Lab-Line 120 Compact Benchtop Incubator

Brand : Labline

Product Code : SKU 3122 INC

Sold Out

⚠

Currently Unavailable

This item is temporarily out of stock. Please contact us for availability updates or explore similar alternatives below.

View Similar Equipment Call 978-521-2221

We Can Help You Find:

Similar equipment currently in stock
Alternative brands with comparable specifications
Refurbished units (fully tested & warrantied)

Quantity

Price Match Policy

Shipping

All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse

Lab-Line 120 Compact Benchtop Incubator

The Lab-Line 120 Compact Incubator is a small benchtop laboratory incubator designed for microbiology, biochemical studies, hematology, sample warming, batch testing, and other routine applications requiring gentle, controlled heating above ambient temperature. With a 0.75 cu. ft. chamber, gravity-convection heating, analog temperature control, and an exceptionally compact footprint, the Lab-Line 120 provides a simple and economical incubation environment for laboratories that do not need the capacity or advanced controls of a larger digital incubator.

Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the Lab-Line 120 is particularly useful for laboratories with limited bench space or relatively small sample loads. Its straightforward design makes it suitable for routine incubation and warming procedures, while gravity convection minimizes air movement within the chamber—an advantage when working with lightweight or delicate samples that could be disturbed by forced-air circulation.

Key Features

Compact 0.75 cu. ft. incubation chamber
Temperature range from ambient +5°C to 45°C for the AIE-listed unit
Gravity-convection heating
Analog temperature control
Bimetallic thermostat
Corrosion-resistant aluminum chamber
Shielded heating elements
Approximately 1-inch fiberglass insulation
Gentle airflow for delicate and lightweight samples
Compact benchtop footprint
Low 100-watt power requirement
120V, 50/60 Hz electrical configuration
Professionally inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Lab-Line 120 Compact Incubator Overview

The Lab-Line 120 represents a simple approach to laboratory incubation. Rather than incorporating forced-air fans, microprocessor controls, refrigeration, programmable temperature profiles, or other advanced systems, the unit provides a small insulated chamber with thermostatically controlled heat.

For laboratories that simply need to maintain samples at a stable temperature moderately above ambient, that simplicity can be an advantage. The incubator requires relatively little bench space, draws only about 100 watts, and does not incorporate a circulation fan or refrigeration system that would be unnecessary for basic incubation procedures.

The chamber has approximately 0.75 cu. ft. of usable capacity, with interior dimensions of roughly 12"W × 12"D × 9"H for the American Instrument Exchange unit. This makes the Lab-Line 120 best suited for small sample batches, dishes, tubes, bottles, and other compact laboratory vessels rather than high-volume incubation.

Temperature is adjusted using an analog control located on the unit. A bimetallic thermostat regulates heater operation, while shielded heating elements provide controlled heat to the chamber. The corrosion-resistant aluminum interior helps distribute heat while providing a durable surface for routine laboratory use.

Common Applications

The Lab-Line 120 is well suited for biochemical, bacteriological, hematological, microbiological, clinical, educational, and general research applications requiring moderate temperatures above ambient. Typical uses include small-batch incubation, bacterial culture, sample warming, media warming, biochemical studies, hematological procedures, preheating, and other routine laboratory processes.

Its small chamber can be particularly useful when a laboratory needs a dedicated incubator for a specific procedure but does not want to occupy valuable bench space with a larger system. It can also provide supplemental incubation capacity when a primary laboratory incubator is being used for other experiments.

Laboratories performing microbiological work may use the Lab-Line 120 alongside biosafety cabinets for controlled sample handling and laboratory centrifuges for separation and sample preparation. Laboratory refrigerators and laboratory freezers provide complementary storage for media, reagents, and temperature-sensitive samples.

Sample Types & Incubation Recommendations

The Lab-Line 120 is best suited for relatively small sample loads requiring gentle heating above ambient temperature. Because it uses gravity convection rather than fan-forced circulation, there is less air movement inside the chamber than in a mechanical-convection incubator.

Common Samples & Applications

Bacterial and microbiological cultures
Biochemical samples
Hematology samples
Culture media
Clinical and research specimens
Small batch-testing samples
Samples requiring preheating
Delicate or lightweight materials

Typical Laboratory Vessels

Petri and culture dishes
Test tubes and tube racks
Small culture bottles
Sample vials
Media containers
Small Erlenmeyer flasks
Other vessels compatible with the compact chamber

The relatively small interior is an important consideration when selecting this incubator. Laboratories should compare vessel dimensions and total sample load with the available chamber space rather than selecting the Lab-Line 120 solely on temperature requirements.

The Lab-Line 120 does not provide refrigeration, CO₂ regulation, active humidity control, or programmable environmental conditions. Applications requiring those capabilities should use an appropriately equipped laboratory incubator.

Temperature Control & Environmental Stability

The Lab-Line 120 uses gravity convection to create a gentle heated environment without relying on a circulation fan. As air inside the chamber is heated, it naturally rises and cooler air moves toward the heating surfaces, creating passive circulation through the chamber.

Gravity convection offers several practical advantages for certain laboratory applications. The absence of high-velocity airflow reduces turbulence around lightweight samples and can help limit unnecessary disturbance of powders, delicate materials, and loosely covered vessels. The simplified design also eliminates the mechanical circulation fan found in forced-air incubators.

Temperature is regulated by a bimetallic thermostat connected to shielded heating elements. The analog control allows the operator to adjust the chamber temperature according to the requirements of the procedure, while chamber temperature can be independently monitored using an appropriate laboratory thermometer or probe.

The American Instrument Exchange unit is specified for operation from approximately 5°C above ambient to 45°C. Because the incubator does not incorporate refrigeration, it cannot actively cool below room temperature. The achievable minimum temperature therefore depends directly on the surrounding laboratory environment.

The chamber is constructed from corrosion-resistant aluminum and surrounded by approximately one inch of fiberglass insulation. This straightforward construction helps retain heat while keeping the overall cabinet compact and economical to operate.

Compared with a modern microprocessor incubator, the Lab-Line 120 offers fewer controls and monitoring features. Its value lies instead in simplicity, compact size, low power consumption, and gentle gravity-convection heating for routine applications where sophisticated environmental control is unnecessary.

Lab-Line 120 Compact Incubator Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Lab-Line Instruments
Model	120
Equipment Type	Compact General Purpose Incubator
Chamber Capacity	0.75 cu. ft.
Temperature Range	Ambient +5°C to 45°C for AIE-listed unit
Temperature Control	Analog
Thermostat	Bimetallic
Convection	Gravity / natural convection
Chamber Material	Corrosion-resistant aluminum
Heating	Shielded heating elements
Insulation	Approximately 1" fiberglass
Refrigeration	No
CO₂ Control	No
Active Humidity Control	No
Interior Dimensions (W × D × H)	12" × 12" × 9"
Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)	14" × 15" × 16"
Electrical Requirements	120V, 50/60 Hz
Power	100 W
Current	Approximately 0.8 A
Configuration	Benchtop

Specifications can vary according to production date and individual unit configuration. The American Instrument Exchange listing specifies an ambient +5°C to 45°C operating range for this particular unit. Confirm shelving, electrical requirements, accessories, and other specifications before purchase.

Lab-Line 120 Compact Incubator Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Lab-Line 120 used for?

The Lab-Line 120 is a compact general-purpose incubator suitable for microbiology, biochemical studies, hematology, sample warming, batch testing, preheating, and other routine laboratory procedures requiring controlled temperatures moderately above ambient.

How much chamber space does the Lab-Line 120 provide?

The AIE-listed unit provides approximately 0.75 cu. ft. of chamber capacity, with interior dimensions of approximately 12"W × 12"D × 9"H. Its small size makes it best suited for limited sample quantities and compact laboratory vessels.

What is the advantage of gravity convection?

Gravity convection uses the natural movement of heated air rather than a mechanical circulation fan. This produces a gentler, lower-turbulence chamber environment, which can be useful for lightweight or delicate samples and applications where strong airflow is unnecessary.

Can the Lab-Line 120 cool below room temperature?

No. The Lab-Line 120 does not have refrigeration. Its minimum operating temperature is approximately 5°C above ambient, so laboratories requiring temperatures at or below room conditions should select a refrigerated incubator.

Is the Lab-Line 120 suitable for CO₂ cell culture?

No. The Lab-Line 120 does not regulate CO₂, humidity, or other atmospheric conditions required for conventional mammalian cell culture. It is a straightforward general-purpose temperature incubator.

Is this Lab-Line 120 refurbished?

Used Lab-Line 120 incubators offered by American Instrument Exchange are inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using calibrated monitoring equipment to verify proper operation, with components replaced as necessary. Refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.

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.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

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.