Elastocon ET 03 Low-Temperature Laboratory Freezer
| Brand | Elastocon |
|---|---|
| Origin | Sweden |
| Model | ET 03 |
| Temperature Range | –10 °C to –45 °C |
| External Noise Level | <51 dB(A) |
| Insulation | High-efficiency polyurethane foam |
| Interior Volume | 32 L |
| Exterior Dimensions (W×D×H) | 460 × 520 × 850 mm |
| Ambient Temperature Stability | ±0.5 °C under standard lab conditions (20–25 °C, <60% RH) |
| Power Supply | 230 V AC, 50/60 Hz |
| Energy Class | A+ |
| Compliance | CE, RoHS, IEC 61000-6-3 (EMC), IEC 61000-6-1 (Immunity) |
Overview
The Elastocon ET 03 Low-Temperature Laboratory Freezer is an engineered thermal storage solution designed specifically for materials testing laboratories requiring stable, precisely controlled sub-zero environments. Operating within a calibrated range of –10 °C to –45 °C, the ET 03 employs a cascade refrigeration system with dual-stage compressors and high-density polyurethane insulation (≥120 mm thick walls) to ensure minimal thermal drift and low heat ingress. Its thermodynamic architecture prioritizes temperature uniformity (±0.8 °C across interior volume at –40 °C setpoint) and long-term stability—critical for standardized rubber and polymer testing per ISO 2921 (low-temperature brittleness), ASTM D746 (impact embrittlement), and DIN 53508 (cold resistance). Unlike general-purpose cold rooms or ultra-low freezers, the ET 03 is purpose-built for mechanical test specimen conditioning prior to compression set, tensile, or dynamic mechanical analysis—where consistent thermal history directly impacts repeatability and inter-laboratory comparability.
Key Features
- High-efficiency cascade refrigeration system optimized for continuous operation between –10 °C and –45 °C
- Digital microprocessor controller with real-time temperature display (0.1 °C resolution), programmable alarm thresholds, and audible/visual fault indication
- Low-noise design (<51 dB[A] at 1 m distance), enabling integration into shared laboratory spaces without acoustic interference
- Compact footprint (460 × 520 × 850 mm) with 32 L usable internal volume—maximizing space efficiency while maintaining thermal mass for load stability
- Robust stainless steel interior chamber and reinforced door seal to minimize frost accumulation and ensure long-term sealing integrity
- A+ energy rating with automatic defrost cycle management, reducing power consumption by up to 22% compared to legacy single-stage systems
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The ET 03 accommodates standard test specimens including vulcanized rubber strips (ISO 37), elastomeric seals (ISO 3601-3), and polymer film samples (ASTM D882) on adjustable stainless steel shelves. Its temperature uniformity profile meets the spatial homogeneity requirements of ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration labs when used with traceable NIST-traceable PT100 probes. The unit complies with CE marking directives for electrical safety (EN 61000-1-2) and electromagnetic compatibility (EN 61000-6-3/6-1), as well as RoHS 2011/65/EU restrictions on hazardous substances. It supports GLP-compliant workflows through configurable alarm logging (time-stamped temperature excursions ≥2 °C deviation), though it does not include FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic signature functionality natively.
Software & Data Management
The ET 03 operates via a standalone embedded controller with no proprietary software dependency. Temperature setpoints, alarm limits, and runtime hours are configured locally using the front-panel keypad and LCD interface. Optional RS-485 Modbus RTU output (available upon request) enables integration into centralized lab monitoring systems (e.g., Siemens Desigo, Schneider EcoStruxure) for remote status polling and event-driven alerts. Logged temperature deviations (up to 1,000 entries) are retained in non-volatile memory and exportable via USB service port for audit trail documentation. No cloud connectivity or vendor-hosted platforms are supported—ensuring data sovereignty and network isolation per institutional IT security policies.
Applications
- Pre-conditioning rubber and thermoplastic elastomers for compression set testing (ISO 815, ASTM D395)
- Cooling test liquids (e.g., silicone oil, ethanol/water mixtures) used in低温 bath immersion testing per ISO 6722-2
- Stabilizing viscoelastic samples prior to DMA or dynamic fatigue measurement
- Storage of temperature-sensitive reference standards (e.g., certified low-temperature calibration blocks)
- Supporting cold-flexibility assessments for automotive hoses, seals, and cable jackets (SAE J2044, ISO 6722-1)
FAQ
What is the recommended ambient operating environment for the ET 03?
The unit is rated for continuous operation in ambient temperatures between 15 °C and 30 °C, with relative humidity ≤60% non-condensing. Performance validation assumes installation away from direct sunlight, HVAC vents, or heat-generating equipment.
Can the ET 03 be used for long-term sample storage?
It is not designed for archival storage; its control strategy prioritizes rapid thermal recovery after door openings over absolute long-term stability. For storage applications exceeding 72 hours, dedicated ultra-low freezers (e.g., ET 04 series) are recommended.
Is external calibration support available?
Yes—Elastocon provides factory calibration certificates (traceable to SWEDAC-accredited standards) and supports third-party on-site verification using accredited metrology providers per ISO/IEC 17025.
Does the ET 03 meet explosion-proof requirements?
No. It is not certified for use in hazardous areas (ATEX, IECEx). Refrigerant R-404A and R-507 are contained within sealed circuits, but the unit lacks intrinsically safe electronics or purge systems.
How often does maintenance require intervention?
Annual inspection of condenser coil cleanliness, door gasket integrity, and refrigerant charge verification is advised. Compressor oil analysis is recommended every 36 months under continuous operation.
