Thermo Scientific RI-150 Low-Temperature Biochemical Incubator
| Brand | Thermo Fisher Scientific |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer | Yes |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | RI-150 |
| Temperature Range | 4–60°C |
Overview
The Thermo Scientific RI-150 Low-Temperature Biochemical Incubator is an engineered-for-precision environmental chamber designed to deliver stable, uniform temperature control across a broad operational range of 4–60°C. Unlike standard ambient-temperature incubators, the RI-150 integrates a hermetically sealed refrigeration compressor system with microprocessor-based PID temperature regulation—enabling reliable sub-ambient operation down to 4°C while maintaining thermal stability at elevated setpoints up to 60°C. Its core architecture follows the principles of forced-air convection with optimized airflow dynamics, ensuring minimal spatial temperature deviation (< ±0.5°C at 37°C, typical) and high reproducibility across repeated experimental cycles. This makes the RI-150 particularly suited for applications demanding strict thermal fidelity—including microbial growth kinetics, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) assays per ASTM D5210 and ISO 5815-1, enzyme activity profiling, and long-term sample conditioning in pharmaceutical stability testing protocols.
Key Features
- Compressor-based cooling system with dual-stage thermal management for consistent sub-ambient performance and rapid temperature recovery after door opening
- Single-point microprocessor controller with intuitive LED interface, programmable on/off timer, and user-accessible calibration routine compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 traceability requirements
- Quiet axial fan and baffle-guided air distribution system engineered to minimize turbulence and maximize thermal uniformity across all shelf levels
- Modular shelving design accommodating 34–66 adjustable positions; stainless-steel shelves with reinforced load-bearing capacity (up to 15 kg per shelf)
- Dual-stage safety system: adjustable high/low temperature alarm with visual and audible alerts, plus independent overheat protection for fan motor and compressor circuits
- Automatic defrost cycle activated only during non-critical operational windows to prevent ice accumulation without interrupting temperature-sensitive processes
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The RI-150 supports a wide range of biological and chemical sample formats—including Petri dishes, multi-well plates, culture flasks, BOD bottles, and sealed vials—without compromising thermal integrity. Its interior chamber (150 L net volume) features corrosion-resistant stainless-steel construction and rounded corners for ease of cleaning and decontamination. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory equipment safety and meets electromagnetic compatibility standards per EN 61326-1. Optional IQ/OQ documentation packages are available to support GLP, GMP, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 validation workflows. All temperature sensors are NIST-traceable and calibrated per ASTM E2202 practices.
Software & Data Management
The RI-150 includes a rear-mounted RS-232 serial port for real-time temperature data logging to external PCs or networked SCADA systems. A dedicated analog access port (¼-inch diameter) allows integration with third-party temperature probes or continuous monitoring platforms such as Vaisala viewLinc or DicksonOne. While no proprietary software is bundled, the device outputs ASCII-formatted time-stamped data streams compatible with common laboratory informatics systems (LIMS), Excel-based trending tools, and Python/Matlab scripting environments. Audit trail functionality is supported via external data acquisition hardware meeting ALCOA+ principles.
Applications
- Bacterial and yeast cultivation under controlled low-temperature conditions (e.g., Candida albicans cold-shock response studies)
- Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) testing per EPA Method 405.1 and ISO 5815-1 for wastewater and drinking water analysis
- Enzyme kinetics assays requiring precise thermal ramping or isothermal hold phases
- Pharmaceutical stability testing (ICH Q1A–Q1E) for intermediate storage of reference standards and working solutions
- Microbiological quality control in food safety labs (ISO 7218, ISO 6887) and clinical diagnostics environments
- Long-term storage of temperature-sensitive reagents, antibodies, and nucleic acid samples prior to downstream processing
FAQ
Does the RI-150 support remote monitoring or Ethernet connectivity?
No—the RI-150 provides only RS-232 serial output and a passive analog probe port. Ethernet or Wi-Fi capability requires integration with external data loggers or gateway devices.
Is the unit suitable for CO₂ or humidity-controlled applications?
No—this is a temperature-only incubator. It does not include CO₂ injection, humidification, or dehumidification subsystems.
Can the RI-150 be validated for GxP environments?
Yes—Thermo Fisher offers optional IQ/OQ documentation kits, including test protocols, calibration certificates, and installation checklists aligned with Annex 15 and USP guidance.
What is the typical temperature recovery time after a 30-second door opening at 4°C?
Approximately 12–15 minutes to return within ±0.3°C of setpoint, based on internal validation data under standard lab conditions (22°C ambient, 40% RH).
Are replacement shelves and casters available as spare parts?
Yes—genuine Thermo Fisher part numbers for shelves (Cat. No. 50123478), locking casters (Cat. No. 50123479), and door gaskets (Cat. No. 50123480) are stocked globally through authorized distributors.
