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Maintaining buffer temperature during Western blot transfer

By Kim McDonald, 31 August 2024

To avoid issues associated with inconsistent buffer temperature during Western blot transfer, there are a variety of options for cooling the buffer. Many tanks are equipped with refillable ice packs or ice chambers, or the entire tank can be placed in an ice bucket or cold room. Still, these options lead to variations in temperature across the tank. To address this, many Western blotting protocols utilize magnetic stirrers to circulate the buffer during protein transfer to maintain a consistent temperature and avoid hot spots that can inhibit transfer.

How to Make a Magnetic Stirrer

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 24 April 2021

If you're on a budget, making your own magnetic stirrer might be an option. We take a looks at several designs of DIY magnetic stirrers to help you pick the most suitable one to try.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Magnetic or Hotplate Stirrer

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 11 January 2020

We examine factors to consider when choosing a magnetic or hotplate stirrer, including capacity, safety features, sample viscosity, temperature range, and accuracy.

Through-Shaft Design: What It Is and Why It Is Important

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 19 November 2019

Some stirrer models come with a through-shaft design. Find out what this is and the practical benefits it offers.

Troubleshooting Issues with Magnetic Stirrers

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 22 August 2019

We take a look at the problems you might come across when using a magnetic stirrer and the steps you can take to overcome them.

Deciding Between a Magnetic Stirrer and an Overhead Stirrer

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 06 June 2019

Deciding between a magnetic stirrer and an overhead stirrer isn’t always simple. We take a detailed look at the most important factors to consider.

Selecting an Impeller for Your Overhead Stirrer

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 18 January 2019

We explain the most common impeller designs and their importance, and the reasons why impeller size should be carefully considered.

The Advantages of Speed Ramping and Ramp Heating

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 24 September 2018

Speed ramping and ramp heating offer benefits, including improving safety and lowering the chance of ruining or losing your sample. Find out more about both features.

Proper Use and Maintenance of Overhead Stirrers

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 20 August 2018

Find out about the steps you can take to use your overhead stirrer more efficiently and keep it in good working condition for longer.

Deciding Between a Stirrer and a Homogenizer

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 23 May 2018

The decision of whether to use a homogenizer or a stirrer isn't always a straightforward one. We explore the factors related to this topic to help you make the right decision for your application.

How to Choose a Magnetic Stir Bar (Stirring Flea)

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 17 May 2018

With so many options available, choosing the right stir bar can be a challenge. We explain how to decide which shape, size, and material your stir bar should be.

Stirring Viscous Materials

By Aimee O'Driscoll, 14 May 2018

Stirring viscous materials can often represent a challenge. We explain how choosing the right stirrer, impeller, and speed, can help you mix your materials properly.

What Features Should You Look for When Buying a Stirrer?

By Joshua Reyes, 19 April 2017

When purchasing a stirrer for your lab, it's helpful to know which features and factors others consider during a similar decision. We reveal what other scientists look for in a stirrer so that you can be confident you're looking at the right criteria.