Differences Between Lab Oven and Incubators

Most laboratory ovens and incubators are used for forced-air thermal convection applications. Generally, lab ovens provide uniform temperatures throughout the chamber, while incubators provide a temperature-controlled environment to support the growth of microbiological cultures. Esco Isotherm® lab ovens can reach 300°C, while incubators can reach 80°C (natural convection) and 100°C (forced convection). Both ovens and incubators are available in various sizes ranging from 32 liters to 240 liters. Another type of incubator called refrigerated, or low-temperature incubator maintains a temperature below ambient to as low as 10°C essential for Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) testing.

Esco Isotherm® Laboratory Oven and Incubators offer reliable performance for universal applications. A lab oven provides uniform temperature throughout the chamber for applications like drying, material testing, curing, and heated storage. On the other hand, incubators provide a temperature-controlled environment to support the growth of microbiological cultures. Laboratory incubators may vary in size, convection type, and temperature. Esco has forced and natural convection incubators and refrigerated incubators to suit various application needs.

Unlike other laboratory ovens and incubators, Esco Isotherm® thermostatic products provide added user and sample protection with its Isocide™ antimicrobial coating that eliminates 99.9% of surface bacteria within 24 hours of exposure. All models were tested, validated, and have passed the calibration conducted by Biomedis. It also complies with international standards and safety regulations such as DIN 12880 Class 3.1, CAN/CSA-22.2, No. 61010-1; EN 61010-1, IEC 61010-1, and CE.

Advantages of Esco Isotherm® Laboratory Oven and Incubators

Most ovens and incubators are designed with a forced-convection ventilation system to provide uniform temperature throughout the chamber essential for thermal convection applications and provide a controlled environment to support the growth of microbiological cultures.

FACTORS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A LAB CENTRIFUGE

When using lab ovens and incubators, precautions must be taken to secure that overheating of material, generation of airborne contaminants, fire and/or explosion do not occur.

Follow these precautions when operating thermostatic equipment in the lab:

Proper Equipment Location

• Ensure the equipment is away from flammable materials and has adequate air ventilation. 

• To ensure good ventilation within the equipment, the total load volume should not exceed half of the chamber volume.

• Do not lift using the door or door handle during installation.

Correct Power Source

• Know the equipment’s power requirement. 

• If the electrical supply is not within the given parameter, a suitable power transformer must be used.

• Have unobstructed access to the power source.

Regular Maintenance

• Schedule unit calibration/validation regularly to check any abnormalities or malfunction including the accuracy of the temperature read-out.

Proper Cleaning

• Cut off power supply before cleaning. 

• Avoid using chlorine-based detergents/disinfectants.

• Do not pour water directly into the chamber.

• The equipment should remain clean and free of chemical spills and residues.

To Do’s Before Operation

• For lab oven, preheat the chamber prior to use. 

• Know the equipment’s temperature range. 

• Determine the right temperature and length of time for a certain application.

Hazard Assessment and PPE

• All lab personnel who operate thermostatic equipment must be familiar with the operation. It includes training proper equipment set-up, limitations, and precautions for preventing fires, over-pressurization, and hazardous fumes.

• Prepare a pair of hot gloves near the oven for protection from hot surfaces.

• Always wear a clean lab coat.