HKM WBK-3B Triple-Independent-Temperature Water Bath with 3×1.5L Stainless Steel Chambers

Overview

The HKM WBK-3B Triple-Independent-Temperature Water Bath is a precision-engineered laboratory thermal management system designed for simultaneous multi-temperature incubation, sample equilibration, enzymatic reaction control, and auxiliary heating applications. Unlike conventional single-zone water baths, the WBK-3B integrates three physically isolated stainless steel chambers—each equipped with its own dedicated heating element, PT100 temperature sensor, and microprocessor-based PID controller—enabling fully independent thermal regulation across all three zones. This architecture eliminates cross-chamber thermal coupling and supports rigorous experimental protocols requiring parallel conditions (e.g., comparative enzyme kinetics at 37 °C, 45 °C, and 60 °C). The unit operates on standard 220 VAC/50 Hz mains power and is engineered for continuous-duty laboratory use under GLP-aligned operational practices.

Key Features

• Triple independent temperature control channels with auto-tuning PID algorithms for rapid stabilization and high reproducibility (±0.5 °C stability at setpoint)
• Seamless one-piece 304 stainless steel inner tanks—electropolished for corrosion resistance, leak-proof integrity, and ease of decontamination
• Dedicated mechanical drain valves per chamber, enabling complete liquid evacuation without disassembly or cross-contamination risk
• Inclined front-panel digital display with intuitive key navigation; supports real-time temperature readout, timer countdown, and alarm status indication
• Programmable heating timer (0–999 minutes) with automatic power cutoff upon completion and audible end-of-cycle alert
• Adjustable upper-limit tracking alarm: user-defined maximum temperature threshold triggers visual + audible warning and halts heating in the affected zone only
• Rugged welded 304 stainless steel housing with reinforced structural frame—designed for long-term stability on benchtops in QC, clinical, and academic labs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The WBK-3B accommodates standard laboratory glassware including beakers (up to 1000 mL), test tubes, centrifuge tubes, flasks, and small-volume bioreactors. Each chamber accepts vessels up to 130 mm wide × 116 mm deep, with a maximum immersion depth of 110 mm. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 safety standards for electrical equipment used in laboratory environments. Its construction materials meet FDA-relevant criteria for non-leaching, non-reactive surfaces (per 21 CFR §177.1520 for food-contact-grade 304 SS). While not certified for ISO/IEC 17025 calibration traceability out-of-box, the system supports external verification using NIST-traceable reference thermometers—making it suitable for internal method validation under ISO 17025-accredited quality systems when paired with documented SOPs.

Software & Data Management

The WBK-3B operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded data logging or PC connectivity. All operational parameters—including setpoints, elapsed time, current temperature, and alarm status—are displayed locally via the integrated LCD interface. For laboratories requiring audit trails or electronic records, integration with external environmental monitoring systems (EMS) is achievable via optional analog 4–20 mA or 0–5 V output modules (sold separately). When deployed in regulated environments governed by FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11, users must implement procedural controls—including manual logbook entries, timestamped printouts from connected chart recorders, and periodic calibration verification—to maintain compliance with data integrity requirements.

Applications

• Simultaneous temperature optimization studies in microbiology (e.g., growth curve analysis across thermal gradients)
• Parallel sample preparation for HPLC, GC, or spectrophotometric assays requiring distinct pre-incubation conditions
• Controlled enzymatic digestion in molecular biology workflows (restriction enzyme activity profiling, ligase efficiency testing)
• Standardization of viscosity measurements using capillary or rotational viscometers requiring stable thermal baths
• Calibration of temperature-sensitive sensors (thermocouples, RTDs) against known reference points
• Auxiliary heating for dissolution testing apparatus (USP Apparatus I/II), melting point determination, and solvent evaporation setups

FAQ

Can the WBK-3B be used for sterilization or autoclaving procedures?

No. This unit is not rated for steam sterilization or pressurized operation. It is intended solely for open-bath temperature maintenance below 100 °C.
Is calibration documentation included with shipment?

The WBK-3B ships with a factory inspection report confirming functional verification at 37 °C and 60 °C. Full calibration certificates with uncertainty budgets require third-party service.
What maintenance is required to ensure long-term accuracy?

Monthly cleaning of tanks with mild detergent and deionized water; annual verification of sensor drift using a calibrated reference thermometer; biannual inspection of drain valve seals.
Does the unit support RS232 or USB communication?

No. Communication interfaces are not built-in. External data acquisition requires add-on analog signal modules.
Can distilled water be used exclusively in all three chambers?

Yes—and recommended. Deionized or distilled water minimizes mineral buildup on heaters and extends service life of temperature sensors and stainless steel surfaces.