All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse
Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber
Maintaining precise environmental conditions is essential for laboratories performing stability testing, environmental simulation, shelf-life studies, and controlled incubation of temperature-sensitive materials. Whether evaluating pharmaceutical products, conducting long-term product aging studies, performing insect research, or testing packaged goods under regulated environmental conditions, researchers depend on chambers that deliver exceptional temperature and humidity stability over extended periods. The Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber was engineered specifically for these demanding applications, combining a large 29 cubic foot (821 L) chamber with precise refrigeration, programmable humidity control, and outstanding temperature uniformity.
Unlike conventional laboratory incubators that regulate temperature alone, the Forma 3940 actively controls both temperature and relative humidity to create repeatable environmental conditions that support regulatory testing protocols and long-duration research studies. With an operating temperature range of 0°C to 60°C, humidity control from ambient to 95% RH, and a spacious interior capable of accommodating large product loads, the Forma 3940 has become a trusted solution for pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology companies, quality assurance laboratories, and research institutions worldwide. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a cost-effective alternative to purchasing new while maintaining the performance expected from Thermo Scientific environmental chambers.
Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber Key Features
29 cu. ft. (821 L) chamber capacity
Temperature range: 0°C to 60°C
Relative humidity control from ambient to 95% RH
Digital microprocessor controls
Temperature resolution of 0.1°C
Temperature accuracy of ±0.1°C (25°C–37°C)
Temperature uniformity of ±0.3°C (25°C–37°C)
Humidity readability in 1% increments
Refrigerated environmental chamber
Large-capacity reach-in design
Insulated glass door
208/220V operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Environmental Testing and Stability Studies
Environmental chambers play a critical role in laboratories where precise control of both temperature and humidity is required. Rather than simply maintaining elevated temperatures like a conventional laboratory incubator, the Thermo Forma 3940 allows researchers to recreate controlled environmental conditions for product qualification, regulatory testing, biological research, and long-term storage studies.
Its refrigeration system allows temperatures below ambient while the integrated humidity control system maintains consistent relative humidity throughout the chamber. This combination provides laboratories with a versatile platform capable of supporting a wide variety of environmental testing protocols while minimizing fluctuations that could influence experimental results.
Common Applications
The Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber is commonly used for:
ICH pharmaceutical stability studies
Drug product shelf-life testing
Packaging validation
Environmental simulation
Accelerated aging studies
Controlled storage studies
Food and beverage stability testing
Cosmetic product stability testing
Agricultural research
Entomology and insect research
Biological incubation requiring humidity control
Industrial quality assurance testing
Environmental chambers are frequently used alongside laboratory refrigerators for sample storage, ultralow temperature freezers for long-term preservation, biosafety cabinets for sterile sample preparation, and centrifuges for analytical sample processing as part of comprehensive laboratory testing workflows.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Thermo Forma 3940 is an excellent choice for pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology companies, contract research organizations (CROs), quality assurance laboratories, food and beverage manufacturers, cosmetics laboratories, university research facilities, agricultural research centers, and industrial testing laboratories. Its large-capacity chamber is particularly well suited for laboratories performing high-volume stability studies or evaluating large products under carefully controlled environmental conditions.
Built for Long-Term Stability Testing
Many laboratory studies require environmental conditions to remain stable for weeks or even months. The Forma 3940 was developed with this requirement in mind, combining precise electronic controls with refrigerated temperature management and programmable humidity regulation to provide highly repeatable test conditions over extended periods.
Its spacious chamber accommodates large product loads while maintaining excellent temperature recovery and uniformity, allowing laboratories to perform stability studies with confidence even when testing multiple products simultaneously. Whether supporting pharmaceutical development, shelf-life validation, or biological research, the Forma 3940 delivers the environmental consistency required for reproducible results.
Performance and Environmental Stability
Long-term stability testing depends on maintaining tightly controlled environmental conditions over days, weeks, or even months. The Thermo Forma 3940 combines precision refrigeration, electronic temperature regulation, and programmable humidity control to deliver consistent chamber conditions throughout extended testing protocols. Digital microprocessor controls continuously monitor chamber performance, helping laboratories maintain reproducible environmental conditions for regulated testing and research applications.
The chamber provides temperature control with an accuracy of ±0.1°C at 37°C and temperature uniformity of ±0.3°C between 25°C and 37°C with six shelves installed. This level of performance helps minimize environmental variation throughout the chamber, supporting repeatable stability studies, accelerated aging protocols, and product qualification testing.
Typical Samples and Testing Applications
The Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber is designed to accommodate a wide variety of laboratory samples and finished products requiring controlled environmental conditions. Researchers commonly use the chamber for pharmaceutical formulations, biologics, medical devices, packaged products, cosmetic formulations, food and beverage samples, agricultural materials, electronic components, and research specimens undergoing long-term environmental evaluation.
Because both temperature and humidity can be precisely controlled, the chamber is well suited for ICH stability studies, accelerated aging protocols, environmental simulation, controlled storage experiments, packaging validation, shelf-life determination, and quality assurance testing across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, industrial, and academic laboratories.
Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Forma
Model
3940
Equipment Type
Environmental Chamber
Chamber Capacity
29 cu. ft. (821 L)
Temperature Range
0°C to 60°C
Temperature Control Accuracy
±0.1°C at 37°C
Temperature Uniformity
±0.3°C (25°C–37°C, six shelves installed)
Temperature Resolution
0.1°C
Humidity Range
Ambient to 95% RH
Temperature Sensor
RTD
Controller
Digital Microprocessor
Interior Construction
304 Stainless Steel
Exterior Construction
Powder-Coated Cold-Rolled Steel
Standard Shelves
6
Maximum Shelves
19
Shelf Dimensions
30.6 × 25.8 in. (W × D)
Internal Dimensions
31 × 27 × 60 in. (W × D × H)
External Dimensions
38 × 32 × 88.5 in. (W × D × H)
Electrical Requirements
208–220V
Weight
Contact American Instrument Exchange
Specifications are compiled from Thermo Forma manufacturer documentation and instrument-specific measurements. Certain specifications may vary depending on production year and factory-installed options. Please verify installation requirements prior to purchase.
Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Thermo Forma 3940 primarily used for?
The Forma 3940 is designed for environmental testing applications requiring precise control of both temperature and relative humidity. Common uses include pharmaceutical stability studies, accelerated aging, shelf-life testing, packaging validation, and environmental simulation.
Does this chamber control humidity as well as temperature?
Yes. Unlike a conventional laboratory incubator, the Forma 3940 actively regulates both temperature and relative humidity, allowing laboratories to reproduce controlled environmental conditions required for many regulatory and research protocols.
Is the Forma 3940 suitable for ICH stability testing?
Yes. Environmental chambers such as the Forma 3940 are widely used for ICH pharmaceutical stability studies because they provide the controlled temperature and humidity conditions required for both long-term and accelerated stability protocols.
What kinds of products can be tested in the chamber?
The chamber accommodates pharmaceuticals, biologics, medical devices, cosmetics, food products, agricultural samples, packaging materials, industrial components, and other materials requiring controlled environmental exposure.
How much usable capacity does the chamber provide?
The Forma 3940 offers 29 cubic feet (821 liters) of interior capacity with 31 × 27 × 60 inches of usable chamber space. It includes six adjustable shelves as standard and can accommodate up to nineteen shelves depending on sample size and chamber configuration.
Why is humidity control important?
Many materials are affected not only by temperature but also by moisture. Controlling relative humidity allows laboratories to accurately simulate storage, transportation, and environmental exposure conditions while producing consistent, reproducible stability data.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Thermo Forma 3940 Environmental Chamber from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a proven platform for pharmaceutical stability testing, environmental simulation, and long-term product qualification at a significant savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring a spacious 29 cubic foot chamber, precise temperature and humidity control, and dependable microprocessor operation, the Forma 3940 is an excellent solution for quality assurance, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and industrial research laboratories. Every unit is inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
CLICK HERE to see the unused Thermo Forma 3940 refrigerated environmental chamber 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.
