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VWR Signature Model 2015 Diurnal Growth Chamber
The VWR Signature Model 2015 Diurnal Growth Chamber is a large-capacity refrigerated environmental chamber designed for plant growth studies, photoperiod research, seed germination, organism studies, and other applications requiring controlled day and nighttime temperature and illumination cycles. With a 16.5 cu. ft. (467 L) chamber, refrigerated operation, mechanical convection, four fluorescent lamps, and independent day/night programming, the Model 2015 allows researchers to reproduce basic diurnal environmental cycles within a controlled laboratory setting.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this older-generation VWR diurnal growth chamber is particularly well suited for plant biology, agricultural research, environmental science, academic research, and biotechnology laboratories that require controlled temperature and illumination but do not need the more complex capabilities of a modern multi-parameter plant growth chamber. Its substantial chamber capacity, straightforward dual-program controls, and integrated lighting provide a practical platform for long-duration growth and environmental studies.
Key Features
Large 16.5 cu. ft. (467 L) controlled-environment chamber
Designed for simulated day and nighttime cycles
Refrigerated operation
Temperature range approximately 0°C to 45°C for this unit
Approximately ±0.5°C temperature uniformity at 20°C
Mechanical convection for consistent chamber conditions
Four white fluorescent lamps for interior illumination
Independent day and night temperature programming
Programmable ON/OFF illumination cycle
Dual-program control system
Four fixed shelves
Interior electrical outlet for compatible auxiliary equipment
Hermetically sealed refrigeration compressor
Independent over-temperature safety controller
Large floor-standing reach-in configuration
Professionally inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
VWR Model 2015 Diurnal Growth Chamber Overview
The VWR Signature Model 2015 was designed specifically for laboratory studies requiring controlled transitions between simulated daytime and nighttime conditions. Unlike a conventional refrigerated incubator that simply maintains a constant temperature, the Model 2015 combines refrigeration, heating, mechanical air circulation, programmable temperature control, and timed illumination.
The chamber provides approximately 16.5 cu. ft. of usable interior volume, making it substantially larger than a typical benchtop incubator. Interior dimensions of approximately 27"W × 20"D × 55.5"H provide enough vertical space for plants, culture containers, trays, experimental samples, and other materials distributed across four fixed shelves.
Four white fluorescent lamps provide the chamber's illumination. Rather than attempting to reproduce the high-intensity lighting available in newer plant growth chambers, this system is best suited for applications requiring a basic controlled photoperiod and moderate illumination.
The defining feature of the chamber is its dual-program control system. Researchers can establish two temperature conditions and coordinate those conditions with an ON/OFF illumination cycle. Because the temperature and illumination systems operate independently, the chamber can reproduce basic diurnal patterns such as a warmer illuminated daytime period followed by a cooler dark nighttime period.
This gives the Model 2015 capabilities that a conventional refrigerated incubator cannot provide while retaining relatively straightforward controls appropriate to its generation.
Common Applications
The VWR Model 2015 is particularly well suited for plant growth studies, seed germination, photoperiod experiments, agricultural research, environmental biology, botanical research, organism studies, temperature-response experiments, and other research requiring controlled light/dark cycles.
Plant researchers can use the chamber to investigate how changes in temperature and photoperiod affect germination, early plant development, vegetative growth, physiological responses, and other biological processes. Because daytime and nighttime conditions can be established independently, experiments can more closely approximate naturally changing environmental conditions than they could in a constant-temperature incubator.
The chamber is also useful for organisms whose development or behavior is influenced by photoperiod. Depending on the experimental protocol, controlled light/dark cycling may be useful for certain insects, microorganisms, algae, and other biological research applications.
Its refrigeration system also allows researchers to conduct studies at temperatures below normal laboratory ambient conditions, providing additional flexibility for seasonal simulations, cool-temperature growth studies, and other environmental research.
The VWR Model 2015 is best considered a diurnal environmental growth chamber rather than a general-purpose laboratory incubator. Its most important capability is the combination of controlled temperature and timed illumination.
Common Plants, Organisms & Samples
Seedlings and young plants
Germinating seeds
Arabidopsis and other research plants
Small agricultural crops
Botanical research specimens
Algae and photosynthetic cultures
Selected microorganisms
Insects and other photoperiod-sensitive organisms
Environmental research samples
Typical Research Applications
Seed germination studies
Plant growth experiments
Photoperiod research
Day/night temperature studies
Circadian and diurnal studies
Agricultural research
Plant physiology
Environmental-response studies
Controlled-temperature organism research
The 55.5-inch-tall interior provides considerably more vertical working space than a conventional laboratory incubator. Four fixed shelves divide the chamber into multiple experimental areas, allowing researchers to organize different sample groups or growth studies within the same controlled environment.
Researchers should consider mature plant height, distance from the fluorescent lamps, airflow requirements, and required light intensity when determining whether the Model 2015 is appropriate for a particular plant-growth application.
Temperature, Lighting & Diurnal Environmental Control
The defining capability of the VWR Model 2015 is its ability to coordinate controlled temperature with timed illumination to create repeatable day/night cycles.
Temperature regulation combines heating and mechanical refrigeration, allowing the chamber to maintain conditions both below and above normal laboratory ambient temperature. The American Instrument Exchange unit is specified for operation from approximately 0°C to 45°C, with temperature uniformity of approximately ±0.5°C at 20°C.
Mechanical convection continuously circulates conditioned air throughout the large chamber. Active circulation helps reduce temperature differences between different areas of the interior, which is particularly important when experimental materials occupy several shelf levels.
The lighting system consists of four white fluorescent lamps. These lamps provide illumination for plant and photoperiod studies while producing substantially less radiant heat than older high-intensity incandescent lighting systems.
The dual-program controller allows researchers to establish two separate environmental periods. For example, an experiment might use a warmer temperature with the lights operating during the simulated daytime period and a cooler temperature with the lights off during the simulated nighttime period.
Because temperature and illumination operate independently, researchers have flexibility in how those two environmental variables are coordinated. This allows the Model 2015 to support experiments in which temperature changes and photoperiod do not necessarily occur at exactly the same time.
An interior electrical outlet provides power for compatible auxiliary equipment such as small shakers, stirrers, roller apparatus, or other devices that can safely operate under the selected chamber conditions. This expands the usefulness of the chamber beyond conventional plant growth applications.
An independent over-temperature safety controller provides additional protection if chamber temperature exceeds the established operating condition.
For an older-generation growth chamber, the combination of 16.5 cu. ft. capacity, refrigeration, mechanical convection, fluorescent illumination, and programmable diurnal cycling provides a useful controlled environment for a broad range of plant, agricultural, and biological research.
VWR Signature Model 2015 Diurnal Growth Chamber Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
VWR
Product Series
Signature
Model
2015
Equipment Type
Diurnal / Plant Growth Chamber
Chamber Capacity
16.5 cu. ft. (467 L)
Temperature Range
Approximately 0°C to 45°C for this unit
Temperature Uniformity
Approximately ±0.5°C at 20°C
Temperature Control
Programmable
Day/Night Programming
Dual program
Refrigeration
Yes
Refrigeration System
Hermetically sealed compressor
Air Circulation
Mechanical convection / forced air
Lighting
4 white fluorescent lamps
Illumination Control
Programmable ON/OFF cycle
Shelving
4 fixed shelves
Interior Electrical Outlet
Yes
Over-Temperature Protection
Independent safety controller
CO₂ Control
No
Active Humidity Control
No
Interior Dimensions (W × D × H)
27" × 20" × 55.5"
Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)
34.5" × 34.5" × 77.5"
Approximate Weight
340–360 lb.
Electrical Requirements
115V, 60 Hz
Rated Power
Approximately 1200 W
Configuration
Floor-standing / reach-in
Published specifications for the VWR Signature Model 2015 vary slightly by production period, including a later published temperature range of 0°C to 40°C. American Instrument Exchange lists this particular unit with a 0°C to 45°C operating range. Confirm temperature performance, lighting, shelving, electrical requirements, controller operation, and included accessories for the individual chamber before purchase.
VWR Model 2015 Diurnal Growth Chamber Frequently Asked Questions
What is a diurnal growth chamber?
A diurnal growth chamber allows researchers to create controlled day and nighttime environmental cycles. The VWR Model 2015 can establish two temperature conditions and coordinate them with programmable light and dark periods, allowing researchers to simulate basic changes that occur between daytime and nighttime.
What is the VWR Model 2015 primarily used for?
The chamber is particularly useful for plant growth, seed germination, photoperiod research, agricultural studies, environmental biology, and other research involving organisms that respond to changing light and temperature conditions.
What type of lighting does the VWR Model 2015 use?
The Model 2015 uses four white fluorescent lamps to illuminate the chamber. This is the lighting system appropriate to this older generation and should not be confused with the programmable LED lighting used in many newer plant growth chambers.
Can the VWR Model 2015 simulate different daytime and nighttime temperatures?
Yes. The dual-program control system allows researchers to establish two different temperature conditions, while the illumination system provides a programmable ON/OFF cycle. This allows the chamber to reproduce basic warmer-day/cooler-night or other diurnal temperature patterns.
Is the VWR Model 2015 refrigerated?
Yes. Mechanical refrigeration allows the chamber to maintain temperatures below normal laboratory ambient conditions. This makes it more versatile for environmental and plant research than a non-refrigerated growth incubator.
Does the VWR Model 2015 control humidity or CO₂?
No. The standard Model 2015 is primarily designed to control temperature and illumination. It does not provide active relative-humidity regulation or CO₂ enrichment. Researchers requiring controlled humidity, CO₂, or more sophisticated environmental parameters should select a chamber specifically equipped for those functions.
Can equipment be operated inside the chamber?
Yes. The Model 2015 includes an interior electrical outlet for compatible auxiliary equipment. Depending on the application, this can allow a small shaker, stirrer, roller apparatus, or other suitable device to operate within the controlled-temperature environment.
Is this VWR Model 2015 Diurnal Growth Chamber refurbished?
Used VWR growth chambers offered by American Instrument Exchange are inspected, cleaned, and tested prior to shipment. Temperature performance is evaluated using calibrated digital monitoring equipment to verify chamber conditions and the accuracy of the controls and readouts. Refrigeration, heating, mechanical circulation, lighting, programming functions, safety controls, and other installed components are tested as applicable. Refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Want to view a video of this unit? Click Hereto see the VWR Signature Diurnal 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.
