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Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber
Controlled-environment research depends on maintaining highly stable temperature, lighting, and airflow conditions throughout every stage of an experiment. The Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber is engineered to provide reproducible environmental conditions for plant science, seed germination, insect rearing, biological research, and environmental studies. Featuring a 29.7 cubic foot (0.8 m³) chamber, five adjustable growing tiers, Percival's IncuWhite vertical LED lighting system, horizontal airflow, and the advanced IntellusUltra controller, the I-36VL provides researchers with the environmental precision needed for long-term experiments and repeatable scientific results.
Unlike conventional plant growth chambers that rely solely on overhead illumination, the I-36VL incorporates vertically mounted LED lighting that delivers more uniform light distribution across plant canopies and research specimens. Combined with programmable environmental controls and dependable refrigeration and heating systems, the chamber is well suited for plant physiology, Arabidopsis research, seed germination, entomology, microbiology, and numerous controlled-environment applications. Purchasing a refurbished Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a premium research platform at substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment.
Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber Key Features
29.7 cu. ft. (0.8 m³) chamber capacity
Five adjustable growing tiers
Total growing area: 27 sq. ft. (2.5 m²)
Temperature range: 5°C to 44°C (lights on)
Temperature uniformity: ±0.5°C
IncuWhite vertical LED lighting system
Light intensity up to 120 μmol/m²/s
LED output adjustable from 5% to 100%
IntellusUltra programmable controller
Horizontal airflow system
Stainless steel interior floor
Magnetic door gasket
115V electrical operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Controlled-Environment Plant Research
The Percival I-36VL is designed for laboratories requiring precise environmental control for plant growth, biological research, and environmental simulation. Its programmable heating, cooling, lighting, and airflow systems allow researchers to reproduce highly specific environmental conditions while maintaining excellent temperature stability throughout the chamber. The IntellusUltra controller supports customized temperature and lighting programs that simulate natural photoperiods or specialized experimental protocols.
A defining feature of the I-36VL is its IncuWhite vertical LED lighting system. By positioning high-efficiency LED arrays along the sides of the chamber, light is distributed more evenly through developing plant canopies than with overhead illumination alone. This reduces shading, promotes more consistent plant development, and provides researchers with greater flexibility when cultivating seedlings, mature plants, and other photosensitive specimens across all five growing tiers.
Common Applications
The Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber is commonly used for:
Plant growth studies
Arabidopsis research
Seed germination
Plant physiology
Crop science
Environmental stress studies
Controlled-environment agriculture
Entomology
Drosophila research
Insect rearing
Microbiology
Biological research
The Percival I-36VL is frequently incorporated into complete plant science and environmental research laboratories. Many facilities pair this chamber with laboratory refrigerators for storing plant growth media, reagents, and environmental standards. Laboratory freezers are commonly used for preserving plant tissue samples, microbial cultures, and DNA libraries, while centrifuges support sample preparation for molecular biology and plant physiology studies. Biosafety cabinets provide sterile workspaces for tissue culture, seed preparation, and microbiological procedures prior to environmental incubation. Depending on the research program, laboratories may also utilize water baths for reagent preparation and autoclaves for sterilizing growth media, containers, and laboratory supplies.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Percival I-36VL is an excellent choice for agricultural research facilities, university plant science departments, biotechnology companies, government research laboratories, environmental science programs, crop improvement facilities, seed development laboratories, botanical research centers, and controlled-environment agriculture programs. Its combination of programmable environmental controls and vertical LED illumination makes it particularly valuable for researchers studying plant development, photobiology, environmental response, and long-term growth experiments.
Why Choose the Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber?
The Percival I-36VL combines precise environmental control with an efficient vertical LED lighting system that promotes uniform illumination throughout the plant canopy. Researchers benefit from programmable temperature profiles, adjustable lighting intensity, dependable airflow, and a spacious five-tier growing configuration that supports a wide range of experimental protocols.
Whether supporting plant physiology, seed germination, insect biology, environmental stress testing, or general biological research, the I-36VL delivers the consistency, flexibility, and reliability required for reproducible scientific investigations while providing efficient use of valuable laboratory space.
Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber Performance and Environmental Stability
The Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber is engineered to deliver highly reproducible environmental conditions for plant growth and controlled-environment research. Its integrated refrigeration and heating systems work together with horizontal airflow to maintain stable temperatures throughout the chamber, minimizing environmental variation between growing tiers and helping researchers achieve consistent experimental results. The IntellusUltra controller continuously monitors chamber conditions, allowing users to create customized temperature and lighting programs that accurately reproduce seasonal conditions, day/night cycles, or specialized research protocols.
A defining feature of the I-36VL is its IncuWhite vertical LED lighting system, which provides uniform side illumination across all growing levels. Unlike traditional overhead lighting, vertically mounted LEDs improve light penetration through dense plant canopies while reducing shading between specimens. Adjustable light intensity from 5% to 100% allows researchers to tailor environmental conditions for seedlings, mature plants, tissue culture, and other photosensitive biological materials while maintaining excellent energy efficiency.
Percival I-36VL Typical Samples and Laboratory Applications
The Percival I-36VL supports a broad range of plant science and biological research applications. Typical samples include Arabidopsis, crop seedlings, wheat, corn, soybean plants, rice, legumes, mosses, algae, plant tissue cultures, fungal cultures, environmental samples, Drosophila, beneficial insects, pollinators, and numerous other biological specimens requiring programmable environmental control.
Researchers commonly utilize the chamber for plant physiology, crop improvement, seed germination, photoperiod studies, environmental stress research, climate simulation, agricultural biotechnology, entomology, ecological research, microbiology, plant pathology, tissue culture, and controlled-environment agriculture where reproducible lighting and temperature conditions are essential.
Specifications are compiled from manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information. Specifications may vary depending on production year and installed factory options. Please verify chamber dimensions, electrical requirements, lighting configuration, and included accessories prior to purchase.
What types of research is the Percival I-36VL designed for?
The I-36VL is commonly used for plant biology, agricultural research, seed germination, plant physiology, environmental stress studies, crop science, entomology, tissue culture, ecological research, and other controlled-environment applications requiring programmable temperature and lighting.
What are the advantages of vertical LED lighting?
Vertical LED lighting delivers illumination from the sides of the chamber, improving light penetration through developing plant canopies and reducing shading that can occur with overhead lighting alone. This promotes more uniform plant growth and greater experimental consistency.
What is the IntellusUltra controller?
The IntellusUltra controller allows researchers to program complex environmental profiles, including temperature changes, lighting schedules, and photoperiod simulations, making it easy to reproduce natural growing conditions or custom research protocols.
Is the Percival I-36VL suitable for Arabidopsis and other model plants?
Yes. The chamber is well suited for Arabidopsis, crop seedlings, tissue culture, plant physiology studies, and numerous other plant science applications requiring reproducible environmental control.
Why is horizontal airflow important?
Horizontal airflow continuously circulates conditioned air throughout the chamber, promoting excellent temperature uniformity across all growing tiers while reducing environmental variation between shelves.
Can this chamber be used for insect research?
Yes. In addition to plant science, the I-36VL is commonly used for Drosophila research, beneficial insect colonies, pollinator studies, and other entomology applications requiring stable environmental conditions.
Why purchase a refurbished Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Percival I-36VL Environmental Chamber from American Instrument Exchange provides researchers with a premium controlled-environment research platform at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring a 29.7 cubic foot chamber, five growing tiers, IncuWhite vertical LED lighting, programmable environmental control, and the IntellusUltra controller, the I-36VL is an excellent solution for plant biology, agricultural research, seed germination, entomology, and environmental science laboratories. Every unit is thoroughly inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
CLICK HERE to see the Percival 136VL refrigerated 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.
