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Percival I-30NL BOD Refrigerated Incubator
The Percival I-30NL BOD Incubator is a programmable refrigerated laboratory incubator designed for biological oxygen demand testing, microbiology, organism culture, bioassays, environmental research, and other applications requiring precise temperature control both below and above ambient. With an approximately 9.7 cu. ft. chamber, broad 2°C to 44°C temperature range, refrigerated operation, forced-air circulation, and programmable ramping and non-ramping control, the I-30NL provides considerably greater environmental flexibility than a conventional general-purpose laboratory incubator.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this older-generation Percival I-30NL is particularly well suited for environmental laboratories, microbiology laboratories, academic research facilities, water and wastewater testing laboratories, and researchers working with organisms that require carefully controlled temperatures. Its combination of refrigeration, precision temperature control, substantial chamber capacity, and programmable environmental profiles makes it useful for both routine BOD testing and more specialized biological research.
Key Features
Approximately 9.7 cu. ft. refrigerated incubation chamber
Broad 2°C to 44°C temperature range
Approximately ±0.5°C temperature control under specified conditions
Refrigerated operation for below-ambient applications
Forced-air circulation
Programmable electronic temperature controller
Ramping and non-ramping program modes
Ability to link multiple programs for more complex temperature profiles
Three-tier interior configuration
Approximately 9.1 sq. ft. of total shelving area
Suitable for BOD determination, microbiology, organism culture, and bioassays
Self-contained refrigeration system
High- and low-temperature safety protection
Compact floor-standing design for its chamber capacity
Professionally inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Percival I-30NL BOD Incubator Overview
The Percival I-30NL was designed as a precision controlled-temperature biological incubator rather than simply a refrigerated cabinet. Its combination of heating, refrigeration, air circulation, and programmable control allows researchers to maintain stable temperatures across a wide range of biological and environmental applications.
The chamber provides approximately 9.7 cu. ft. of usable interior volume, giving laboratories substantially more working space than a typical 3- to 6-cu.-ft. benchtop incubator. The interior is organized across three shelving tiers, providing approximately 9.1 sq. ft. of total shelf area for samples, cultures, bottles, containers, and experimental materials.
Temperature can be maintained from approximately 2°C to 44°C, allowing the same chamber to support refrigerated, near-ambient, and elevated-temperature protocols. This flexibility is particularly useful for environmental and biological laboratories where different organisms or tests may require substantially different incubation temperatures.
The older-generation electronic controller used on this I-30NL supports both ramping and non-ramping programs. Multiple programs can also be linked to create more complex environmental profiles, allowing researchers to automatically change temperature conditions over time rather than manually adjusting the incubator throughout an experiment.
This programmability distinguishes the Percival I-30NL from many basic BOD incubators that are intended primarily to maintain a single constant temperature.
Common Applications
The Percival I-30NL is particularly well suited for BOD determination, water and wastewater testing, microbiology, bacterial culture, organism rearing, bioassays, environmental research, product stability testing, and other controlled-temperature biological studies.
For water and wastewater laboratories, refrigerated BOD incubators are commonly used to maintain samples at controlled temperatures during biological oxygen demand testing. The I-30NL's refrigeration system allows it to maintain temperatures well below typical laboratory ambient conditions while its precision controller helps keep test conditions consistent throughout extended incubation periods.
The chamber also has applications beyond conventional BOD work. Percival incubators of this type are used for studies involving C. elegans, nematodes, yeast and fungi, insects, bacteria, and other organisms requiring stable controlled-temperature conditions.
The ability to program changing temperature conditions can be particularly valuable for biological and environmental research. Rather than exposing organisms continuously to a single temperature, researchers can create profiles that simulate changing environmental conditions or investigate biological responses to controlled temperature transitions.
The Percival I-30NL is particularly versatile because it was designed around controlled-environment biological research rather than one narrowly defined incubation procedure.
Common Samples & Organisms
BOD samples
Water and wastewater samples
Bacterial cultures
C. elegans
Nematodes
Yeast and fungi
Insects and other small research organisms
Environmental research samples
Bioassay samples
Product stability samples
Typical Applications
Biological oxygen demand determination
Water and wastewater testing
Microbiological incubation
Bacterial culture
Organism culturing and rearing
Bioassays
Environmental temperature studies
Product stability testing
Controlled-temperature biological research
The three-tier shelving configuration provides approximately 9.1 sq. ft. of usable shelf area, allowing researchers to organize multiple sample groups within the same chamber. Individual shelves are approximately 16.5"D × 26.5"W, with shelf positions adjustable vertically to accommodate different container and sample heights.
Unlike a CO₂ incubator, the standard I-30NL is designed primarily around precise temperature control. Researchers requiring regulated CO₂ or active humidity should confirm whether an individual chamber is equipped with optional environmental-control systems rather than assuming those features are standard.
Temperature Control & Environmental Stability
Precise temperature regulation is the defining capability of the Percival I-30NL. The chamber combines refrigeration, heating, forced-air circulation, and electronic control to maintain stable temperatures from approximately 2°C to 44°C.
The refrigeration system uses a self-contained air-cooled condensing unit with a hot-gas bypass design. Rather than repeatedly cycling the compressor fully on and off, the system can alternate refrigerant and hot gas through the cooling system to regulate chamber temperature. This approach supports precise temperature control while helping reduce evaporator-coil icing during extended operation.
A rear-mounted evaporator coil incorporates an air-circulation fan that continuously distributes conditioned air throughout the chamber. Active circulation is particularly important in an incubator of this size because samples may be positioned at several heights across three separate shelving tiers.
Temperature performance for the I-30NL platform is approximately ±0.5°C under specified conditions, providing the consistency required for BOD testing, organism culture, microbiology, and other temperature-sensitive procedures.
The programmable controller expands the chamber's capabilities beyond constant-temperature incubation. Users can establish ramping profiles, where temperature changes gradually over time, or non-ramping programs that move directly between established setpoints. Multiple programs can be linked when an experiment requires a more complex sequence of environmental conditions.
Independent high- and low-temperature safety controls provide additional protection for samples and experiments. If chamber conditions move outside established limits, the safety system can interrupt chamber operation and activate audible and visual alarms, with normal operation resuming when temperature returns to an acceptable range.
For an older refrigerated incubator, this combination of 2°C to 44°C operation, precision temperature regulation, forced-air circulation, programmable environmental profiles, and substantial 9.7 cu. ft. capacity gives the Percival I-30NL considerable flexibility for environmental and biological research.
Percival I-30NL BOD Incubator Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Percival Scientific
Model
I-30NL
Equipment Type
Programmable BOD / Refrigerated Incubator
Chamber Capacity
Approximately 9.7 cu. ft.
Temperature Range
2°C to 44°C
Temperature Control
Approximately ±0.5°C under specified conditions
Refrigeration
Self-contained
Condensing Unit
Air-cooled
Refrigeration Control
Hot-gas bypass
Air Circulation
Forced-air
Controller
Electronic programmable controller
Programming
Ramping and non-ramping modes
Linked Programs
Yes
Lighting
No standard growth lighting
Shelving Configuration
3 tiers
Total Shelf Area
Approximately 9.1 sq. ft.
Individual Shelf Dimensions
Approximately 16.5"D × 26.5"W
Maximum Clearance Per Tier
Approximately 8.5" with three shelves installed
Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)
Approximately 31" × 23.8" × 46.2"
Electrical Requirements
120V, 60 Hz, single phase
CO₂ Control
Not standard
Active Humidity Control
Not standard
Percival has manufactured the I-30NL for many years and has updated its control systems and available options over time. Specifications above are intended to describe the older I-30NL platform where applicable. Confirm the controller generation, electrical requirements, shelving, refrigeration system, installed options, and other specifications for the individual incubator before purchase.
Percival I-30NL Frequently Asked Questions
What is a BOD incubator?
A BOD incubator is a refrigerated temperature-controlled chamber commonly used for biological oxygen demand testing and other environmental or microbiological procedures requiring stable temperatures near or below room temperature. Unlike a conventional non-refrigerated incubator, the Percival I-30NL can actively cool its chamber to temperatures as low as approximately 2°C.
What is the temperature range of the Percival I-30NL?
The I-30NL operates from approximately 2°C to 44°C, allowing it to support refrigerated, near-ambient, and elevated-temperature incubation within the same chamber.
Is the Percival I-30NL only for BOD testing?
No. Although BOD determination is an important application, the I-30NL is also useful for microbiology, bacterial culture, bioassays, organism rearing, environmental research, and product stability testing. Percival also identifies organisms such as C. elegans, nematodes, yeast, fungi, insects, and bacteria among the applications for this chamber platform.
Can the Percival I-30NL run changing temperature programs?
Yes. The older electronic control system used on this I-30NL supports ramping and non-ramping program modes, and multiple programs can be linked to create more complex temperature profiles. This makes the chamber useful for research that requires environmental conditions to change over time.
Does the Percival I-30NL have growth lights?
The NL configuration is a no-light chamber. This makes it particularly appropriate for BOD testing, microbiological work, organism studies, and other applications where controlled temperature rather than plant-growth illumination is the primary requirement.
Does the Percival I-30NL control humidity or CO₂?
Humidity and CO₂ control are not standard features of the basic I-30NL platform, although Percival has offered these capabilities as options on various chamber configurations. Buyers should confirm the installed equipment on an individual used chamber if either controlled humidity or CO₂ enrichment is required.
Is this Percival I-30NL refurbished?
Used Percival I-30NL 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 chamber performance and the accuracy of the controls and readouts. Refrigeration, heating, circulation, programming functions, safety systems, and other installed components are tested as applicable, with hardware and parts replaced as necessary. Refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Want to view a video of this unit? Click Hereto see the Percival I-30NL 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.
