All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse
Pharmacia MultiTemp III Refrigerated/Heated Circulator
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III Refrigerated/Heated Circulator is a precision laboratory temperature-control system designed specifically for electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, and other life-science applications requiring controlled heating and cooling. Originally developed by Pharmacia Biotech for use with electrophoresis systems such as the Multiphor II, the MultiTemp III can circulate constant-temperature fluid through external laboratory equipment or operate independently as a compact temperature-controlled bath.
With a broad -10°C to +90°C operating range, temperature stability better than ±0.1°C, an 800 W heater, active refrigeration, and circulation flow up to approximately 12 L/min, the MultiTemp III provides both subambient cooling and elevated-temperature control. Its 3 L reservoir and compact footprint make it particularly well suited for electrophoresis equipment and other laboratory systems requiring stable external fluid circulation without the capacity of a large process chiller.
Available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange, this Pharmacia MultiTemp III is inspected, cleaned, and tested for reliable laboratory operation. A 90-day warranty is included.
Key Features
-10°C to +90°C working temperature range
Temperature stability better than ±0.1°C at 20°C
Designed specifically for electrophoresis temperature control
Compatible with Pharmacia and Amersham Pharmacia Biotech electrophoresis equipment
Suitable for Multiphor II electrophoresis systems
Can support two compatible external electrophoresis units simultaneously
3 L internal bath
800 W heater
Active R134a refrigeration
Up to approximately 265 W cooling capacity at 20°C, depending on electrical configuration
Maximum circulation flow approximately 12 L/min
Maximum pump pressure approximately 0.32 bar
Can operate as a stand-alone constant-temperature bath
Digital temperature control
Adjustable temperature-limit protection
Used, refurbished, and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Overview
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III was purpose-built to provide controlled liquid temperature for electrophoresis and related life-science applications.
During electrophoresis, electrical resistance can generate heat within the gel and buffer system. Excessive or inconsistent temperature can affect separation performance, band resolution, reproducibility, and experimental conditions. The MultiTemp III removes or supplies heat as necessary while continuously circulating temperature-controlled fluid through compatible electrophoresis equipment.
The system combines refrigeration, heating, fluid circulation, and electronic temperature control in one compact instrument. Constant refrigeration is balanced against controlled pulses of heating to maintain the selected fluid temperature.
This design allows the MultiTemp III to provide cooling for high-voltage electrophoresis while also supporting elevated-temperature procedures. Pharmacia specifically designed the system to provide higher-temperature control for applications such as DNA sequencing at approximately 60°C.
The MultiTemp III is not limited to external equipment. Its 3 L reservoir can also be used as a stand-alone constant-temperature bath for compatible laboratory applications.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Pharmacia Biotech / Amersham Pharmacia Biotech
Model
MultiTemp III
Equipment Type
Refrigerated/heated thermostatic circulator
Temperature Range
-10°C to +90°C
Temperature Stability
Better than ±0.1°C at 20°C
Temperature Limit Range
20°C to 95°C
Heater Capacity
800 W
Cooling Capacity at 20°C, 115 V
Approx. 240 W
Cooling Capacity at 5°C, 115 V
Approx. 200 W
Cooling Capacity at 20°C, 230 V
Approx. 265 W
Cooling Capacity at 5°C, 230 V
Approx. 215 W
Reservoir Volume
3 L
Bath Opening
Approx. 130 × 100 mm
Bath Depth
Approx. 100 mm
Maximum Pump Flow
Approx. 12 L/min
Maximum Pump Pressure
Approx. 0.32 bar
Refrigerant
R134a
External Circulation
Yes
Stand-Alone Bath Operation
Yes
Hose Connection Diameter
Approx. 9.5 mm OD
Power Consumption
Approx. 1,200 W
Exterior Dimensions
Approx. 8.7 in. W × 16.5 in. D × 18.9 in. H
Weight
Approx. 61.7 lb / 28 kg
Electrical Requirements
Verify individual unit nameplate
Warranty
90 days
Common Applications
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III is particularly well suited for electrophoresis procedures requiring active temperature control. Typical applications include isoelectric focusing, high-voltage electrophoresis, DNA sequencing, protein electrophoresis, gel electrophoresis, and temperature control of compatible electrophoresis platforms.
Temperature management can be particularly important during high-voltage electrophoresis because electrical energy generates heat within the system. Circulating controlled coolant helps maintain consistent experimental conditions and reduces temperature changes that could affect migration and separation performance.
The MultiTemp III can also provide elevated-temperature control. Pharmacia specifically designed the system for applications such as DNA sequencing procedures performed at approximately 60°C.
When used with compatible equipment such as the Pharmacia Multiphor II, two electrophoresis units can be connected to a single MultiTemp III simultaneously.
Outside electrophoresis, the MultiTemp III can be used as a compact constant-temperature bath or external circulator for other compatible low-heat-load laboratory applications.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III is well suited for molecular biology laboratories, protein research groups, biotechnology facilities, pharmaceutical laboratories, genomics and proteomics research facilities, academic life-science laboratories, clinical research environments, and laboratories maintaining legacy Pharmacia or Amersham electrophoresis equipment.
It may be particularly useful for facilities continuing to operate established electrophoresis methods developed around Pharmacia Biotech equipment.
Because the MultiTemp III was designed as part of an integrated electrophoresis workflow, it can also be an attractive replacement for laboratories with older MultiTemp systems that need to preserve existing protocols without converting to an entirely different temperature-control platform.
Temperature Control & Stability
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III provides a working temperature range from approximately -10°C to +90°C with temperature stability better than ±0.1°C at 20°C.
The system regulates temperature by balancing continuous refrigeration with controlled heating. Its refrigeration system removes heat from the circulating liquid, while the 800 W heater supplies controlled pulses of energy according to the selected temperature.
This arrangement allows the system to maintain stable conditions across both refrigerated and heated applications.
Cooling capacity depends somewhat on electrical configuration. The 115 V version provides approximately 240 W at 20°C and 200 W at 5°C. The 230 V configuration provides approximately 265 W at 20°C and 215 W at 5°C.
The refrigeration compressor operates during applications up to approximately 68°C. At higher working temperatures, the refrigeration system automatically switches off and temperature control is maintained through the heating and control system.
Circulation & Pump Performance
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III provides maximum circulation flow of approximately 12 L/min and maximum pump pressure of approximately 0.32 bar.
This circulation system was designed specifically to move temperature-controlled liquid through compatible electrophoresis equipment.
The rear inlet and outlet connections use approximately 9.5 mm outside-diameter nozzles. Appropriate laboratory tubing can be connected between the MultiTemp III and the electrophoresis equipment to create a continuous temperature-control circuit.
When used as a stand-alone bath rather than an external circulator, the inlet and outlet connections can be connected together so that fluid continues to circulate properly through the system.
Actual external flow depends on tubing length and diameter, fittings, fluid viscosity, elevation, and hydraulic resistance within the connected equipment.
Refurbishment & Testing
This used Pharmacia MultiTemp III Refrigerated/Heated Circulator is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange before shipment. Our technicians inspect the refrigeration system, compressor, heater, circulation pump, temperature controller, display, reservoir, condenser, electrical components, safety systems, and external fluid connections.
Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using NIST-traceable probes and data loggers. The MultiTemp III is operated under simulated laboratory conditions to evaluate refrigeration, heating, circulation, temperature regulation, controller operation, and overall stability.
The reservoir and accessible fluid-contact components are cleaned and inspected before shipment.
Customers planning to use the MultiTemp III with a specific electrophoresis system are encouraged to provide the equipment model and desired operating temperature before shipment. When practical, American Instrument Exchange can incorporate customer-requested operating conditions into final testing.
A 90-day warranty is included with this refurbished Pharmacia MultiTemp III.
Choosing the Right Circulator or Water Bath
The Pharmacia MultiTemp III is particularly well suited for laboratories requiring temperature control for electrophoresis and related life-science applications.
Unlike a general-purpose process chiller, the MultiTemp III was designed specifically around the temperature-control requirements of electrophoresis equipment. Its 12 L/min circulation capability, compact 3 L reservoir, active refrigeration, and 800 W heater provide a useful combination of cooling and heating for compatible systems.
Its -10°C to +90°C range also makes the MultiTemp III more versatile than a cooling-only electrophoresis chiller.
For laboratories operating Pharmacia Multiphor II systems or other compatible legacy electrophoresis equipment, maintaining the original MultiTemp platform may help preserve established methods and experimental setups.
However, applications generating substantially greater continuous heat loads may require a higher-capacity laboratory chiller. Likewise, laboratories that do not require external circulation may be better served by a simpler temperature-controlled water bath.
American Instrument Exchange can help compare available used and refurbished laboratory circulators based on temperature range, cooling capacity, pump performance, bath capacity, and equipment compatibility.
Related Equipment
American Instrument Exchange stocks a range of laboratory circulators, including refrigerated/heated circulators, electrophoresis chillers, recirculating chillers, immersion coolers, and constant-temperature baths. Laboratories considering the Pharmacia MultiTemp III may also want to compare available laboratory water baths and other refurbished laboratory equipment for life-science and analytical applications.
Pharmacia MultiTemp III Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperature range of the Pharmacia MultiTemp III?
The MultiTemp III provides temperature control from approximately -10°C to +90°C.
How stable is the Pharmacia MultiTemp III Refrigerated/Heated Circulator?
Pharmacia specifies temperature control constancy of better than ±0.1°C at a 20°C operating temperature.
Was the MultiTemp III designed for electrophoresis?
Yes. Pharmacia specifically designed the MultiTemp III to circulate constant-temperature liquid through external electrophoresis equipment.
Can the MultiTemp III be used with a Pharmacia Multiphor II?
Yes. The MultiTemp III was designed for use with equipment including the Pharmacia Multiphor II. Two compatible units can be connected to one MultiTemp III simultaneously.
Can the MultiTemp III be used for DNA sequencing?
Yes. Pharmacia specifically identified elevated-temperature control for DNA sequencing, including procedures performed around 60°C, as an application for the MultiTemp III.
What is the reservoir capacity?
The MultiTemp III has an approximately 3 L internal reservoir.
What is the maximum circulation flow?
The circulation system provides maximum flow of approximately 12 L/min with maximum pressure of approximately 0.32 bar.
How much cooling capacity does the MultiTemp III provide?
Cooling capacity depends slightly on electrical configuration. The 115 V model provides approximately 240 W at 20°C, while the 230 V model provides approximately 265 W at 20°C.
Can the MultiTemp III be used as a stand-alone water bath?
Yes. Pharmacia specifically designed the MultiTemp III so it can also function as a stand-alone constant-temperature bath.
What fluid should be used in the MultiTemp III?
The original manufacturer instructions specify water or water mixed with ethylene glycol. Fluid selection should be appropriate for the intended operating temperature.
Does this refurbished Pharmacia MultiTemp III include a warranty?
Yes. This used Pharmacia MultiTemp III is refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange and includes a 90-day warranty.
Click here to see the Pharmacia Multitemp III on the American Instrument Exchange YouTube channel.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Equipment
Ensure Accuracy, Safety, and Dependable Performance Across Applications
At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished laboratory equipment undergoes a rigorous, multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, operational safety, and long-term reliability. Whether the equipment is destined for research, diagnostics, quality control, or production environments, our thorough inspection and testing process is designed to meet the highest standards of laboratory excellence.
Why Testing Used Lab Equipment Is Essential
Before any refurbished laboratory equipment is returned to service, it must be carefully tested to verify:
• Functional integrity and operational performance
• Setpoint accuracy and repeatability (where applicable)
• User interface responsiveness and control features
Proper testing reduces the risk of equipment failure, measurement inaccuracies, or user hazards—helping to ensure consistent results in clinical, academic, biotech, and industrial labs.
Our standardized lab equipment testing procedures are tailored to each equipment type, ensuring every unit meets manufacturer specifications and industry benchmarks.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Equipment
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Examine equipment housing for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check ports, power cords, and exterior components for tampering or deterioration
• Verify that internal and external parts (racks, shelves, connectors, accessories) are present and undamaged
2. Functional Startup and Operational Testing
• Power on the equipment and verify startup diagnostics
• Confirm functionality of displays, buttons, switches, and control panels
• Run basic functions to confirm proper response and behavior under standard operating conditions
3. Testing and Performance Verification
• Test internal sensors or control systems using industry-standard tools
• Perform operational tests to validate accuracy and consistency
• Verify key performance specifications such as temperature control, timing, speed, or measurement outputs, depending on equipment type
4. Mechanical and Electrical System Testing
• Evaluate motors, pumps, fans, or other moving parts for smooth operation
• Inspect and test wiring, relays, fuses, and circuit boards for safety and reliability
• Test power delivery and grounding compliance
5. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Ensure equipment is grounded and insulated to meet laboratory safety standards
• Test alarms, interlocks, emergency stops, or safety shutdown systems if applicable
6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Perform extended runtime testing
• Document operational logs, testing results, and any repairs or adjustments made
• Complete a final inspection, thorough cleaning, and packaging for delivery
Trusted Quality from American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in laboratory equipment refurbishment, American Instrument Exchange is committed to delivering certified, lab-ready instruments backed by expert testing. Our testing protocols ensure that each piece of equipment—regardless of type—is safe, accurate, and dependable from day one.
Whether you're equipping a startup lab or expanding a high-throughput facility, you can count on our refurbished laboratory equipment to perform with precision and reliability.
Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Equipment from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every piece of used laboratory equipment we offer undergoes a multi-step refurbishment process. Whether it's an analytical balance, centrifuge, freezer, oven, or any other essential lab instrument, our goal is to restore each unit to peak performance—ensuring accuracy, safety, and long-term reliability in scientific, clinical, industrial, and academic environments.
Why Choose Refurbished Lab Equipment from American Instrument Exchange?
• Thoroughly tested for performance, precision, and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every instrument and system refurbished at American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, industry-aligned process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Complete visual and structural inspection for cosmetic damage, wear, or corrosion
• Mechanical assessment of hinges, seals, fasteners, motors, and moving parts
• Missing components and damaged items are documented for repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe solutions
• Removal of biological, chemical, or particulate contamination
• Disassembly and cleaning of removable parts such as trays, shelves, and filters
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Replacement or repair of worn or broken mechanical parts
• Evaluation and servicing of control panels, sensors, switches, and displays
• Testing and repair of electrical wiring, fuses, circuit boards, and power supplies
4. Functional System Testing
• Assessment of all major functions specific to the equipment type (e.g., speed, temperature, force, weight, timing)
• Operation of control interfaces, programming menus, and digital displays
• Verification of stabilization time, responsiveness, and user input reliability
5. Testing and Performance Verification
• Testing of internal sensors, controllers, and measurement systems using certified tools
• Multi-point testing to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and performance consistency
• Confirmation of user-defined setpoints, timing sequences, or programmable cycles
6. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Testing of safety interlocks, alarms, and over-limit protection systems (as applicable)
• Electrical safety inspections, including grounding and insulation verification
7. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Full operational testing under simulated lab conditions
• Completion of performance benchmarks, testing results, and repair logs
• Final cleaning and visual inspection
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in the laboratory equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted leader in high-quality refurbished lab instruments. Our refurbishment protocols ensure that every piece of equipment we sell is lab-ready—offering the precision, performance, and durability your team can count on.
Whether you’re outfitting a new lab or expanding an existing operation, choose American Instrument Exchange for tested, warrantied, and cost-effective laboratory equipment.
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.
