Thermo Scientific Revco UGL3020V High-Performance Laboratory Low-Temperature Freezer

Overview

The Thermo Scientific™ Revco™ UGL3020V High-Performance Laboratory Low-Temperature Freezer is an engineered solution for long-term, stable storage of biologics, clinical specimens, reagents, and research samples at −20 °C. Designed for demanding laboratory environments—including core facilities, biobanks, clinical diagnostics labs, and pharmaceutical R&D—this upright freezer employs a robust, industrial-grade dual-stage compressor system to maintain precise thermal uniformity across its entire 826-liter chamber. Its operation is grounded in vapor-compression refrigeration with CFC-free refrigerant (R-404A or R-507, compliant with current EPA SNAP and EU F-Gas regulations), ensuring both environmental responsibility and regulatory alignment. The unit meets UL 61010-1 and CE marking requirements for safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), and performance, and is validated for continuous operation under GLP and GMP-aligned workflows where temperature traceability and alarm integrity are critical.

Key Features

• Industrial-grade dual-stage compressor system delivering rapid temperature recovery (<60 minutes to return to setpoint after 3-minute door opening with full load)
• Ultra-thick, high-density polyurethane insulation (≥127 mm in walls and door) with zero-ozone-depletion-potential (ODP) formulation, minimizing thermal bridging and energy consumption
• Microprocessor-based digital controller with ±0.5 °C temperature accuracy, programmable setpoint range (−10 °C to −30 °C), and real-time display of internal temperature, setpoint, and alarm status
• Comprehensive alarm architecture including high/low temperature, door ajar, power failure, sensor fault, and compressor failure alerts—with visual LED indicators and optional remote contact closure output
• Full-width, self-closing, three-point latching door with magnetic gasket seal and optional lockable handle for access control
• Stainless steel interior (304 grade) with rounded corners and removable, dishwasher-safe wire shelving (standard configuration: 4 adjustable shelves + 1 solid bottom shelf)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The UGL3020V supports diverse sample formats—including cryovials (1.2–2.0 mL), microtubes, conical tubes, Petri dishes, and standard specimen containers—without compromising thermal homogeneity. Its interior layout accommodates standardized rack systems (e.g., Nunc™, Corning™, Thermo Scientific™ Nunc™ CryoBoxes™), and the 74 × 76 × 147 cm usable volume allows flexible organization while maintaining airflow integrity. The freezer is designed and tested to comply with key international standards: UL 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use), IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC Emission Standard), and EN 61000-6-2 (EMC Immunity Standard). It supports audit-ready documentation for FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned environments when integrated with validated data logging systems (e.g., Thermo Fisher’s SampleManager™ LIMS or third-party compliant loggers).

Software & Data Management

While the UGL3020V operates as a standalone unit with embedded firmware, it features a dry-contact alarm relay port (normally open/closed) compatible with building management systems (BMS), centralized lab monitoring platforms (e.g., Siemens Desigo, Honeywell Experion), and validated electronic loggers. Optional accessories include the Thermo Scientific™ Revco™ Remote Monitoring Interface Kit, enabling SNMP v3 or Modbus TCP communication for integration into enterprise-wide asset tracking and environmental monitoring infrastructures. All alarm events—including timestamps, duration, and recovery status—are logged internally with non-volatile memory retention (minimum 30 days). When paired with IQ/OQ/PQ documentation packages and 21 CFR Part 11–compliant software add-ons, the system supports full lifecycle validation for regulated laboratories operating under ISO 13485, CLIA, CAP, or AABB accreditation frameworks.

Applications

• Long-term storage of serum, plasma, DNA/RNA extracts, and cell lysates in clinical and translational research labs
• Stabilization of temperature-sensitive enzymes, antibodies, and diagnostic reagents prior to assay deployment
• Backup cold storage for −80 °C ultra-low freezers during maintenance cycles or power disruptions
• Archival preservation of tissue sections, FFPE blocks, and microbiological cultures in biorepositories
• Regulated storage of investigational medicinal products (IMPs) and comparator drugs in Phase I–III clinical trial supply chains

FAQ

What is the recommended ambient operating temperature range for the UGL3020V?

The unit is rated for continuous operation in ambient temperatures from 10 °C to 32 °C (50 °F to 90 °F) at ≤80% relative humidity non-condensing.
Does the UGL3020V support temperature mapping validation?

Yes—its uniform internal airflow design and documented thermal stability profile make it suitable for IQ/OQ/PQ temperature mapping per ISO 14644-1 and WHO TRS 961 Annex 9 guidelines.
Can the freezer be installed in a room without dedicated ventilation?

No—minimum 10 cm (4 in) clearance on all sides and rear is required for condenser heat dissipation; installation in enclosed cabinetry or poorly ventilated spaces voids warranty and compromises performance.
Is the unit compatible with liquid nitrogen backup systems?

It is not designed for direct LN₂ integration; however, it may serve as a secondary cold storage layer in hybrid cold-chain architectures when coordinated via external environmental controllers.
What documentation is provided for regulatory submissions?

Standard delivery includes Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) report, UL/CE certificates, electrical schematics, and user manual; optional IQ/OQ protocols and calibration certificates (NIST-traceable) are available upon request.