LabCompanion PM-36 Benchtop Environmental Test Chamber (Temperature & Humidity Chamber)

Overview

The LabCompanion PM-36 is a compact, benchtop environmental test chamber engineered for precise and repeatable temperature and humidity conditioning in R&D laboratories, quality control environments, and small-scale production validation settings. It operates on the principle of balanced temperature and humidity control (BTHC), integrating dual-PID algorithms with water vapor partial pressure regulation to achieve stable thermal-hygrometric profiles across its full operational range (−20 °C to +150 °C; 30–95% RH). Unlike large walk-in chambers, the PM-36 delivers laboratory-grade environmental simulation within a footprint of only 0.3 m² and a mass of 73 kg—making it ideal for space-constrained labs, shared instrumentation facilities, or modular test setups requiring multi-unit stacking. Its compressor-based refrigeration system ensures reliable low-temperature performance without liquid nitrogen dependency, while the chamber’s stainless-steel interior and insulated double-wall construction minimize thermal bridging and energy loss.

Key Features

• Compact benchtop design with 22.5 L internal volume and dimensions of 300 mm (W) × 400 mm (D) × 300 mm (H)
• BTHC control architecture enabling simultaneous, independent regulation of temperature and relative humidity via vapor pressure feedback
• 40-segment programmable controller supporting ramp-soak cycles, constant-value operation, and complex temperature–humidity profile sequencing
• Integrated left-side Ø50 mm cable port for real-time electrical monitoring of powered samples during testing
• Multi-language interface (English, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese) with intuitive touchscreen navigation and on-screen parameter validation
• USB-based data logging for time-stamped temperature/humidity records; exportable in CSV format for traceability and audit readiness
• Standard RS485/RS232 communication ports compliant with Modbus RTU protocol for integration into centralized lab management systems
• Energy-efficient insulation and optimized airflow distribution achieving ±0.5 °C temperature fluctuation and ±2.0 °C uniformity per IEC 60068-3-5

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PM-36 accommodates a broad spectrum of sample types—including PCB assemblies, polymer films, pharmaceutical packaging, battery cells, optical components, and small mechanical subassemblies—without requiring custom fixtures. Its internal chamber features removable stainless-steel shelves and non-corrosive surfaces compatible with ISO 14644-1 Class 8 cleanroom handling protocols. The unit meets critical international environmental stress testing standards including IEC 60068-2-1 (cold), IEC 60068-2-2 (dry heat), IEC 60068-2-30 (damp heat cyclic), and IEC 60068-2-78 (damp heat steady-state). It is also certified to GB/T 2423 series standards widely adopted in China’s electronics, automotive, and medical device industries. While not intrinsically explosion-proof, its standard configuration complies with general-purpose electrical safety requirements per IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment.

Software & Data Management

Data integrity and regulatory compliance are supported through built-in audit trail functionality: all parameter changes, cycle starts/stops, and alarm events are automatically timestamped and stored internally. USB export enables seamless transfer to LIMS or ELN platforms. When connected via RS485 to a host PC running LabCompanion’s optional ChamberLink™ software (v3.2+), users gain access to real-time graphing, remote scheduling, email/SMS alerting on deviation thresholds, and automated report generation compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11 requirements. All logged data retains cryptographic checksums to prevent tampering—essential for GLP/GMP-regulated environments where raw data archiving and reviewer sign-off are mandatory.

Applications

• Accelerated aging studies of elastomers, adhesives, and conformal coatings under controlled thermal-hygrometric stress
• Pre-conditioning of lithium-ion battery cells prior to electrochemical characterization (e.g., EIS, cycle life testing)
• Stability testing of diagnostic reagents and sterile packaging per ISO 11607-1
• Thermal shock screening of surface-mount components using rapid ramp profiles (up to 3.0 °C/min heating / 1.2 °C/min cooling)
• Qualification of aerospace-grade composites per ASTM D5229/D5687 for moisture absorption behavior
• Validation of environmental resilience in IoT sensor housings exposed to tropical or desert climatic profiles

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable sample mass inside the PM-36 without compromising thermal stability?
For optimal performance, total sample mass should not exceed 5 kg. Exceeding this may extend stabilization time and affect uniformity—particularly during rapid transitions.

Does the PM-36 support humidity control below 30% RH?
No. The system is calibrated and validated for 30–95% RH. Sub-30% operation requires optional desiccant-based dry air purge kits, sold separately.

Can the controller store multiple test programs simultaneously?
Yes—the internal memory retains up to 20 independent 40-step programs, each with unique naming, password protection, and version stamping.

Is third-party calibration documentation available upon request?
Yes. NIST-traceable calibration certificates (temperature and humidity sensors) can be provided at time of shipment or as a post-purchase service, aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements.