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Heraeus Heracell 240 CO₂ Incubator
The Heraeus Heracell 240 CO₂ Incubator is a large-capacity cell culture incubator designed for research laboratories that require precise temperature and CO₂ control, high humidity, and effective contamination management. With an 8.4 cu. ft. (approximately 240 L) chamber, copper-lined interior, integrated humidity reservoir, and ContraCon decontamination cycle, the Heracell 240 provides a stable environment for routine and demanding cell and tissue culture applications.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the Heraeus Heracell 240 offers substantially more culture capacity than many conventional benchtop CO₂ incubators. Its combination of a 0–20% CO₂ range, temperatures up to 55°C, user-selectable high-humidity operation, and copper interior makes it particularly well suited for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, and clinical research laboratories maintaining multiple cultures or higher sample volumes.
Key Features
Approximately 240 L (8.4 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Temperature range from 5°C above ambient to 55°C
0–20% CO₂ control range
Copper-lined chamber and shelving
Natural antimicrobial properties of copper support contamination control
Integrated water reservoir for high-humidity operation
Rapid humidity recovery following routine door openings
User-selectable 90% or 95% relative humidity
ContraCon 90°C moist-heat decontamination cycle
Large chamber for higher-volume cell culture workflows
120V, 50/60 Hz electrical requirements
Professionally inspected and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Heraeus Heracell 240 CO₂ Incubator Overview
The Heraeus Heracell 240 was designed for laboratories requiring more culture capacity without sacrificing environmental stability or contamination control. Its approximately 240-liter chamber provides significantly more usable space than standard 150- to 190-liter CO₂ incubators, making it a strong choice for shared laboratories, core facilities, pharmaceutical research groups, and other facilities maintaining multiple cultures simultaneously.
One of the most distinctive features of this Heracell generation is its copper-lined interior. Copper provides inherent antimicrobial properties and helps inhibit the persistence of microorganisms on chamber surfaces. The chamber design works in conjunction with Heraeus' ContraCon decontamination system, providing laboratories with both passive and active approaches to contamination management.
The Heracell 240 also uses an integrated water reservoir rather than a conventional removable humidity tray. This design supports high relative humidity while allowing the chamber to recover humidity rapidly after the door has been opened. For cultures maintained over extended periods, rapid humidity recovery helps reduce evaporation from culture media and associated changes in concentration and osmolality.
With temperature control from approximately 5°C above ambient to 55°C and CO₂ regulation from 0–20%, the Heracell 240 provides the environmental range required for a broad variety of routine cell culture applications.
Common Applications
The Heraeus Heracell 240 is well suited for mammalian cell culture, cancer research, immunology, pharmaceutical development, biotechnology, tissue culture, primary cell research, hybridoma production, regenerative medicine, vaccine research, and other life science applications requiring controlled temperature, CO₂, and humidity.
Its large chamber is especially valuable for laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines or running several experiments simultaneously. The additional interior volume can also benefit shared research facilities where different investigators require dedicated shelf space within a common controlled environment.
A typical cell culture workflow may combine the Heracell 240 with biosafety cabinets for aseptic sample manipulation and laboratory centrifuges for cell harvesting, washing, and sample preparation. Laboratory refrigerators can provide short-term storage for media and reagents, while ultra-low temperature freezers support long-term preservation of cells and other biological materials.
Cell Types & Culture Recommendations
The Heraeus Heracell 240 can support a broad range of CO₂-dependent cell culture applications when operated within the requirements established for the specific cell line and protocol. Its large chamber makes it particularly useful when researchers need to accommodate numerous culture vessels or segregate multiple experiments within the same incubator.
Common Cell Types
Mammalian cell lines
Primary cells
Fibroblasts
Epithelial cells
Immune cells
Hybridoma cultures
Cancer cell lines
Common pharmaceutical and biotechnology research cell lines
Typical Culture Vessels
T-flasks
Multiwell plates
Cell culture dishes
Petri dishes
Suspension culture flasks
Media bottles
Larger cell culture vessels compatible with the shelving
For laboratories considering the Heracell 240 specifically because of its capacity, the 8.4 cu. ft. chamber is an important advantage. It provides considerably more flexibility than smaller CO₂ incubators for laboratories scaling up cell culture operations or maintaining multiple projects at the same time.
Environmental Control & Contamination Protection
Contamination management is one of the strongest features of the Heraeus Heracell 240. The chamber and shelving incorporate copper surfaces, taking advantage of copper's natural antimicrobial properties to help suppress microbial persistence between routine cleaning procedures.
For more comprehensive chamber decontamination, the Heracell 240 incorporates the ContraCon 90°C moist-heat decontamination cycle. The automated cycle allows the chamber and installed components to undergo decontamination without requiring users to remove and separately sterilize many interior parts. This can simplify periodic decontamination between research projects or following a suspected contamination event.
Humidity control is another distinctive element of the Heracell design. Instead of relying on a conventional open water tray, the incubator uses an integrated water reservoir designed for rapid humidity recovery. Following routine door openings, the system can restore elevated humidity considerably faster than conventional water-pan designs. Users can select relative humidity levels of approximately 90% or 95%, depending on culture requirements.
Temperature is adjustable from approximately 5°C above ambient to 55°C, with temperature deviation specified at approximately ±0.5°C at 37°C. CO₂ concentration can be regulated from 0–20%, with regulation deviation over time specified at ±0.1%. Following a 30-second door opening, the system is designed to recover a 5% CO₂ atmosphere to approximately 98% of its original value in less than eight minutes.
The combination of copper-lined construction, ContraCon decontamination, rapid humidity recovery, and stable temperature and CO₂ regulation makes the Heracell 240 particularly well suited for laboratories where protecting valuable cultures and maintaining reproducible environmental conditions are priorities.
Heraeus Heracell 240 CO₂ Incubator Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Heraeus
Model
Heracell 240
Equipment Type
Humidified CO₂ Cell Culture Incubator
Chamber Capacity
Approximately 240 L (8.4 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range
Ambient +5°C to 55°C
Temperature Deviation
Approximately ±0.5°C at 37°C
CO₂ Range
0–20%
CO₂ Regulation Deviation
±0.1%
CO₂ Measurement Accuracy
±0.3% CO₂
CO₂ Recovery
Less than 8 minutes to 98% of initial 5% concentration following a 30-second door opening
Relative Humidity
User-selectable approximately 90% or 95% RH
Humidity Source
Integrated water reservoir
Chamber Material
Copper-lined
Shelving
Copper
Decontamination
ContraCon 90°C moist-heat cycle
Interior Dimensions
Approximately 24"W × 22.5"D × 26"H
Exterior Dimensions
Approximately 30.75"W × 32"D × 37"H
CO₂ Inlet Pressure
0.8–1.0 bar
Electrical Requirements
120V AC, 50/60 Hz
Current
5.4 A
Power Consumption
Approximately 650 W
Specifications are based on Heraeus technical literature and information for the American Instrument Exchange unit. Specifications may vary by production date and configuration. Confirm electrical requirements, shelves, accessories, and other details for the individual incubator before purchase.
What is the advantage of the copper interior in the Heracell 240?
Copper has natural antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit microbial persistence on interior surfaces. In the Heracell 240, the copper-lined chamber and shelving provide an additional layer of contamination control alongside routine cleaning and the incubator's ContraCon decontamination cycle.
What is the ContraCon decontamination cycle?
ContraCon is an automated 90°C moist-heat decontamination cycle designed to decontaminate the incubator chamber and installed components. It simplifies periodic chamber decontamination and reduces the need to remove and separately sterilize numerous interior parts.
How much culture capacity does the Heraeus Heracell 240 provide?
The Heracell 240 provides approximately 240 liters, or 8.4 cu. ft., of chamber capacity. Its larger interior makes it particularly useful for laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines, numerous culture vessels, or several experiments simultaneously.
How does the Heracell 240 maintain humidity?
The incubator uses an integrated water reservoir rather than a conventional open humidity pan. This design provides high humidity and rapid recovery after door openings, with approximately 90% or 95% relative humidity selectable according to the culture requirements.
Is the Heraeus Heracell 240 suitable for mammalian cell culture?
Yes. Its controlled temperature, 0–20% CO₂ atmosphere, high humidity, large chamber, and contamination-control features make the Heracell 240 suitable for many routine and advanced mammalian cell culture applications. Specific cell culture protocols should always be compared with the incubator's operating specifications.
Is this Heraeus Heracell 240 refurbished?
Yes. Used Heraeus Heracell 240 incubators offered by American Instrument Exchange are inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. Temperature and environmental performance are verified during the refurbishment process, and the equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Click Hereto see the Heracell 240 incubator on the American Instrument Exchange YouTube channel.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Incubators Ensure Quality and Stability Before Use
Used and refurbished laboratory incubators from American Instrument Exchange are thoroughly tested to ensure optimal performance and temperature stability with laboratory safety standards. Each unit undergoes a detailed inspection and functionality assessment to meet the needs of research, clinical, and industrial labs.
Why Testing Used Laboratory Incubators Is Essential
Before a laboratory incubator is reintroduced into any work environment, it must be tested for:
• Temperature uniformity and accuracy
• Airflow and humidity control (if applicable)
• Door seal integrity and insulation effectiveness
• Electrical and safety system compliance
Comprehensive testing reduces the risk of culture loss, contamination, and equipment failure—especially critical in applications involving cell culture, microbiology, pharmaceutical research, and diagnostics.
Our multi-point testing protocol for used and refurbished incubators ensures reliability, safety, and performance across all models and brands.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Incubators
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Check for cosmetic damage, corrosion, and wear to exterior surfaces, door hinges, and gasket seals
• Inspect power cord, wiring, and display panel for any defects or signs of tampering
• Confirm that shelves, chamber components, and internal fixtures are present and undamaged
2. Functional Testing
• Power on the incubator and verify all display indicators and alarms function correctly
• Test door latch and seal mechanisms for proper closure and insulation
• Run basic temperature cycles to ensure the unit maintains stability over time
3. Temperature Accuracy and Uniformity Tests
• Test internal sensors and controllers using temperature probes
• Measure temperature consistency at multiple chamber locations over several hours
• Confirm that programmable temperature settings respond accurately
4. Airflow and Humidity Control (if applicable)
• Test internal fan operation and airflow distribution
• For humidified incubators, inspect and test humidity reservoirs, sensors, and control systems
• Check for condensation buildup and confirm environmental stability
5. Electrical Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure all electrical components are properly grounded
• Perform insulation resistance and leakage current tests
• Verify compliance with current electrical safety standards for laboratory equipment
6. Final Quality Assurance Checklist
• Perform full cycle testing at various temperature setpoints
• Document performance benchmarks and results
All refurbished incubators from American Instrument Exchange are backed by our commitment to quality and precision. With our strict testing procedures, you can rely on your incubator to deliver dependable results from day one.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Incubators Performance and Quality from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory incubator we sell goes through a repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a standard, CO₂, or refrigerated incubator, our goal is to restore each unit to laboratory-level performance—ensuring temperature accuracy, environmental stability, and long-term reliability in your lab.
Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for performance and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through reuse and restoration
• Refurbished by expert technicians with decades of lab equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every incubator at American Instrument Exchange follows this comprehensive, multi-stage process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Visual inspection for cosmetic wear, corrosion, dents, or broken components
• Mechanical assessment of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and chamber components
• Document any missing parts or issues requiring repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Thorough internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive solutions
• Decontamination/cleaning of surfaces to remove biological, chemical, or particulate residue
• Cleaning of removable parts (e.g., shelves, trays, etc.)
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Repair or replacement of worn mechanical components such as door latches, fans, hinges, and seals
• Evaluation and repair of control panels, switches, thermostats, and displays
• Inspection and testing of wiring, fuses, relays, and power supplies
4. Environmental Control System Assessment
• For CO₂ incubators: CO₂ sensors, regulators, and gas delivery systems are tested
• For refrigerated incubators: compressors, condensers, and cooling systems are evaluated for performance and leaks
• Fan motors and airflow systems are tested to ensure uniform environmental conditions
5. Temperature and Sensor Testing
• All temperature sensors and controllers are tested using thermometers/probes
• Uniformity and accuracy tested at multiple chamber locations
• For humidified or CO₂ incubators, humidity and CO₂ stability are verified
6. Safety System Testing
• Test of over-temperature protection systems and alarms
• Evaluation of door sensors, safety interlocks, and power failure recovery
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Full performance test run over 24 hours
• Validation of setpoints for temperature, CO₂ (if applicable), and humidity (if applicable)
• Final inspection and cleaning before packaging
• Complete service report
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted source for high-quality refurbished laboratory incubators. Our proven refurbishment protocol ensures every unit is reliable, accurate, and ready to meet the demands of your lab from day one.
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.
