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CelCulture® CO2 Incubator

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for IVF and Life Sciences

Esco CelCulture CO2 Incubator

The Esco CelCulture CO2 Incubator is technically engineered to provide the most stable and secure environment for delicate cell and embryo cultures. This incubator utilizes a sophisticated direct heating and air jacket system that ensures rapid temperature recovery and excellent thermal uniformity across all incubator shelves. To maintain precise atmospheric conditions, it integrates a high-accuracy Infrared (IR) CO2 sensor that remains unaffected by fluctuations in humidity or temperature. 

 

The technical superiority of this system is further highlighted by its multi-layered contamination control strategy. It features a continuous air filtration system utilizing ULPA filters, which achieve a cleanliness level equivalent to ISO Class 5 within the chamber shortly after door closing. Additionally, the incubator includes a validated 90°C moist heat decontamination cycle that effectively eliminates bacteria, fungi, and spores without the need for toxic chemicals. 

 

Direct Heat and Air Jacket System

The technical design of the CelCulture incubator utilizes a direct heating system combined with an air jacket to provide rapid thermal response. Multiple heating elements are strategically placed around the inner chamber to eliminate cold spots and ensure that all samples experience the same 37 C environment, regardless of their position on the shelves. This system is technically optimized for fast recovery times after door openings, which is critical for maintaining stable physiological conditions for sensitive embryos and cell lines.

 

High-Precision Infrared (IR) CO2 Sensors

For precise atmospheric control, the incubator employs an NDIR (Non-Dispersive Infrared) CO2 sensor. Unlike traditional thermal conductivity sensors, the IR sensor is technically superior because it provides accurate readings that are independent of chamber humidity and temperature. This ensures that the CO2 levels remain stable at the programmed setpoint, maintaining the delicate pH balance of the culture media required for optimal cell growth and embryo development.

 

ULPA Filtration and ISO Class 5 Air Quality

The incubator features a built-in air scrub system that utilizes ULPA (Ultra Low Penetration Air) filters. These filters are technically rated to be  99.999 % efficient at removing particulates. The system continuously filters the chamber air, reaching ISO Class 5 cleanliness levels within minutes of door closing. This high level of air purity significantly reduces the risk of airborne contaminants settling on culture dishes, providing a secure micro-environment for long-term incubation.

 

Validated Moist Heat Decontamination Cycle

To ensure the highest level of sterility, the Esco CelCulture includes a validated 90 C moist heat decontamination cycle. This technical process effectively eradicates persistent microorganisms, including vegetative bacteria and fungal spores. The cycle is easily initiated via the control panel and does not require the removal of internal components like the CO2 sensor or shelving, making it a highly efficient and user-friendly method for preventing cross-contamination between different culture batches.

 

Pharmaceutical Grade Stainless Steel Interior

The internal chamber is constructed from high-quality type 304 stainless steel with a mirror-polished finish. Technically, the design incorporates large-radius coved corners, which eliminate sharp edges where contaminants or biofilms could accumulate. This seamless construction facilitates easy manual cleaning and ensures that the decontamination cycle can penetrate every surface of the incubator, maintaining a pristine environment for sensitive biological work.

 

Intelligent Microprocessor Control and Interface

The unit is managed by a sophisticated microprocessor control system that monitors all incubator functions. The user interface provides a clear, real-time display of temperature and CO2.  Advanced technical features include a comprehensive data logging system and on-screen messaging for system status. The controller is equipped with diagnostic functions that alert the user to any deviations from set parameters, providing a crucial layer of oversight for high-stakes IVF procedures.

 

External Antimicrobial Coating

The exterior surfaces of the incubator are treated with a specialized silver-ion-based antimicrobial coating. This coating is technically designed to inhibit the growth of surface bacteria and fungi, providing an additional safeguard in the laboratory environment. This feature is particularly important in busy clinics where multiple operators interact with the equipment, as it helps to maintain overall laboratory hygiene and reduces the bioburden on the exterior of the incubator.

 

Ergonomic Design and Expandability

The incubator is designed with ergonomics and lab efficiency in mind. The doors are reversible to suit different laboratory layouts, and the units are stackable to maximize floor space. Technically, the shelving system is designed to be sturdy and vibration-free, protecting cultures from mechanical disturbances. Options for divided inner doors are also available, which further minimize gas and temperature loss during sampling, enhancing the overall stability of the internal micro-environment.

 

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