The Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator is a premium cell culture incubator engineered for laboratories where contamination control is as important as precise environmental stability. Featuring a 165-liter (5.8 cu. ft.) chamber, a 100% solid copper interior, infrared CO₂ sensing, THRIVE active airflow technology, continuous HEPA filtration, and Thermo Scientific's Steri-Run 180°C sterilization cycle, the VIOS 160i provides an exceptionally clean and stable environment for sensitive mammalian cell cultures, stem cells, organoids, and other valuable biological samples.
Unlike conventional stainless steel incubators, the copper-lined VIOS 160i combines active contamination-control technologies with the natural antimicrobial properties of solid copper. The result is an incubator designed to help reduce microbial growth on chamber surfaces while maintaining outstanding temperature, humidity, and CO₂ stability throughout long-term culture experiments. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i Copper Incubator from American Instrument Exchange allows laboratories to obtain one of Thermo Scientific's flagship incubation platforms at a significant savings compared to purchasing new equipment.
Key Features
165 L (5.8 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
100% solid copper interior chamber
Temperature range from ambient +3°C to 55°C
CO₂ control range from 1% to 20%
Infrared CO₂ sensor
THRIVE active airflow system
Recovery of temperature, humidity, and CO₂ in approximately 10 minutes or less
Continuous in-chamber HEPA filtration
Chamber air filtered approximately every 60 seconds
ISO Class 5 chamber air quality achieved within approximately five minutes
Relative humidity greater than 93% at 37°C
Protected integrated humidity reservoir
Steri-Run 180°C automated sterilization cycle
iCAN touchscreen controller
USB and remote alarm outputs
Adjustable perforated shelving
Reversible exterior door
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Critical Cell Culture Applications
The Heracell VIOS 160i Copper was developed for laboratories performing contamination-sensitive research where maintaining sterile culture conditions is essential. The 165-liter chamber provides substantial culture capacity while occupying a relatively compact footprint, making it suitable for individual laboratories as well as shared research facilities.
Its defining feature is the 100% solid copper chamber. Copper has long been recognized for its natural antimicrobial properties, helping suppress microbial growth on chamber surfaces between routine cleaning cycles. When combined with continuous HEPA filtration, active airflow management, and automated high-temperature sterilization, the copper chamber provides multiple independent layers of contamination protection that help safeguard valuable cultures.
Many laboratories pair the Heracell VIOS 160i with biosafety cabinets for aseptic cell handling, centrifuges for harvesting cultured cells, laboratory refrigerators for media and reagent storage, and ultra-low freezers for long-term preservation of valuable cell banks.
Common Applications
The Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i Copper Incubator is commonly used for:
Mammalian cell culture
Stem cell culture
Primary cell isolation
Cell and gene therapy research
Tissue engineering
Organoid culture
Cancer research
Vaccine development
Monoclonal antibody production
Pharmaceutical research
Biologics development
Clinical and translational research
The combination of precise environmental control and advanced contamination prevention makes the incubator particularly valuable for laboratories working with irreplaceable cultures or long-duration experiments.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Heracell VIOS 160i Copper is frequently installed in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical research laboratories, university core facilities, academic medical centers, hospital research laboratories, regenerative medicine programs, contract research organizations, and government research laboratories. It is especially well suited for laboratories processing multiple cell lines simultaneously or working with sensitive primary cultures where minimizing contamination risk is a top operational priority.
Temperature Recovery and Environmental Stability
Stable environmental conditions are essential for maintaining healthy cell cultures. The VIOS 160i utilizes THRIVE active airflow technology to gently circulate clean, humidified air throughout the chamber, maintaining highly uniform temperature, humidity, and CO₂ concentrations across every shelf.
The circulation fan automatically pauses whenever the door is opened to reduce unnecessary air exchange and resumes immediately after the door closes. Under specified operating conditions, the incubator restores temperature, humidity, and CO₂ concentrations within approximately ten minutes following routine access. This rapid recovery helps minimize cellular stress while improving experimental reproducibility.
The infrared CO₂ sensor operates across a range of 1% to 20% CO₂ and maintains accurate gas regulation without being affected by chamber humidity. This contributes to stable media pH and consistent growth conditions throughout extended incubation periods.
Contamination Control
The copper-lined VIOS 160i incorporates several independent contamination-control technologies designed to work together.
The 100% solid copper chamber provides passive antimicrobial protection by discouraging microbial survival on chamber surfaces. Unlike coated materials or antimicrobial additives, the entire chamber is constructed from solid copper, allowing these properties to remain effective throughout the life of the incubator.
Continuous HEPA filtration removes airborne particulates by filtering the complete chamber air volume approximately once every minute. Within approximately five minutes, the chamber achieves ISO Class 5 air quality under specified operating conditions. The protected humidity reservoir further reduces contamination opportunities by minimizing exposure of the chamber water supply while maintaining humidity above 93% RH at 37°C.
For scheduled maintenance or following suspected contamination, the Steri-Run cycle automatically raises chamber temperature to 180°C to sterilize chamber surfaces without chemical disinfectants.
Sample Storage Recommendations
The 165-liter chamber accommodates a wide variety of culture vessels, including T-flasks, multiwell plates, culture dishes, roller bottles, spinner flasks, suspension cultures, stem cell cultures, organoids, primary cell cultures, tissue-engineered constructs, and other standard laboratory cell culture containers. Three standard adjustable perforated shelves, expandable to as many as ten shelves, provide flexibility for laboratories with changing workflow requirements while maintaining unrestricted airflow throughout the chamber.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
The Heracell VIOS 160i combines direct chamber heating with intelligent airflow management to reduce unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining stable incubation conditions. The protected humidity reservoir minimizes water loss, while the infrared CO₂ sensor delivers accurate gas regulation that helps reduce unnecessary CO₂ consumption. Laboratories operating incubators continuously can benefit from lower utility usage while maintaining premium environmental performance.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific
Model
Heracell VIOS 160i Copper
American Instrument SKU
3180SSS INC
Chamber Capacity
165 L (5.8 cu. ft.)
Chamber Material
100% Solid Copper
Temperature Range
Ambient +3°C to 55°C
CO₂ Control Range
1% to 20%
CO₂ Sensor
Infrared
Relative Humidity
>93% RH at 37°C
Air Circulation
THRIVE Active Airflow
Air Filtration
Continuous HEPA Filtration
Air Quality
ISO Class 5
Sterilization
Steri-Run 180°C Cycle
Interior Dimensions
18.5" W × 22.7" D × 23.9" H
Exterior Dimensions
25.1" W × 34.6" D × 35.4" H
Shelves
3 standard / 10 maximum
Maximum Shelf Load
22 lb per shelf
Total Shelf Capacity
66 lb
Access Port
42 mm diameter
Data Outputs
USB, Remote Alarm, Optional 4–20 mA
Weight
183 lb
Electrical
120 V, 50/60 Hz
Specifications are believed to be accurate but may vary depending on factory-installed options. Please verify all specifications prior to purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose the copper-lined VIOS 160i instead of the stainless steel model?
The primary advantage is the 100% solid copper chamber, which provides passive antimicrobial protection in addition to the incubator's HEPA filtration and 180°C sterilization system. Laboratories performing highly contamination-sensitive cell culture often prefer copper chambers because they provide another layer of defense against microbial growth.
What is the chamber capacity?
The VIOS 160i Copper provides 165 liters (5.8 cubic feet) of usable incubation space with three standard adjustable shelves and support for up to ten shelves.
How quickly does the incubator recover after the door is opened?
Thermo Scientific specifies recovery of key environmental parameters within approximately ten minutes under standard operating conditions using THRIVE active airflow and infrared CO₂ control.
Does the incubator include high-temperature sterilization?
Yes. The VIOS 160i includes the automated Steri-Run 180°C chamber sterilization cycle for thorough decontamination without chemical disinfectants.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i Copper Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Heracell VIOS 160i Copper delivers premium incubation performance, advanced contamination control, and a solid copper chamber at a significant savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Every unit is inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
CLICK HEREto see the Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i copper-lined CO2 incubator on our YouTube channel
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished CO₂ Laboratory Incubators Ensure Atmosphere Control, Temperature Accuracy, and Regulatory Compliance
At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished CO₂ incubators undergo a multi-step testing and calibration process. These procedures are designed to ensure precise environmental control, microbial safety, and long-term reliability—critical for cell culture, IVF, tissue engineering, and pharmaceutical R&D applications.
Why Testing Used CO₂ Incubators Is Essential
Before a CO₂ incubator is redeployed into a laboratory, it must be thoroughly tested for:
• CO₂ sensor accuracy and gas concentration control
• Temperature uniformity and stability
• Humidity system function
• HEPA filtration and contamination control
• Electrical and safety compliance
Proper testing ensures viable growth environments for sensitive cultures and prevents costly contamination or culture loss in high-stakes lab environments.
Our standardized refurbishment protocol ensures used CO₂ incubators deliver laboratory grade performance at a fraction of the cost of comparable new units.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used CO₂ Incubators
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect the exterior for corrosion, dents, or door alignment issues
• Check door gasket integrity and hinge function
• Verify presence and condition of internal shelves, water pans, and humidity trays
• Examine power cords, gas connectors, and display interfaces for signs of wear
2. Functional Startup Test
• Power on the unit and check for successful system boot
• Verify touchscreen or keypad response, and test all user-programmable settings
• Check door alarms and temperature/CO₂ alerts
3. Temperature Control and Uniformity Testing
• Use temperature probes to verify internal temperature accuracy
• Monitor temperature uniformity across multiple chamber zones
• Ensure fast recovery times after door openings
4. CO₂ Sensor Testing and Gas Delivery System Test
• Test accuracy of infrared (IR) or thermal conductivity (TC) CO₂ sensors using certified reference gas and probes/Fyrite analyzers
• Test inlet pressure regulators and gas flow control systems
• Confirm stable CO₂ levels at multiple setpoints (e.g., 5%, 10%)
• Check for proper mixing and diffusion throughout the chamber
5. Humidity and Contamination Control Testing
• Test humidity generation (via water pan or active system) and verify chamber RH levels
• Inspect HEPA filters (if equipped) and airflow systems for particulate control
• Sanitize interior and confirm antimicrobial coatings or copper components are intact
6. Electrical Safety and Compliance Check
• Ensure proper grounding and insulation of all electrical components
• Perform leak and continuity testing
• Verify the unit meets electrical safety standards for laboratory environments
7. Final Quality Assurance and Performance Validation
• Run a 24-hour performance cycle with monitored CO₂, temperature, and RH
• Document data and final readings
• Complete service report
All refurbished CO₂ incubators sold by American Instrument Exchange are tested to meet the performance demands of today's advanced laboratory workflows—ensuring safety, precision, and peace of mind with every unit.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Incubators Performance and Quality from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used laboratory incubator we sell goes through a repair and refurbishment protocol. Whether it’s a standard, CO₂, or refrigerated incubator, our goal is to restore each unit to laboratory-level performance—ensuring temperature accuracy, environmental stability, and long-term reliability in your lab.
Why Choose a Refurbished Laboratory Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for performance and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• Cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through reuse and restoration
• Refurbished by expert technicians with decades of lab equipment experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every incubator at American Instrument Exchange follows this comprehensive, multi-stage process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Visual inspection for cosmetic wear, corrosion, dents, or broken components
• Mechanical assessment of door hinges, gaskets, seals, and chamber components
• Document any missing parts or issues requiring repair or replacement
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Thorough internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive solutions
• Decontamination/cleaning of surfaces to remove biological, chemical, or particulate residue
• Cleaning of removable parts (e.g., shelves, trays, etc.)
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Repair or replacement of worn mechanical components such as door latches, fans, hinges, and seals
• Evaluation and repair of control panels, switches, thermostats, and displays
• Inspection and testing of wiring, fuses, relays, and power supplies
4. Environmental Control System Assessment
• For CO₂ incubators: CO₂ sensors, regulators, and gas delivery systems are tested
• For refrigerated incubators: compressors, condensers, and cooling systems are evaluated for performance and leaks
• Fan motors and airflow systems are tested to ensure uniform environmental conditions
5. Temperature and Sensor Testing
• All temperature sensors and controllers are tested using thermometers/probes
• Uniformity and accuracy tested at multiple chamber locations
• For humidified or CO₂ incubators, humidity and CO₂ stability are verified
6. Safety System Testing
• Test of over-temperature protection systems and alarms
• Evaluation of door sensors, safety interlocks, and power failure recovery
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Full performance test run over 24 hours
• Validation of setpoints for temperature, CO₂ (if applicable), and humidity (if applicable)
• Final inspection and cleaning before packaging
• Complete service report
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted source for high-quality refurbished laboratory incubators. Our proven refurbishment protocol ensures every unit is reliable, accurate, and ready to meet the demands of your lab from day one.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
