Anybody got any leads on a decent stir plate?

[TBone]

Hey guys,

Looking at getting a stir plate set up with a flask for making starters.

The only option I can find in NZ is through the labwarehouse website... But all in with taxes it's going to cost near $200! That's for the stir plate, flask, stir bar, and taxes.

I'm happy to import and buy online... But was wondering if anyone here had some good companies or resources they have knowledge of.

Cheers,

T

[Scott H]

Make one man, easy as to do:

https://byo.com/stories/issue/item/398-build-your-own-stir-plate

[Cain Harland]

I second that especially if you have access to an old computer.

The parts for mine were:

• Case fan from old PC (easiest with 2 wire but can use others)
• Magnet from old harddrive
• 12v wall plug from old something
• Small click clack sandwich box - cheap as - only $ spent
• 2mm bamboo ply - left over form something - made shims to pack fan tightly in box with holes for magnet to rotate in.

Cut blades off fan glued magnets (2 stacked) to top. Joined 2 wires form fan to 2 from plug. Fit in box. Done.

I tried 5v USB power 1st but too weak some, folks have a variable resistor for speed control but mine works well without.

[Scott H]

I use a variable voltage adapter for my speed control works mint. Can get them on trademe for around $15

[Peter Smith]

I have one of these , they sell about $70 second hand every so often.   

http://www.labwarehouse.co.nz/Magnetic-stirrer_p_909.html

[Andy]

I built mine from parts i bought on dx.com , a computer fan, rare earth magnets, speed controller, ac adaptor.  I got the box to put it into from jaycar.  All up around $30.  some amateur wiring and a bit of glue sorted it out.