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Thermo Forma 3110 Series II Water-Jacketed CO₂ Incubator
For laboratories maintaining valuable cell lines or conducting long-duration culture studies, protection against environmental fluctuations can be just as important as rapid recovery after routine access. The Thermo Forma 3110 Series II Water-Jacketed CO₂ Incubator combines the thermal stability of a water-jacketed cabinet with precise microprocessor control, continuous in-chamber HEPA filtration, and a spacious 184-liter (6.5 cubic foot) stainless steel chamber. This older-generation Forma incubator remains a practical choice for laboratories seeking dependable temperature, carbon dioxide, and humidity control for routine mammalian cell culture.
The surrounding water jacket acts as a thermal reserve, helping the chamber resist sudden changes in room temperature and retain heat during brief power interruptions. A thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor regulates concentrations from 0% to 20%, while fan-assisted circulation promotes homogeneous conditions throughout the chamber. Continuous HEPA filtration processes the chamber air to reduce airborne particulate contamination, and the heated dual-pane inner glass door helps limit condensation while allowing cultures to be observed without fully exposing the chamber.
With its robust construction, straightforward Series II controls, removable stainless steel components, and proven water-jacketed design, the Forma 3110 is well suited for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, clinical, and cell biology laboratories that prioritize long-term environmental stability.
Thermo Forma 3110 Series II Water-Jacketed CO₂ Incubator Key Features
184 L (6.5 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Water-jacketed temperature-control system
Temperature range from Ambient +5°C to 50°C
Temperature control of approximately ±0.1°C
Temperature uniformity of approximately ±0.2°C at 37°C
Carbon dioxide control from 0% to 20%
Thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor
Continuous in-chamber HEPA air filtration
ISO Class 5 chamber-air capability
Fan-assisted internal air circulation
Polished stainless steel chamber
Coved interior corners for easier cleaning
Heated dual-pane inner glass door
Removable humidity pan
Microprocessor-based operating controls
Audible and visual alarm functions
Field-reversible outer door
Stackable cabinet design
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Long-Term Environmental Stability
The defining characteristic of the Thermo Forma 3110 is its water-jacketed cabinet construction. Water surrounding the incubation chamber stores thermal energy and buffers the interior against changes in ambient laboratory temperature. This design is particularly valuable when cultures must remain under stable conditions for extended periods or when the incubator is installed in a room that experiences HVAC cycling, overnight temperature changes, or occasional power disturbances.
During normal operation, the water jacket helps maintain even heat distribution around the chamber. In the event of a brief power interruption, the stored heat can slow the rate of temperature loss, providing additional protection for sensitive cultures while power is restored. This thermal reserve distinguishes the Forma 3110 from lighter direct-heat incubators that may respond more quickly but generally retain less heat when electrical power is unavailable.
The incubator’s 184-liter chamber offers enough capacity for routine laboratory workloads without requiring an oversized floor-standing system. Adjustable shelving allows users to organize multiple vessel types while maintaining the open circulation paths needed for uniform environmental control.
Common Applications
The Thermo Forma 3110 is commonly used for mammalian cell culture, primary cell maintenance, cancer biology, immunology, stem cell research, tissue engineering, microbiological incubation, pharmaceutical development, vaccine research, recombinant protein workflows, and academic biomedical studies.
Its water-jacketed construction is especially useful for long-term experiments in which gradual environmental stability is more important than the fastest possible response to changing setpoints. Laboratories maintaining irreplaceable cell lines, extended culture studies, or multiple ongoing projects can benefit from the thermal protection and established operating platform of the Forma Series II design.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Forma 3110 is well suited for university research laboratories, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical development facilities, hospital research departments, clinical laboratories, contract research organizations, and shared cell culture facilities.
It can be particularly valuable in laboratories where incubators operate continuously and are opened regularly by multiple users. The combination of a water jacket, internal air circulation, HEPA filtration, alarm monitoring, and a heated glass door supports dependable daily operation in both dedicated and shared research environments.
Because the 3110 is an older-vintage incubator, it may also appeal to laboratories already operating Forma Series II equipment and seeking a familiar control layout, compatible workflow, or replacement unit for an established incubation program.
Temperature Stability and Recovery Performance
The Thermo Forma 3110 operates over a temperature range of approximately 5°C above ambient to 50°C. Its precision thermistor and microprocessor controller maintain the programmed temperature, while the triple-wall water-jacketed construction helps distribute heat evenly around the chamber. At a typical 37°C cell culture setpoint, the system is designed to maintain tight temperature control and uniformity throughout the usable storage area.
An internal fan gently circulates chamber air to reduce stratification and promote homogeneous conditions around culture vessels. Following a routine door opening, the heating system, fan-assisted circulation, and stored energy in the water jacket work together to restore the programmed environment.
The water-jacketed design also provides protection from changing ambient conditions. Rather than allowing room-temperature fluctuations to transfer quickly into the chamber, the surrounding water mass dampens those changes and helps preserve a more consistent incubation environment.
Continuous HEPA Filtration and Contamination Control
The Forma 3110 incorporates an in-chamber HEPA filtration system that continuously processes the chamber air during normal operation. The system is designed to filter the full chamber-air volume approximately once per minute and restore ISO Class 5 air quality shortly after the door is opened.
This continuous filtration helps remove airborne particles introduced during routine access and reduces the opportunity for contaminants to settle on shelves, chamber surfaces, and culture vessels. HEPA filtration does not replace proper aseptic technique or routine chamber cleaning, but it provides an additional contamination-control layer for laboratories handling sensitive or high-value cultures.
The polished stainless steel chamber features coved corners and removable shelf supports that simplify access during cleaning. The humidity pan, shelves, and support components can be removed to provide greater access to the interior surfaces. A heated dual-pane glass door helps reduce condensation while allowing researchers to inspect cultures without opening the complete chamber.
Thermal Conductivity CO₂ Control
The Forma 3110 uses a thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor to regulate carbon dioxide concentrations from 0% to 20%. This established sensing technology is well suited for conventional cell culture workflows in which the incubator remains at a stable temperature and high relative humidity during normal operation.
The microprocessor controller displays operating information and allows users to configure CO₂ setpoints, calibration adjustments, and alarm parameters. When chamber conditions fall outside the programmed limits, the incubator can provide audible and visual warnings to alert laboratory personnel.
Because thermal conductivity measurements can be influenced by changes in temperature and humidity, the sensor performs best after the chamber has reached stable operating conditions. Allowing the incubator to recover fully after cleaning, filling the humidity pan, or changing temperature settings supports accurate CO₂ regulation and reproducible culture conditions.
Sample Storage Recommendations
The 184-liter (6.5 cubic foot) chamber of the Thermo Forma 3110 provides ample capacity for laboratories performing routine and advanced cell culture applications. The incubator accommodates tissue culture flasks, culture dishes, multiwell plates, spinner flasks, roller bottles, cell culture bags, and other commonly used laboratory vessels while maintaining stable temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide conditions.
Adjustable stainless steel shelves allow users to configure the chamber for different vessel sizes and laboratory workflows. For the most consistent environmental conditions, culture vessels should be evenly distributed throughout the chamber with sufficient spacing between shelves to promote unrestricted airflow. Proper organization helps maintain excellent temperature uniformity while allowing the chamber to recover efficiently following routine door openings.
Laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines or long-term culture studies often dedicate individual shelves to separate projects, reducing unnecessary handling while improving organization and minimizing opportunities for cross-contamination.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
Although water-jacketed incubators require additional time to initially reach operating temperature, the Thermo Forma 3110 offers excellent long-term thermal efficiency. The surrounding water jacket acts as a heat reservoir, reducing temperature fluctuations caused by changing room conditions and helping the incubator retain heat during brief power interruptions.
The continuous HEPA filtration system operates automatically with minimal user intervention, helping maintain clean chamber air while reducing the likelihood of airborne contamination. Routine maintenance primarily consists of cleaning the chamber, replacing HEPA filters at recommended service intervals, maintaining the humidity reservoir, and periodically calibrating the thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor.
For laboratories operating incubators continuously, the combination of stable water-jacket performance, durable construction, and straightforward maintenance contributes to dependable long-term operating costs.
Thermo Forma 3110 Series II Water-Jacketed CO₂ Incubator Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific
Model
Forma 3110 Series II
Incubator Type
Water-Jacketed CO₂ Incubator
Chamber Capacity
184 L (6.5 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range
Ambient +5°C to 50°C
Heating System
Water Jacket
CO₂ Range
0% to 20%
CO₂ Sensor
Thermal Conductivity
Relative Humidity
Up to 95% at 37°C
Air Filtration
Continuous HEPA Filtration
Chamber Material
Polished Stainless Steel
Interior Dimensions
21.3" W × 20.0" D × 26.8" H
Exterior Dimensions
26.3" W × 25.0" D × 39.5" H
Electrical Requirements
120 V, 50/60 Hz
Approximate Weight
260 lb (118 kg)
Specifications are believed to be accurate but may vary depending on factory-installed options. Please verify all specifications prior to purchase.
Thermo Forma 3110 Series II Water-Jacketed CO₂ Incubator Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose a water-jacketed incubator instead of a direct heat model?
Water-jacketed incubators provide excellent thermal stability by surrounding the chamber with heated water. This design helps reduce the effects of ambient room temperature fluctuations and slows heat loss during brief power interruptions, making it particularly well suited for long-term culture experiments.
Does the Forma 3110 include HEPA filtration?
Yes. The Forma 3110 continuously circulates chamber air through an integrated HEPA filtration system that helps maintain ISO Class 5 chamber air quality and reduces airborne particulate contamination during normal operation.
What type of CO₂ sensor does the Forma 3110 use?
The Forma 3110 utilizes a thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor that regulates carbon dioxide concentrations from 0% to 20%. This proven sensing technology has been widely used in laboratory CO₂ incubators for many years.
Is the Forma 3110 appropriate for sensitive mammalian cell culture?
Yes. Its stable water-jacketed temperature control, continuous HEPA filtration, high humidity, and dependable CO₂ regulation make it well suited for mammalian cell culture, stem cell research, tissue engineering, cancer biology, and many other biological applications.
How does the water jacket improve laboratory operation?
The water surrounding the chamber acts as a thermal buffer that minimizes temperature swings caused by frequent door openings or changing laboratory conditions. It also provides additional protection by slowing temperature loss if electrical power is briefly interrupted.
What types of laboratories commonly use the Forma 3110?
The Forma 3110 is commonly used in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical laboratories, universities, hospital research centers, clinical laboratories, and contract research organizations requiring dependable long-term incubation performance.
Is the chamber easy to maintain?
Yes. The polished stainless steel chamber, removable shelving, removable humidity pan, and coved interior corners simplify routine cleaning while allowing easy access to interior surfaces during preventative maintenance.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Forma 3110 from American Instrument Exchange?
Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Forma 3110 from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a dependable water-jacketed CO₂ incubator at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment. Combining a 184-liter chamber, excellent thermal stability, continuous HEPA filtration, and proven Series II reliability, the Forma 3110 remains an excellent choice for laboratories performing demanding cell culture applications. Every incubator is inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
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Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished CO₂ Laboratory Incubators Ensure Atmosphere Control, Temperature Accuracy, and Regulatory Compliance
At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished CO₂ incubators undergo a multi-step testing and calibration process. These procedures are designed to ensure precise environmental control, microbial safety, and long-term reliability—critical for cell culture, IVF, tissue engineering, and pharmaceutical R&D applications.
Why Testing Used CO₂ Incubators Is Essential
Before a CO₂ incubator is redeployed into a laboratory, it must be thoroughly tested for:
• CO₂ sensor accuracy and gas concentration control
• Temperature uniformity and stability
• Humidity system function
• HEPA filtration and contamination control
• Electrical and safety compliance
Proper testing ensures viable growth environments for sensitive cultures and prevents costly contamination or culture loss in high-stakes lab environments.
Our standardized refurbishment protocol ensures used CO₂ incubators deliver laboratory grade performance at a fraction of the cost of comparable new units.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used CO₂ Incubators
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect the exterior for corrosion, dents, or door alignment issues
• Check door gasket integrity and hinge function
• Verify presence and condition of internal shelves, water pans, and humidity trays
• Examine power cords, gas connectors, and display interfaces for signs of wear
2. Functional Startup Test
• Power on the unit and check for successful system boot
• Verify touchscreen or keypad response, and test all user-programmable settings
• Check door alarms and temperature/CO₂ alerts
3. Temperature Control and Uniformity Testing
• Use temperature probes to verify internal temperature accuracy
• Monitor temperature uniformity across multiple chamber zones
• Ensure fast recovery times after door openings
4. CO₂ Sensor Testing and Gas Delivery System Test
• Test accuracy of infrared (IR) or thermal conductivity (TC) CO₂ sensors using certified reference gas and probes/Fyrite analyzers
• Test inlet pressure regulators and gas flow control systems
• Confirm stable CO₂ levels at multiple setpoints (e.g., 5%, 10%)
• Check for proper mixing and diffusion throughout the chamber
5. Humidity and Contamination Control Testing
• Test humidity generation (via water pan or active system) and verify chamber RH levels
• Inspect HEPA filters (if equipped) and airflow systems for particulate control
• Sanitize interior and confirm antimicrobial coatings or copper components are intact
6. Electrical Safety and Compliance Check
• Ensure proper grounding and insulation of all electrical components
• Perform leak and continuity testing
• Verify the unit meets electrical safety standards for laboratory environments
7. Final Quality Assurance and Performance Validation
• Run a 24-hour performance cycle with monitored CO₂, temperature, and RH
• Document data and final readings
• Complete service report
All refurbished CO₂ incubators sold by American Instrument Exchange are tested to meet the performance demands of today's advanced laboratory workflows—ensuring safety, precision, and peace of mind with every unit.
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.
