WIGGENS WB-350 Precision Peltier-Heated/Cooled Dry Block Thermostat
| Brand | WIGGENS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | WB-350 |
| Temperature Range | +4–95 °C |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.1 °C |
| Heating Time to 95 °C | ≤25 min |
| Dimensions (W×D×H) | 276 × 334 × 250 mm |
| Net Weight | 4.3 kg |
| Power Supply | 230 V, 50/60 Hz, 2.8 A |
| Display | VFD with dual-setpoint readout (set vs. actual) |
| Control System | PID feedback loop |
| Temp. Uniformity at 80 °C | ±0.1 °C |
| Temp. Stability at 80 °C | ±0.5 °C |
| Safety Features | Overtemperature cutoff (heating plate >150 °C), PCB thermal protection, current-limiting circuitry, visual red warning indicator |
Overview
The WIGGENS WB-350 is a high-precision, Peltier-based dry block thermostat engineered for reproducible thermal control of multiple samples in parallel—ideal for enzyme assays, PCR setup, sample thawing, incubation, and temperature-sensitive reagent conditioning. Unlike traditional oil or water baths, the WB-350 employs solid-state thermoelectric (Peltier) elements to deliver both heating and active cooling within a single compact unit, eliminating condensation risks, fluid maintenance, and cross-contamination concerns. Its microprocessor-driven PID feedback control continuously monitors and adjusts power delivery to maintain setpoint stability with minimal overshoot—even during rapid transitions or under variable thermal load conditions. Designed for routine use in QC laboratories, clinical diagnostics, and academic research environments, the WB-350 meets core operational requirements for GLP-compliant workflows where traceable, documented temperature control is essential.
Key Features
- Peltier-based dual-mode operation: precise heating (up to 95 °C) and active cooling down to +4 °C without refrigerants or external chillers
- VFD display with simultaneous real-time readout of set temperature and actual block temperature (±0.1 °C resolution)
- High uniformity: ±0.1 °C temperature variation across the heating surface at 80 °C; ±0.5 °C stability over time
- Programmable dual-timer functionality: Timer 1 initiates upon reaching setpoint; Timer 2 begins countdown immediately after activation
- Integrated safety architecture: automatic shutdown triggered by heating plate overheating (>150 °C), PCB thermal fault, or current overload
- Visual safety alert: illuminated red LED activates during high-temperature operation to prevent accidental contact
- Modular compatibility: accepts interchangeable aluminum heating blocks (sold separately) optimized for common tube formats including 0.2 mL, 0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 2.0 mL microcentrifuge tubes, PCR strips, and 15/50 mL conical tubes
- Compact footprint (276 × 334 × 250 mm) and low mass (4.3 kg) facilitate benchtop integration and mobility between workstations
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The WB-350 supports standardized sample vessels via user-selectable heating blocks—ensuring optimal thermal coupling and minimizing axial temperature gradients. All blocks are CNC-machined from anodized aluminum for corrosion resistance and long-term dimensional stability. The device operates within ambient conditions of 2–60 °C and up to 80% relative humidity (non-condensing). While not certified as medical device hardware, its performance characteristics align with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for equipment used in accredited testing laboratories. Temperature accuracy and stability data are traceable to NIST-calibrated reference standards. The unit’s electrical design complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for laboratory equipment safety, including overcurrent and thermal protection per EN 60335-1.
Software & Data Management
The WB-350 operates as a standalone instrument with no embedded data logging or PC connectivity. However, its stable thermal output and repeatable timer functions make it suitable for integration into validated workflows governed by FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with external electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) or LIMS systems that capture operator inputs, timestamps, and run parameters manually or via barcode-scanned protocol execution. For audit readiness, users may document calibration records, preventive maintenance logs, and daily verification checks (e.g., using a calibrated NIST-traceable thermometer at three points across the range) in accordance with internal SOPs and ISO 17025 Clause 6.4.2.
Applications
- Enzyme kinetics studies requiring tightly controlled pre-incubation temperatures
- Standardization of DNA/RNA extraction protocols involving heat-mediated lysis steps
- Thermal equilibration of standards and controls prior to HPLC or GC analysis
- Controlled warming of cryopreserved cell suspensions and antibody stocks
- Accelerated stability testing of pharmaceutical formulations at defined stress temperatures
- Pre-heating of reagents for immunoassays to reduce assay variability
- Calibration support for temperature-sensitive sensors and probes
FAQ
Does the WB-350 require external cooling water or refrigerant gas?
No. It uses solid-state Peltier modules for both heating and cooling, eliminating dependency on external utilities.
Can the WB-350 cool below ambient temperature?
Yes—it achieves a minimum operating temperature of +4 °C regardless of ambient conditions up to 30 °C.
Is the heating block included with the unit?
No. Heating blocks are optional accessories ordered separately using model-specific part numbers (e.g., W3033351 for twin-block configuration).
What is the recommended calibration frequency?
Annual calibration is advised; however, laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025 or GxP should perform interval verification per risk assessment and SOP-defined criteria.
Does the unit support RS-232 or USB communication?
No. The WB-350 is a manually operated instrument without digital interface capabilities.
