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Precise Gas Monitoring for Shake Flask Cultivation

Bartels Mikrotechnik and Kuhner shaker developed an innovative solution for precise gas monitoring in shake flask cultivations.

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The Challenge

Accurate real-time measurement of oxygen transfer rate (OTR), carbon dioxide transfer rate (CTR), and respiratory quotient (RQ) in shake flask cultivations was a persistent challenge.


Key hurdles included:

  • Ensuring simultaneous and precise gas monitoring.
  • Integrating the system into existing incubators without taking up shaker tray space.
  • Maintaining flexibility for different flask types, including single-use options.

Researchers needed an innovative solution to optimize bioprocesses and scale-up potential efficiently.

Our Solution

Bartels Mikrotechnik and Kuhner shaker collaborated to develop the Kuhner TOM system, combining microfluidic and shaking technologies.

Innovative features include:

  • mp6 Gas Pump: Bartels’ micropump enabled precise gas injections for accurate OTR, CTR, and RQ monitoring.
  • Space-Saving Design: Mounted above the shake flasks, the system preserves shaker tray space.
  • Scalability: Supports modular setups for 4, 8, 12, or 16 flasks, ensuring flexibility and efficiency.

This seamless integration allowed real-time, reliable monitoring of gas transfer rates across multiple flasks.

mp6 micropump

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The Kühner shaker device for gas measurement with the mp6 micropump

The Result

The Kuhner TOM system delivers significant advancements for researchers and scientists:

  • Enhanced Accuracy: Real-time, precise gas transfer monitoring in up to 16 independent flasks.
  • Improved Processes: Data-driven insights for optimizing media composition and bioprocess conditions.
  • Flexible Integration: Compatible with various flask types and retrofit-ready for existing systems.
  • Broad Applications: Opens new opportunities in cell cultivation, bioprocessing, and scale-up research.

This partnership showcases how Bartels Mikrotechnik’s microfluidics and Kuhner shaker’s shaking technology create transformative solutions for scientific and industrial applications.

Need a similar solution?

Looking to innovate with precise and reliable microfluidics?

Bartels Mikrotechnik offers customizable components and tailored solutions to meet your unique challenges.

From compact micropumps to integrated systems, we empower your next breakthrough.

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We will be on company holidays from December 24, 2025, to January 2, 2026. Please place orders by December 22. We’ll resume operations on January 5.
❄ Wishing you a wonderful holiday season! ❄