WIGGENS WB-350T Dry Bath Incubator with Heating Module
| Brand | WIGGENS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | WB-350T |
| Temperature Range | Ambient +5 to 130°C |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.1°C |
| Temperature Uniformity | ±0.5°C |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 276 × 334 × 120 mm |
| Power Supply | 230 V, 50/60 Hz, 2.8 A |
Overview
The WIGGENS WB-350T Dry Bath Incubator is a precision-engineered temperature control instrument designed for consistent, reproducible thermal treatment of small-volume biological and chemical samples in tubes, vials, and microcentrifuge containers. Unlike water baths, this dry block system utilizes direct conductive heating via interchangeable aluminum heating blocks—eliminating contamination risks, evaporation artifacts, and maintenance burdens associated with liquid media. Its core operating principle relies on PID-controlled resistive heating elements embedded within thermally optimized aluminum blocks, ensuring rapid thermal equilibration and minimal overshoot. The device is calibrated to maintain setpoint accuracy within ±0.1°C at 80°C and achieves spatial uniformity of ±0.5°C across the block surface—performance metrics aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for laboratory temperature validation. Engineered for routine use in molecular biology labs, QC/QA environments, and clinical diagnostics workflows, the WB-350T supports GLP-compliant sample incubation, enzyme reaction activation, DNA denaturation, and reagent pre-warming protocols.
Key Features
- PID feedback microprocessor control with adaptive tuning for stable setpoint maintenance and minimized thermal overshoot
- VFD (Vacuum Fluorescent Display) screen showing both set temperature and real-time block temperature simultaneously
- Two programmable timer modes: “Time 1” initiates countdown upon reaching target temperature; “Time 2” starts immediately upon activation
- Dual safety protection architecture: hardware-based overtemperature cutoff at 150°C (heating plate sensor) and PCB-level thermal monitoring with automatic power disconnection
- Chemically resistant polypropylene housing rated for exposure to common laboratory solvents, acids, and bases
- Transparent polycarbonate lid enabling visual sample monitoring while preventing aerosol dispersion and accidental spillage
- Included dual-module configuration with standardized aluminum heating blocks and dedicated module extractor tool for safe high-temperature handling
- Compact footprint (276 × 334 × 120 mm) optimized for benchtop integration in space-constrained biosafety cabinets or laminar flow hoods
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The WB-350T accommodates standard tube formats including 0.2 mL PCR strips, 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes, as well as 13 mm and 16 mm culture tubes—configurable via user-selectable aluminum blocks (sold separately). All contact surfaces comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility standards and are free of leachable heavy metals. The instrument meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment and conforms to EMC directive 2014/30/EU. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its deterministic timer logic, non-volatile parameter storage, and auditable physical controls support traceability in regulated environments when integrated into documented SOPs.
Software & Data Management
The WB-350T operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid controller without external software dependency. All operational parameters—including temperature setpoint, timer mode selection, duration, and safety thresholds—are configured directly via tactile membrane keys and verified in real time on the VFD display. No firmware updates, cloud connectivity, or proprietary drivers are required. For laboratories requiring electronic record retention, optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters (not included) enable basic data logging of temperature readings at user-defined intervals using third-party terminal emulators or LabVIEW-compatible acquisition modules. Audit trails must be maintained externally per GLP/GMP guidelines.
Applications
- Thermal activation of restriction enzymes, ligases, and polymerases in molecular cloning workflows
- Controlled denaturation and annealing steps in PCR setup and post-amplification handling
- Pre-warming of cell culture reagents, buffers, and sera prior to aseptic processing
- Standardized incubation of ELISA plates, lateral flow assays, and immunochemical reactions
- Stabilization of thermolabile compounds during extraction and purification protocols
- Calibration reference point generation for secondary temperature sensors used in validation studies
FAQ
What is the maximum recommended continuous operating temperature?
The WB-350T is rated for sustained operation up to 130°C. Prolonged use above this threshold may degrade block emissivity and compromise long-term calibration stability.
Can the heating block be cleaned with ethanol or isopropanol?
Yes—the anodized aluminum block and polypropylene housing are compatible with 70% ethanol and 70% isopropanol for routine decontamination. Avoid chlorinated solvents or abrasive cleaners.
Is the unit suitable for use inside a CO₂ incubator?
No. The WB-350T is not rated for humidified or elevated-CO₂ environments. Condensation ingress may damage internal electronics and void warranty.
Does the device support external temperature probe input for chamber monitoring?
No. The WB-350T relies exclusively on embedded block-integrated Pt100 sensors. External probe integration requires third-party data loggers with analog input capability.
How often should temperature calibration be performed?
Annual verification against a NIST-traceable reference thermometer is recommended. Field calibration is possible using the built-in offset adjustment function per manufacturer instructions.
