which has
been damaged through accident, negligence, failure to follow operating instructions, the use of electric currents
or circuits other than those specied on the plate axed to the instrument, misuse, or abuse. Omni International
reserves the right to change, alter, modify, or improve any of its instruments without any obligation whatsoever to
make corresponding changes to any instrument previously sold or shipped.
THE FORGOING OBLIGATION IS IN LIEU OF ALL OBLIGATIONS AND LIABILITIES
INCLUDING NEGLIGENCE AND ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR OTHERWISE, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED
IN FACT OR BY LAW, AND STATE OUR ENTIRE AND EXCLUSIVE LIABILITY AND BUYERS EXCLUSIVE REMEDY FOR
ANY CLAIM OF DAMAGES IN CONNECTION WITH THE SALE OR FURNISHING OF GOODS OR PARTS, THEIR DESIGN,
SUITABILITY FOR USE, INSTALLATION, OR OPERATION. OMNI INTERNATIONAL WILL IN NO EVENT BE LIABLE FOR ANY
SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES WHATSOEVER, AND THEIR LIABILITY UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL
EXCEED THE CONTRACT PRICE FOR THE GOODS FOR WHICH LIABILITY IS CLAIMED.
- READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USING.
- SAVE THIS OWNER’S MANUAL.
The Omni Mixer and Omni Macro has been engineered for economical functionality as well as safety; however, basic
safety precautions and common sense must always be demonstrated when using any electrical product. DO NOT
attempt to modify any part of the Omni Mixer or Omni Macro. If you experience problems with or have questions
about your Omni Mixer or Omni Macro, contact your authorized dealer or call Omni International at 800-776-4431
or 770-421-0058.
- DO NOT allow the machine to be submerged in any liquid.
- DO NOT use in any setting other than an indoor laboratory.
- DO NOT plug power cord into an incorrect outlet.
To reduce the risk of burns, electrocution, re, or injury:
- Use this product only for its intended purpose as described in this booklet. DO NOT use attachments not recommended by the manufacturer.
- DO NOT operate the product if it is damaged in any way.
- Keep this product away from heated surfaces.
WARNING: Keep all housings in place and in working order. DO NOT use the motor in a dangerous environment. DO
NOT force the unit to do a job that it was not designed to do.
NOTE: If you experience excessive vibration, heat, or bearing wear, please contact technical support.
WARNING: DO NOT process pathogenic material in an open container, since aerosols created during normal processing could be inhaled by the operator.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the drive mechanism, never operate the motor without a sealed chamber assembly or generator probe installed.
CAUTION: Never operate the motor with the generator probe (or sealed chamber assembly) partially attached to
the coupling adapter.
NOTE: If you experience excessive vibration, heat, or bearing wear, please contact technical support.
WARNING: The Omni Mixer or Omni Macro must be operated with the chamber assembly resting on a table top
or on the bottom of a cooling container to prevent rotating blades from being exposed if the chamber assembly
becomes disengaged from the motor, and to minimize the possibility of a broken seal.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the drive mechanism, never operate the motor without a sealed chamber assembly or generator probe installed, or the ex rubber coupling removed from the motor.
WARNING: DO NOT modify the plug or cord that is provided. Damaged or worn power cords should be repaired or
replaced immediately by a qualied electrician.
WARNING: Keep all housings in place and in working order. DO NOT use the motor in a dangerous environment. DO
NOT force the unit to do a job it was not designed to do.
WARNING: Reduce the risk of unintentional starting. Make sure that the switch is in the “OFF” position before plugging in the motor.
Should this product ever require service, please contact
Omni International at 1-800-776-4431
OMNI MIXER
HOMOGENIZER
www.omni-inc.com
Omni Mixer & Macro Homogenizers consist of the following:
Description Part Number (Mixer) Part Number (Macro) Quantity
Motor Drive Unit
17105 (115V)
17106 (220V)
17505 (115V)
17506 (220V)
1
Clamping Knob Assembly 17164 17164 1
Generator Probe Adapter 15001 15001 1
Finished Base Assembly 17234 17234 1
Support Post 17026 17026 1
Tool Kit 17104 17104 1
Instruction Manual 17258 17258 1
Overview
1
2
3
4
5
1. Support Post
2. Coupling Adapter
3. Support Base
4. Clamping Knob Assembly
5. Motor Support Housing
Description P/N QTY
Gen Probe Multi Tool 00-402 2
20, 30, 45, 55 mm Knife Tool 15100K 1
1/16” Allen Wrench 00-416 1
5/64” Allen Wrench 60027 1
3/32” Allen Wrench 60128 1
1/8” Allen Wrench 60241 1
5/32” Allen Wrench 737 1
5/16” x 5/8” Combo Wrench 60033 1
5mm Lower Bearing Press 59105 1
7mm Lower Bearing Press 59107 1
Lubricant 61971 1
The following components are supplied as part of
the Omni Mixer and Omni Macro tool kit (P/N 17104)
Operation
Assembly
1. Insert the support post into the support base. Secure the set screw
through the back of the support base into the groove in the support
post, using 1/8 in. Allen (P/N 60241) provided.
2. Place the clamping knob assembly in the motor
support housing with the two at surfaces on the
clamping mechanism facing the support post
hole. The clamping knob assembly may be used
either on the left or the right side of the Omni
Mixer or Omni Macro.
3. Slide the motor support housing onto the
support post and clamp it into place
with the clamping knob assembly.
The motor support housing should
be positioned over the two longer
legs of the support base.
The speed of the Omni Mixer or Omni Macro may be regulated to achieve optimum results when
working with dierent materials. A speed selection knob is located at the side of the unit, as is a
separate “OFF” or “ON” switch. When in the “ON” position the motor speed can be varied from 0 rpm to
maximum speed. Select the optimal speed for each dierent combination of sample and accessory for
best processing results.
Generator probes can be used in open containers or in sealed chamber assemblies. Sample processing eciency is eected by:
• Amount of material processed vs. size and speed of the generator probe.
• Container geometry and size (round vessels encourage swirling, while uted or cornered vessels
disrupt ow patterns for more eective mixing/processing.
• Processing speed vs. optimal speed.
• Size and type of material and ow characteristics (material particles must be small enough to be
carried into the generator head for optimal processing).
To operate the generator probe simply remove the blue protective cap from the end of the generator
probe. Keep the blue protective cap on the tip of the generator probe when the generator probe is
not being used.
NOTE: When using PTFE lower bearings, immerse the bottom of the generator probe in liquid or in the
sample to avoid premature failure of the lower bearing.
NOTE: Liquid circulates through the two holes in the generator probe. DO NOT block the upper hole,
although the lower hole may be completely submerged during processing.
NOTE: For optimal sample recovery during processing, completely remove the generator probe from
the sample prior to turning o the motor drive unit.
To assemble the Omni Mixer or Omni Macro Homogenizer, refer to gure below:
Generator Probe Compatibility
Size
Processing
Range
Length Type
Resulting
Particle Size
Order No.
10 mm 1.5 mL - 100 mL
95 mm Saw Tooth Fine 15051
195 mm Saw Tooth Fine 150510
20 mm 50 mL - 2 L
100 mm Saw Tooth
Fine 15201
Coarse 15201W
145 mm Saw Tooth
Fine 15401
Coarse 15401W
195 mm Saw Tooth
Fine 15020
Coarse 15020W
30 mm 75 mL - 10 L 195 mm
Flat Bottom Fine 150-30NA-195
Flat Bottom
Wide Window
Coarse 150-30WA-195
45 mm
(Macro Only)
200 mL - 25 L 195 mm Flat Bottom Fine 150-45NA-195
55 mm
(Macro Only
300 mL - 30 L 195 mm Flat Bottom Fine 150-55NA-195
Generator Probe Installation
All generator probes (sold separately) are easily installed to the motor unit by following these steps:
1. Screw the generator probe adapter (P/N 15001) into the coupling adapter
2. Screw the generator probe into the generator probe adapter until the O-ring is completely inside
the generator probe adapter.
3. If the generator probe does not thread fully into the generator probe adapter, then unscrew the
generator probe from the generator probe adapter. Slightly rotate the rotor shaft collar on the
generator probe. Then return to step 2.
4. Tighten the generator probe by hand with moderate force.
5. Remove the blue protective cap from the tip of the generator probe and the homogenizer is ready
to operate.
NOTE: The tip of the generator probe, especially on the saw tooth generator probes, is sharp. For safety
purposes it is advisable that the protective cap be replaced on the generator probe when not in use.
NOTE: The bottom of the generator probe is extremely fragile and care should be taken to protect it.
Replace the blue protective cap on the end of the generator probe when the generator probe is not
being used.
WARNING: Never operate the motor with the generator probe (or sealed chamber assembly) partially
threaded onto the motor. To prevent damage to the motor and attachments be sure that the generator
probe (or sealed chamber assembly) is fully threaded into the coupling adapter. Failure to do so will
result in damage to the coupling system.
Quick Connect
Coupling Assembly
(Optional)
The Quick Connect Coupling Assembly is
an optional accessory for the Omni Mixer
and Macro.
To use, attach a Quick Connect Adapter
to your chamber assembly or generator
probe.
Next, slide the Adapter into the Quick
Connect Coupling and a retaining ring
positions into place for a secure hold.
To disconnect, simply slide the ring
upward and the processing accessory is
conveniently released.
Determining
Motor Speed
To determine motor
speed during operation,
a tachometer (not included) may be inserted
into the Omni Mixer or
Omni Macro through
the top of the motor as
shown by removing the
protective snap cap.
Vessel Restraint Disk
(Optional)
The Vessel Restraint Disk (P/N LT-750) can be used with the Omni Mixer and Macro to
help reduce splashing and contain aerosols during homogenization. This accessory is
compatible with 20mm and larger diameter rotor-stator generator probes and with
containers up to six inches in diameter. The Vessel Restraint Disk also helps secure the
container during processing.
Sealed Chamber Assemblies
Sealed chamber assemblies are available as separately ordered items for use with the
Omni Mixer and Macro. They consist of chambers, many of which are uted to facilitate
mixing by inhibiting swirling, gasket screw on cover seals to inhibit aerosol release, a
shaft assembly, and a sharpened stainless steel blade, or generator probe.
Chamber materials include stainless steel, glass, polycarbonate, and polypropylene. A
full range of titanium chamber assemblies is also available for applications requiring
protection from leached elemental components, or where additional strength is a
factor. Please contact your nearest Omni International representative, or Omni International for complete details.
Using Blade Chamber Assemblies
Stainless Steel or Titanium - These chamber
assemblies are intended for liquid and semi-solid materials. Homogenization and mixing will
normally be completed within 30 seconds to
one minute. For processing solid materials,
rst reduce particle size diameter to 1cm or
less. Load the material to be processed in the
chamber. Do not ll the chamber to full capacity. Processing of too much volume could force
liquid up through the rotor shaft.
Glass and Plastic - These chamber assemblies
are intended primarily for low-viscosity liquids
or for light duty homogenization at speeds
below 5,000 rpm. At speeds greater than 5,000
rpm, place glass jar into a secondary container
for added protection.
NOTE: The maximum recommended speed
when using any of the blade chamber assemblies is 10,000 rpm. Speeds in excess of 10,000
rpm can cause excessive bearing wear or part
failure.
NOTE: Inspect glass or plastic chambers for
any scratches or cracks, and do not use if any
are found. Eye protection and utilization of a
secondary container is recommended to prevent
damage or injury in case of glass breakage.
Centrifugable - These assemblies are available in
plastic or stainless steel, and should be used in
the same manner as described for glass, plastic,
and stainless steel above.
Breaking Down Specimen Particles - At speeds
below 5,000 rpm, specimen particles may be
broken down in the Omni Mixer by using hard
materials, such as glass beads. The Omni Mixer
will act as a “bead mill”, agitating the chamber
while the hard materials do the work. Since
sharpness is not essential, a dull blade should
be used.
Adding a Grinding Medium - To attain the
desired eect (cell breakdown) a combination
of procedures may be useful. First homogenize
the specimen in solution at maximum
recommended speed with a sharp knife blade.
Then change to a dull knife blade, add a
grinding medium and run the homogenizer at
5,000 rpm for ten to fteen minutes.
CAUTION: It is recommended that “bead mill”
processing should not be undertaken in a glass
vessel.
Using Generator Probes - To facilitate
homogenization of some materials, it may be
useful to pre-process the sample by using one
of the techniques described above, and then
completing the process by using a generator
probe. Generator probes can achieve particle
size reduction to less than 2 microns.
WARNING: When processing pathogenic material in a sealed container, carefully check seals
and connections to be certain that they are not
worn or leaking. A fume hood is recommended
for processing pathogens, even with a sealed
container. Our chambers are not aerosol sealed.
CAUTION: Knife blades are sharp. Handle carefully to avoid injury.
Sealed Chamber Assemblies (cont.)
Sealed chamber generator probe assemblies are available for use with the Omni Mixer and Macro but
are not supplied with the instrument. They consist of chambers, many of which are uted to facilitate
mixing by inhibiting swirling, gasket screw on cover seals to inhibit aerosol release, and a generator
assembly. Chamber materials include stainless steel, glass, polycarbonate, and polypropylene. A full
range of titanium chamber assemblies is also available for applications requiring protection from
leached elemental components, or where additional strength is a factor. Please contact Omni International for complete details.
Sealed Generator Probe Assemblies
Installing Sealed
Chamber Assemblies
All chamber assemblies are easily installed to the motor
unit by following these steps:
1. Attach the chamber (with adapter if required) to
the cover/generator probe assembly. Method of
attachment is a left-handed screw thread. Tighten the
assembly securely.
2. Attach the chamber assembly to the motor by screwing the chamber cover into the coupling adapter.
3. If the chamber assembly does not thread fully into
the coupling adapter, then unscrew the chamber
assembly from the coupling adapter. Slightly rotate
the rotor shaft collar on the generator probe. Then
return to Step 2.
4. Before operating, make sure that the chamber assembly rests securely on the tabletop.
For safe operation, all sealed chamber
assemblies attached to the Omni Mixer or
Omni Macro must be lowered to the table
surface as shown in gure (right).
Positioning the
Chamber Assembly
At speeds above 5,000 rpm relatively high chamber
temperatures may be caused from friction during
processing. Immersion of the chamber in an ice bath
or cooling chamber is recommended.
Using a
Cooling Vessel
WARNING: Never operate the motor with the sealed chamber assembly (or
generator probe) partially threaded onto the motor. To prevent damage to
the motor and attachments be sure that the sealed chamber assembly (or
generator probe) is fully threaded into the coupling adapter. Failure to do
so will result in damage to the coupling system.
In the event that the motor drive connect and/
or the exible rubber coupling needs to be serviced or replaced, the aluminum coupling can
be removed using the following procedure:
1. Unplug motor unit from
the wall.
2. Insert at edge of
combination wrench
(included in motor
tool kit) into the
slots of the aluminum coupling (see
gure to right).
3. Using wrench for
leverage, loosen
aluminum coupling by twisting it
counter-clockwise.
Installation of the coupling is the reverse of
these steps.
Maintenance
Motor Drive Unit Removal of
Aluminum Coupling
The motor drive housing can be cleaned periodically with a mild detergent. Never use solvents
to clean the unit or accessories. While resistant
to most laboratory chemicals, care should be taken to wipe o any concentrated and potentially
damaging liquids.
Once per month the aluminum coupling adapter
(see gure to right) of the homogenizer should
be removed and cleaned. After cleaning, a good
lubricant should be applied to the threads.
To a large measure, how well your homogenizer
performs its job is determined by the condition
of the carbon contact brushes (P/N 61810). If
brushes require replacement, the unit may run
at a reduced speed and make unusual noises,
or it may run sporadically and lose power. If this
occurs with your Omni Mixer or Omni Macro,
unplug the cord, loosen the brush caps one at
a time and check each brush. If the brushes are
less than 1/8” long and the ends of the brushes
(which contact the commutator) are rough and/
or pitted, the brushes no longer make adequate
contact with the commutator and should be replaced (check both brushes since both brushes
generally do not wear at the same rate). If one
brush is worn replace both brushes. Make sure
that the brushes are installed properly. The
brushes have a curved surface at the end which
must match the curvature of the commutator.
The curvature of the commutator is the same as
the curvature of the motor housing.
If the brushes are not installed properly they will
not contact the commutator and the motor will
not run. After replacing the brushes, make sure
to remove the exible rubber coupling, place the
motor on a clean surface, and run it freely (noload, without a generator or chamber assembly
attached) for 15 to 30 minutes before using
the unit to process samples. This will allow the
brushes to “seat” properly and will extend the
life of each set of brushes. This will also extend
the total life of your motor since the commutator
surface will wear evenly.
Motor Brush Maintenance
Motors are equipped with sealed ball bearings.
Under normal use they require no additional lubrication. A tube of lubricant (P/N 61971) is included with every drive unit and should be used
to lubricate the threads of all connecting threaded parts, as well as the drive pin at the tip of the
oating shaft .Lubricant should not be used to
lubricate moving parts or bearings.
Bearings and Lubrication
Grounding Instructions
In the event of a malfunction or breakdown,
grounding provides a path of least resistance
for electric current to reduce the risk of electric
shock. This instrument is equipped with an electric cord which is grounded to the chassis housing. The plug must be plugged in to an outlet
that is properly installed and grounded in accordance with all local codes and ordinances.
Troubleshooting
Do not attempt to service the Omni Mixer or Macro in a manner other than those discussed in this manual. For any issue that is unsuccessfully corrected using this guide,
please contact your authorized dealer or call technical assistance at Omni International
at 1-800-776-4431 or 770-421-0058.
PROBLEM CORRECTIVE ACTION
The Omni Mixer/Macro is plugged in and
turned on but is not functioning.
- Check power cord connectors
- Check wall socket for power to the outlet
Motor is turned ON and makes a “buzzing” sound, but is not working.
- Brushes may need to be replaced.
Contact Omni International or distributor.
Motor unit operating speed declines,
stalls intermittently, or stops completely
- Brushes may need to be replaced.
Contact Omni International or distributor.
PTFE bearing wears quickly
- Fluid level may be too low in the tube.
- Immerse the probe deeper into the uid.
Excessive splashing in sample tube - Fluid level too low for tube size
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PN: 17258 Rev.B
935C Cobb Place Blvd.
Kennesaw, GA 30144
800.776.4431 • 770.421.0058
www.omni-inc.com
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