LabCompanion RZ-80 Benchtop Temperature and Humidity Controlled Chamber

Overview

The LabCompanion RZ-80 is a compact, benchtop temperature and humidity controlled chamber engineered for precision environmental simulation in laboratory-scale material testing, electronics reliability assessment, pharmaceutical stability studies, and quality assurance workflows. It operates on the principle of balanced heating, cooling, humidification, and dehumidification—implemented via a Balanced Temperature and Humidity Control (BTHC) system—to maintain stable setpoints under dynamic thermal and moisture loads. Unlike open-loop or on-off control architectures, the RZ-80 employs proportional-integral-derivative (PID) algorithms with solid-state power relays (SSPR) to continuously match thermal/humidification output to system losses, enabling long-duration, repeatable test conditions without drift. Designed for compliance-critical environments, its architecture supports traceable operation under GLP and ISO/IEC 17025 frameworks when integrated with validated software and audit-ready data logging.

Key Features

• Benchtop footprint (94×86×83 cm external) with spacious 80 L internal volume (40×50×40 cm), optimized for space-constrained labs and pilot-scale validation.
• Dual-wall vacuum-insulated viewing window (210×270×35 mm) with integrated 13 W LED illumination for real-time sample observation without thermal leakage.
• Robust thermal management: finned-tube SUS#304 electric heaters, U-shaped immersion humidifier, and a hermetically sealed, imported compressor using non-ozone-depleting refrigerant (R134a or equivalent).
• High-fidelity air circulation: 90 W stainless steel long-shaft motor driving a multi-wing impeller ensures uniform temperature and humidity distribution (≤ ±2°C deviation, ≤ ±2.5% RH fluctuation per IEC 60068-3-5).
• Full-spectrum safety architecture: independent over-temperature cutoff, high-pressure refrigerant protection, power-failure memory retention, and self-diagnostic reporting upon startup.
• Programmable controller with full English LCD interface—supports both constant (setpoint) and multi-segment ramp-soak profiles; resolution: 0.1°C / 1% RH; sensor: PT100 Class A.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RZ-80 accommodates diverse sample geometries—including PCB assemblies, polymer films, battery cells, packaging materials, and small biological containers—within its corrosion-resistant SUS#304 chamber. Its thermal and hygric performance conforms to key international test standards including IEC 60068-2-1 (cold), IEC 60068-2-2 (dry heat), IEC 60068-2-30 (damp heat cyclic), and ASTM D4332 (conditioning of plastics). While not certified to UL or CE as a standalone appliance, its construction and control logic align with the functional safety expectations of ISO 13849-1 (Category 3) for laboratory equipment. Optional LAN connectivity enables integration into centralized lab monitoring systems compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated third-party data acquisition software.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller provides local data logging (up to 100 program segments, 999 cycles), real-time curve display, and event-triggered alarm history. Raw sensor values (temperature, humidity, runtime, fault codes) are timestamped and stored in non-volatile memory. Optional LAN interface allows remote configuration, live parameter streaming, and scheduled data export to CSV or XML via HTTP or Modbus TCP protocols. When deployed with LabCompanion’s optional DataTrace Pro software (sold separately), users gain electronic signature support, audit trail generation, user role-based access control, and automated report templates aligned with GMP Annex 11 and ISO/IEC 17025 clause 7.7 requirements.

Applications

• Accelerated aging of adhesives, coatings, and elastomers under controlled thermal-hygric stress.
• Pre-conditioning of electronic components prior to HALT/HASS testing per JEDEC JESD22-A110.
• Stability chamber qualification for pharmaceutical packaging per USP and ICH Q1A(R2).
• Material moisture absorption/desorption kinetics measurement (e.g., hygroscopic polymers, desiccants).
• Calibration verification of portable hygrometers and thermometers against NIST-traceable references.
• Environmental screening of printed circuit boards per IPC-9701 and MIL-STD-810G Method 507.6.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended clearance around the unit for proper heat dissipation?
Maintain ≥ 50 cm clearance on rear and sides; ≥ 30 cm above unit. Avoid placement near HVAC vents or direct sunlight.
Can the RZ-80 perform rapid temperature transitions below 0°C while maintaining humidity?
Humidity control is suspended during sub-zero operation per design specification; dew point limitation prevents condensation-induced frost formation on sensors and chamber walls.
Is the controller firmware upgradable in the field?
Yes—firmware updates are delivered via USB flash drive using LabCompanion’s official update utility; version history and release notes are available through authorized service partners.
Does the unit include calibration certificates for temperature and humidity sensors?
Factory calibration reports (as-found/as-left) are provided with shipment; accredited third-party calibration (ISO/IEC 17025) is available as an add-on service.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for optimal long-term performance?
Compressor oil inspection every 24 months; humidifier tank cleaning weekly; condenser coil vacuuming quarterly; full system verification annually per LabCompanion PM-CHM-01 checklist.