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Lab-Line EC30060 Reach-In Refrigerated Incubator
The Lab-Line EC30060 Reach-In Incubator is a large-capacity refrigerated laboratory incubator designed for research, microbiology, pharmaceutical, environmental, and industrial applications requiring controlled temperatures both below and above normal room conditions. With a 29 cu. ft. single chamber, broad 0°C to 60°C temperature range, microprocessor PID temperature control, forced-air circulation, and a corrosion-resistant stainless steel interior, the EC30060 provides substantial controlled-temperature capacity for large sample loads and extended incubation studies.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the Lab-Line EC30060 is particularly well suited for laboratories that need significantly more space than a conventional benchtop incubator can provide. Refrigerated operation allows the chamber to maintain temperatures below ambient, while its large upright interior accommodates multiple racks, containers, sample batches, or oversized experimental setups within a single controlled environment.
Key Features
Large 29 cu. ft. single incubation chamber
Broad 0°C to 60°C operating temperature range
Refrigerated operation for below-ambient applications
Microprocessor-based temperature controller
Multi-range, auto-tuning PID temperature control
Temperature settings adjustable in 0.5°C increments
Forced-air circulation for consistent chamber conditions
Corrosion-resistant stainless steel interior
Environmentally safer CFC-free foam insulation and refrigerant
Heated door helps reduce condensation
12.5" × 12.5" viewing window
Chart recorder for temperature monitoring
Large reach-in configuration for high-volume sample loads
Professionally inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Lab-Line EC30060 Reach-In Incubator Overview
The Lab-Line EC30060 was designed for laboratories whose incubation requirements exceed the capacity of conventional benchtop equipment. Its 29 cu. ft. chamber provides substantially more usable space than the 3- to 6-cu.-ft. interiors commonly found in general-purpose laboratory incubators.
That additional capacity makes the EC30060 useful for laboratories processing large sample batches, operating multiple experiments simultaneously, or working with containers and equipment that cannot easily be accommodated inside smaller chambers. The reach-in cabinet allows shelves to be arranged vertically throughout the interior, making efficient use of laboratory floor space while providing convenient access to samples.
Temperature capability is another major advantage. The EC30060 operates from approximately 0°C to 60°C, allowing it to support refrigerated, near-ambient, and elevated-temperature applications within the same chamber. Unlike a conventional warm-air incubator, the refrigeration system actively removes heat when the required setpoint falls below laboratory ambient temperature.
Temperature regulation is provided by a microprocessor-based controller with multi-range, auto-tuning PID control. The system continuously adjusts heating and cooling response to maintain the selected setpoint while minimizing overshoot. Temperature settings can be selected in 0.5°C increments, providing straightforward control for long-duration incubation and conditioning procedures.
Common Applications
The Lab-Line EC30060 is well suited for microbiology, pharmaceutical research and quality control, biotechnology, environmental testing, water and wastewater analysis, food and beverage testing, stability studies, sample conditioning, product testing, and other applications requiring a large controlled-temperature environment.
Its ability to maintain temperatures down to 0°C can be especially valuable for protocols that cannot be performed reliably in a conventional incubator. The same chamber can also support moderate and elevated-temperature procedures up to 60°C, giving laboratories considerable flexibility when experimental requirements change.
The 29 cu. ft. interior also makes this model attractive for high-volume work. Multiple sample batches can be organized on separate shelves, while larger containers or experimental assemblies can be accommodated by adjusting the interior configuration.
The Lab-Line EC30060 is best considered a large-capacity refrigerated general-purpose incubator. It provides controlled temperature rather than the specialized CO₂, humidity, or atmospheric regulation required for conventional mammalian cell culture.
Common Samples & Applications
Microbiological cultures
Environmental samples
Water and wastewater samples
Pharmaceutical stability samples
Biotechnology research samples
Food and beverage test samples
Industrial quality-control specimens
Temperature-conditioning samples
Products and materials undergoing controlled-temperature studies
Typical Containers & Test Configurations
Culture bottles and flasks
Sample bottles
Test tubes and racks
Trays and sample carriers
Packaged products
Large research containers
Multiple racks of stability samples
Experimental assemblies compatible with the chamber
For high-volume applications, the large chamber allows laboratories to organize different sample groups across multiple shelves. Appropriate spacing should be maintained between containers so that circulating air can move freely around the load and maintain consistent conditions throughout the chamber.
The EC30060 does not provide controlled CO₂ or active humidity regulation. Applications requiring a CO₂-enriched atmosphere for mammalian cell culture should use a dedicated CO₂ incubator, while studies requiring a defined relative humidity setpoint should use an appropriate humidity or environmental test chamber.
Temperature Control & Environmental Stability
The Lab-Line EC30060 combines refrigeration, heating, forced-air circulation, and microprocessor PID control to maintain temperatures across its broad 0°C to 60°C operating range.
The microprocessor controller uses an auto-tuning PID control algorithm to optimize the chamber's response to changing conditions. Rather than simply switching the heating or refrigeration system fully on or off as the temperature crosses the setpoint, proportional control adjusts system response as the chamber approaches the desired temperature. This helps reduce overshoot and supports more stable long-term operation.
Forced-air circulation distributes conditioned air throughout the 29 cu. ft. chamber. Air circulation becomes especially important in a reach-in incubator of this size because samples can be positioned at significantly different heights and locations. Maintaining adequate space around sample loads helps the airflow system distribute conditioned air throughout the usable interior.
A heated door helps reduce condensation, particularly during refrigerated or high-humidity ambient conditions. The door also incorporates a 12.5" × 12.5" viewing window, allowing researchers to visually inspect samples or experimental setups without immediately opening the chamber and disrupting internal conditions.
This AIE unit also includes a chart recorder for monitoring chamber temperature over time. Historical temperature records can be useful for extended incubation, stability work, quality-control procedures, and other applications where researchers want documentation of environmental conditions throughout a test period.
The chamber incorporates CFC-free refrigerant and foam insulation, reflecting the transition away from older chlorofluorocarbon-based refrigeration systems. Its corrosion-resistant stainless steel interior provides a durable surface for routine cleaning and repeated laboratory use.
For an older large-capacity incubator, the EC30060's value lies in the combination of 29 cu. ft. of usable space, refrigerated operation down to 0°C, PID temperature control, and straightforward reach-in access. Laboratories that do not require sophisticated programmable profiles or modern touchscreen controls can still obtain substantial controlled-temperature capacity from this platform.
Specifications can vary according to production date and individual unit configuration. Confirm dimensions, electrical requirements, shelving, refrigeration configuration, chart recorder, accessories, and other specifications for the individual incubator before purchase.
What is the advantage of the Lab-Line EC30060's 29 cu. ft. chamber?
The 29 cu. ft. reach-in chamber provides substantially more usable capacity than a conventional benchtop incubator. It can accommodate large sample batches, multiple racks, oversized containers, or experimental setups that would be difficult to fit inside smaller laboratory incubators.
Can the Lab-Line EC30060 operate below room temperature?
Yes. The EC30060 incorporates refrigeration and has an operating range of approximately 0°C to 60°C. This allows it to maintain refrigerated and near-ambient conditions that cannot be achieved reliably with a conventional non-refrigerated incubator.
What is PID temperature control?
PID, or proportional-integral-derivative control, continuously adjusts the chamber's heating and cooling response based on how far the measured temperature is from the selected setpoint. The EC30060 uses an auto-tuning PID controller designed to provide fast response while minimizing temperature overshoot.
Why does the EC30060 have a heated door?
Heating the door helps reduce condensation that can develop when chamber conditions differ significantly from the surrounding laboratory environment. This can be particularly useful during refrigerated operation.
What is the chart recorder used for?
The chart recorder provides a historical record of chamber temperature over time. This can be useful during stability studies, extended incubation procedures, quality-control testing, or other applications where documenting temperature conditions is important.
Is this Lab-Line EC30060 refurbished?
Used Lab-Line EC30060 incubators offered by American Instrument Exchange are inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. Temperature-controlled equipment is evaluated using calibrated temperature-monitoring equipment, while refrigeration, heating, circulation, controls, door seals, and other installed functions are tested as applicable. Refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
I think the right SEO distinction here is large-capacity refrigerated incubator, not simply “reach-in incubator.” The combination of 29 cu. ft. + 0–60°C + PID control gives this page a much clearer search identity and also differentiates it from the 33-cu.-ft. Environmental Specialties chamber and the large Forma CO₂ reach-ins we've just covered.
Click here to see a video of this incubator on our 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.
