MKN SG-24 Precision Metal Block Dry Bath Incubator

Overview

The MKN SG-24 Precision Metal Block Dry Bath Incubator is an engineered thermal platform designed for accurate, uniform, and contamination-free temperature control of small-volume samples in sealed or open-tube formats. Unlike water baths—where condensation, evaporation, and cross-contamination pose persistent challenges—the SG-24 employs solid-state conductive heating via a high-density anodized aluminum block. This architecture eliminates liquid-mediated heat transfer, delivering rapid thermal response, minimal temperature gradient across wells (<0.3 °C at 37 °C), and zero risk of sample dilution or vapor intrusion. Its microprocessor-based PID temperature controller ensures stable setpoint maintenance across the full operating range (room temperature to 100 °C), with verified repeatability of ±0.2 °C at physiologically relevant temperatures (e.g., 37 °C) and ±0.3 °C at higher reaction temperatures (e.g., 65 °C). The device is optimized for routine molecular biology workflows requiring precise thermal conditioning without the operational overhead of water bath maintenance.

Key Features

• High-thermal-conductivity aluminum heating block, precision-machined to ISO 2768-mK tolerances for uniform heat distribution and low thermal resistance
• Digital PID temperature control with real-time feedback loop, enabling fast ramp rates and minimal overshoot
• Large-capacity 24-position configuration supporting standard tube formats: 1.5 mL microcentrifuge tubes (Φ10 mm), 10 mL culture tubes (Φ15 mm), and intermediate diameters (Φ12 mm)
• Integrated digital timer (0–999 min) with audible end-of-cycle alert and auto-shutdown functionality
• Optional stainless steel light-blocking and dust-proof cover—enables open-tube incubation while preventing ambient particulate ingress and photodegradation of light-sensitive reagents
• Front-panel LED display with intuitive keypad interface for simultaneous temperature and time setting; no software installation required
• Over-temperature protection circuitry compliant with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SG-24 accommodates a broad spectrum of sample containers used in clinical diagnostics, molecular biology, and quality control laboratories—including polypropylene, polycarbonate, and glass tubes rated for continuous exposure up to 100 °C. Its dry-block design inherently satisfies critical hygiene requirements outlined in CLSI EP23-A and ISO 15189 Annex A.3.2 for non-sterile but contamination-controlled thermal processing. While not certified as a medical device under FDA 21 CFR Part 820, the instrument supports GLP-compliant workflows when operated within documented SOPs, including audit-ready manual logging of setpoints, durations, and operator IDs. It meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1 and electrical safety per EN 61010-1, making it suitable for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing environments.

Software & Data Management

The SG-24 operates as a standalone analog-digital hybrid system with no embedded firmware update capability or USB/Bluetooth connectivity. All operational parameters are entered and monitored locally via the front-panel interface. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-DAQPRO-5300 series) may be interfaced using standard 4–20 mA or 0–5 V analog outputs (available upon request with optional analog output module). The unit supports 21 CFR Part 11 compliance only when integrated into validated LIMS or ELN platforms that enforce user authentication, electronic signatures, and audit trail generation for all parameter changes—functionality not natively provided by the device itself.

Applications

• Enzyme activity assays requiring strict thermal stabilization during kinetic measurements
• Pre-incubation of restriction digests, ligations, and phosphorylation reactions prior to electrophoresis
• Denaturation steps in PCR setup (e.g., initial DNA melting at 95 °C) and hot-start polymerase activation
• Coagulation studies involving serum clotting at 37 °C under controlled, non-humidified conditions
• Cell lysate pre-warming prior to protein extraction or immunoassay preparation
• Stability testing of reference standards and calibration materials across defined thermal profiles
• Routine incubation of microbiological media aliquots before inoculation

FAQ

Does the SG-24 support custom well configurations beyond the standard 1.5 mL and 10 mL layouts?

Yes—MKN offers bespoke block machining services for non-standard tube diameters (e.g., 0.2 mL PCR strips, 15 mL conical tubes) subject to minimum order quantity and lead time confirmation.
Is the aluminum block resistant to corrosion from common lab solvents such as ethanol or isopropanol?

The anodized surface provides moderate resistance to short-term exposure; however, prolonged contact with strong acids, bases, or halogenated solvents is not recommended. Routine cleaning should use deionized water and lint-free wipes.
Can the unit maintain temperature accuracy during extended operation (>8 hours)?

Yes—the thermal mass and passive cooling design ensure drift remains within ±0.5 °C over continuous 24-hour operation at any setpoint between 30 °C and 80 °C.
What safety certifications does the SG-24 hold for international deployment?

It carries CE marking per Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD), and conforms to EN 61010-1:2010 + A1:2019 for laboratory electrical safety.
Is calibration documentation available with shipment?

A factory calibration certificate (traceable to NIM China) is included; users may perform in-house verification using a NIST-traceable thermistor probe inserted into a representative well.