ZiQi SPX-250 Biochemical Incubator
| Brand | ZiQi |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | SPX-250 |
| Cooling Method | Compressor-based refrigeration |
| Air Circulation | Forced convection |
| Temperature Range | 0–60 °C |
| Temperature Resolution | 0.1 °C |
| Temperature Fluctuation | ±0.5 °C |
| Temperature Uniformity | ±1.0 °C |
| Capacity | 250 L |
| External Dimensions | 590 × 590 × 1650 mm |
Overview
The ZiQi SPX-250 Biochemical Incubator is a precision-engineered, microprocessor-controlled environmental chamber designed for stable, reproducible temperature maintenance in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of active thermal regulation via a high-efficiency, R134a-based compressor cooling system combined with forced-air circulation—ensuring rapid thermal equilibration and minimal spatial gradient across the working chamber. Engineered for continuous operation under ambient conditions of +5 °C to +30 °C, the unit delivers consistent performance for extended-duration microbial culture, enzymatic assays, BOD analysis, seed germination, and long-term sample storage. Its operational envelope (0–60 °C) meets standard requirements for mesophilic bacterial growth, fungal propagation, and plant tissue culture protocols defined in ISO 8601, ASTM D5210, and USP /. The stainless steel mirror-finish interior—featuring radius-corner construction and adjustable shelving—minimizes contamination risk and supports GLP-compliant cleaning validation.
Key Features
- Mirror-polished 304 stainless steel interior with seamless, radius-corner design for easy decontamination and reduced microbial retention.
- Microprocessor-based PID temperature controller with LED display, real-time monitoring of setpoint, actual temperature, elapsed time, and over-temperature alarm status.
- Intelligent fan speed modulation: automatically adjusts airflow velocity based on thermal load to prevent desiccation of sensitive biological samples while maintaining uniform heat distribution.
- Dual-stage thermal safety system: primary control loop with independent mechanical over-temperature cutoff (optional), providing fail-safe interruption if temperature exceeds user-defined limits—critical for unattended overnight runs.
- RS485 serial interface (optional) enables integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or data loggers for automated temperature traceability compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements.
- Eco-conscious refrigeration using non-ozone-depleting R134a refrigerant; low-noise compressor with extended service life and optimized energy consumption (550 W nominal input).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SPX-250 accommodates standard microbiological vessels—including Petri dishes, test tubes, flasks (up to 2 L), multi-well plates, and plant growth trays—on three adjustable stainless steel shelves (standard configuration). Its 250 L usable volume and ±1.0 °C temperature uniformity meet ISO 15189 and CLSI EP23-A guidelines for incubator qualification in clinical and pharmaceutical QC labs. The unit is suitable for applications requiring adherence to WHO TRS 961 Annex 9 (Good Manufacturing Practice for Sterile Products), EPA Method 5210B (BOD5 testing), and APHA Standard Methods 9215B (heterotrophic plate count). All electrical components conform to IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment.
Software & Data Management
While the base model operates via embedded firmware without proprietary software, the optional RS485 port supports Modbus RTU protocol for bidirectional communication with third-party SCADA or LIMS platforms. When paired with compatible data acquisition hardware, users can generate audit-trail-enabled temperature logs—including timestamps, deviations, and operator IDs—satisfying GLP/GMP documentation requirements. Optional thermal printer output provides hard-copy records for immediate review during routine calibration checks or internal audits.
Applications
- Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) incubation per EPA and ISO 5815-1 protocols.
- Cultivation and preservation of bacteria (e.g., E. coli, S. aureus), yeasts, molds, and other aerobic/anaerobic microorganisms.
- Plant physiology studies: seed stratification, callus induction, and photoperiod-independent germination trials.
- Pharmaceutical stability testing at controlled temperatures per ICH Q1A(R2).
- Environmental monitoring: water quality assessment, activated sludge respiration assays, and toxicity screening.
- Academic research in molecular biology, microbiology, and agricultural science where precise, uninterrupted thermal control is essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum ambient temperature at which the SPX-250 can operate reliably?
The incubator is rated for continuous use in environments between +5 °C and +30 °C ambient temperature.
Does the unit support humidity control?
No—this is a dry-air biochemical incubator; humidity management requires external humidification accessories or a dedicated CO2/humidity incubator model.
Is calibration certificate included with shipment?
Factory calibration is performed prior to dispatch; an optional UKAS-accredited calibration certificate (traceable to NIST standards) is available upon request.
Can the SPX-250 be validated for GxP environments?
Yes—the architecture supports IQ/OQ/PQ execution; documentation templates and sensor mapping guidance are provided for compliance with FDA, EMA, and PMDA expectations.
What power supply specifications are required?
AC 220 V ±10%, 50 Hz single-phase; dedicated circuit with 16 A breaker recommended for stable operation.
