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PHCbi Cell-IQ MCO-170AICUVDL-PA High Heat Sterilization CO₂ Incubator
The PHCbi Cell-IQ MCO-170AICUVDL-PA High Heat Sterilization CO₂ Incubator is a 165-liter cell culture incubator designed for laboratories that need precise temperature and CO₂ control together with multiple layers of contamination protection. Its combination of dual-wave infrared CO₂ sensing, direct heat and air jacket temperature control, copper-enriched stainless steel surfaces, SafeCell UV decontamination, and a 180°C high-heat sterilization cycle makes it particularly well suited for contamination-sensitive cell culture applications.
With a 5.8 cu. ft. chamber, four adjustable shelves, touchscreen controls, USB data output, and a compact stackable footprint, the MCO-170AICUVDL-PA provides substantial culture capacity without requiring the floor space of a reach-in incubator. Purchasing a refurbished PHCbi Cell-IQ incubator from American Instrument Exchange allows biotechnology, pharmaceutical, clinical, and academic laboratories to obtain advanced incubation technology at a significant savings compared with purchasing new equipment.
The PHCbi MCO-170AICUVDL-PA was developed for laboratories where environmental consistency and contamination prevention are equally important. Its 165-liter chamber provides enough space for high-throughput culture work while remaining compact enough for benchtop placement or stacking with a second compatible incubator.
The Direct Heat and Air Jacket system surrounds the chamber with controlled heat to maintain uniform temperatures across the shelving area. This configuration supports consistent culture conditions while enabling relatively rapid recovery following routine door openings. Temperature uniformity is rated at ±0.25°C under specified operating conditions, helping reduce differences in growth conditions between samples stored at different shelf positions.
A dual-wave infrared sensor continuously monitors chamber CO₂ levels. Infrared sensing is not affected by changes in chamber humidity in the same way as older thermal conductivity sensors, making it a strong choice for humidified cell culture incubators. The sensor and proportional controller work together to restore programmed CO₂ conditions without excessive overshoot after the door has been opened.
Many laboratories pair the PHCbi MCO-170AICUVDL-PA with biosafety cabinets for aseptic sample preparation, centrifuges for cell separation and processing, laboratory refrigerators for media and reagent storage, and ultra-low freezers for long-term preservation of cell lines and biological samples.
Common Applications
The PHCbi Cell-IQ MCO-170AICUVDL-PA is commonly used for:
Mammalian cell culture
Primary cell culture
Stem cell research
Regenerative medicine
Tissue engineering
Transfection and transduction procedures
Genomic expression studies
Antibody production
Vaccine development
Cancer research
Pharmaceutical development
Biologics research
The incubator is especially valuable for work involving sensitive, slow-growing, or high-value cultures where contamination could result in significant sample loss, project delays, or repeat testing.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The MCO-170AICUVDL-PA is well suited for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical research and development laboratories, academic research institutions, hospital and clinical research facilities, cell and gene therapy laboratories, government research centers, and contract research organizations. Its combination of stackable capacity, advanced contamination control, and automated high-temperature sterilization also makes it a strong choice for shared core laboratories and multi-user facilities where the chamber may be accessed frequently or used for multiple projects.
Temperature Recovery and Environmental Stability
Stable incubation conditions are critical for maintaining cell viability and producing repeatable results. The MCO-170AICUVDL-PA uses a Direct Heat and Air Jacket system to regulate chamber temperature across a control range of ambient +5°C to 50°C. At a 37°C setpoint under specified test conditions, temperature uniformity is rated at ±0.25°C.
The incubator's dual-wave infrared sensor provides fast CO₂ response following door openings. The sensor signals the proportional controller to restore gas concentration while reducing the risk of overshoot, which can expose cultures to unnecessary fluctuations in pH and atmospheric conditions.
This combination of controlled heating, infrared gas sensing, and insulated chamber construction is particularly beneficial in busy laboratories where the incubator door may be opened repeatedly throughout the workday. Faster recovery helps shorten the period during which cultures are exposed to conditions outside their programmed setpoints.
Humidity Control and Contamination Prevention
The MCO-170AICUVDL-PA uses natural evaporation from a removable humidifying pan to maintain approximately 95% ±5% relative humidity. High humidity helps reduce media evaporation during extended incubation, supporting more stable osmolality and reducing the frequency with which cultures require replenishment.
Contamination control is one of the defining strengths of this model. The inCu-saFe interior combines stainless steel with copper enrichment to create durable chamber surfaces with passive antimicrobial properties. Unlike a conventional solid copper chamber, the copper-enriched stainless steel construction is designed to resist discoloration and corrosion while still supporting contamination control.
The standard SafeCell UV lamp decontaminates circulated air and the humidifying pan without producing ozone. An air filter rated at 99.97% efficiency for 0.3-micron particles provides an additional barrier against airborne contaminants entering the chamber.
For more intensive decontamination, the incubator includes a manually initiated 180°C high-heat sterilization cycle. The primary cultivation heaters and a secondary sterilization heater work together to raise the chamber to sterilization temperature. The cycle takes approximately 11 hours and can be completed without removing the principal chamber components, simplifying decontamination between projects or following a suspected contamination event.
Sample Storage Recommendations
The 165-liter chamber can accommodate T-flasks, multiwell plates, culture dishes, spinner flasks, suspension culture vessels, organoid cultures, primary cells, stem cells, tissue culture plates, and other commonly used cell culture containers. Four copper-enriched stainless steel shelves provide flexible storage positions and can be adjusted to accommodate vessels of different heights.
For best environmental performance, culture vessels should be distributed so that air can circulate freely around shelves and containers. Laboratories should avoid tightly packing the chamber or blocking airflow pathways, particularly when storing large numbers of flasks or stacked plates. Sensitive or high-value cultures may also benefit from placement away from the front of the chamber, where they are less directly exposed to environmental changes during door openings.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
The MCO-170AICUVDL-PA has a maximum rated power consumption of 376 watts. During normal culture operation, the Direct Heat and Air Jacket system regulates heating output as needed to maintain the programmed setpoint rather than operating continuously at maximum power.
Melamine resin foam insulation helps limit heat loss during standard incubation and reduces heat transfer to surrounding equipment during the 180°C sterilization cycle. This is particularly important when two incubators are stacked or positioned closely together.
The infrared CO₂ sensor also contributes to efficient operation by supporting accurate gas injection and minimizing unnecessary overshoot. For laboratories running incubators continuously, reduced CO₂ waste and stable heating performance can provide meaningful operating-cost benefits over the life of the equipment.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
PHCbi
Product Series
Cell-IQ
Model
MCO-170AICUVDL-PA
Incubator Type
High heat sterilization CO₂ incubator
Interior Capacity
165 L (5.8 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range
Ambient +5°C to 50°C
Recommended Ambient Range
5°C to 35°C
Temperature Uniformity
±0.25°C at 37°C
CO₂ Control Range
0% to 20%
CO₂ Variation
±0.15% at 5% CO₂
CO₂ Sensor
Dual-wave infrared
CO₂ Controller
Proportional
Heating System
Direct Heat and Air Jacket
Relative Humidity
95% ±5% RH
Humidity System
Natural evaporation with humidifying pan
Interior Material
InCu-saFe copper-enriched stainless steel
Contamination Controls
InCu-saFe interior, SafeCell UV and air filtration
High-Heat Sterilization
180°C
Sterilization Cycle Time
Approximately 11 hours
UV Lamp
4 W ozone-free lamp
Air Filter
99.97% efficiency at 0.3 µm
Shelves
Four copper-enriched stainless steel shelves
Inner Door
Tempered glass, field reversible
Access Port
One 1.2" (30 mm) rear access port
Display
Color LCD touchscreen
Display Resolution
Readable in 0.1° increments
Data Output
USB
Interior Dimensions
19.3" W × 20.6" D × 26.2" H
Exterior Dimensions
24.4" W × 29.7" D × 35.6" H
Net Weight
176 lb (80 kg)
Maximum Power Consumption
376 W
CO₂ Gas Pressure
4.3 psi
CO₂ Connection
4–6 mm diameter tubing
Exterior dimensions exclude the handle and other external projections. Specifications are believed to be accurate but should be verified against the unit's data plate and configuration before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the PHCbi MCO-170AICUVDL-PA?
The incubator has a 165-liter, or 5.8 cu. ft., interior chamber. It includes four adjustable shelves and provides more culture capacity than smaller 150-liter incubators while maintaining a relatively compact footprint.
What is the temperature range of this incubator?
The MCO-170AICUVDL-PA operates from 5°C above ambient temperature to 50°C. It is designed for use in ambient environments between approximately 5°C and 35°C.
What is the CO₂ control range?
The incubator provides CO₂ control from 0% to 20% using a dual-wave infrared sensor and proportional gas controller. CO₂ variation is rated at ±0.15% under specified conditions.
How does the high-heat sterilization cycle work?
The unit uses its primary cultivation heaters together with a dedicated secondary heater to raise the chamber to 180°C. The complete cycle takes approximately 11 hours and does not require removal of the main interior components.
Does this incubator include UV contamination control?
Yes. The MCO-170AICUVDL-PA includes a standard 4-watt ozone-free SafeCell UV lamp that decontaminates circulated air and the humidity pan.
What are the exterior dimensions?
The incubator measures approximately 24.4 inches wide, 29.7 inches deep, and 35.6 inches high, excluding the handle and other exterior projections. Its dimensions allow it to be used as a single benchtop unit or as part of a compatible stacked configuration.
Why purchase a refurbished PHCbi MCO-170AICUVDL-PA from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished MCO-170AICUVDL-PA allows laboratories to obtain precise CO₂ control, copper-enriched contamination protection, UV decontamination, and 180°C sterilization at a substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment. The incubator includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished CO₂ Laboratory Incubators Ensure Atmosphere Control, Temperature Accuracy, and Regulatory Compliance
At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished CO₂ incubators undergo a multi-step testing and calibration process. These procedures are designed to ensure precise environmental control, microbial safety, and long-term reliability—critical for cell culture, IVF, tissue engineering, and pharmaceutical R&D applications.
Why Testing Used CO₂ Incubators Is Essential
Before a CO₂ incubator is redeployed into a laboratory, it must be thoroughly tested for:
• CO₂ sensor accuracy and gas concentration control
• Temperature uniformity and stability
• Humidity system function
• HEPA filtration and contamination control
• Electrical and safety compliance
Proper testing ensures viable growth environments for sensitive cultures and prevents costly contamination or culture loss in high-stakes lab environments.
Our standardized refurbishment protocol ensures used CO₂ incubators deliver laboratory grade performance at a fraction of the cost of comparable new units.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used CO₂ Incubators
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect the exterior for corrosion, dents, or door alignment issues
• Check door gasket integrity and hinge function
• Verify presence and condition of internal shelves, water pans, and humidity trays
• Examine power cords, gas connectors, and display interfaces for signs of wear
2. Functional Startup Test
• Power on the unit and check for successful system boot
• Verify touchscreen or keypad response, and test all user-programmable settings
• Check door alarms and temperature/CO₂ alerts
3. Temperature Control and Uniformity Testing
• Use temperature probes to verify internal temperature accuracy
• Monitor temperature uniformity across multiple chamber zones
• Ensure fast recovery times after door openings
4. CO₂ Sensor Testing and Gas Delivery System Test
• Test accuracy of infrared (IR) or thermal conductivity (TC) CO₂ sensors using certified reference gas and probes/Fyrite analyzers
• Test inlet pressure regulators and gas flow control systems
• Confirm stable CO₂ levels at multiple setpoints (e.g., 5%, 10%)
• Check for proper mixing and diffusion throughout the chamber
5. Humidity and Contamination Control Testing
• Test humidity generation (via water pan or active system) and verify chamber RH levels
• Inspect HEPA filters (if equipped) and airflow systems for particulate control
• Sanitize interior and confirm antimicrobial coatings or copper components are intact
6. Electrical Safety and Compliance Check
• Ensure proper grounding and insulation of all electrical components
• Perform leak and continuity testing
• Verify the unit meets electrical safety standards for laboratory environments
7. Final Quality Assurance and Performance Validation
• Run a 24-hour performance cycle with monitored CO₂, temperature, and RH
• Document data and final readings
• Complete service report
All refurbished CO₂ incubators sold by American Instrument Exchange are tested to meet the performance demands of today's advanced laboratory workflows—ensuring safety, precision, and peace of mind with every unit.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Incubators Performance and Quality from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory incubator we sell goes through a repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a standard, CO₂, or refrigerated incubator, our goal is to restore each unit to laboratory-level performance—ensuring temperature accuracy, environmental stability, and long-term reliability in your lab.
Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for performance and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through reuse and restoration
• Refurbished by expert technicians with decades of lab equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every incubator at American Instrument Exchange follows this comprehensive, multi-stage process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Visual inspection for cosmetic wear, corrosion, dents, or broken components
• Mechanical assessment of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and chamber components
• Document any missing parts or issues requiring repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Thorough internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive solutions
• Decontamination/cleaning of surfaces to remove biological, chemical, or particulate residue
• Cleaning of removable parts (e.g., shelves, trays, etc.)
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Repair or replacement of worn mechanical components such as door latches, fans, hinges, and seals
• Evaluation and repair of control panels, switches, thermostats, and displays
• Inspection and testing of wiring, fuses, relays, and power supplies
4. Environmental Control System Assessment
• For CO₂ incubators: CO₂ sensors, regulators, and gas delivery systems are tested
• For refrigerated incubators: compressors, condensers, and cooling systems are evaluated for performance and leaks
• Fan motors and airflow systems are tested to ensure uniform environmental conditions
5. Temperature and Sensor Testing
• All temperature sensors and controllers are tested using thermometers/probes
• Uniformity and accuracy tested at multiple chamber locations
• For humidified or CO₂ incubators, humidity and CO₂ stability are verified
6. Safety System Testing
• Test of over-temperature protection systems and alarms
• Evaluation of door sensors, safety interlocks, and power failure recovery
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Full performance test run over 24 hours
• Validation of setpoints for temperature, CO₂ (if applicable), and humidity (if applicable)
• Final inspection and cleaning before packaging
• Complete service report
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted source for high-quality refurbished laboratory incubators. Our proven refurbishment protocol ensures every unit is reliable, accurate, and ready to meet the demands of your lab from day one.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
