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Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer
Not all ultralow freezers rely on compressors to protect valuable biological samples. The Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer uses an innovative free-piston Stirling engine, delivering dependable ultra-low temperature storage with exceptional energy efficiency, quiet operation, and remarkably simple mechanical design. For laboratories looking to reduce operating costs without compromising sample protection, the SU780XLE offers a fundamentally different approach to long-term cold storage.
With 27.5 cubic feet (780 liters) of storage capacity and room for up to 600 standard 2-inch cryoboxes, the SU780XLE is well suited for biobanks, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, and research laboratories storing valuable biological materials at temperatures from -20°C to -86°C.
Laboratories building a complete cold storage program often pair ultralow freezers with laboratory refrigerators for day-to-day reagent storage and laboratory freezers for materials that do not require ultra-low preservation. Purchasing a professionally refurbished Stirling Ultracold freezer from American Instrument Exchange allows laboratories to benefit from one of the industry's most energy-efficient ULT platforms while significantly reducing capital equipment costs.
Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer Key Features
27.5 cu. ft. (780 L) storage capacity
Holds up to 600 standard 2-inch cryoboxes
Adjustable temperature range from -20°C to -86°C
Free-piston Stirling engine technology
Compressor-free refrigeration system
ENERGY STAR® certified design
Natural refrigerants
Quiet operation
Low heat rejection
Touchscreen control interface
Advanced alarm and monitoring system
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer Overview
Unlike conventional cascade compressor systems, the SU780XLE is powered by a free-piston Stirling engine that continuously modulates cooling output instead of cycling compressors on and off. Because the engine contains only a few moving components supported by gas bearings, mechanical wear is dramatically reduced while temperature stability remains exceptionally consistent. The result is a refrigeration system that combines dependable ultra-low performance with excellent energy efficiency and long-term reliability.
Modern laboratory workflows rarely rely on a single instrument. Samples are commonly prepared inside biosafety cabinets, cultured in CO₂ incubators, processed using refrigerated centrifuges, and ultimately transferred into an ultralow freezer for long-term preservation. The SU780XLE provides dependable long-term storage while reducing electrical demand, laboratory heat load, and environmental impact.
Common Applications
The Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE is commonly used for long-term preservation of DNA and RNA libraries, stem cells, cell lines, tissue specimens, plasma, serum, vaccines, pharmaceutical compounds, microbiological collections, clinical trial materials, forensic evidence, and biological reference standards.
Its large storage capacity makes it particularly well suited for centralized laboratory storage, university core facilities, pharmaceutical development programs, biobanks, and GMP manufacturing environments. Laboratories requiring colder storage than traditional laboratory freezers often select ultralow freezers to provide an additional level of protection for irreplaceable biological materials.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The SU780XLE is well suited for:
Biotechnology laboratories
Pharmaceutical manufacturers
Academic research institutions
Hospitals and clinical laboratories
Public health laboratories
Government research facilities
Contract research organizations
Biobanks
Cell and gene therapy laboratories
GMP manufacturing facilities
Its low particle generation and ISO Class 6 cleanroom certification also make it attractive for controlled manufacturing environments.
Temperature Recovery & Sample Protection
Protecting valuable samples requires more than simply reaching -80°C. The SU780XLE utilizes continuous Stirling engine modulation to recover quickly following routine door openings while maintaining stable cabinet temperatures. Multiple insulated inner doors further reduce cold air loss, allowing laboratory personnel to retrieve only the samples they need while minimizing temperature disturbance throughout the remainder of the cabinet.
Laboratories preserving especially valuable biological collections often complement ultralow freezers with cryogenic storage systems for applications requiring liquid nitrogen storage.
Typical Stored Materials
The Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE is commonly used to store:
DNA and RNA libraries
Cell lines
Stem cells
Tissue specimens
Plasma and serum
Vaccines
Protein samples
Enzymes
Pharmaceutical compounds
Clinical trial materials
Microbial cultures
Biological reference materials
Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer Key Specifications
Capacity
27.5 cu. ft. (780 L)
Up to 600 standard 2-inch cryoboxes
Temperature Range
Adjustable from -20°C to -86°C
Refrigeration System
Free-piston Stirling engine
Compressor-free refrigeration
Natural refrigerants
Monitoring & Controls
Touchscreen interface
Alarm and monitoring system
Remote monitoring capability
Interior Configuration
Multiple insulated inner doors
Compatible with standard cryobox rack systems
Electrical Requirements
Universal voltage operation (100–240V)
Energy Efficiency & Operating Costs
Energy efficiency is one of the defining characteristics of the SU780XLE. The free-piston Stirling engine consumes substantially less electricity than many conventional compressor-based ultralow freezers while generating significantly less heat inside the laboratory. Lower plug loads can reduce HVAC demand, helping laboratories decrease both direct electrical costs and secondary cooling costs. The compressor-free design also minimizes mechanical wear, supporting dependable long-term operation with fewer moving components.
Specifications compiled from Stirling Ultracold manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Refurbishment & Testing Process
Every Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection and extended performance evaluation before shipment. Our technicians verify pull-down performance, confirm temperature stability throughout the operating range, inspect the Stirling engine cooling system, test alarms and electronic controls, evaluate door gaskets and cabinet insulation, verify monitoring functions, and thoroughly clean the freezer before delivery.
The Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before delivery, laboratories should verify doorway clearances, floor loading capacity, electrical service, and ventilation requirements. Universal voltage capability and lower heat output provide additional flexibility when installing the freezer in existing laboratories or expanding cold storage capacity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Stirling SU780XLE different from a traditional compressor-based ultralow freezer?
The SU780XLE uses a free-piston Stirling engine instead of cascade compressors. This unique design provides continuous cooling modulation, fewer moving mechanical components, quieter operation, and significantly lower energy consumption than many conventional ULT freezers.
Why is the SU780XLE known for its energy efficiency?
The Stirling engine continuously adjusts cooling output rather than cycling compressors on and off. Combined with natural refrigerants and efficient cabinet design, this helps reduce electrical consumption, laboratory heat generation, and overall operating costs.
How is the Stirling engine tested before shipment?
Every refurbished Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE is inspected and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians to verify pull-down performance, temperature stability, alarm functionality, Stirling engine operation, and overall system performance before shipment.
Are boxes and/or racks included with the purchase of a Striling Ultracold SU780XLE?
While we may have storage racks available, they are generally not included in the standard purchase of any of our ultralow freezers. Please call or email us for pricing and availability.
How do you test the Stirling SU780XLE to insure proper functionality?
Our technicians run each ultralow freezer in our shop for an extended period of time (anywhere from seven to twenty days, depending on make, model, customer preference, performance history, etc.) to make sure that the unit reaches and holds temperature at the set point. We typically test these units on an empty load, meaning that there are no samples in the chamber during testing. We also examine each SU780XLE for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, and verify other key performance specifications such as recovery time after door opening, built-in data logging, and other functions.
How does the Stirling SU780XLE operate so efficiently?
Stirling ultracold freezers feature a piston-free engine that continually modulates and eliminates the on-off cycle of a traditional, dual-stage compressor-based system. Combined with the thin-wall, vacuum insulated panels, this provides for efficiency along with quiet operation and quick recovery time. According to manufacturer specifications labs can expect to see energy savings of 70% to 75%.
Is this ultralow freezer compatible with LN2 backup systems for emergency use?
A: Yes, both LN2 and CO2 back-up systems can be purchased for installation with the Stirling SU780XLE ultralow freezer.
CLICK HEREto see the Stirling Ultracold SU780XLE Ultra-low Freezer on our YouTube channel
FAQ
Does the equipment come with a warranty?
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
