Drick DRK-150 Biochemical Incubator (150 L Capacity)
| Brand | Drick |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shandong, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | DRK-150 |
| Price | USD 7,000 (FOB Qingdao) |
Overview
The Drick DRK-150 Biochemical Incubator is a precision-engineered, forced-air convection incubation system designed for stable, uniform temperature control in microbiological and biochemical applications. Utilizing PID-controlled heating elements with independent fan-assisted air circulation, the unit maintains thermal homogeneity within ±0.3 °C across the full 150 L working chamber (internal dimensions: 520 × 450 × 650 mm). Its microprocessor-based controller features real-time digital display, programmable temperature setpoints from ambient +5 °C to 65 °C (±0.1 °C resolution), and automatic over-temperature protection with audible/visual alarm. The chamber is constructed from high-grade stainless steel (SUS304 interior, powder-coated steel exterior), ensuring corrosion resistance and ease of decontamination—critical for repeated use in QC labs, academic microbiology departments, and clinical research settings.
Key Features
- Forced-air convection system with adjustable-speed centrifugal fan for rapid temperature recovery (<15 min after 10 °C door opening) and spatial uniformity (±0.5 °C at 37 °C, per ISO 15189 Annex A.2)
- Double-layer insulated door with magnetic seal and low-emissivity glass window for minimized heat loss and continuous sample observation
- Independent temperature sensor calibration function accessible via service mode, supporting traceable verification against NIST-traceable reference thermometers
- Optional integrated UV germicidal lamp (254 nm, 15 W) with safety interlock for routine chamber sterilization between batches
- RS-485 communication interface compatible with Modbus RTU protocol for integration into centralized lab monitoring systems (e.g., LabVantage, STARLIMS)
- Compliance-ready design: meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements and supports GLP audit documentation via optional print-out log (time-stamped temperature history, alarm events, door openings)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The DRK-150 accommodates standard microbiological culture formats including Petri dishes (up to 200 mm diameter), test tubes (16–25 mm OD), multi-well plates (6–96-well), and Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L). Adjustable stainless-steel shelves (3 standard + 1 optional) support load distribution up to 25 kg total. Chamber humidity is passively maintained at ~60–75% RH (non-condensing) under steady-state operation—sufficient for bacterial growth (e.g., E. coli, S. aureus, B. subtilis) and fungal cultures (e.g., C. albicans). The unit conforms to ISO 20387:2018 (biobanking requirements) for environmental stability and supports validation protocols aligned with USP /, CLSI M22-A3, and EU GMP Annex 1 (Section 8.23) for incubator qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ).
Software & Data Management
While the base model operates via embedded firmware, optional DrickLog v3.2 software enables PC-based data acquisition, trend analysis, and electronic record generation. The software records temperature readings at user-defined intervals (1–60 min), generates PDF reports with digital signatures, and enforces 21 CFR Part 11 compliance through role-based access control, audit trail logging (all parameter changes, user logins, report exports), and electronic signature capture. Raw data files are stored in CSV and XML formats for third-party statistical analysis (e.g., JMP, Minitab). Firmware updates are delivered via USB flash drive with SHA-256 checksum verification.
Applications
- Routine aerobic/anaerobic bacterial cultivation in pharmaceutical QC laboratories (USP , EP 2.6.12)
- Mycological isolation and identification in food safety testing (ISO 21527-1, AOAC 997.01)
- Enzyme activity assays requiring precise thermal incubation (e.g., amylase, protease kinetics at 37 °C or 50 °C)
- Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) incubation per ASTM D5210-17 (standard 5-day, 20 °C protocol)
- Cell line maintenance for non-mammalian models (e.g., insect Sf9 cells, yeast S. cerevisiae) where CO2 control is not required
- Educational microbiology labs requiring robust, low-maintenance platforms compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 6.4.2 (equipment suitability)
FAQ
Is the DRK-150 suitable for BSL-2 applications?
Yes—when equipped with the optional UV lamp and used with appropriate PPE and procedural controls, it supports BSL-2 work involving Risk Group 2 microorganisms as defined by WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual (4th ed.).
Can temperature calibration be performed in-house?
Yes—the unit includes a dedicated calibration mode allowing offset adjustment using an external reference thermometer; calibration certificates are provided with each shipment.
What is the mean time between failures (MTBF) under continuous operation?
Based on field data from 2021–2023, MTBF exceeds 12,000 hours (≈1.4 years) at 37 °C, 24/7 operation, with preventive maintenance every 6 months.
Does the incubator support remote monitoring via Ethernet or Wi-Fi?
Ethernet connectivity is available via optional DrickNet module (IEEE 802.3, TCP/IP stack); Wi-Fi is not supported due to electromagnetic interference concerns in regulated lab environments.
Are spare parts and service manuals available internationally?
Yes—spare parts (fan assemblies, sensors, door gaskets) and English-language technical manuals are stocked at regional hubs in Singapore, Hamburg, and Chicago, with lead times ≤5 business days for standard components.
