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Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 Large-Capacity Temperature Stability Chamber – Refurbished
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 Temperature Stability Chamber is a large-capacity, programmable laboratory environmental chamber designed for pharmaceutical research, product stability testing, biotechnology, laboratory sample conditioning, and industrial quality-control applications. Featuring an expansive 52 cu. ft. interior, integrated heating and refrigeration, programmable microprocessor controls, and comprehensive temperature monitoring, this Nor-Lake stability chamber provides a controlled environment for laboratories managing substantial sample volumes.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, the Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 offers laboratories a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new large-capacity stability chamber. Its 5°C to 60°C temperature range, programmable ramp-and-soak operation, and temperature alarm system make it particularly useful for long-term storage studies, temperature conditioning, and research procedures requiring consistent or programmed environmental conditions.
Key Features
Large 52 cu. ft. temperature-controlled chamber
Temperature range from 5°C to 60°C
Integrated heating and refrigeration systems
Programmable logic microprocessor controller
Temperature variation of approximately ±0.5°C at the chamber center
Published chamber temperature uniformity of approximately 1°C
Programmable temperature ramp-and-soak operation
Front-mounted digital control interface
132 × 64-pixel controller display
Real-time clock with date and time display
Audible and visual high- and low-temperature alarms
Multiple system-performance monitoring and alarm functions
High-density, CFC-free polyurethane insulation
Large-capacity upright chamber configuration
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 Overview
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 is designed for laboratories requiring substantially more temperature-controlled storage and testing capacity than a conventional benchtop incubator or refrigerated cabinet can provide.
With approximately 52 cu. ft. of chamber capacity, the unit can accommodate large quantities of laboratory samples, pharmaceutical products, research materials, and packaged test specimens within a common temperature-controlled environment.
Unlike a standard heated incubator, the NSRI522WSW/8 incorporates both refrigeration and heating. This allows the chamber to maintain temperatures below typical laboratory ambient conditions as well as elevated temperatures for stability and conditioning applications.
Its programmable logic microprocessor controller regulates chamber temperature and supports operating schedules that transition between different temperature setpoints.
The chamber also incorporates a comprehensive alarm and monitoring system designed to alert personnel when operating conditions deviate from established limits.
High-density polyurethane insulation helps reduce heat transfer between the chamber and surrounding laboratory environment, supporting temperature stability and efficient operation.
For laboratories that need to consolidate substantial sample loads into a single chamber, the Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 provides a practical combination of capacity, refrigeration, heating, and programmable temperature control.
Common Applications
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 is suitable for pharmaceutical stability studies, biotechnology research, medical and clinical laboratory applications, product development, industrial quality control, and other procedures requiring controlled temperatures over extended periods.
Pharmaceutical laboratories can use the chamber for temperature-controlled storage and stability-related studies involving drug products, packaging materials, and research samples.
Biotechnology laboratories may use the chamber for sample conditioning, reagent storage under controlled conditions, and selected research procedures requiring temperatures between 5°C and 60°C.
Industrial laboratories can evaluate the effects of temperature exposure on products, packaging, materials, and components.
The chamber's large capacity makes it particularly useful when testing substantial quantities of material under the same environmental conditions.
Its programmable temperature-control system also supports research procedures involving changing temperatures rather than a single fixed setpoint.
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 accommodates a broad range of materials requiring controlled-temperature exposure or storage.
Typical applications include:
Pharmaceutical research and stability samples
Biotechnology research materials
Medical and clinical laboratory specimens
Packaged pharmaceutical products
Product-development samples
Industrial quality-control materials
Packaging and container testing
Temperature-sensitive research materials
Laboratory sample conditioning
Extended temperature-controlled storage studies
The large chamber is particularly advantageous for laboratories performing batch testing or maintaining substantial quantities of samples under consistent conditions.
Samples should be arranged to allow adequate circulation of conditioned air. Excessively dense loading, blocked air passages, or frequent door openings can affect temperature recovery and uniformity.
For regulated pharmaceutical stability studies, laboratories should establish appropriate calibration, temperature mapping, monitoring, and qualification procedures before placing the chamber into service.
Temperature Control & Environmental Stability
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 combines heating, refrigeration, digital temperature control, and insulated cabinet construction to maintain stable chamber conditions.
The published operating temperature range extends from 5°C to 60°C, providing flexibility for refrigerated storage studies, conventional room-temperature stability conditions, and elevated-temperature testing.
AIE lists temperature variation at the center of the chamber as approximately ±0.5°C and chamber temperature uniformity as approximately 1°C.
These are distinct performance characteristics. Center-point variation describes temperature changes at a specified measurement location, while chamber uniformity describes differences between locations within the interior.
The programmable controller regulates heating and refrigeration to maintain the selected temperature setpoint.
High-density polyurethane insulation helps reduce thermal losses and supports consistent operating conditions during extended studies.
Actual temperature performance depends on chamber loading, ambient conditions, airflow, setpoint, and the frequency of door openings.
Programmable Ramp-and-Soak Operation
One of the NSRI522WSW/8's most useful capabilities is its programmable ramp-and-soak temperature control.
A ramp-and-soak program allows operators to establish a sequence of temperature setpoints and hold periods.
For example, a laboratory may need to condition samples at one temperature, transition to an elevated temperature, maintain that condition for a defined interval, and then return to a lower setpoint.
Rather than requiring repeated manual adjustments, the programmable controller can manage these changes according to the selected operating program.
This capability is useful for product-development studies, temperature-conditioning procedures, and research applications involving repeated environmental profiles.
The chamber's real-time clock and date display support time-based operation and provide convenient reference information during extended testing procedures.
The NSRI522WSW/8 should not be described as a programmable humidity chamber unless the individual unit is confirmed to have installed humidity-generation and control hardware.
Alarm Systems & Sample Protection
Temperature stability is particularly important when laboratories are storing valuable research materials or performing extended studies.
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 incorporates audible and visual high- and low-temperature alarms to alert operators when chamber conditions move outside established limits.
The controller also monitors multiple system-performance parameters, providing additional information about operating conditions and potential faults.
The front-mounted digital display allows personnel to review chamber temperature, operating settings, and alarm information without opening the chamber.
These features can help reduce the risk of unnoticed temperature deviations during extended laboratory procedures.
For studies requiring continuous documentation, an independent calibrated temperature-monitoring system should be used as appropriate for the laboratory's quality requirements.
The presence of programmable controls and alarms does not, by itself, establish compliance with a particular regulatory standard or guarantee suitability for a validated stability protocol.
Refrigeration, Heating & Chamber Construction
The NSRI522WSW/8 incorporates both refrigeration and heating systems, allowing it to maintain controlled temperatures across its 5°C to 60°C operating range.
Refrigeration removes heat from the chamber when the selected temperature is below the surrounding laboratory environment or when cooling is required to maintain the setpoint.
The heating system raises chamber temperature for elevated-temperature storage and conditioning procedures.
High-density, CFC-free polyurethane insulation reduces heat transfer through the cabinet walls, helping maintain stable temperatures and improve operating efficiency.
The combination of heating, refrigeration, and insulation makes the chamber more versatile than a conventional temperature-only incubator or laboratory refrigerator.
The large chamber also provides substantial storage flexibility for laboratories handling multiple product batches or large test specimens.
Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Nor-Lake Scientific
Model
NSRI522WSW/8
AIE Product Code
3101B INC
Equipment Type
Large-Capacity Temperature Stability Chamber
Chamber Capacity
52 cu. ft.
Temperature Range
5°C to 60°C
Temperature Variation
Approximately ±0.5°C at chamber center
Temperature Uniformity
Approximately 1°C throughout chamber
Temperature Controller
Programmable logic microprocessor
Controller Display
132 × 64-pixel digital display
Control Interface
Front-mounted multifunction keypad
Clock
Real-time clock with date and time
Temperature Programming
Ramp-and-soak
Refrigeration
Yes
Heating
Yes
Humidity Control
Not confirmed on this unit
Temperature Alarms
Audible and visual high/low
System Monitoring
Multiple performance-monitoring and alarm points
Insulation
High-density, CFC-free polyurethane foam
Cabinet Configuration
Large-capacity upright chamber
Interior Dimensions
Not confirmed for this specific unit
Exterior Dimensions
Not confirmed for this specific unit
Electrical Requirements
Verify individual unit nameplate
Weight
Not confirmed for this specific unit
Warranty
90 days through American Instrument Exchange
Specifications are based on AIE's listing for the Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8, SKU 3101B INC. Dimensions, electrical requirements, shelving, humidity-control capability, and weight should be verified for the individual unit. Specifications from newer Nor-Lake stability chambers should not be substituted for this older model without confirmation.
Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 used for?
The NSRI522WSW/8 is a large-capacity temperature stability chamber designed for pharmaceutical research, laboratory sample conditioning, product development, biotechnology applications, and industrial quality-control testing.
What is the capacity of the Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8?
The chamber provides approximately 52 cu. ft. of temperature-controlled interior capacity, making it suitable for substantial sample loads and applications requiring more space than conventional benchtop stability chambers.
What is the temperature range of the NSRI522WSW/8?
The published temperature range is 5°C to 60°C. The chamber incorporates both heating and refrigeration to maintain temperatures above and below typical laboratory ambient conditions.
Can the Nor-Lake stability chamber perform programmed temperature cycles?
Yes. The NSRI522WSW/8 incorporates a programmable logic microprocessor controller with ramp-and-soak capability. This allows users to establish temperature profiles that transition between setpoints and maintain selected conditions for defined periods.
Does the NSRI522WSW/8 control relative humidity?
AIE's listing does not confirm active relative-humidity control on this particular unit. Although Nor-Lake manufactures humidity stability chambers, the presence of humidity-control hardware should be verified before describing the NSRI522WSW/8 as a temperature-and-humidity chamber.
Is the Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 suitable for pharmaceutical stability testing?
The chamber can support temperature-controlled pharmaceutical stability studies and related research applications. However, laboratories performing regulated testing must establish appropriate qualification, temperature mapping, monitoring, and documentation procedures for their specific protocols.
What temperature alarms does the NSRI522WSW/8 include?
The chamber incorporates audible and visual high- and low-temperature alarms, along with multiple system-performance monitoring functions designed to alert personnel to certain operating deviations.
What is the difference between a stability chamber and a conventional laboratory incubator?
A conventional laboratory incubator is generally designed to maintain a selected incubation temperature. The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 also incorporates refrigeration and programmable ramp-and-soak operation, allowing it to maintain or change temperatures according to defined testing procedures.
Does the NSRI522WSW/8 have refrigeration?
Yes. The chamber includes refrigeration and heating systems, allowing it to operate from approximately 5°C to 60°C. This makes it suitable for both refrigerated and elevated-temperature conditioning applications.
Is this Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 refurbished?
The Nor-Lake NSRI522WSW/8 offered by American Instrument Exchange is used and refurbished. AIE technicians inspect, clean, and test temperature-controlled equipment using calibrated temperature-recording instruments to verify controller accuracy and operating performance. Refrigeration, heating, alarms, and other installed functions are evaluated as applicable. Components are repaired or replaced as necessary, and refurbished equipment includes a 90-day warranty.
Click Hereto see the Norlake Stability 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.
