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Thermo Forma 310 HEPA CO₂ Incubator
The Thermo Forma 310 HEPA CO₂ Incubator is a full-size, direct-heat cell culture incubator designed to provide stable temperature, CO₂, and humidity conditions while continuously filtering chamber air to help reduce airborne contamination. With a 184 L (6.5 cu. ft.) chamber, thermal conductivity CO₂ control, high-humidity operation, polished stainless steel interior, and an in-chamber HEPA filtration system, the Forma 310 is a proven platform for routine and demanding cell culture applications.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the Thermo Forma 310 offers laboratories a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new CO₂ incubator while retaining the capacity and environmental control needed for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, and clinical research. Its direct-heat design provides responsive temperature control and environmental recovery, while continuous HEPA filtration adds another layer of protection for valuable cultures.
Key Features
184 L (6.5 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Direct-heat temperature control for responsive environmental recovery
Temperature range from 5°C above ambient to 55°C
0–20% CO₂ control range
Thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor
In-chamber HEPA filtration system
Complete chamber air filtration approximately once every 60 seconds
High-humidity operation to help minimize culture-media evaporation
Polished stainless steel interior with coved corners
Removable stainless steel shelves and supports for easier cleaning
User-programmable temperature and CO₂ alarms
115V, 50/60 Hz electrical configuration
Professionally inspected and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Thermo Forma 310 HEPA CO₂ Incubator Overview
The Thermo Forma 310 combines a spacious cell culture chamber with direct-heat temperature control and continuous HEPA filtration. Unlike a water-jacketed incubator, which relies on the thermal mass of water surrounding the chamber, a direct-heat incubator uses heating elements positioned around the chamber walls to regulate temperature. This design can provide responsive recovery following routine door openings while eliminating the need to fill, drain, or maintain a water jacket.
With 184 liters of usable chamber capacity, the Forma 310 provides ample room for laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines, experiments, or culture vessels simultaneously. Removable stainless steel shelving allows the chamber layout to be adjusted as workflows change, while the polished stainless steel interior and coved corners simplify routine cleaning.
CO₂ concentration is adjustable from 0–20% and monitored using a thermal conductivity sensor. Passive humidification provides the high-humidity environment required for many mammalian cell culture protocols and helps limit evaporation from culture media during extended incubation.
The Model 310 is particularly attractive for laboratories that want the capacity of a conventional full-size CO₂ incubator combined with continuous chamber-air filtration. It can serve as a primary incubator for routine culture work, provide additional capacity for a growing laboratory, or function as a dedicated incubator for specific research projects or cell lines.
Common Applications
The Thermo Forma 310 is well suited for mammalian cell culture, cancer research, immunology, molecular and cellular biology, vaccine development, pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, tissue culture, primary cell work, hybridoma production, and other applications requiring controlled temperature, humidity, and CO₂.
Its 184 L chamber provides enough capacity for shared research laboratories and facilities running multiple experiments at the same time. Individual shelves can be assigned to different researchers, cell lines, or projects while maintaining cultures within a common controlled environment.
Laboratories performing cell culture frequently pair a CO₂ incubator with biosafety cabinets for aseptic culture handling and laboratory centrifuges for cell harvesting, washing, and sample preparation. Laboratory refrigerators can provide convenient storage for media and reagents, while ultra-low temperature freezers support longer-term preservation of cells and other biological materials.
Cell Types & Culture Recommendations
The Thermo Forma 310 provides the controlled environment required for many routine mammalian cell culture protocols. Its combination of full-size chamber capacity and adjustable shelving makes it particularly useful for laboratories working with multiple cultures or vessel formats.
Common Cell Types
Mammalian cell lines
Primary cells
Fibroblasts
Epithelial cells
Immune cells
Hybridoma cultures
Cancer cell lines
Common biotechnology and pharmaceutical research cell lines
Typical Culture Vessels
T-flasks
Multiwell plates
Cell culture dishes
Petri dishes
Suspension culture flasks
Media bottles
Other standard vessels compatible with the chamber and shelving
The 184 L chamber gives researchers considerably more flexibility than a compact CO₂ incubator. Shelves can be repositioned to accommodate different vessel heights and experimental layouts, making the Forma 310 suitable for laboratories whose culture requirements change from project to project.
Environmental Control & Contamination Protection
A distinguishing feature of the Thermo Forma 310 is its combination of direct-heat environmental control and continuous HEPA filtration. The heating system regulates temperature around the chamber while promoting rapid recovery after routine access, helping cultures return to their programmed conditions following door openings.
The in-chamber HEPA filtration system continuously circulates and filters chamber air. Under specified operating conditions, the system filters the entire chamber air volume approximately once every 60 seconds. This continuous filtration helps reduce airborne particulates inside the culture environment and provides an additional contamination-control measure beyond good aseptic technique and routine chamber cleaning.
The polished stainless steel interior incorporates coved corners to reduce difficult-to-clean areas. Shelves and supports can be removed without tools, providing better access to interior surfaces during scheduled cleaning and decontamination procedures. Microbiological filters on gas and sample ports provide additional protection at points where outside air or gases enter the system.
Passive humidification maintains the elevated relative humidity needed for routine cell culture and helps minimize evaporation from culture media. CO₂ is monitored using a thermal conductivity sensor, while programmable alarms help alert laboratory personnel to temperature or CO₂ conditions outside established limits.
For laboratories comparing direct-heat and water-jacketed incubators, the Forma 310 offers a compelling combination of responsive environmental recovery, reduced maintenance associated with eliminating the water jacket, full-size culture capacity, and continuous HEPA-filtered chamber air.
Thermo Forma 310 HEPA CO₂ Incubator Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific / Forma
Model
310
Equipment Type
Direct-Heat HEPA CO₂ Incubator
Chamber Capacity
184 L (6.5 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range
5°C above ambient to 55°C
CO₂ Range
0–20%
CO₂ Sensor
Thermal conductivity (TC)
Oxygen Control
None
Humidity Source
Water pan
Relative Humidity
High-humidity operation; typically below 90% RH at 37°C
Chamber Air Filtration
In-chamber HEPA filtration
HEPA Air Exchange
Entire chamber air volume filtered approximately every 60 seconds
Chamber Material
Polished stainless steel
Shelves
Removable perforated stainless steel
Interior Dimensions (W × D × H)
Approximately 21.1" × 20" × 26.8"
Exterior Dimensions (W × D × H)
Approximately 26.1" × 24.7" × 38.5"
Electrical
115V, 50/60 Hz
Approximate Weight
205–210 lb.
Gas/Sample Port Filtration
Microbiological filtration
Alarms
Temperature and CO₂ monitoring with programmable alarm functions
Specifications may vary according to production date, configuration, and installed options. Confirm the specifications, HEPA configuration, shelves, and included accessories of the individual incubator before purchase.
Thermo Forma 310 HEPA CO₂ Incubator Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of the HEPA filtration system in the Thermo Forma 310?
The in-chamber HEPA system continuously circulates and filters chamber air, filtering approximately the entire chamber volume once every 60 seconds under specified operating conditions. This helps reduce airborne particulate contamination and provides an additional layer of protection for sensitive cultures.
Is the Thermo Forma 310 water-jacketed?
No. The Forma 310 is a direct-heat CO₂ incubator. Heating elements surrounding the chamber provide temperature control without the water jacket used in models such as the Forma Series II 3110. Direct-heat designs can provide responsive environmental recovery and eliminate the filling and maintenance associated with a water jacket.
What type of CO₂ sensor does the Forma 310 use?
The Model 310 uses a thermal conductivity (TC) CO₂ sensor and supports CO₂ concentrations from 0–20%. Thermo produced other models in the same series with infrared CO₂ sensing, so laboratories comparing similar units should verify the exact model number.
Is the Forma 310 suitable for mammalian cell culture?
Yes. The incubator's controlled temperature, CO₂, humidity, HEPA-filtered chamber air, and 184 L capacity make it suitable for many routine mammalian cell culture applications. Specific culture requirements should always be compared with the incubator's operating specifications.
How much culture capacity does the Thermo Forma 310 provide?
The Forma 310 provides approximately 184 L (6.5 cu. ft.) of interior capacity. This makes it a full-size CO₂ incubator suitable for laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines, culture vessels, or experiments simultaneously.
Is this Thermo Forma 310 refurbished?
Yes. Used Thermo Forma 310 CO₂ incubators offered by American Instrument Exchange are inspected and tested prior to shipment and include a 90-day warranty. Included shelves, HEPA components, accessories, and individual configurations should be confirmed for the specific unit available.
Click Hereto see the Thermo Forma 310 CO2 incubator 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.
