RuHua SHH-250SD Temperature and Humidity Controlled Incubator

Overview

The RuHua SHH-250SD Temperature and Humidity Controlled Incubator is an engineered environmental chamber designed for long-term stability testing and controlled cultivation of biological samples under precisely regulated thermal and hygroscopic conditions. It operates on a dual-loop control architecture: independent PID-regulated water-jacketed heating and compressor-based active cooling ensure stable temperature setpoints across the full operational range (0–65 °C), while a passive evaporative humidification system—comprising a removable stainless-steel water pan and forced-air circulation—maintains humidity between 40 %RH and 98 %RH. The chamber’s insulation employs high-density polyurethane foam (≥40 mm thickness), minimizing thermal bridging and supporting energy-efficient operation without compromising structural integrity or internal uniformity. Its mirror-finish stainless-steel interior (AISI 304) resists corrosion from repeated sterilization cycles and condensate exposure, making it suitable for GLP-compliant laboratories conducting ICH Q1–Q5 stability studies, microbial growth assays, and tissue culture maintenance.

Key Features

• Water-jacketed heating system with uniform thermal distribution and low thermal inertia, enabling rapid recovery after door openings
• Compressor-based refrigeration using environmentally compliant R134a refrigerant; triple-copper-tube evaporator coil ensures consistent cooling performance and low acoustic emission (<52 dB(A))
• Forced-air convection via two low-vibration axial fans (IP54 rated), achieving ≤±0.5 °C temperature uniformity across the 250 L working volume
• Microprocessor-based LCD controller with real-time digital display of setpoint, actual temperature, and relative humidity; intuitive navigation and password-protected parameter locking
• Full-view double-glazed observation window with anti-fog coating, facilitating non-intrusive sample monitoring without thermal disturbance
• Five adjustable stainless-steel shelves included as standard; shelf positions configurable to accommodate varied vessel heights (e.g., Petri dishes, flasks, vials)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SHH-250SD accommodates standard laboratory containers—including multi-well plates, glass culture flasks, serum bottles, and sealed stability chambers—without requiring internal modifications. Its validated operating envelope meets core requirements for ICH Q1A(R2) long-term and accelerated stability testing protocols (e.g., 25 °C/60 %RH, 40 °C/75 %RH). While not certified to ISO 17025 or ASTM E2874 out-of-the-box, the unit supports traceable calibration via external NIST-traceable probes (optional accessory). Humidity accuracy specifications (±5 %RH at 60 %RH and 75 %RH) align with USP <1151> environmental monitoring tolerances for pharmaceutical storage. The chamber’s construction complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment, including overtemperature and dry-run protection circuits.

Software & Data Management

The SHH-250SD features a built-in data logging function capable of recording temperature and humidity values at user-defined intervals (1–60 minutes) for up to 30 days. Logged data can be exported via USB port in CSV format for offline analysis in Excel or LIMS-integrated platforms. Optional RS485 communication enables integration into centralized facility monitoring systems (e.g., Siemens Desigo, Honeywell Experion) using Modbus RTU protocol. For regulatory environments, optional audit-trail-enabled firmware (upgradable) provides timestamped records of all parameter changes, door openings, and alarm events—supporting compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with appropriate electronic signature controls.

Applications

• ICH-compliant stability studies for pharmaceuticals, biologics, and medical devices under defined temperature/humidity stress conditions
• Microbial cultivation of mesophilic bacteria, fungi, and yeasts requiring precise moisture retention (e.g., Aspergillus spp., Candida albicans)
• Plant seed germination and tissue culture under photoperiod-synchronized environments (when integrated with optional LED lighting modules)
• Long-term storage of blood components, vaccines, and diagnostic reagents per CLSI GP44-A4 guidelines
• Environmental simulation for materials testing (e.g., polymer degradation, adhesive aging) where hygrothermal cycling is required

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable ambient temperature for continuous operation?
The unit is rated for ambient temperatures between 15 °C and 30 °C. Operation above 30 °C may reduce humidity control fidelity and extend compressor duty cycles.
Can the incubator maintain humidity below 40 %RH?
No—the SHH-250SD is optimized for humidification within 40–98 %RH. Dehumidification below 40 %RH requires external desiccant or refrigerant-based dehumidifiers.
Is validation documentation available for IQ/OQ/PQ protocols?
Factory-supplied test certificates (temperature/humidity uniformity, recovery time, alarm verification) are provided. Full qualification packages—including protocol templates and executed reports—are available upon request through RuHua’s technical support team.
How often should the water pan be refilled during extended runs?
Refill frequency depends on setpoint and ambient conditions; typical usage at 60 %RH/25 °C requires replenishment every 48–72 hours. An audible low-water alarm alerts users prior to complete depletion.
Are third-party calibration services supported?
Yes—RuHua maintains partnerships with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited calibration providers in APAC and EU regions. On-site calibration and uncertainty budgets can be arranged directly through regional distributors.