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VWR GDM23 Chromatography Refrigerator
Successful protein purification and chromatography depend on maintaining stable temperatures throughout the entire separation process—not just the samples. The VWR GDM23 Chromatography Refrigerator is specifically designed to house chromatography systems, fraction collectors, solvent reservoirs, and purification columns within a controlled refrigerated environment. With approximately 23 cubic feet (651 L) of interior storage and an operating temperature range of 2°C to 8°C, the GDM23 provides the temperature stability and workspace required for HPLC, FPLC, ÄKTA protein purification systems, and other chromatography applications.
Unlike a standard laboratory refrigerator, the GDM23 is engineered around laboratory instrumentation. The cabinet includes an integrated duplex electrical outlet, probe/access port for tubing and cables, adjustable shelving, and a full-height glass door that allows researchers to monitor equipment without unnecessarily opening the cabinet. These features make the GDM23 an excellent choice for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, academic research laboratories, and bioprocess development facilities.
Designed specifically for chromatography applications
Full-height insulated glass door
Digital microprocessor temperature controller
Forced-air circulation
Automatic cycle defrost
Interior duplex electrical outlet
Instrument access port for tubing and electrical cables
Adjustable shelving for chromatography equipment
LED interior lighting
Lockable door
Environmentally friendly natural refrigerant
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included.
Overview
The VWR GDM23 is purpose-built to allow chromatography systems to operate inside a refrigerated environment. By maintaining pumps, columns, solvent reservoirs, and collected fractions at controlled temperatures, laboratories can improve protein stability, reduce degradation, and increase reproducibility during long purification runs.
One of the refrigerator's biggest advantages is its instrument-friendly design. An integrated electrical outlet powers chromatography equipment inside the cabinet while an access port allows tubing and communication cables to pass through the wall of the refrigerator without compromising temperature control. Combined with adjustable shelving and a spacious interior, the GDM23 accommodates a wide variety of chromatography configurations.
Common Applications
The GDM23 is commonly used for:
HPLC systems
FPLC systems
ÄKTA protein purification systems
Protein purification
Antibody purification
Chromatography column storage
Fraction collection
Enzyme purification
Biopharmaceutical research
Analytical chemistry
Ideal Laboratory Types
The GDM23 is well suited for:
Biotechnology companies
Pharmaceutical manufacturers
Academic research laboratories
Protein purification laboratories
Bioprocess development facilities
Government research laboratories
Core laboratory facilities
Analytical chemistry laboratories
Laboratories operating chromatography equipment continuously will appreciate the refrigerator's spacious interior, instrument-ready configuration, and dependable temperature control.
Why Choose a Chromatography Refrigerator?
Unlike a standard laboratory refrigerator, a chromatography refrigerator is designed so the entire purification system operates within a temperature-controlled environment. This helps maintain sample integrity during lengthy purification runs while reducing thermal variation throughout pumps, tubing, solvent reservoirs, columns, and fraction collectors.
The GDM23 further improves laboratory workflow by incorporating an internal electrical outlet and access port, allowing instruments to remain fully operational while maintaining stable refrigerated conditions.
Typical Stored Materials
The VWR GDM23 is commonly used with HPLC and FPLC systems, ÄKTA chromatography instruments, chromatography columns, fraction collectors, solvent reservoirs, protein samples, antibodies, enzymes, purification buffers, and other temperature-sensitive biological materials.
VWR GDM23 Key Specifications
Identification
Manufacturer: VWR International
Model:GDM23
Product Type: Chromatography Refrigerator
Door Configuration: Single insulated glass door
Capacity
23 cu. ft. (651 liters)
Temperature Range
2°C to 8°C
Construction
Full-height insulated glass door
Adjustable wire shelving
White powder-coated cabinet
LED interior lighting
Lockable door
Chromatography Features
Interior duplex electrical outlet
Instrument access port
Adjustable shelving for chromatography equipment
Full-height operating chamber
Designed to accommodate chromatography systems and long purification columns.
Refrigeration System
Forced-air circulation
Automatic cycle defrost
Digital microprocessor temperature controller
Natural R290 refrigerant
Laboratory-grade refrigeration system.
Monitoring & Controls
Exterior digital temperature display
High and low temperature alarms
Microprocessor temperature controller
Electrical Requirements
115V, 60 Hz
Exterior Dimensions
27" W × 29.9" D × 78.6" H
Interior Dimensions
Sized to accommodate chromatography instrumentation and purification systems with full-height storage.
Weight
Approximately 300 lbs. (varies slightly by configuration)
Operating Costs & Energy Considerations
The GDM23 utilizes an energy-efficient forced-air refrigeration system with environmentally friendly R290 refrigerant to provide dependable temperature stability while minimizing operating costs. Routine condenser cleaning and maintaining adequate ventilation around the cabinet will help maximize refrigeration performance and extend equipment life.
Specifications compiled from VWR manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Refurbishment & Testing Process
Every VWR GDM23 received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians verify refrigeration performance using calibrated temperature measurement equipment, inspect the compressor, controller, shelving, access port, duplex outlet, and door seals, and confirm stable cabinet temperatures throughout the operating range. Each refrigerator is thoroughly cleaned and tested before shipment.
The VWR GDM23 ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, verify doorway clearances, available electrical service, and adequate ventilation around the cabinet. Allow the refrigerator to reach operating temperature before installing chromatography instrumentation or loading temperature-sensitive materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the GDM23 different from a standard laboratory refrigerator?
The GDM23 is designed specifically for chromatography applications and includes an interior electrical outlet, instrument access port, and configurable shelving that allow chromatography systems to operate inside the refrigerated cabinet.
What types of chromatography systems fit inside the GDM23?
The refrigerator is commonly used with HPLC systems, FPLC systems, ÄKTA protein purification platforms, fraction collectors, and chromatography columns.
What temperature does the GDM23 maintain?
The refrigerator operates between 2°C and 8°C, making it suitable for most protein purification and chromatography workflows.
How is the GDM23 tested before shipment?
Every refurbished VWR GDM23 is inspected and temperature tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians. Refrigeration performance, controls, electrical outlet, access port, and overall cabinet operation are verified before shipment.
CLICK HERE to see the 23 cubic foot VWR Basic Chromatography Refrigerator on our YouTube channel
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Refrigerators Ensure Temperature Stability and Cold Storage Accuracy
Used and refurbished laboratory refrigerators from American Instrument Exchange are thoroughly tested to ensure reliable cold storage performance, temperature accuracy, and compliance with laboratory safety and storage standards. Each unit undergoes a detailed inspection and functional verification to meet the requirements of clinical, pharmaceutical, research, and industrial labs.
Why Testing Used Laboratory Refrigerators Is Essential
Before a laboratory refrigerator is reintroduced into any laboratory setting, it must be carefully tested for:
• Temperature uniformity and stability
• Cooling system integrity and compressor function
• Door seal performance and insulation effectiveness
• Electrical safety and compliance with lab standards
Thorough testing minimizes the risk of temperature excursions, product loss, and system failures—especially critical for storing reagents, vaccines, biological samples, pharmaceuticals, and temperature-sensitive materials.
Our structured testing protocol ensures refurbished lab refrigerators deliver consistent, dependable performance across all makes and models.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Refrigerators
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Check exterior surfaces, hinges, and door gaskets for wear, corrosion, or damage
• Inspect power cords, plugs, and control panels for fraying or visible defects
• Verify that shelves, racks, and internal compartments are present and functional
2. Functional Testing
• Power on the refrigerator and verify that display screens, alarms, and controls function properly
• Test door latches and sealing mechanisms to ensure secure closure and insulation
• Run preliminary temperature cycles to observe startup behavior and cooling response
3. Temperature and Stability Testing
• Test internal temperature sensors and controllers using thermometers/probes
• Monitor temperature at multiple points within the chamber over an extended period
• Verify accuracy across user-defined setpoints (e.g., +4°C, +2°C to +8°C range)
4. Cooling System and Compressor Evaluation
• Test compressor startup, cycling, and operating noise levels
• Inspect condenser coils and fans for proper function and cleanliness
• Check refrigerant pressure (if applicable) and confirm there are no leaks or system inefficiencies
5. Electrical Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure all internal and external electrical components are properly grounded
• Perform insulation resistance and leakage current tests 6. Final Quality Assurance Checklist
• Run full operational tests over a 24-hour period
• Document temperature logs, control responsiveness, and system performance
• Complete a detailed service report
All refurbished laboratory refrigerators from American Instrument Exchange are backed by our rigorous testing standards and quality commitment. From vaccine storage to reagent preservation, you can count on consistent cold storage performance from day one.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Refrigerators Cold Storage Performance from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory refrigerator we offer is subjected to a comprehensive repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a general-purpose lab refrigerator, pharmaceutical-grade unit, or undercounter model, our goal is to restore each system to peak performance—ensuring consistent temperature control and reliable to laboratory storage standards.
Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Refrigerator from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for cold storage accuracy and operational safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new refrigeration equipment
• Sustainably refurbished to reduce environmental impact
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every laboratory refrigerator from American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, multi-stage process to ensure top-tier performance and reliability:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Visual inspection for dents, corrosion, or structural damage
• Mechanical check of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and internal components
• Documentation of missing parts or areas requiring repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe cleaners
• Decontamination/cleaning of all surfaces to remove biological or chemical residues
• Thorough cleaning of shelving, drawers, and removable interior parts
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repairs
• Replacement or repair of worn mechanical parts (door latches, seals, hinges, etc.)
• Inspection and restoration of control interfaces, thermostats, sensors, and displays
• Evaluation of wiring, relays, fuses, and power supply components for safety and integrity
4. Refrigeration System and Compressor Evaluation
• Testing of compressor function, condenser coils, and evaporators
• Inspection for refrigerant leaks and pressure performance (if applicable)
• Verification of proper airflow, fan operation, and defrost cycles
5. Temperature and Performance Testing
• Testing of temperature sensors and control boards
• Verification of temperature stability and uniformity throughout the chamber
• Testing of multiple setpoints (e.g., +2°C to +8°C) over extended operating periods
6. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Inspection of grounding and electrical insulation per lab safety standards
• Testing of alarm systems (if applicable) for temperature excursions or power failure
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Multi-day operational test under real-world conditions
• Final cleaning, inspection, and performance validation
• Detailed service report with temperature logs, repair notes, and certification of refurbishment
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of industry experience, American Instrument Exchange is a leading provider of high-quality refurbished laboratory equipment. Our proven laboratory refrigerator refurbishment protocol ensures consistent, accurate cold storage—so you can safeguard your samples, reagents, and research materials with confidence.
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.
