Plas-labs 890-THC Automated Anaerobic Temperature- and Humidity-Controlled Glove Box

Overview

The Plas-labs 890-THC is a fully automated, research-grade anaerobic glove box engineered for precise, dynamic control of temperature, relative humidity, and oxygen concentration within a sealed, negative-pressure stainless-steel workspace. Unlike conventional inert-atmosphere glove boxes, the 890-THC integrates dual-mode environmental regulation—active cooling/heating via Peltier-based thermoelectric modules and bidirectional moisture management through ultrasonic misting and desiccant-driven drying—enabling stable, programmable microclimate conditions across biologically and chemically sensitive applications. Its core architecture adheres to ISO 14644-1 Class 5 cleanroom-compatible construction standards, with electropolished 304 stainless steel chamber walls, welded seams, and helium-leak-tested seals ensuring long-term atmospheric integrity. The system operates under continuous negative pressure (–1.49 kPa), minimizing inward contamination and facilitating safe handling of oxygen-sensitive cultures, anaerobic enzymes, or hygroscopic reagents without ambient air intrusion.

Key Features

• Touchscreen HMI with PID microprocessor controller supporting up to four user-defined temperature/humidity setpoints; last-used parameters auto-recall with password-protected access
• Real-time 24-hour graphical logging of internal T/RH via DB15 data export port (compatible with LabVIEW, MATLAB, and CSV-based LIMS integration)
• Dual-chamber design: main work area (489 L) + cylindrical transfer lock (30.5 cm depth × 28 cm aperture) with automatic pressure-equalization sequence and interlocked door actuation
• Integrated O₂ monitoring and closed-loop purge system using high-purity nitrogen or argon; achieves and maintains <1 ppm residual oxygen with optional electrochemical sensor feedback
• Medical-grade UL/CSA-certified internal power distribution (220–240 V, 5 A), including recessed GFCI outlets and top-access service hatch for in-chamber instrumentation mounting
• Optical clarity enhanced by seamless acrylic front panel, white stainless steel base, and dual 40,000-hour fluorescent lighting arrays—eliminating shadow zones during micromanipulation or imaging

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The 890-THC supports a broad range of sample types requiring strict anaerobic, thermohygrometric control—including obligate anaerobes (e.g., Clostridium, Bacteroides), stem cell expansion media, lithium battery electrode materials, and moisture-sensitive catalysts. Its stainless-steel interior and smooth-radius corners meet FDA-recommended cleanability criteria per 21 CFR Part 11 Annex 11, while the negative-pressure configuration satisfies biosafety containment requirements outlined in NIH Guidelines for Recombinant DNA Research. All pneumatic valves (4 total: 2 on main chamber, 2 on transfer lock) utilize FDA-compliant EPDM O-rings and are rated for repeated sterilization cycles. System validation documentation supports IQ/OQ protocols aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and GLP-compliant laboratory audits.

Software & Data Management

The embedded controller firmware provides audit-trail-capable parameter logging with timestamped entries for all setpoint changes, alarm events, and door cycle operations—fully compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 electronic record requirements when paired with networked time-server synchronization. Raw sensor data (temperature, RH, O₂, pressure) is exported via RS-232 or DB15 analog output for integration into enterprise LIMS or ELN platforms. Optional software add-ons enable remote monitoring via Ethernet/WiFi, automated report generation (PDF/CSV), and deviation alerting via email/SMS upon threshold breach.

Applications

• Microbiological culture of strict anaerobes under physiologically relevant temperature and humidity gradients
• Preclinical animal tissue processing where oxidative stress must be minimized during dissection and cryopreservation
• Pharmaceutical formulation development involving hygroscopic active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs)
• Materials science workflows including solid-state battery electrode synthesis and characterization
• GMP-aligned QC testing of sterile medical devices requiring controlled humidity exposure prior to packaging validation

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable leak rate for sustained anaerobic operation?
The 890-THC is factory-tested to maintain ≤0.05 vol%/hr leakage under nitrogen purge, consistent with ASTM E291–22 for inert atmosphere glove boxes.
Can the system operate at elevated humidity (>60% RH) while maintaining sub-ppm oxygen levels?
Yes—integrated desiccant regeneration and O₂ scavenger cartridges ensure stable low-oxygen performance across the full 1–80% RH range without condensation or sensor drift.
Is third-party calibration certification available for temperature and humidity sensors?
NIST-traceable calibration certificates (ISO/IEC 17025 accredited) are available upon request for both chamber and transfer lock sensors.
Does the glove box support integration with external gas analyzers or mass spectrometers?
Yes—the DB15 port provides analog outputs for all primary sensors, and two 22.3 cm diameter feedthrough ports (with Viton O-rings and stainless clamps) accommodate tubing, fiber optics, or electrical conduits for peripheral instrumentation.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the humidification and drying subsystems?
Ultrasonic misting nozzles require quarterly deionized water flush; desiccant cartridges are replaced every 6 months under continuous use, with usage tracked automatically in the controller’s service log.