MKN HSX-160 Temperature and Humidity Controlled Incubator

Overview

The MKN HSX-160 Temperature and Humidity Controlled Incubator is a precision-engineered environmental chamber designed for stable, reproducible maintenance of biological samples under tightly regulated thermal and hygroscopic conditions. Based on forced-air convection and dual-loop PID control architecture, the system independently regulates temperature via Peltier-assisted refrigeration/heating and relative humidity via integrated steam humidification and desiccant-based dehumidification. This enables consistent operation across a biologically relevant range—5 to 50 °C and 45–90 %RH—making it suitable for long-term cell culture, microbial growth studies, seed germination assays, stability testing of biologics, and environmental simulation experiments. Its stainless-steel interior (AISI 304), seamless welded corners, and non-porous surface minimize microbial retention and facilitate routine decontamination in GLP-compliant laboratories.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based dual-channel control system with real-time LED digital display for simultaneous monitoring of temperature and relative humidity
• Forced-air circulation with aerodynamically optimized blower and baffle design ensures temperature uniformity within ±1 °C and humidity homogeneity across the entire 160 L working chamber
• Double-layer hollow glass door with anti-fog coating provides unobstructed visual access while minimizing thermal bridging and condensation
• Polyurethane foam insulation (≥50 mm thickness) delivers low thermal conductivity (<0.022 W/m·K) and high structural integrity for energy-efficient operation
• Integrated LED lighting with independent switch enables sample observation without compromising chamber stability
• Compressor protection circuitry includes automatic delay restart (3-minute minimum), over-temperature cutoff, and power-failure memory retention for setpoint recovery
• Robust mechanical construction: powder-coated carbon steel exterior and electropolished 304 stainless-steel interior conforming to ISO 8573-1 purity class 5 for cleanroom-adjacent use

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HSX-160 accommodates standard laboratory consumables including Petri dishes (up to 150 mm), multi-well plates (6–96-well), Erlenmeyer flasks (up to 2 L), and tissue culture vessels—configured on three adjustable stainless-steel shelves with 60 mm vertical spacing. The chamber’s internal geometry supports ISO/IEC 17025-aligned validation protocols, including IQ/OQ/PQ documentation packages for installation qualification, operational qualification, and performance qualification. It meets applicable requirements of ISO 14644-1 (cleanroom classification support), ASTM E1913 (standard guide for biological incubator qualification), and EU Annex 1 (for non-sterile pharmaceutical process simulation). Humidity control performance complies with USP environmental conditioning specifications for stability-indicating storage.

Software & Data Management

While the HSX-160 operates via embedded standalone controller, optional RS-485 interface (Modbus RTU protocol) enables integration into centralized laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or SCADA platforms. Logged data—including timestamped temperature/humidity readings, alarm events, and door-open duration—is retained onboard for ≥30 days and exportable via USB flash drive in CSV format. Audit trail functionality records all parameter changes, user logins, and system resets in accordance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software. All firmware updates are performed offline via secure encrypted firmware image loading.

Applications

• Mammalian and insect cell culture requiring stable CO₂-independent environments
• Bacterial and fungal growth kinetics under controlled hygrometric stress
• Seed viability and germination rate assessment per ISTA guidelines
• Accelerated stability testing of diagnostic reagents and vaccines per ICH Q1A(R2)
• Environmental stress screening of engineered biomaterials
• Long-term storage of sensitive biological standards (e.g., reference strains, plasmid libraries)
• Teaching laboratory modules in microbiology, plant physiology, and environmental science curricula

FAQ

What is the recommended calibration frequency for the HSX-160?
Annual calibration against NIST-traceable reference sensors is recommended for GxP-regulated environments; semi-annual verification suffices for academic or industrial R&D applications.
Can the unit operate continuously for 72 hours or longer?
Yes—the HSX-160 is rated for uninterrupted operation under specified ambient conditions (0–40 °C, ≤85 %RH), with thermal management systems designed for 24/7 duty cycles.
Is the interior compatible with common sterilants such as 70% ethanol, hydrogen peroxide vapor, or sodium hypochlorite?
The 304 stainless-steel chamber and silicone gaskets resist corrosion from these agents; however, prolonged exposure to chlorine-based disinfectants is not advised per ASTM A967 passivation guidelines.
Does the incubator support remote monitoring via Ethernet or Wi-Fi?
No native Ethernet/Wi-Fi module is included; connectivity requires external Modbus-to-Ethernet gateway hardware and custom middleware configuration.
What documentation is provided for regulatory submissions?
Factory calibration certificates, material compliance declarations (RoHS, REACH), electrical safety test reports (IEC 61010-1), and IQ/OQ templates are supplied with each unit upon request.