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Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator with Internal Plexiglass Doors
Large-capacity CO₂ incubators are essential for laboratories culturing high volumes of mammalian cells while maintaining tightly controlled environmental conditions. The Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator is designed to provide exceptional temperature uniformity, carbon dioxide regulation, and humidity control for demanding cell culture applications. This particular configuration features a 29 cubic foot (821-liter) chamber, a heated triple-pane glass observation door, and five internal plexiglass compartment doors that help preserve chamber conditions during routine sample access. These features make the Forma 3950 an excellent solution for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, clinical, and academic laboratories performing large-scale cell culture and long-term incubation studies.
Unlike conventional reach-in incubators that expose the entire chamber each time the outer door is opened, the internal plexiglass doors divide the chamber into separate sections, reducing the loss of temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide during routine operation. Combined with Thermo Scientific's directed horizontal laminar airflow system, thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor, programmable microprocessor controls, and high-capacity humidification system, the Forma 3950 provides a stable incubation environment that promotes consistent cell growth and reproducible research results. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium incubation performance at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment.
Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator Key Features
29 cu. ft. (821 L) chamber capacity
Temperature range: Ambient +5°C to 60°C
CO₂ control range: 0–20%
Thermal conductivity (T/C) CO₂ sensor
Relative humidity: Selectable >80% or >90%
Heated triple-pane tempered glass outer door
Five internal plexiglass compartment doors
Directed horizontal laminar airflow system
Stainless steel chamber construction
Microprocessor temperature and CO₂ controls
Automatic or manual water fill capability
Five adjustable stainless steel shelves
Dual access ports for probes and instrumentation
115V operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for High-Volume Mammalian Cell Culture
The Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 was engineered to support laboratories performing large-scale mammalian cell culture where environmental stability directly impacts cell viability and experimental reproducibility. The incubator combines accurate temperature regulation, controlled carbon dioxide concentration, and high relative humidity to create optimal conditions for maintaining healthy cell cultures over extended incubation periods. Thermo Scientific's directed horizontal laminar airflow system distributes conditioned air uniformly throughout the chamber, helping minimize temperature variation across all shelf positions.
The addition of five internal plexiglass compartment doors further improves environmental stability by limiting the amount of conditioned air that escapes when researchers retrieve samples. Instead of exposing the full 29 cubic foot chamber, only the desired compartment is opened, allowing the remaining sections to maintain stable incubation conditions. This design helps shorten recovery times and reduces unnecessary stress on valuable cell cultures.
Common Applications
The Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator is commonly used for:
Mammalian cell culture
Stem cell research
CHO and HEK293 cell cultivation
Hybridoma development
Monoclonal antibody production
Vaccine research
Regenerative medicine
Pharmaceutical research and development
Clinical laboratory cell culture
Tissue engineering
Bioprocess development
Long-term biological incubation
Large-capacity CO₂ incubators are frequently paired with biosafety cabinets for aseptic culture handling, centrifuges for harvesting cells, ultralow temperature freezers for cell banking, and laboratory refrigerators and freezers for storing culture media and temperature-sensitive reagents.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 is ideally suited for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, university research laboratories, hospital research centers, cell therapy facilities, vaccine development laboratories, contract research organizations, and regenerative medicine programs. Its large chamber capacity, precise environmental control, and compartmentalized interior make it particularly valuable for laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines simultaneously while minimizing environmental disturbances between experiments.
Why Choose Internal Plexiglass Doors?
In large-capacity incubators, opening the main door can result in significant losses of heat, humidity, and carbon dioxide, extending recovery times and exposing sensitive cultures to unnecessary environmental fluctuations. Internal compartment doors help minimize these disturbances by allowing researchers to access only the portion of the chamber containing their samples.
The Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 combines this compartmentalized design with precise temperature control, stable CO₂ regulation, high humidity capability, and uniform airflow to provide a dependable incubation platform for demanding mammalian cell culture applications where consistency and reproducibility are critical.
Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator Performance and Environmental Stability
The Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator is designed to maintain the stable environmental conditions required for sensitive mammalian cell culture, tissue engineering, and other demanding biological applications. Microprocessor-controlled temperature regulation, a thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor, and a high-humidity incubation environment work together to create optimal conditions for healthy cell growth over extended incubation periods. Thermo Scientific's directed horizontal laminar airflow system promotes excellent temperature and gas uniformity throughout the chamber, helping minimize variation between shelves and ensuring consistent incubation performance across large sample loads.
A defining feature of this configuration is its five internal plexiglass compartment doors, which significantly reduce environmental disruption during routine access. Instead of exposing the full chamber whenever samples are retrieved, researchers can open only the desired compartment while the remaining sections retain stable temperature, humidity, and CO₂ levels. This compartmentalized design shortens recovery times, improves culture consistency, and helps protect valuable cell lines during busy laboratory workflows.
Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Typical Cell Types and Laboratory Applications
The Forma 3950 supports a wide variety of mammalian cell culture applications across biotechnology, pharmaceutical, clinical, and academic laboratories. Typical cell types include CHO cells, HEK293 cells, hybridomas, fibroblasts, stem cells, primary mammalian cells, epithelial cells, lymphocyte cultures, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and other anchorage-dependent or suspension cultures requiring a stable carbon dioxide incubation environment.
Researchers commonly use the incubator for monoclonal antibody production, recombinant protein expression, regenerative medicine, vaccine development, cancer biology, tissue engineering, cell therapy research, drug discovery, toxicology studies, clinical research, and long-term maintenance of valuable cell lines where environmental stability is critical to reproducible experimental outcomes.
Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific
Model
Forma 3950
Equipment Type
Reach-In CO₂ Incubator
Chamber Capacity
29 cu. ft. (821 L)
Temperature Range
Ambient +5°C to 60°C
CO₂ Control Range
0–20%
CO₂ Sensor
Thermal Conductivity (T/C)
Relative Humidity
Selectable >80% or >90% RH
Airflow System
Directed Horizontal Laminar Airflow
Chamber Construction
Stainless Steel
Door Configuration
Heated Triple-Pane Glass Door with 5 Internal Plexiglass Doors
Standard Shelves
5 Adjustable Stainless Steel Shelves
Water System
Automatic or Manual Fill
Access Ports
Dual Instrument Access Ports
Electrical Requirements
115V
Weight
Approximately 650 lb (295 kg)
Specifications are compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information. Certain specifications may vary depending on production year and installed factory options. Please verify installation requirements and included accessories prior to purchase.
Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the internal plexiglass doors beneficial?
The five internal compartment doors allow researchers to access only the section of the incubator containing their samples. This minimizes the loss of heat, humidity, and carbon dioxide from the remaining chamber, helping maintain more stable incubation conditions and reducing environmental recovery times.
What types of cell cultures is the Forma 3950 designed for?
The Forma 3950 is commonly used for CHO cells, HEK293 cells, hybridomas, stem cells, primary mammalian cells, fibroblasts, epithelial cells, tissue engineering, vaccine development, and numerous other mammalian cell culture applications requiring controlled CO₂ incubation.
What is the advantage of a thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor?
A thermal conductivity sensor provides dependable CO₂ measurement over a broad operating range and has been widely used in laboratory incubators for years. It offers stable environmental control for routine mammalian cell culture and many general laboratory applications.
Why is horizontal laminar airflow important?
Directed horizontal laminar airflow distributes conditioned air evenly throughout the chamber, helping maintain consistent temperature and carbon dioxide concentrations across every shelf while minimizing localized environmental variations.
Can the incubator support multiple research projects simultaneously?
Yes. The large 821-liter chamber, adjustable shelving, and compartmentalized interior make the Forma 3950 well suited for laboratories maintaining multiple cell lines or independent research projects within a single incubator.
Is this incubator appropriate for long-term mammalian cell culture?
Yes. The combination of stable temperature control, regulated carbon dioxide concentration, high humidity capability, and compartmentalized access makes the Forma 3950 an excellent platform for long-duration cell culture experiments.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Thermo Scientific Forma 3950 Reach-In CO₂ Incubator from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a high-capacity cell culture platform at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring an 821-liter chamber, 0–20% CO₂ control, thermal conductivity sensing, high-humidity operation, five internal plexiglass compartment doors, and directed horizontal laminar airflow, the Forma 3950 is an outstanding choice for biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and advanced mammalian cell culture applications. Every unit is thoroughly inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
Click here to see the Thermo Forma 3950 on the American Instrument Exchange 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.
