DRETOP ZSH-50 Biochemical Incubator

Overview

The DRETOP ZSH-50 Biochemical Incubator is a precision-engineered, dual-mode (heating and refrigeration) environmental chamber designed for stable, long-term temperature control in life science laboratories. Based on air-jacketed thermal regulation and compressor-driven active cooling, it maintains setpoint accuracy across the full operational range of 0–70 °C — enabling year-round use for both ambient- and sub-ambient applications. Its forced convection airflow system ensures consistent thermal distribution within the stainless-steel chamber, supporting reproducible experimental conditions required for biochemical assays, microbial cultivation, BOD testing, and environmental simulation studies. The unit complies with fundamental design principles outlined in ISO 15190:2020 (medical laboratories — requirements for safety) and aligns with general Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) infrastructure expectations for controlled environment equipment.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based P.I.D. temperature controller with 0.1 °C resolution and real-time digital display; supports programmable ramp-hold profiles and over-temperature alarm activation.
• Air-jacketed heating architecture combined with a high-efficiency hermetic compressor system for rapid thermal response and low-energy stabilization at target setpoints.
• Forced convection via optimized internal ducting and a centrifugal blower, delivering uniform air circulation without turbulence-induced sample desiccation.
• Stainless-steel interior chamber (304 grade) with removable, height-adjustable shelves; seamless corners and smooth surfaces facilitate cleaning, autoclaving, and chemical disinfection.
• Dual-pane observation window with tempered inner glass and magnetic door seal, minimizing thermal leakage and condensation during low-temperature operation.
• Integrated safety systems: power-fail memory retention, automatic restart after outage, compressor delay/start-interval protection, and user-configurable high-temperature cutoff.
• Modular design allows field-upgradable options including RS485 communication interface, BOD-rated electrical outlets (IPX4-rated), and external data logging via optional USB or serial output.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZSH-50 accommodates standard laboratory vessels including Petri dishes, culture flasks (up to 2 L), multi-well plates, and BOD bottles. Its 50 L chamber volume supports concurrent incubation of multiple sample types under identical thermal conditions. The unit meets baseline electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per IEC 61326-1 and conforms to energy efficiency guidelines for laboratory equipment under GB/T 29822–2013 (Chinese national standard, widely referenced in APAC export compliance). While not certified to UL/CSA or CE for North American/EU markets out-of-box, its electrical architecture and component sourcing (including R134a or R600a refrigerant variants) support third-party certification pathways for regulated environments.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller provides local parameter logging (temperature history, alarm events, runtime hours) stored in non-volatile memory with timestamping. Optional RS485 interface enables integration into centralized lab monitoring systems using Modbus RTU protocol. For GLP/GMP-aligned workflows, users may connect an external USB data logger or configure the optional color touchscreen module (sold separately) to generate CSV-formatted audit trails compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with appropriate access controls and electronic signature modules. No cloud connectivity is built-in; all data remains on-device unless explicitly exported.

Applications

• Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅) analysis per ASTM D5210 and ISO 5815-1 standards.
• Microbial growth studies including bacterial enumeration (e.g., coliform counts), fungal culture, and antibiotic susceptibility testing.
• Cell culture pre-incubation, enzyme activity assays, and immunoassay plate conditioning.
• Environmental stress testing of biological samples under controlled thermal gradients.
• Educational laboratory instruction in microbiology, molecular biology, and environmental science curricula.
• Quality control procedures in pharmaceutical excipient stability testing and food safety validation protocols.

FAQ

Does the ZSH-50 support programmable temperature ramps?

Yes — the P.I.D. controller allows up to 8-step ramp-and-hold sequences with user-defined dwell times and slope rates.
Is the unit suitable for BOD testing according to EPA Method 405.1?

When equipped with the optional BOD socket (IPX4-rated, 24 V isolated output), it fulfills electrical safety and temperature stability requirements for standard 5-day BOD incubation.
What is the maximum ambient temperature for rated performance?

The incubator is specified for continuous operation in rooms maintained at ≤30 °C and ≤80% RH; performance degrades above 32 °C ambient without supplemental ventilation.
Can the internal fan speed be adjusted?

Yes — an optional infinitely variable fan speed control module is available to reduce airflow velocity and minimize evaporation from open containers.
Is calibration documentation provided with shipment?

Factory calibration certificates (traceable to NIM, China) are included; users must perform periodic verification using NIST-traceable thermistors or PT100 probes per ISO/IEC 17025 guidelines.