DRETOP ZHL-RH18 Dual-Shelf Temperature- and Humidity-Controlled Orbital Shaker

Overview

The DRETOP ZHL-RH18 is a dual-shelf, microprocessor-controlled orbital shaker engineered for precise concurrent regulation of temperature, relative humidity, and oscillation—critical parameters in aerobic microbial cultivation, enzymatic assays, cell suspension culture, and humidity-sensitive biochemical reactions. Unlike standard incubator shakers, the ZHL-RH18 integrates a dedicated humidification system with PID-controlled steam generation and condensation management, enabling stable RH maintenance across its full operating temperature range (RT+5°C to 80°C). Its orbital motion—driven by a brushless DC motor with 26 mm orbit diameter—ensures uniform mixing without vortexing or splashing, supporting reproducible oxygen transfer and shear-sensitive sample integrity. Designed for GLP-compliant labs, the unit meets structural and functional benchmarks aligned with ISO 13485 design controls and supports audit-ready operation under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with optional USB data logging.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-based PID control system with backlit LCD interface: real-time display of setpoint/actual temperature (±0.1°C resolution), humidity (±3% RH), speed (±1 rpm), and elapsed time.
• Dual independent stainless-steel shelves (500 × 360 mm each), each fully adjustable and rated for up to 15 kg load capacity; compatible with standard Erlenmeyer flasks, test tubes, and multi-well plates.
• Integrated humidification module with auto-fill reservoir, anti-drip nozzle, and condensate recovery tray—enabling stable 20–95% RH control without external water bath or external humidifier dependency.
• Brushless DC drive motor: maintenance-free operation, constant torque across 0–300 rpm range, slow-start acceleration profile to prevent sample displacement during startup.
• Triple-safety mechanical architecture: independent over-temperature cutoff (mechanical backup), overspeed shutdown, and door-open interlock; all alarms trigger audible/visual alerts and automatic pause.
• Parameter lock function with user-defined password protection; power-loss recovery retains last settings and resumes operation upon grid restoration.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZHL-RH18 accommodates common labware including 50–2000 mL Erlenmeyer flasks (with optional spring clamps or universal bottle holders), 15–50 mL conical tubes, and 96-well microplates (with custom adapter plates). Its chamber interior—constructed from electropolished 304 stainless steel—resists corrosion from acidic/basic media and facilitates autoclave-compatible cleaning. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory electrical safety and conforms to electromagnetic compatibility standards EN 61326-1. For regulated environments, humidity and temperature profiles are traceable via optional USB data export (CSV format), supporting validation protocols per ASTM E2500 and USP Analytical Instrument Qualification.

Software & Data Management

While the ZHL-RH18 operates as a standalone instrument, its optional USB interface enables direct connection to Windows-based PCs for time-stamped data acquisition. Exported logs include timestamped records of temperature, RH, speed, and runtime—formatted for import into LIMS or statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab). Audit trail functionality captures operator ID (via manual entry), parameter changes, alarm events, and calibration actions—meeting ALCOA+ principles for data integrity. Firmware updates are performed locally via USB stick; no cloud connectivity or remote access is implemented, preserving network security in regulated facilities.

Applications

• High-yield bacterial and yeast fermentation under controlled O₂ transfer and moisture conditions (e.g., E. coli protein expression, S. cerevisiae ethanol production).
• Humidity-dependent enzyme kinetics studies where water activity directly modulates catalytic efficiency (e.g., lipases, proteases, cellulases).
• Long-term suspension culture of insect or mammalian cells requiring stable vapor-phase hydration to minimize medium evaporation.
• Environmental microbiology: soil slurry enrichment, biodegradation assays, and biofilm formation studies under simulated field humidity regimes.
• Stability testing of biopharmaceutical intermediates exposed to thermal-hygrometric stress per ICH Q1A(R3) guidelines.

FAQ

What is the maximum ambient temperature at which the ZHL-RH18 maintains 80°C internal setpoint?
The unit is rated for continuous operation in ambient environments ≤30°C; performance at higher ambient temperatures may reduce maximum achievable setpoint or extend stabilization time.
Can the humidity system operate independently of heating or cooling?
Yes—humidity control functions across the full temperature range, including at ambient temperature (RT+5°C), allowing isothermal humidification for hygroscopic material conditioning.
Is the stainless-steel chamber suitable for use with organic solvents?
Electropolished 304 stainless steel resists short-term exposure to alcohols, acetone, and dilute acids/bases; prolonged contact with halogenated solvents (e.g., chloroform, DCM) is not recommended.
Does the ZHL-RH18 support external CO₂ or gas blending?
No—this model lacks gas inlet ports or internal CO₂ sensors; for CO₂-enabled applications, refer to DRETOP’s ZYL.CP series of CO₂ shaker incubators.
How is calibration verified for temperature and humidity sensors?
The unit includes two-point calibration offsets accessible via service menu; users may perform field verification using NIST-traceable dry-block calibrators (temperature) and chilled-mirror hygrometers (RH).