Carbolite Gero Apex AX Series Benchtop Drying Oven

Overview

The Carbolite Gero Apex AX Series Benchtop Drying Oven is an engineered solution for precise, repeatable thermal processing in research laboratories, quality control environments, and small-scale production settings. Designed around forced-air convection heating architecture, the oven ensures rapid heat-up times and exceptional temperature uniformity across the entire working chamber—critical for applications requiring strict thermal consistency, such as moisture content determination, pre- and post-weighing drying of samples, polymer curing validation, and residual solvent removal. Its compact footprint and robust stainless-steel chamber (AISI 304) support both routine operational durability and long-term chemical resistance against common laboratory solvents and cleaning agents. The system operates within a calibrated temperature range of ambient +10°C to 250°C, with stability maintained at ±0.5°C under steady-state conditions—a specification validated per internal factory calibration protocols aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 traceability principles.

Key Features

• Forced-air convection system with adjustable-speed fan and optimized airflow ducting for uniform thermal distribution (±0.5°C typical uniformity at 100°C)
• Digital R38 PID temperature controller featuring programmable ramp-soak profiles, real-time deviation monitoring, and user-accessible calibration offset adjustment
• Double-walled insulated chamber with mineral wool insulation and silicone gasket-sealed lever-action door for enhanced thermal retention and operator safety
• Corrosion-resistant AISI 304 stainless-steel interior chamber and removable nickel-chromium wire shelving (two adjustable trays supplied as standard)
• Compliance with BS EN 61010-2-010:2003 for laboratory electrical equipment safety—covering protection against overheating, electric shock, and mechanical hazards
• Modular design supporting optional accessories including overtemperature cut-off (independent from main controller), digital countdown timer, additional shelf kits, and lockable door hardware

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Apex AX series accommodates a broad spectrum of sample formats—including Petri dishes, crucibles, weighing boats, glassware, and polymer substrates—within its 30 L, 60 L, or 120 L chamber variants. Its stainless-steel construction resists degradation from weak acids, alkalis, and organic solvents commonly encountered during sample preparation workflows. For regulated environments, the oven supports GLP/GMP-aligned operation when paired with documented calibration procedures and maintenance logs. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant, its R38 controller permits manual audit trail generation via printed output (when connected to optional serial printer), facilitating data integrity practices in pharmaceutical QC labs. All units undergo factory verification per EN 60068-2-2 (heat testing) and EN 60068-2-14 (thermal cycling).

Software & Data Management

The R38 controller provides local interface-only operation without embedded software or network connectivity. Temperature setpoints, ramp rates, soak durations, and alarm thresholds are configured directly via membrane keypad and LCD display. Optional RS232 or RS485 interfaces (available via accessory module) enable integration with external data loggers or SCADA systems for time-stamped temperature recording. Calibration certificates include as-found/as-left data with uncertainty budgets referenced to NPL-traceable standards. Users may perform field verification using Class A platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs) in accordance with ASTM E220 or ISO 17025 requirements.

Applications

• Moisture loss-on-drying (LOD) analysis per USP , Ph. Eur. 2.2.32, and ASTM D2298
• Pre-conditioning of filter media, catalyst supports, and ceramic precursors prior to gravimetric or XRD analysis
• Stabilization of hygroscopic reference materials and certified reference substances (CRMs)
• Thermal aging studies for packaging materials, adhesives, and elastomers under controlled isothermal conditions
• Drying of biological tissue sections and histological specimens prior to embedding or staining protocols
• Residual solvent evaporation in analytical sample preparation workflows (e.g., HPLC vial drying, SPE cartridge conditioning)

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable operating temperature, and how is it verified?
The Apex AX series is rated for continuous operation up to 250°C. Temperature accuracy and uniformity are verified at three points (center + two corners) using NIST-traceable PRTs during final factory acceptance testing.
Can this oven be used for sterilization or depyrogenation?
No—it is not designed or validated for microbial kill or endotoxin inactivation. Sterilization applications require dedicated autoclaves or dry-heat ovens meeting ISO 17665 or EU Annex 1 requirements.
Is third-party calibration support available?
Yes. Carbolite Gero authorizes ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration laboratories to perform on-site or benchtop verification, with documentation compatible with internal QA systems.
Does the oven meet CE marking requirements for export to the European Economic Area?
Yes—all Apex AX models carry CE marking under the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and EMC Directive (2014/30/EU), with technical files held by Carbolite Gero UK Ltd.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for optimal performance?
Fan inspection and chamber cleaning every 6 months; door gasket replacement every 24 months or upon visible compression set; annual verification of temperature uniformity and controller linearity.