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Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker
Modern suspension cell culture requires more than precise temperature control—it demands reliable agitation, stable carbon dioxide regulation, and consistent humidity to maximize cell viability and reproducibility. The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker was specifically engineered for the cultivation of mammalian cell cultures, combining a fully programmable orbital shaker with a controlled CO₂ incubation chamber. With shaking speeds from 40 to 400 RPM, capacity for up to six 5-liter flasks per chamber, and advanced environmental controls, the Certomat CT Plus provides an ideal platform for biopharmaceutical production, vaccine development, protein expression, and other large-scale suspension cell culture applications.
Unlike conventional incubator shakers designed primarily for microbial cultures, the Certomat CT Plus isolates the mechanical drive system from the incubation chamber to prevent corrosion caused by humidified carbon dioxide atmospheres. Fully encapsulated incubation chambers, independent heating systems that minimize condensation, programmable multi-step operation, and precise environmental regulation allow researchers to maintain optimal growth conditions throughout extended cultivation protocols. Purchasing a refurbished Sartorius Certomat CT Plus from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium mammalian cell culture capability at substantial savings compared to purchasing a new system.
Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker Key Features
Designed specifically for mammalian suspension cell culture
CO₂-controlled incubation chamber
Humidity-controlled environment
Shaking speed: 40–400 RPM
Available with 20 mm, 25 mm, or 50 mm orbital motion (configuration dependent)
Capacity for up to six 5 L Erlenmeyer flasks
Temperature range: Ambient +8°C to 70°C
Fully programmable multi-step operation
Password-protected program storage
Memory recovery following power interruption
Stainless steel spill tray
Separate heating systems minimize condensation
Fully encapsulated incubation chamber
115V operation (per chamber)
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Mammalian Suspension Cell Culture
The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus was developed specifically for laboratories cultivating mammalian cells under controlled environmental conditions. Unlike traditional incubator shakers that prioritize microbial fermentation, the CT Plus maintains tightly regulated temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, and humidity while providing smooth orbital agitation that promotes oxygen transfer and nutrient distribution without exposing delicate cell cultures to excessive shear forces.
The chamber's fully encapsulated design separates the drive mechanism from the humidified incubation environment, protecting mechanical components from corrosion caused by carbonic acid while improving long-term reliability. Independent heating systems further reduce condensation inside the chamber, helping maintain stable environmental conditions throughout extended cultivation runs.
Common Applications
The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker is commonly used for:
Mammalian suspension cell culture
CHO cell cultivation
Hybridoma production
HEK293 cell culture
Monoclonal antibody development
Recombinant protein expression
Vaccine research and development
Cell line expansion
Biopharmaceutical process development
Media optimization studies
Process scale-up
Academic biotechnology research
CO₂ incubator shakers are frequently used alongside biosafety cabinets for sterile culture handling, centrifuges for cell harvesting, ultralow temperature freezers for long-term cell banking, and laboratory refrigerators and freezers for media and reagent storage.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus is ideally suited for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMOs), university research laboratories, vaccine development facilities, cell therapy laboratories, and bioprocess development groups. Its ability to combine precise environmental control with programmable orbital shaking makes it an excellent choice for laboratories performing suspension cell culture, protein production, and other demanding mammalian cell cultivation workflows.
Why Choose a CO₂ Incubator Shaker?
Many mammalian cell lines require continuous agitation to improve oxygen transfer and maintain cells in suspension while simultaneously requiring tightly regulated temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentrations. Attempting to achieve these conditions using a standard orbital shaker inside a conventional incubator is often impractical and can compromise environmental stability.
The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus integrates these functions into a single purpose-built platform, allowing researchers to cultivate sensitive mammalian cell cultures under precisely controlled conditions while maintaining gentle, programmable agitation. Its advanced environmental controls, high-capacity flask support, corrosion-resistant design, and programmable operation make it a trusted solution for biopharmaceutical manufacturing, vaccine development, and life science research.
Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker Performance and Environmental Stability
The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus is engineered to provide the stable environmental conditions required for long-term mammalian suspension cell culture while delivering smooth, reproducible orbital agitation. Independent control of temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, humidity, and shaking speed allows researchers to optimize growth conditions for a wide variety of suspension cell lines and bioprocess development applications. The orbital drive is designed to provide uniform agitation across the entire platform, promoting oxygen transfer and nutrient distribution while minimizing shear stress that can negatively impact sensitive mammalian cells.
Unlike many conventional incubator shakers, the Certomat CT Plus isolates the drive mechanism from the humidified incubation chamber. This design protects critical mechanical components from corrosion caused by humidified CO₂ atmospheres while improving long-term reliability. Separate heating systems further reduce condensation inside the chamber, helping maintain stable environmental conditions during extended cultivation runs and minimizing the risk of contamination caused by excess moisture.
Sartorius Certomat CT Plus Typical Cell Types and Laboratory Applications
The Sartorius Certomat CT Plus is designed for laboratories performing suspension cell culture and bioprocess development. Typical cell types include Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, HEK293 cells, hybridomas, insect cell cultures, lymphocyte cultures, stem cell suspension cultures, and other mammalian cell lines requiring continuous orbital agitation during incubation.
Researchers commonly use the Certomat CT Plus for monoclonal antibody production, recombinant protein expression, vaccine development, media optimization, process development, cell line expansion, upstream bioprocess research, cell therapy development, and pilot-scale production studies. The chamber's ability to support multiple large Erlenmeyer flasks simultaneously makes it an excellent solution for laboratories scaling suspension cultures beyond traditional benchtop incubator shakers.
Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Sartorius
Model
Certomat CT Plus
Equipment Type
CO₂ Incubator Shaker
Temperature Range
Ambient +8°C to 70°C
Shaking Speed Range
40–400 RPM
Orbital Diameter
20 mm, 25 mm, or 50 mm (configuration dependent)
CO₂ Control
Integrated CO₂ Incubation Chamber
Humidity Control
Humidified Chamber
Flask Capacity
Up to 6 × 5 L Erlenmeyer Flasks
Chamber Design
Fully Encapsulated
Heating System
Independent Heating to Minimize Condensation
Programming
Multi-Step Programmable Operation
Memory
Automatic Recovery Following Power Loss
Spill Protection
Stainless Steel Spill Tray
Electrical Requirements
115V (per chamber)
Weight
Contact American Instrument Exchange
Specifications are compiled from Sartorius manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information. Certain specifications may vary depending on chamber configuration, platform size, orbital diameter, and installed accessories. Please verify system configuration prior to purchase.
Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker Frequently Asked Questions
What is the advantage of a CO₂ incubator shaker compared to a standard incubator?
A CO₂ incubator shaker combines controlled temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, humidity, and orbital agitation in one system. This allows suspension cell cultures to remain continuously mixed while maintaining the environmental conditions required for healthy mammalian cell growth.
What types of cell cultures is the Certomat CT Plus designed for?
The Certomat CT Plus is commonly used for CHO cells, HEK293 cells, hybridomas, insect cell cultures, stem cell research, vaccine production, recombinant protein expression, and other suspension cell culture applications requiring gentle orbital agitation.
Why is the drive mechanism isolated from the incubation chamber?
Humidified carbon dioxide environments can produce carbonic acid that accelerates corrosion of mechanical components. By separating the drive system from the incubation chamber, the Certomat CT Plus helps improve long-term reliability while protecting sensitive mechanical assemblies.
Can the shaking speed be programmed?
Yes. The Certomat CT Plus features fully programmable operation, allowing researchers to create multi-step protocols with customized shaking parameters for different cultivation stages.
How many flasks can the incubator shaker accommodate?
Depending on the installed platform configuration, the Certomat CT Plus can support up to six 5-liter Erlenmeyer flasks, making it suitable for medium-scale suspension culture and process development.
Why is condensation control important?
Excess condensation can contribute to contamination risks and unstable incubation conditions. The Certomat CT Plus utilizes independent heating systems to minimize condensation, helping maintain a consistent culture environment throughout long-duration experiments.
Why purchase a refurbished Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Sartorius Certomat CT Plus CO₂ Incubator Shaker from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a premium suspension cell culture platform at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring 40–400 RPM orbital shaking, integrated CO₂ and humidity control, programmable multi-step operation, capacity for up to six 5-liter flasks, and a corrosion-resistant chamber design, the Certomat CT Plus is an outstanding solution for biopharmaceutical manufacturing, vaccine research, recombinant protein production, and advanced cell culture applications. Every unit is thoroughly inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
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.
