YIHENG HZQ/THZ Series LCD-Controlled Incubator Shaker

Overview

The YIHENG HZQ/THZ Series LCD-Controlled Incubator Shaker is an integrated air-jacketed orbital shaker and incubation platform engineered for precision cell culture, microbial growth, biochemical assays, and suspension-based bioprocessing in academic, pharmaceutical, and industrial life science laboratories. Unlike conventional standalone shakers or incubators, this system combines PID-controlled temperature regulation with digitally stabilized orbital motion—enabling seamless transition between shaking and static incubation modes without sample transfer. Its operating principle relies on forced-air convection heating and high-torque DC motor-driven eccentric drive mechanism, ensuring uniform thermal distribution (±0.3°C at 37°C) and mechanical stability across the full oscillation range (40–300 rpm). Designed for continuous-duty operation under GLP-compliant workflows, the unit features a robust 304 stainless steel chamber interior, reinforced tempered glass observation window with low-emissivity thermal insulation, and modular deck architecture supporting rapid reconfiguration between single- and double-deck configurations.

Key Features

• Integrated dual-mode functionality: Switches automatically from orbital shaking to static incubation upon timer completion—eliminating cross-contamination risk and workflow interruption.
• Large backlit LCD interface with intuitive menu navigation, real-time parameter display (setpoint/actual temp, rpm, elapsed time), and multi-level password protection for protocol integrity.
• Microprocessor-based PID temperature control with auto-tuning capability; independent digital speed regulation ensures <±1 rpm repeatability over 1,000-hour continuous operation.
• Low-heat-output brushless DC motor with high starting torque and wide-speed-range electronic commutation—enabling reliable 24/7 operation without thermal drift or maintenance downtime.
• Full safety redundancy: Independent over-temperature cut-off circuit, door-interlocked shutdown (ceases heating, fan, and shaking upon opening), and programmable alarm thresholds for temperature deviation, speed loss, or power failure.
• Standard 25 mm access port on left chamber wall for sensor integration, gas supply lines, or external monitoring cables—compatible with CO₂/Humidity add-on modules (optional).
• Energy-efficient R134a-free refrigerant system compliant with ISO 14001 environmental standards; no ozone-depleting substances used in manufacturing or operation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HZQ/THZ series accommodates standard microbiological vessels—including Erlenmeyer flasks (50–5000 mL), test tubes, deep-well plates, and custom bioreactor bags—via interchangeable stainless steel platforms with universal clamp systems (e.g., universal flask clamps, microplate holders, tube racks). Chamber dimensions support up to 12×500 mL flasks (single deck) or 24×250 mL flasks (double deck). All wetted surfaces meet ASTM F838-20 bacterial retention validation criteria for cleanability. The system complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment), EN 60335-1:2012 (Household and Similar Electrical Appliances), and supports audit-ready documentation per FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with optional USB data logging or RS-485 network interface.

Software & Data Management

While the base unit operates via embedded firmware, optional connectivity modules enable traceable data acquisition: USB port supports FAT32-formatted flash drives for timestamped CSV export of temperature, speed, and runtime logs (sample interval: 1–60 sec); RS-485 interface allows integration into LabVantage, STARLIMS, or custom SCADA systems using Modbus RTU protocol. Optional multi-segment programming module supports up to 9 programmable steps per cycle—including ramp/soak profiles for temperature and speed, with simultaneous display of setpoint vs. actual values. All logged data includes device ID, operator ID (if configured), and CRC-16 checksum verification to ensure data integrity during transfer and archival.

Applications

• Mammalian and insect cell suspension culture under controlled O₂/CO₂ environments (when coupled with gas mixing accessories)
• Recombinant protein expression in E. coli and yeast strains requiring precise aeration and thermal consistency
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays per CLSI M07-A10 guidelines
• Enzyme kinetics studies involving temperature-dependent reaction rates and substrate solubilization
• Environmental microbiology: BOD incubation, activated sludge respiration assays, and biofilm formation models
• Quality control of biopharmaceutical intermediates where USP <1043> extractables/leachables protocols demand documented thermal history

FAQ

What is the maximum load capacity per deck configuration?
Single-deck models support up to 25 kg uniformly distributed; double-deck variants accommodate 2 × 15 kg (upper/lower decks independently rated).
Does the unit support external temperature probes for chamber mapping validation?
Yes—the 25 mm access port permits insertion of calibrated PT100 or thermocouple probes connected to external data loggers (e.g., Omega OM-DAQPRO-5300).
Can the shaker operate at 4°C ambient temperature?
The minimum operating ambient is 10°C; for sub-ambient applications, optional pre-cooling mode extends operational range down to 5°C chamber setpoint.
Is the stainless steel chamber electropolished for enhanced corrosion resistance?
Chamber interior and deck surfaces are passivated 304 SS per ASTM A967 but not electropolished; however, surface roughness Ra ≤ 0.8 µm meets ISO 14644-1 Class 5 cleanroom compatibility requirements.
How is firmware updated in the field?
Firmware upgrades are performed via USB drive using YIHENG’s proprietary .BIN loader tool—validated against SHA-256 hash signatures to prevent unauthorized modification.