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Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C Cryogenic Chest Freezer
Some biological materials benefit from storage temperatures well below the capabilities of a conventional -86°C ultra-low freezer, yet not every laboratory wants to manage liquid nitrogen storage. The Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C Cryogenic Chest Freezer bridges that gap, providing dependable mechanical refrigeration to -150°C for long-term preservation of highly sensitive biological materials.
With 8.2 cubic feet (231 liters) of storage capacity, an operating temperature range of -125°C to -150°C, and Sanyo's VIP Plus vacuum insulation technology, this cryogenic chest freezer is designed for laboratories that require exceptional sample protection while avoiding the handling, infrastructure, and refill requirements associated with liquid nitrogen systems. It is an excellent choice for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, stem cell laboratories, IVF facilities, hospitals, universities, and biobanks preserving valuable biological collections.
Many laboratories integrate a cryogenic freezer like the VIP Plus into a complete preservation workflow alongside biosafety cabinets for sterile sample preparation, controlled-rate freezers for optimized freezing protocols, ultralow freezers for intermediate storage, and cryogenic storage systems for applications requiring liquid nitrogen temperatures.
Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C Key Features
8.2 cu. ft. (231 L) storage capacity
Temperature range from -125°C to -150°C
Maximum cooling performance of -150°C
VIP Plus vacuum insulation technology
Chest freezer configuration for excellent cold-air retention
Graphic LCD control panel
Temperature logging capability
High/low temperature alarms
Power failure alarm
Filter maintenance notification
Self-diagnostic monitoring
Remote alarm contacts
40 mm access port
Optional liquid nitrogen backup compatibility
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C Overview
The VIP Plus series was developed specifically for laboratories requiring mechanical cryogenic storage beyond the limits of conventional ultra-low freezers. Operating at temperatures as low as -150°C, the freezer helps minimize molecular activity and reduces the potential for ice crystal recrystallization that can occur at warmer storage temperatures, making it particularly valuable for long-term preservation of sensitive cell cultures and biological specimens.
Unlike upright freezers, the chest configuration naturally retains dense cold air when the lid is opened, helping reduce temperature fluctuations during routine sample retrieval. Sanyo's VIP Plus vacuum insulation panels provide substantially greater insulation efficiency than conventional foam insulation while increasing usable interior storage volume within the same footprint. The integrated LCD controller provides operating status, alarm history, diagnostic information, and maintenance notifications to simplify long-term operation.
Common Applications
The Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C Cryogenic Freezer is commonly used for storing:
Stem cells
Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
Cell lines
Bone marrow samples
Cord blood
Embryos
Oocytes
Sperm samples
Tissue specimens
DNA repositories
Blood components
Long-term biological research collections
Its ability to maintain temperatures approaching liquid nitrogen storage makes it especially attractive for long-term preservation of valuable biological materials.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The VIP Plus -150°C freezer is well suited for:
Biotechnology companies
Cell therapy laboratories
Pharmaceutical manufacturers
IVF laboratories
Hospitals
Universities
Biobanks
Government research facilities
Regenerative medicine laboratories
Laboratories seeking cryogenic storage without the operational requirements of liquid nitrogen systems will appreciate the freezer's combination of mechanical refrigeration and ultra-low operating temperatures.
Why Choose -150°C Mechanical Cryogenic Storage?
Conventional ultra-low freezers operating at -80°C to -86°C provide excellent long-term storage for many biological materials. However, certain cell types and sensitive biological specimens benefit from storage at significantly colder temperatures where molecular activity is further reduced.
The Sanyo VIP Plus allows laboratories to achieve -150°C using a fully mechanical refrigeration system. This eliminates the need for routine liquid nitrogen handling while providing a stable cryogenic storage environment for valuable research collections. For applications requiring temperatures approaching -196°C, dedicated cryogenic storage systems remain the preferred solution.
Typical Stored Materials
The Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C freezer is commonly used to preserve stem cells, iPSCs, embryos, oocytes, sperm samples, bone marrow, cord blood, tissue specimens, DNA repositories, blood components, and other biological materials requiring cryogenic mechanical storage.
Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C Key Specifications
Capacity
8.2 cu. ft. (231 L)
Temperature Range
Adjustable from -125°C to -150°C
Cooling Performance
Maximum temperature: -150°C
Refrigeration System
Dual-stage mechanical refrigeration
Hermetic compressors
CFC-free refrigerants
Insulation
VIP Plus vacuum insulation panels
High-performance rigid foam insulation
Monitoring & Controls
Graphic LCD control panel
Temperature logging
High/low temperature alarms
Power failure alarm
Self-diagnostics
Filter maintenance notification
Remote alarm contacts
Electrical Requirements
208–230V, single phase, 60 Hz
Exterior Dimensions
68.1" W × 30.1" D × 39.8" H
Interior Dimensions
29.9" W × 19.5" D × 24.2" H
Weight
Approximately 700 lbs. (318 kg)
Operating Costs & Energy Considerations
The VIP Plus vacuum insulation system reduces heat transfer through the cabinet walls, improving thermal efficiency while increasing usable storage volume. Compared with conventionally insulated cryogenic freezers, this design helps reduce energy consumption per liter of storage while maintaining dependable -150°C operation. Routine condenser maintenance, filter cleaning, and adequate ventilation will help maximize cooling performance and extend equipment life.
Specifications compiled from Sanyo/PHCbi manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Refurbishment & Testing Process
Every Sanyo VIP Plus cryogenic freezer received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection and extended performance evaluation before shipment. Our technicians verify pull-down performance, temperature stability, refrigeration operation, LCD controller functionality, alarm systems, diagnostics, lid seals, access port integrity, and overall cabinet condition before thoroughly cleaning the freezer for delivery.
The Sanyo VIP Plus ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, laboratories should verify doorway clearances, floor loading capacity, electrical service, and adequate ventilation around the cabinet. Because of its operating temperature and weight, many facilities also plan inventory organization and sample workflows before installation to maximize storage efficiency and minimize lid-open time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why would a laboratory choose a -150°C freezer instead of a -86°C ultra-low freezer?
Certain sensitive biological materials, including stem cells and reproductive specimens, may benefit from storage at temperatures significantly colder than -86°C. A -150°C mechanical freezer provides cryogenic storage without requiring routine liquid nitrogen handling.
Is this freezer a replacement for liquid nitrogen storage?
For many applications, it provides an excellent mechanical alternative. However, laboratories requiring storage near -196°C or vapor-phase liquid nitrogen preservation may still prefer dedicated cryogenic storage systems.
What is VIP Plus insulation?
VIP Plus uses vacuum insulation panels that provide substantially greater thermal efficiency than conventional foam insulation, allowing more usable storage space while reducing heat transfer into the cabinet.
How is the freezer tested before shipment?
Every refurbished Sanyo VIP Plus -150°C freezer is inspected, cleaned, and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians to verify refrigeration performance, temperature stability, controller operation, alarms, diagnostics, and overall system reliability before shipment.
Want to view a video of this unit? Click Hereto see the Sanyo cryogenic chest freezer on the American Instrument Exchange YouTube channel.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Ultralow Freezers Ensure -80°C Stability and Critical Sample Protection
Used and refurbished ultralow freezers from American Instrument Exchange are rigorously tested to ensure reliable long-term storage at temperatures as low as -80°C. Each unit undergoes a detailed inspection, full system evaluation, and extended runtime testing to meet the high standards required by research, clinical, and biorepository environments.
Why Testing Used Ultralow Freezers Is Essential
Before an ultralow freezer is placed back into service, it must be carefully tested for:
• Temperature stability and uniformity at ultralow levels (e.g., -70°C to -86°C)
• Cascade refrigeration system functionality and compressor health
• Seal and insulation effectiveness to prevent thermal loss
• Electrical safety, alarm functionality, and system compliance
Thorough testing helps prevent temperature excursions and equipment failure—crucial for protecting sensitive materials such as biological samples, vaccines, enzymes, and research specimens.
Our structured ULT testing protocol ensures each refurbished unit delivers dependable performance and long-term reliability.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Ultralow Freezers
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect external cabinet, hinges, and door gaskets for wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check power cords, plugs, and control interfaces for signs of wear or tampering
• Verify that internal racks, shelving, and chamber components are intact and operational
2. Functional Startup and Control Testing
• Power on the unit and confirm successful initialization of digital displays and alarm systems
• Test control panels, keypad responsiveness, and user-setpoint functionality
• Verify that door seals close tightly and form a secure barrier
3. Temperature and -80°C Stability Testing
• Test and evaluate internal temperature sensors thermometers/probes
• Monitor temperature performance at multiple chamber points over extended runtimes
• Confirm uniformity and stability at key setpoints, including -70°C, -80°C, and -86°C
4. Refrigeration System and Cascade Compressor Evaluation
• Test dual-stage (cascade) compressor function, startup times, and cycling behavior
• Evaluate evaporator coils, heat exchangers, and vacuum insulation panels for performance and integrity
• Check for refrigerant leaks, low-pressure faults, and abnormal compressor noise
5. Alarm and Safety System Verification
• Test high/low temperature alarms, power failure alerts, and battery backup systems (if equipped)
• Verify lockout controls, alarm delay settings, and door-open indicators
6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Run a continuous multi-day test cycle at -80°C to confirm sustained performance
• Document temperature logs, controller accuracy, and compressor behavior
• Complete a detailed service report
Dependable Performance from American Instrument Exchange
All refurbished ultralow freezers from American Instrument Exchange are tested to exacting standards for performance, safety, and reliability. With our rigorous inspection and testing procedures, you can trust your ULT freezer to deliver consistent -80°C storage from day one—ideal for research, clinical, pharmaceutical, and biobanking applications.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Ultralow Freezers -80°C Storage Performance from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used ultralow temperature freezer (ULT freezer) undergoes a rigorous, multi-step refurbishment protocol designed to restore reliable -80°C performance. Whether upright, chest-style, or undercounter, our refurbished ULT freezers are tested and restored to deliver the cold storage precision required for biological samples, vaccines, enzymes, and other temperature-sensitive materials.
Why Choose a Refurbished Ultralow Freezer from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for -80°C cold storage stability and compressor performance
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to expensive new ULT units
• Environmentally responsible through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by experienced technicians specializing in laboratory-grade refrigeration
Every ultralow freezer sold by American Instrument Exchange is carefully evaluated and restored through the following process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Exterior inspection for dents, corrosion, or physical damage
• Evaluation of door seals, hinges, and internal chamber components
• Documentation of missing parts or components requiring repair
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Comprehensive interior and exterior cleaning using non-abrasive cleaners
• Removal of dust, frost buildup, and residual contaminants
• Decontamination of all internal surfaces and removable parts like shelves and drawers
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repairs
• Replacement or repair of worn or damaged components (door latches, hinges, gaskets, etc.)
• Inspection and repair of control boards, displays, sensors, and switches
• Electrical system evaluation, including fuses, wiring, relays, and connectors
4. Ultralow Refrigeration System Assessment
• Testing of dual-stage compressors and cascade cooling system
• Evaluation of heat exchangers, evaporator coils, and vacuum insulation panels
• Inspection for refrigerant leaks, low pressure, or signs of compressor fatigue
• Verification of thermal insulation integrity
5. Temperature and Performance Testing
• Testing of internal temperature sensors and controllers
• Multi-point testing to verify chamber temperature uniformity at -80°C
• Long-duration, multi-day operational testing to ensure sustained ultralow performance
6. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Electrical safety testing and grounding verification
• Alarm function tests for high/low temperature alerts and power failure warnings
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Multi-day runtime validation at -80°C
• Recording of temperature logs, compressor cycle data, and performance benchmarks
• Final inspection and service/testing report completed
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is your trusted source for refurbished ultralow freezers. Our certified refurbishment protocol ensures each ULT freezer delivers the precision, performance, and reliability your lab needs—at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
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.
