LabCompanion RZ-80 Compact High-Low Temperature Alternating Test Chamber

Overview

The LabCompanion RZ-80 is a compact, benchtop high-low temperature alternating test chamber engineered for laboratories with constrained floor space yet demanding environmental simulation requirements. Unlike conventional walk-in or floor-standing chambers, the RZ-80 employs a vertically optimized mechanical architecture and modular stacking interface—enabling up to three units to be safely stacked without structural reinforcement or external support frames. Its core thermal control system utilizes a dual-stage refrigeration circuit with cascade cooling capability for stable operation down to −20 °C, combined with PID-controlled resistive heating and precision humidity generation via steam injection. The chamber operates on the principle of forced-air convection with a vertically oriented, low-turbulence airflow path—ensuring uniform thermal and hygroscopic distribution across the entire working volume per IEC 60068-2-1 (cold), IEC 60068-2-2 (dry heat), and IEC 60068-2-78 (damp heat) test standards.

Key Features

• Space-efficient benchtop design with stackable chassis—reduces footprint by up to 65% compared to standard 80 L chambers
• Dual independent PID controllers for simultaneous, decoupled regulation of temperature and relative humidity
• Optimized vertical air circulation system with dual low-noise axial fans and perforated stainless-steel baffles for ±1 °C temperature uniformity and ±3% RH uniformity (per IEC 60068-3-5)
• Integrated safety architecture: triple-level over-temperature cutoff, humidity sensor fault detection, refrigerant pressure monitoring, and non-volatile power-loss memory retaining setpoints and runtime data
• Expandable I/O interface supporting BIAS-compatible data loggers, external relays, and timed output triggers for synchronized dynamic testing (e.g., concurrent vibration or electrical load cycling)
• Corrosion-resistant 304 stainless-steel inner chamber with seamless welded corners and silicone-free gasketing for long-term RH stability and chemical compatibility

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The RZ-80 accommodates a wide range of sample types—including PCB assemblies, polymer components, pharmaceutical packaging, lithium-ion battery cells, and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)—within its 80 L internal volume. Its calibrated humidity generation system avoids condensation-induced thermal shock during rapid transitions, making it suitable for accelerated aging per IPC-9701 and JEDEC JESD22-A104E protocols. All control firmware and calibration records comply with ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements. The unit supports IQ/OQ/PQ validation packages aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for electronic record integrity, including audit-trail-enabled parameter change logging, user role-based access control, and tamper-evident calibration certificate embedding.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller runs LabCompanion’s TC-OS v4.2 firmware, offering real-time graphical trending, multi-segment programmable profiles (up to 99 steps with loop capability), and CSV export via USB 2.0 or optional Ethernet (TCP/IP). Remote monitoring and control are supported through Modbus RTU (RS-485) and HTTP API endpoints—enabling integration into centralized laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or MES platforms. Data files include timestamped metadata (operator ID, chamber serial, sensor calibration IDs) and are structured to meet ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available) for regulatory submissions.

Applications

• Environmental stress screening (ESS) of electronic subassemblies per MIL-STD-810H Method 502.7
• Stability testing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and final drug products under ICH Q1A(R3) conditions
• Material coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) characterization via dimensional metrology under controlled thermal ramps
• Reliability qualification of automotive ECUs per AEC-Q200 temperature-humidity bias (THB) test profiles
• Validation of moisture barrier performance in flexible electronics encapsulation layers
• Pre-conditioning of reference standards prior to metrological calibration in accredited labs

FAQ

Can the RZ-80 be validated for GxP environments?
Yes—the unit includes factory-installed Class A PT100 sensors (traceable to NIST), configurable alarm thresholds, and electronic audit trails compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11.
Is vertical stacking structurally certified?
Yes—each RZ-80 chassis undergoes static load testing at 3× rated unit weight; mounting brackets and interlocking alignment guides are included and documented in the mechanical safety manual.
What is the minimum achievable ramp rate between −20 °C and 100 °C?
The standard profile achieves 5 °C/min average ramp rate across the full span; optional high-performance compressor upgrade enables 7 °C/min with reduced overshoot and improved settling time.
Does the chamber support unattended weekend operation?
Yes—power-loss memory retains all active profiles and sensor states; auto-resume functionality resumes interrupted tests upon power restoration without operator intervention.
Are calibration certificates supplied with shipment?
Each unit ships with a UKAS-accredited as-found/as-left calibration report for temperature and humidity sensors, valid for 12 months from date of issue.