Grant ES-20 Programmable Temperature-Controlled Orbital Shaking Incubator

Overview

The Grant ES-20 is a precision-engineered orbital shaking incubator designed for controlled, reproducible cultivation of microbial, mammalian, and insect cell cultures under defined thermal and mechanical agitation conditions. Utilizing a robust brushless DC motor and a fixed 10 mm orbital motion profile, the ES-20 delivers consistent shear stress and oxygen transfer across sample vessels—critical parameters in suspension culture optimization, enzyme expression studies, and bioprocess development. Its microprocessor-controlled temperature regulation system maintains setpoint stability within ±0.3 °C across the 25–42 °C operating range, with 0.1 °C resolution and real-time digital feedback via dual-sensor monitoring (air and platform). The unit complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment and is CE-marked for use in EU-based research and quality control environments.

Key Features

• Programmable operation with independent control of temperature, speed (50–250 rpm), and time (1 min to 96 h)
• High-contrast 2-line × 16-character LCD display with intuitive menu navigation and parameter lockout function
• Interchangeable platform system supporting standardized vessel configurations—including shake flasks (12×100/150 mL, 6×250/400 mL), T-flasks, and multi-well plates
• Thermally insulated double-wall chamber with forced-air circulation and PID-regulated heating for uniform temperature distribution (±0.5 °C across platform surface)
• Low-noise, maintenance-free drive mechanism with electronic speed stabilization—no belt slippage or mechanical drift over extended operation cycles
• Over-temperature and motor overload protection circuits integrated into firmware-level safety architecture

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ES-20 accommodates a wide range of sterile and non-sterile culture formats through four validated platform options: P12-1000 (clamped 100–150 mL Erlenmeyer flasks), PP-4 (non-slip rubber-mat platform for 75–225 cm² tissue culture flasks), P6-250 (clamped 250–400 mL flasks), and PUP-12 (universal platform with adjustable dividers for heterogeneous vessel arrays). All platforms are autoclavable (121 °C, 20 min) and chemically resistant to common lab solvents and disinfectants. The instrument meets ISO 13485-aligned design principles for in vitro diagnostic support equipment and supports GLP-compliant workflows via timestamped parameter logging (when used with optional RS232/USB data export module). It is routinely deployed in academic labs, contract research organizations (CROs), and pharmaceutical QC facilities where adherence to USP , ASTM D6400, and ISO 20387 biobanking guidelines is required.

Software & Data Management

While the ES-20 operates as a standalone benchtop unit with embedded firmware, its RS232 serial interface enables integration with third-party laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic lab notebooks (ELN). Optional software drivers permit remote parameter configuration, real-time monitoring of temperature and speed profiles, and automated CSV export of session logs—including start/stop timestamps, setpoints, and duration. Audit trail functionality satisfies FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated user access controls and electronic signature protocols. Firmware updates are delivered via secure USB flash drive, ensuring traceability and version control in regulated environments.

Applications

• Microbial growth kinetics (E. coli, yeast, Bacillus spp.) under variable aeration and thermal regimes
• Mammalian cell expansion in serum-free or low-serum media for monoclonal antibody production
• Enzyme activity assays requiring precise agitation to minimize sedimentation and maximize substrate mixing
• Environmental microbiology studies involving soil or water enrichment cultures
• Biodegradation screening of polymers and surfactants using OECD 301B-compliant shake flask protocols
• Training and teaching laboratories where reliability, ease of use, and safety compliance are prioritized

FAQ

What is the maximum flask size supported by the ES-20?
The unit accommodates up to 400 mL flasks when configured with the P6-250 platform; total load must not exceed 2.5 kg.
Can the ES-20 be operated inside a standard biosafety cabinet?
Yes—the unit’s external dimensions (W×D×H: 420 × 440 × 280 mm) and rear-mounted ventilation allow safe placement within Class II A2 cabinets, provided minimum clearance (≥100 mm) is maintained around exhaust grilles.
Is humidity control available on this model?
No—the ES-20 is a temperature- and agitation-controlled incubator only; it does not include active humidification or RH monitoring. For humidity-critical applications, consider the Grant OLS20 or Infors HT Multitron series.
Does the ES-20 support continuous operation (24/7)?
Yes—designed for unattended long-term runs up to 96 hours; thermal cut-off and motor protection ensure safe extended use.
Are calibration certificates available for the temperature sensor?
Traceable NIST-calibrated certificates (UKAS-accredited) can be ordered separately at time of purchase or retrofitted during annual service visits.