Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i CO₂ Incubator (Model 5102406)

Brand : Thermo

Product Code : SKU 3180T INC

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Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i CO₂ Incubator (Model 5102406)

Maintaining consistent incubation conditions is essential for reproducible cell culture, whether laboratories are expanding research cell lines, developing biologics, or performing routine quality control testing. The Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i CO₂ Incubator (Model 5102406) is designed to provide stable temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide control while simplifying routine laboratory operation. Featuring a 150-liter (5.3 cu. ft.) chamber, air-jacket heating, infrared CO₂ monitoring, and the proven ContraCon 90°C moist heat decontamination system, the Heracell 150i delivers the environmental stability required for demanding mammalian cell culture applications.

Engineered for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, and clinical laboratories, the Heracell 150i combines responsive environmental controls with a durable electropolished stainless steel chamber to support healthy cell growth over extended incubation periods. Rapid recovery following routine door openings helps minimize disruptions to culture conditions, while the integrated humidity system reduces media evaporation during long-term experiments. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i from American Instrument Exchange allows laboratories to acquire a proven research-grade CO₂ incubator at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment.

Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i Key Features

150 L (5.3 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Air-jacket heating system
Temperature range: Ambient +3°C to 55°C
Infrared CO₂ sensor
CO₂ control range: 0–20%
ContraCon 90°C moist heat decontamination
Rapid humidity recovery system
Electropolished stainless steel chamber
Heated inner glass observation door
Three stainless steel shelves (expandable)
Microprocessor digital controller
RS-232 communication port
120V electrical operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange

Built for Consistent Cell Culture Performance

The Heracell 150i is engineered to maintain stable environmental conditions throughout routine laboratory operation. Its air-jacket heating system promotes uniform temperature distribution while minimizing thermal fluctuations after door openings. Combined with precise infrared CO₂ monitoring and an integrated humidity reservoir, the incubator helps preserve the conditions required for reliable mammalian cell growth and reproducible experimental results. Infrared sensing provides accurate long-term CO₂ measurement with minimal calibration drift and excellent performance under high-humidity operating conditions.

To simplify routine maintenance, the incubator incorporates the ContraCon moist heat decontamination cycle, which heats chamber surfaces to approximately 90°C during an automated cleaning program. This process helps reduce biological contamination without relying on chemical disinfectants, while the smooth electropolished stainless steel interior allows routine cleaning between studies. Together, these features help laboratories maintain cleaner incubation environments while minimizing downtime.

Common Applications

The Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i is commonly used for:

Mammalian cell culture
Stem cell research
Hybridoma production
Cancer biology
Tissue engineering
Regenerative medicine
Vaccine development
Biopharmaceutical research
Gene therapy research
Toxicology studies
Pharmaceutical quality control
Routine cell line maintenance

The Heracell 150i integrates easily into complete cell culture workflows. Biosafety cabinets provide sterile workspaces for media preparation and aseptic transfers before incubation, while laboratory refrigerators store media, sera, antibiotics, and reagents. Laboratory freezers preserve biological samples and working cell banks, ultralow-temperature freezers provide long-term cryogenic sample storage, and centrifuges support routine cell harvesting, washing, and downstream sample preparation.

Ideal Laboratory Environments

The Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i is well suited for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, university research laboratories, hospital research facilities, clinical laboratories, contract research organizations, and regenerative medicine centers. Its chamber capacity, dependable environmental control, and contamination management features make it an excellent choice for laboratories performing routine cell culture alongside advanced biomedical research.

Why Choose the Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i?

The Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i combines proven incubation performance with dependable contamination control in a platform trusted by research laboratories around the world. Its stable air-jacket heating system, infrared CO₂ sensing, integrated humidity management, and automated ContraCon decontamination cycle help create an environment that supports healthy cell growth while simplifying routine laboratory maintenance.

Whether supporting stem cell research, vaccine development, pharmaceutical discovery, tissue engineering, or routine mammalian cell culture, the Heracell 150i provides the precision, reliability, and ease of operation required for modern cell culture laboratories.

Performance and Environmental Stability

The Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i is engineered to provide the stable environmental conditions required for successful mammalian cell culture. Its air-jacket heating system distributes heat evenly throughout the chamber while minimizing temperature gradients that can affect sensitive cultures. Following routine door openings, the incubator rapidly restores programmed temperature and carbon dioxide levels, reducing environmental stress on cells and helping maintain consistent experimental conditions throughout extended incubation periods.

An integrated infrared CO₂ sensor continuously monitors chamber conditions and provides highly accurate carbon dioxide regulation with minimal long-term calibration drift. Because infrared sensing is unaffected by chamber humidity, the system maintains dependable CO₂ control even during prolonged high-humidity operation. The integrated heated water reservoir helps maintain elevated humidity levels that reduce evaporation of culture media, preserving nutrient concentrations and helping maintain stable pH throughout long-term cell culture experiments.

The insulated outer door and heated internal glass observation door further improve environmental stability by allowing users to visually inspect cultures without exposing the chamber to unnecessary temperature and CO₂ loss. Together, these features create a controlled environment suitable for both routine laboratory work and demanding research applications.

Typical Cell Types and Laboratory Applications

The Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i supports a broad range of mammalian cell culture applications performed throughout biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, and clinical laboratories. Common cell types include CHO cells, HEK293 cells, HeLa cells, Vero cells, BHK cells, hybridomas, fibroblasts, epithelial cells, mesenchymal stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells, primary mammalian cells, and numerous adherent and suspension cell lines.

Typical applications include recombinant protein production, monoclonal antibody development, vaccine research, gene therapy studies, regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, cancer biology, virology, toxicology testing, pharmaceutical research, drug discovery, and routine expansion and maintenance of research cell cultures. The 150-liter chamber offers sufficient capacity for multiple culture vessels while maintaining a compact footprint suitable for most cell culture laboratories.

Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Thermo Scientific
Model	Heracell 150i (5102406)
Equipment Type	CO₂ Incubator
Chamber Capacity	150 L (5.3 cu. ft.)
Exterior Dimensions	26.7" W × 28.8" D × 39.9" H
Interior Dimensions	18.3" W × 20.0" D × 25.2" H
Weight	Approximately 185 lbs
Temperature Range	Ambient +3°C to 55°C
CO₂ Control Range	0%–20%
CO₂ Sensor	Infrared (IR)
Heating System	Air Jacket
Humidity System	Integrated Heated Water Reservoir
Decontamination	ContraCon 90°C Moist Heat Cycle
Chamber Material	Electropolished Stainless Steel
Inner Door	Heated Glass Observation Door
Shelves	Three Stainless Steel Shelves (Expandable to Ten)
Communication	RS-232
Electrical Requirements	120V, 60 Hz

Specifications are compiled from manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information. Specifications may vary depending on production year and installed options. Please verify chamber dimensions, electrical requirements, shelf configuration, and included accessories prior to purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of cell culture work is the Heracell 150i best suited for?

The Heracell 150i is designed for routine and advanced mammalian cell culture, including stem cell research, hybridoma production, recombinant protein expression, vaccine development, cancer biology, regenerative medicine, and pharmaceutical research.

Why does the incubator use an infrared CO₂ sensor?

The infrared sensor provides accurate, long-term CO₂ measurement with minimal calibration drift and is not affected by the high humidity levels maintained inside the chamber. This helps ensure stable culture conditions throughout extended incubation periods.

How does the ContraCon decontamination system work?

ContraCon uses an automated 90°C moist heat cycle to decontaminate the chamber and internal components. The process helps reduce biological contamination without requiring chemical disinfectants, simplifying routine maintenance between research projects.

What advantages does an air-jacket incubator provide?

Air-jacket heating offers excellent temperature uniformity while providing efficient recovery after door openings. It also reduces hot spots within the chamber, helping create a consistent environment for sensitive cell cultures.

Is the Heracell 150i appropriate for long-term cell culture experiments?

Yes. Its stable temperature regulation, accurate CO₂ control, integrated humidity management, and rapid environmental recovery make it well suited for long-duration mammalian cell culture and other applications requiring highly reproducible incubation conditions.

Which laboratories most commonly use this incubator?

The Heracell 150i is widely used by biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, university research laboratories, hospital research centers, contract research organizations, clinical laboratories, and regenerative medicine facilities.

Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i from American Instrument Exchange?

A refurbished Thermo Scientific Heracell 150i from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with a dependable, research-grade CO₂ incubator at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring a 150-liter chamber, air-jacket heating, infrared CO₂ sensing, ContraCon 90°C moist heat decontamination, and a durable electropolished stainless steel chamber, the Heracell 150i is an excellent choice for biotechnology, pharmaceutical, academic, and clinical laboratories. Every unit is thoroughly inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.

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.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

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.