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Thermo Precision PR505755L Plant Growth Chamber
The Thermo Precision PR505755L Plant Growth Chamber, model TFFU20F2QWA, is a large-capacity refrigerated growth chamber designed for plant science, seed germination, agricultural research, and other applications requiring programmable temperature and light cycles. With a 17.8 cu. ft. (504 L) chamber, refrigerated operation down to -10°C, fluorescent illumination, and programmable day/night temperature and lighting schedules, the PR505755L allows researchers to reproduce controlled environmental conditions for a wide range of biological studies.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this Thermo Precision plant growth chamber provides substantially more environmental control than a conventional laboratory incubator. Researchers can program different temperatures and lighting conditions according to time of day, creating repeatable photoperiods for plant growth, germination, plant pathology, and other research applications without relying on ambient laboratory conditions.
Key Features
17.8 cu. ft. (504 L) growth chamber capacity
Thermo catalog number PR505755L
Model TFFU20F2QWA / Thermo Model 3759 platform
-10°C to 50°C temperature range with lights off
10°C to 50°C temperature range with lights on
Programmable temperature and light cycles
Seven-day programming capability
Up to two programmed light cycles per day
Dual-lamp fluorescent illumination
Approximately 3678 lux illumination at chamber center
Forced-air circulation for temperature uniformity
Refrigerated operation for below-ambient studies
Four shelves supplied with capacity for up to six
1.2-inch access port for probes or external instrumentation
120V, 60 Hz electrical configuration
Professionally inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange
The Thermo Precision PR505755L is designed specifically for research that requires control over both temperature and photoperiod. Rather than simply maintaining one constant incubation temperature, the chamber can automatically transition between programmed temperature and lighting conditions to reproduce day/night cycles over an extended experimental period.
Users can program two sets of time, temperature, and lighting conditions per day across a full seven-day schedule. This makes it possible to establish repeatable light and dark periods while simultaneously changing chamber temperature to more closely reproduce natural daytime and nighttime conditions.
For example, a plant growth experiment can be programmed for a warmer illuminated daytime period followed automatically by a cooler dark period. Once established, the schedule repeats without requiring researchers to manually change the temperature or switch chamber lighting on and off each day.
The chamber's 504 L (17.8 cu. ft.) interior provides considerably more usable space than a standard benchtop incubator. Four shelves are supplied with the platform, with capacity for as many as six, allowing researchers to adjust the interior around different plant heights, trays, culture containers, and experimental setups.
Common Applications
The Thermo Precision PR505755L is particularly well suited for plant biology, agricultural research, seed science, plant pathology, botany, horticulture, environmental biology, biotechnology, and academic research requiring reproducible temperature and light conditions.
Typical applications include seed germination studies, early-stage plant growth, plant disease research, photoperiod experiments, plant-pathogen interaction studies, temperature-response experiments, growth comparisons, controlled-environment biology, and other protocols where variations in temperature and illumination could affect experimental results.
The chamber can also support research involving cultures, organisms, or biological samples that benefit from programmed day/night conditions, provided the environmental requirements of the experiment fall within the temperature, lighting, and other capabilities of the chamber.
The Thermo Precision PR505755L provides a controlled environment for a variety of plant research applications. Its adjustable shelving and programmable lighting make it particularly useful for smaller plants and early growth stages where researchers need reproducible environmental conditions rather than the much larger growing space provided by a walk-in growth room.
Typical Plant Materials
Seeds and germinating seedlings
Arabidopsis and other model plants
Young crop plants
Plant tissue and leaf samples
Inoculated plant material
Seedling trays
Plant-pathogen research samples
Other small plants compatible with the chamber dimensions
Typical Research Applications
Seed germination
Seedling development
Photoperiod studies
Plant pathology
Plant-pathogen interactions
Temperature-response studies
Controlled day/night experiments
Comparative plant growth studies
The chamber measures approximately 57 inches high internally, but usable plant height depends on shelf configuration and required clearance from the fluorescent lighting. Researchers working with taller plants should consider mature plant height, container dimensions, shelf spacing, and illumination requirements when determining whether the chamber is appropriate for a particular study.
Temperature, Lighting & Environmental Control
The primary advantage of the PR505755L is its ability to coordinate temperature control with programmable illumination. This allows researchers to establish environmental cycles that are much closer to natural day/night conditions than the constant environment provided by a conventional incubator.
With the chamber lights switched off, temperature can be controlled from approximately -10°C to 50°C. When the illumination system is operating, the specified temperature range is approximately 10°C to 50°C. This distinction is important when planning experiments because heat generated by the lighting system limits the chamber's low-temperature capability during illuminated periods.
Temperature is monitored by an RTD sensor positioned in the chamber airstream. A microprocessor-controlled proportioning system responds to temperature deviations by regulating heat input, while refrigeration provides cooling when required.
Forced-air circulation continuously distributes conditioned air throughout the chamber. Consistent airflow is particularly important in plant growth studies because samples may be located on multiple shelves at different heights. Proper sample spacing allows air to circulate around trays, containers, and plant material and helps reduce temperature differences across the chamber.
The lighting system uses fluorescent lamps producing cool-white illumination with a color temperature of approximately 4100 K. Illumination at the chamber center is approximately 3678 lux, or 342 foot-candles, under specified conditions.
Rather than simply operating the lights from an external timer, the chamber integrates illumination into its programmable environmental controls. Researchers can establish up to two programmed temperature and light conditions per day over a seven-day schedule, allowing the chamber to automatically transition between light/dark and warm/cool periods.
This combination of refrigerated temperature control, forced-air circulation, programmable illumination, and automatic day/night scheduling makes the PR505755L considerably more versatile for plant research than a conventional refrigerated incubator.
Specifications may vary according to production date and individual unit configuration. Confirm shelving, lighting, electrical requirements, accessories, and other specifications for the individual plant growth chamber before purchase.
What is the difference between a plant growth chamber and a standard laboratory incubator?
A plant growth chamber controls both temperature and illumination, allowing researchers to reproduce programmed day/night cycles. The Thermo PR505755L can automatically change both temperature and lighting conditions according to a seven-day schedule, while a conventional laboratory incubator primarily controls temperature.
What is the temperature range of the Thermo PR505755L?
With the fluorescent lights off, the chamber operates from approximately -10°C to 50°C. With the chamber lights illuminated, the specified range is 10°C to 50°C. Researchers should account for this difference when developing experiments that combine cool temperatures with illuminated periods.
Can the PR505755L automatically simulate day and night conditions?
Yes. Users can program two sets of time, temperature, and lighting conditions per day for an entire seven-day schedule. This allows the chamber to automatically transition between illuminated daytime conditions and cooler or otherwise different nighttime conditions.
How much growing space does the PR505755L provide?
The chamber provides approximately 17.8 cu. ft. (504 L) of capacity with interior dimensions of approximately 26.5"W × 20"D × 57"H. Four shelves are supplied with the platform, and as many as six can be installed depending on the size and height of the plant material.
Is the Thermo PR505755L suitable for seed germination and plant research?
Yes. Seed germination and controlled plant growth are among the primary applications for the PR505755L. Its programmable photoperiod, broad temperature range, refrigeration, and adjustable shelving also make it useful for plant pathology, seedling development, temperature-response experiments, and other controlled-environment plant studies.
Is this Thermo Precision plant growth chamber refurbished?
Used Thermo Precision plant growth chambers offered by American Instrument Exchange are inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using calibrated monitoring equipment to verify temperature performance and control accuracy, while the refrigeration, circulation, lighting, programming functions, alarms, and other installed systems are evaluated as applicable. Refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Click Hereto see the Thermo Precision plant growth chamber 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.
