Grant ES-80 Temperature-Controlled Orbital Shaking Incubator

Overview

The Grant ES-80 Temperature-Controlled Orbital Shaking Incubator is an engineered platform for precise, long-term cultivation and mixing of biological samples under tightly regulated thermal and mechanical conditions. Designed around orbital shaking dynamics—where samples undergo uniform circular motion with a 20 mm diameter orbit—the system supports consistent suspension, aeration, and mass transfer critical for aerobic microbial growth, suspension cell culture, and biochemical reaction kinetics. Its microprocessor-controlled PID temperature regulation, combined with forced-air convection and high-efficiency insulation, ensures ±0.3 °C stability across the full operating range (ambient +5 °C to 80 °C), with 0.1 °C setpoint resolution. The direct-drive motor eliminates belt wear and delivers low-vibration, repeatable oscillation (50–250 rpm) with soft-start and soft-stop profiles to minimize shear stress on sensitive cells or fragile aggregates.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based PID temperature control with digital feedback loop for high reproducibility and minimal overshoot
• Forced-air circulation system ensuring uniform temperature distribution (<±0.5 °C spatial variation across chamber)
• Orbital shaker mechanism with 20 mm orbit diameter and calibrated speed range (50–250 rpm, ±2 rpm accuracy)
• Dual-line 16-character LCD display showing real-time values for temperature, speed, and timer
• Programmable timer (1 minute to 96 hours) and continuous operation mode (up to 168 hours)
• Interchangeable platforms compatible with standard laboratory vessels—from 30 mL test tubes to 1 L Erlenmeyer flasks
• Energy-optimized design incorporating low-thermal-conductivity insulation and high-efficiency heating elements
• Robust steel chassis with powder-coated finish and reinforced chamber walls for structural integrity during extended operation

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ES-80 accommodates a broad spectrum of sample containers via optional platforms: PP-400 (flat anti-slip surface), P30-100 (for 30–150 mL bottles), P16-250 (16 × 250–300 mL), P9-500 (9 × 500 mL), and P6-1000 (6 × 1000 mL). Its internal height of 270 mm permits use of tall culture vessels without lid interference. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets CE marking requirements for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC Directive 2014/30/EU). While not certified for GMP manufacturing environments, its stable thermal profile, audit-ready parameter logging (when paired with optional data export modules), and traceable calibration support GLP-aligned workflows in academic, pharmaceutical R&D, and contract research laboratories.

Software & Data Management

The ES-80 operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded software stack; all control logic resides in firmware with non-volatile memory for parameter retention after power loss. For documentation and traceability, users may integrate external USB data loggers or RS-232 interfaces (via optional adapter) to capture timestamped temperature and speed values at user-defined intervals. This enables alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when used in conjunction with validated third-party data acquisition systems that provide electronic signatures, audit trails, and secure data storage. Firmware updates are performed manually via manufacturer-provided service tools—no over-the-air connectivity is implemented, minimizing cybersecurity exposure.

Applications

• Mammalian, insect, and plant cell suspension cultures requiring physiological temperatures (37 °C) and gentle agitation
• High-yield bacterial expression systems (e.g., E. coli) for recombinant protein production
• Enzyme kinetics assays and metabolic studies where dissolved oxygen and substrate homogeneity are rate-limiting
• Gel washing, membrane hybridization (Southern/Northern blotting), and antibody incubation protocols
• Solubility screening and dissolution testing of biopharmaceutical formulations up to 80 °C
• Plasmid propagation, phage amplification, and yeast fermentation optimization
• Long-term stability studies of biologics under controlled thermal-mechanical stress

FAQ

What is the minimum ambient temperature required for stable operation at 25 °C?
The ES-80 maintains setpoints ≥ ambient +5 °C. For reliable 25 °C control, ambient lab temperature must remain ≤20 °C.
Can the ES-80 be used for CO₂-sensitive applications?
No—it lacks CO₂ regulation or humidification control. It is intended for air-atmosphere applications only.
Is calibration certificate included with purchase?
A factory calibration report is supplied; ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration is available as a separate service.
How often should maintenance be performed?
Annual inspection of motor coupling, fan operation, and temperature sensor drift is recommended per Grant’s maintenance guidelines.
Are replacement platforms covered under warranty?
Platforms are consumable accessories and excluded from the standard 2-year parts-and-labor warranty unless damaged upon delivery.