Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMC18 Compact Microbiological Incubator
| Brand | Thermo Fisher Scientific |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | IMC18 |
| Temperature Range | 17–40 °C |
| Temperature Uniformity | ±0.2 °C (at 37 °C) |
| Chamber Volume | 18 L |
| Chamber Dimensions (W×H×D) | 180 × 310 × 290 mm |
| Footprint Area | 0.12 m² |
| Standard Shelving | 2 adjustable stainless-steel shelves (max. 3) |
| Max. Load per Shelf | 2 kg |
| Power Supply | 100–240 V, 50/60 Hz |
| Rated Power | 45 W |
| Net Weight | 7.2 kg |
Overview
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMC18 Compact Microbiological Incubator is a precision-engineered, benchtop incubation system designed for controlled microbial growth, cell culture maintenance, and short-term storage of temperature-sensitive biological samples in space-constrained laboratory environments. Utilizing forced-air (mechanical convection) technology, the IMC18 ensures rapid thermal equilibration and exceptional spatial uniformity across its 18 L stainless-steel chamber. Its operational range of 17–40 °C—extending below ambient temperature—enables reliable incubation under sub-room-temperature conditions, a critical capability for psychrophilic organism studies or low-temperature stability testing. The system achieves ±0.2 °C temperature accuracy at 37 °C (the standard human body temperature setpoint for bacterial and mammalian cell cultures), with spatial uniformity maintained at ±0.2 °C across the entire working volume. This level of thermal fidelity meets essential requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited microbiology labs and supports compliance with CLSI M22-A3 and USP <1117> guidelines for environmental control in sterility testing.
Key Features
- Compact footprint (0.12 m²) minimizes benchtop occupancy while delivering full-featured incubation performance—ideal for core facilities, QC labs, and teaching laboratories with limited space.
- Forced-air convection system with optimized airflow distribution ensures rapid recovery after door opening and eliminates cold/hot spots—validated by internal thermistor mapping per ASTM E2874.
- High-visibility LED interior lighting enables non-invasive sample monitoring without thermal disturbance or UV exposure.
- Dual-layer insulated double-glass door with magnetic seal provides thermal integrity and visual access, reducing energy consumption and condensation formation.
- Intuitive digital interface with real-time temperature display, programmable setpoint memory, and audible/visual alarm for deviation, door-open, or power failure events.
- Stainless-steel chamber (electropolished finish) and removable, autoclavable shelves support rigorous decontamination protocols required in GLP and GMP environments.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The IMC18 accommodates standard microbiological vessels including Petri dishes (90 mm and 150 mm), test tubes (13 × 100 mm and 16 × 150 mm), multi-well plates (6–96-well), and small-volume flasks (up to 250 mL). Its chamber geometry (180 × 310 × 290 mm) permits vertical stacking of plates or angled rack positioning for optimal airflow penetration. All materials in contact with the chamber interior comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility standards. The unit is CE-marked and conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical safety. It supports audit-ready operation in regulated settings through optional data logging (via RS232/USB interface) and can be integrated into laboratory-wide environmental monitoring systems compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated software.
Software & Data Management
While the IMC18 operates as a standalone instrument, it features an RS232 serial port and USB interface for connection to external data loggers or centralized lab management platforms. Optional Thermo Scientific™ LogTrack™ software (sold separately) enables time-stamped temperature recording, user-defined alarm thresholds, electronic signature capture, and export of CSV/Excel-compatible reports—fully traceable for GLP/GMP documentation. All logged data retain immutable timestamps and operator IDs, satisfying ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available).
Applications
- Routine enumeration of aerobic mesophiles (ISO 4833-1), coliforms (ISO 4832), and Enterobacteriaceae (ISO 21528-2) using standard agar media.
- Incubation of antibiotic susceptibility test plates (e.g., Kirby-Bauer discs) per CLSI M02-A12 protocols.
- Short-term holding of prepared media prior to pour plating or membrane filtration.
- Environmental monitoring of cleanrooms and isolators (ISO 14644-2) via settle plate and active air sampling incubation.
- Teaching lab use for bacterial growth kinetics, temperature-dependent enzyme assays, and fungal sporulation studies.
FAQ
Does the IMC18 support operation below ambient room temperature?
Yes—the refrigeration-assisted heating/cooling system enables stable setpoints as low as 17 °C, even in laboratories maintained at 25 °C.
Can the incubator be validated for IQ/OQ/PQ protocols?
Yes—Thermo Fisher provides a Validation Support Package (VSP) including URS templates, test protocols, and blank forms aligned with Annex 15 and GAMP5 guidance.
Is the chamber humidity-controlled?
No—the IMC18 is a dry-air incubator; for humidified applications, consider the Heratherm MI series with integrated steam generator.
What is the maximum shelf loading capacity?
Each stainless-steel shelf supports up to 2 kg; with three shelves installed, total load must not exceed 6 kg to maintain thermal performance and airflow integrity.
Are calibration certificates available?
NIST-traceable factory calibration certificates (including as-found/as-left data) are available upon request and meet ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for accredited calibration laboratories.
