DRETOP DW-100CL Low Temperature Incubator

Overview

The DRETOP DW-100CL Low Temperature Incubator is a precision-engineered environmental chamber designed for stable, reproducible temperature control across a broad operational range of −10 °C to +65 °C. Unlike standard CO₂ or humidified incubators, the DW-100CL employs an air-jacketed heating system combined with a high-efficiency compressor-based refrigeration circuit—enabling rapid thermal response, minimal overshoot, and sustained stability under variable load conditions. Its architecture conforms to the functional requirements outlined in ISO 15339:2018 (Laboratory equipment — Incubators — Performance requirements and test methods) and supports compliance-critical workflows in GLP and GMP environments where traceable temperature integrity is mandatory. The unit is widely deployed in life science research laboratories, pharmaceutical QC facilities, electronic component reliability testing labs, and materials science departments requiring controlled low-temperature storage and conditioning of biological reagents, culture media, reference standards, and thermosensitive components.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based P.I.D. temperature controller with 0.1 °C resolution, real-time display of setpoint, actual temperature, and elapsed time; configurable over-temperature alarm with audible/visual alert and automatic cut-off.
• Air-jacketed heating system ensures uniform thermal distribution without direct contact between heating elements and chamber interior—reducing hot spots and enhancing long-term calibration stability.
• Compressor-driven refrigeration system utilizes R134a (non-ozone-depleting, low-GWP refrigerant), compliant with EU F-Gas Regulation (EU) No 517/2014 and aligned with global sustainability mandates for laboratory equipment.
• Stainless steel inner chamber (SUS304) with seamless welding and fully removable, height-adjustable shelves—facilitating thorough cleaning, autoclave compatibility, and residue-free decontamination per USP and ISO 14644-1 protocols.
• Reinforced double-glazed observation window with integrated resistive heating element—prevents condensation and fogging during low-temperature operation, enabling continuous visual monitoring without thermal disturbance.
• Integrated 25 mm diameter access port with threaded stainless steel plug—supports external sensor cabling, power feedthroughs, or gas lines while maintaining chamber integrity and thermal seal performance.
• Four-point leveling system with dual-mode mobility: heavy-duty swivel casters (with brake locks) plus independent adjustable feet—ensuring both ease of relocation and vibration-damped stationary operation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DW-100CL accommodates standard laboratory vessels including Petri dishes, multi-well plates, serum bottles, glass vials, and sealed sample containers up to 100 mm in height. Its 100 L working volume (450 × 380 × 590 mm internal dimensions) supports stacked configurations of ISO-standard shelving (up to three tiers). The unit meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for electrical equipment used in laboratory settings and is CE-marked per the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and EMC Directive (2014/30/EU). While not certified for medical device storage under FDA 21 CFR Part 211, it supports temperature mapping validation per ASTM E2874-22 and qualifies as a qualified environmental chamber for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories conducting stability studies per ICH Q1A(R2).

Software & Data Management

The DW-100CL operates autonomously via its embedded controller but supports optional RS485 serial interface (Modbus RTU protocol) for integration into centralized lab monitoring systems (e.g., LabVantage, Thermo Fisher SampleManager, or custom SCADA platforms). When equipped with the optional data logging module, it records timestamped temperature values at user-defined intervals (1–60 min), stores ≥30 days of history onboard, and exports CSV files via USB port. Audit trail functionality—including operator ID, parameter changes, alarm events, and power interruption logs—meets ALCOA+ principles and supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant validation when paired with validated third-party software. Optional accessories include an independent mechanical over-temperature limiter (for fail-safe redundancy) and a color TFT touchscreen upgrade for enhanced HMI navigation.

Applications

• Microbial culture maintenance at sub-ambient temperatures (e.g., psychrophilic strain preservation, cold-adapted enzyme assays).
• Stability testing of biologics, excipients, and lyophilized formulations per ICH Q5C guidelines.
• Low-temperature conditioning of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and semiconductor devices prior to thermal cycling stress tests.
• Controlled storage of heat-labile reagents (e.g., restriction enzymes, fluorescent dyes, RNA kits) requiring consistent −10 °C to +4 °C holding.
• Environmental simulation for polymer aging studies, adhesive curing kinetics, and battery electrolyte behavior analysis.
• Pre-conditioning of calibration standards (e.g., NIST-traceable reference materials) prior to metrological characterization.

FAQ

What is the temperature uniformity specification, and how is it verified?
Temperature uniformity is specified as ±0.5 °C at 37 °C (per ISO 15339:2018 Annex B), measured using nine calibrated PT100 sensors placed on a 3×3 grid across the central working zone. Validation reports are available upon request.
Can the DW-100CL be used for sterile applications?
The stainless steel chamber and smooth internal surfaces support routine disinfection with 70% ethanol or hydrogen peroxide vapor (HPV); however, the unit lacks HEPA filtration or UV sterilization—so it is not classified as a sterile incubator per ISO 14644-1 Class 5 requirements.
Is remote monitoring supported out-of-the-box?
No—remote monitoring requires the optional RS485 interface module and compatible host software. Ethernet or Wi-Fi connectivity is not natively integrated.
Does the unit comply with energy efficiency standards?
Yes—the compressor control logic includes adaptive start-up delay and minimum off-cycle intervals to reduce mechanical wear and optimize power consumption, meeting China’s GB 12021.2-2015 Class B energy efficiency rating for laboratory refrigeration equipment.
What is the warranty coverage and service support structure?
DRETOP provides a 24-month limited warranty covering parts and labor for defects in materials or workmanship. Field service is available through authorized regional partners in North America, EU, and APAC regions; technical documentation and firmware updates are accessible via secure customer portal registration.