Maintaining a stable storage environment is essential for preserving platelet viability and ensuring blood products remain suitable for transfusion. The Helmer Scientific PC100i Countertop Platelet Incubator is specifically designed to provide precise temperature control for platelet storage while accommodating a compatible platelet agitator within a compact, space-saving footprint. Engineered for hospital blood banks, transfusion services, donor centers, and clinical laboratories, the PC100i helps maintain the controlled conditions required for platelet storage while supporting reliable day-to-day laboratory operations.
The Helmer PC100i features microprocessor-controlled temperature regulation, a forced-air circulation system for chamber uniformity, and a dual-pane insulated glass door that allows technicians to visually inspect platelet inventory without unnecessarily disturbing the chamber environment. Designed for use with the Helmer PF15i Platelet Agitator, the incubator provides dependable environmental control for platelet storage applications where temperature consistency and easy access are critical. Purchasing a refurbished Helmer PC100i from American Instrument Exchange allows healthcare facilities to obtain premium platelet storage equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment.
Helmer Scientific PC100i Countertop Platelet Incubator Key Features
Designed specifically for platelet storage
Countertop footprint for space-efficient installation
Operating temperature range of 20°C to 35°C
Digital microprocessor temperature control
Forced-air circulation for chamber uniformity
Dual-pane insulated glass door
Compatible with the Helmer PF15i Platelet Agitator
Interior LED lighting
Audible and visual alarm system
Air-cooled refrigeration system
Easy-access front loading configuration
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Safe Platelet Storage
Unlike general laboratory incubators, platelet incubators are engineered specifically to maintain the environmental conditions necessary for storing platelet concentrates intended for transfusion. Platelets remain metabolically active during storage and require carefully controlled temperatures along with continuous agitation to preserve functionality and maximize shelf life.
The Helmer Scientific PC100i is designed to provide consistent chamber temperatures while housing a compatible platelet agitator that gently and continuously agitates platelet bags. Uniform forced-air circulation helps maintain stable temperatures throughout the chamber, while the insulated glass door minimizes temperature fluctuations during routine inventory checks. Together, these features support dependable platelet storage in accordance with established blood banking practices.
Common Applications
The Helmer Scientific PC100i Countertop Platelet Incubator is commonly used for:
The Helmer Scientific PC100i is ideally suited for hospital transfusion services, blood banks, donor collection facilities, academic medical centers, military healthcare systems, and regional blood centers that require dependable platelet storage in a compact footprint. Its countertop design makes it especially valuable for facilities with limited floor space while still providing the environmental stability needed for daily platelet inventory management.
Platelets have unique storage requirements that differ significantly from other blood components. Unlike refrigerated red blood cells or frozen plasma, platelets are typically stored at controlled room temperature while being continuously agitated to promote gas exchange and help maintain cellular viability. Even small temperature deviations can reduce platelet quality and shorten usable storage time.
The Helmer Scientific PC100i was engineered specifically for these applications. Its microprocessor-controlled temperature system, forced-air circulation, insulated glass door, and compatibility with the PF15i Platelet Agitator help create a stable storage environment that supports routine blood bank operations and reliable platelet inventory management.
Platelet Storage Capacity and Typical Applications
The Helmer Scientific PC100i is designed to provide a controlled environment for platelet concentrates stored on a compatible Helmer PF15i Platelet Agitator. The incubator's compact footprint makes it well suited for hospital transfusion services, community blood banks, donor centers, and clinical laboratories that require reliable platelet storage without dedicating significant floor space.
The front-loading design and large insulated glass door provide clear visibility of platelet inventory while minimizing temperature disruption during routine inspections. When paired with continuous agitation, the incubator helps maintain consistent storage conditions throughout the chamber, supporting efficient inventory management and daily transfusion laboratory workflows.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
The Helmer Scientific PC100i was engineered for continuous operation in busy healthcare environments where reliability is essential. Efficient insulation, an air-cooled refrigeration system, and microprocessor-controlled temperature regulation work together to maintain stable chamber temperatures while minimizing unnecessary compressor operation.
Routine preventative maintenance—including cleaning the condenser, inspecting door gaskets, verifying alarm operation, and performing periodic temperature calibration—helps maximize equipment performance and extend service life. Maintaining proper airflow around the incubator and following manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedules can further improve operating efficiency and long-term reliability.
Specifications are believed to be accurate but may vary depending on production date or factory-installed options. Please verify all specifications prior to purchase.
The PC100i is designed specifically for the storage of platelet concentrates in hospital blood banks, transfusion services, donor centers, and other healthcare laboratories. It provides a controlled temperature environment while housing a compatible platelet agitator.
Why do platelets require a dedicated incubator?
Unlike red blood cells or frozen plasma, platelets are stored at controlled room temperature and require continuous agitation to maintain viability. A platelet incubator provides the stable temperature conditions necessary to support proper storage throughout the allowable storage period.
Does the PC100i include a platelet agitator?
The PC100i is designed for use with the Helmer PF15i Platelet Agitator. Buyers should verify whether the compatible agitator is included with the specific unit being purchased.
Why is continuous agitation important?
Continuous gentle agitation promotes gas exchange within platelet storage bags and helps preserve platelet quality during storage. Platelet incubators and agitators are designed to work together as an integrated storage system.
What facilities commonly use the PC100i?
The PC100i is widely used in hospital blood banks, regional blood centers, transfusion medicine laboratories, donor collection facilities, academic medical centers, and other healthcare organizations responsible for platelet storage and distribution.
Can the incubator be used for general laboratory incubation?
The PC100i was specifically designed for platelet storage and is optimized for use with a compatible platelet agitator. Laboratories requiring incubation for microbiology, cell culture, or general laboratory applications should consider equipment designed specifically for those purposes.
Is the glass door beneficial?
Yes. The dual-pane insulated glass door allows staff to visually inspect platelet inventory without opening the chamber, helping reduce temperature fluctuations during routine inventory checks.
Why purchase a refurbished Helmer Scientific PC100i from American Instrument Exchange?
Purchasing a refurbished Helmer Scientific PC100i Countertop Platelet Incubator from American Instrument Exchange provides healthcare facilities with dependable platelet storage equipment at significant savings compared with purchasing new equipment. Featuring precise microprocessor temperature control, forced-air circulation, a dual-pane insulated glass door, and compatibility with the Helmer PF15i Platelet Agitator, the PC100i is an excellent solution for blood banks and transfusion laboratories requiring reliable platelet storage. Every unit is inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
CLICK HEREto see the Helmer Scientific Countertop Platelet Incubator on our 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.
