MACS Stand
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This is a DIY magnet stand for magnetic-activated cell sorting in the Miltenyi system
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Model information
- Source
- Printables
- Category
- Chemistry & Biology
- License
- Creative Commons — Attribution — Noncommercial — Share Alike
Description:
This is a clean, ultra-low-cost DIY magnet stand intended for magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) workflows using the Miltenyi system. Commercial options charge ~$285 for what is essentially a small piece of sheet metal, so this design gives you the same functional outcome for a tiny fraction of the cost.
The stand provides a rigid, stable, vertical steel surface for mounting the Miltenyi separation magnet, allowing you to perform MACS column steps exactly as you would on the branded stand. By using standard 1530-Lite aluminum extrusion as the backbone and a simple 80 × 80 mm steel sheet as the magnet mounting surface, this design keeps the form factor compact while maintaining full compatibility with common MACS columns and magnets.
Despite its simplicity, the structure is solid, doesn’t wobble, and positions the magnet at the correct height and distance for typical cell separation workflows. The extrusion frame and two-plate “sandwich” system give the steel sheet enough stiffness and support that it feels like a proper benchtop accessory—not a hack.
This is ideal for labs trying to stay budget-conscious, teaching labs outfitting multiple stations, or anyone needing a dedicated MACS magnet stand without paying hundreds for a branded block of metal.
Bill of Materials (BOM):
1530-Lite aluminum extrusion – 1 ft (link)
80 × 80 mm steel sheet, 16-gauge
6× M3 nuts
4× M3 × 14 mm screws
2× M3 × 35 mm screws
Assembly:
Prepare the sheet metal plate
Place the steel sheet between the two printed cover plates.
Secure the sandwich using M3 × 14 mm screws.
Attach to the rail guides
Align the cover-plate sandwich with the printed rail guides.
Fasten using M3 × 35 mm screws.
Insert the extrusion
Press-fit the aluminum extrusion into the printed base until fully seated.
Mount the assembly
Slide the sheet-metal sandwich + guides into the front rails of the extrusion.
Ensure it moves smoothly but locks firmly in place.
Finish
Press-fit the top cap onto the extrusion to complete a clean, stable stand.