Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO2 Incubator

Product Code : SKU 3180O INC

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Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator – Unused

These Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO2 Incubators have not been utilized in a laboratory setting. They were unpacked here in order to verify their functionality, but otherwise have never been used.

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Thermo Heracell VIOS 160i Incubator (Used & Refurbished) – Specs, Review & Comparison

Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator

Cell culture success depends on maintaining a stable, contamination-free environment where temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, humidity, and air quality remain tightly controlled. The Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator (Catalog No. 51033546) was engineered for laboratories culturing valuable mammalian cells, stem cells, primary cells, and other sensitive biological samples that demand exceptional environmental consistency and contamination protection. Featuring a 100% solid copper interior chamber, integrated HEPA filtration, active airflow management, and Thermo Scientific's proven Steri-Run 180°C decontamination cycle, the VIOS 160i LK provides an ideal environment for advanced cell culture applications.

Unlike conventional stainless steel incubators, the LK version incorporates a solid copper interior that provides continuous passive antimicrobial protection while maintaining the same precision temperature and CO₂ regulation that has made the Heracell VIOS platform a trusted choice throughout pharmaceutical, biotechnology, clinical, and academic research laboratories. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium cell culture performance at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment.

Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator Key Features

165 L (5.8 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
100% solid copper interior chamber
TC180 thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor
Temperature range: Ambient +3°C to 55°C
CO₂ control with automatic humidity compensation
ISO Class 5 in-chamber HEPA filtration
THRIVE active airflow technology
Steri-Run 180°C overnight decontamination cycle
Direct-heated humidity reservoir
iCAN touchscreen controller
Three adjustable stainless steel shelves included
Accommodates up to eleven shelves
Reversible exterior door
Stackable design
120V, 50/60 Hz operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange

Designed for Advanced Cell Culture

The Heracell VIOS 160i LK was developed for laboratories where contamination control and environmental stability are critical to successful cell culture. Digital temperature regulation, precise CO₂ control, active humidification, and HEPA-filtered airflow work together to create an optimized environment for sensitive mammalian cell lines while minimizing recovery times following routine door openings.

The 100% solid copper interior provides an additional level of passive contamination control without requiring special coatings or chemical treatments. Combined with the automated high-temperature Steri-Run decontamination cycle and continuously operating HEPA filtration system, the incubator helps reduce microbial contamination risks while simplifying routine laboratory maintenance.

Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i Common Applications

The Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK is commonly used for:

Mammalian cell culture
Primary cell culture
Stem cell research
Cancer biology
Immunology research
Regenerative medicine
Gene therapy development
Vaccine research
Pharmaceutical drug discovery
Biopharmaceutical process development
Clinical research
Academic life science research

Cell culture laboratories commonly pair CO₂ incubators with biosafety cabinets for aseptic handling, laboratory refrigerators and freezers for media and reagent storage, ultralow temperature freezers for long-term cryopreservation, and centrifuges for routine sample preparation and harvesting.

Ideal Laboratory Environments for the Thermo 160i

The Heracell VIOS 160i LK is an excellent choice for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, academic research institutions, hospital research laboratories, cell therapy facilities, regenerative medicine programs, contract research organizations, and government laboratories. Its advanced contamination control features make it particularly valuable for laboratories culturing irreplaceable cell lines or operating shared cell culture facilities.

Why Choose a Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator?

Copper has long been recognized for its natural antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent material for laboratory environments where contamination control is a top priority. The Heracell VIOS 160i LK utilizes a 100% solid copper chamber, providing continuous passive antimicrobial protection throughout the interior without relying solely on periodic decontamination cycles.

When combined with ISO Class 5 HEPA filtration, THRIVE active airflow technology, direct-heated humidification, and the integrated 180°C Steri-Run sterilization program, the copper chamber forms part of a comprehensive contamination control strategy that helps protect valuable cultures while reducing maintenance requirements. For laboratories culturing sensitive primary cells, stem cells, or other high-value biological materials, this added level of protection can significantly improve confidence in long-term culture integrity.

Performance and Environmental Stability

The Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK is designed to maintain the stable environmental conditions required for successful cell culture while minimizing the risk of contamination. Advanced microprocessor controls continuously regulate temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, humidity, and airflow, helping laboratories achieve consistent culture conditions throughout long incubation periods. Rapid recovery following routine door openings allows valuable cell cultures to return to setpoint conditions quickly, reducing stress on sensitive samples and improving experimental reproducibility.

The incubator combines a direct-heated chamber, active airflow management, and a high-efficiency HEPA filtration system to maintain a clean growth environment. Together with the solid copper chamber and automated 180°C decontamination cycle, these features help reduce contamination risk while providing the environmental consistency required for demanding cell culture applications.

Typical Cell Types and Research Applications

The Heracell VIOS 160i LK supports a broad range of cell culture applications across research, clinical, and biopharmaceutical laboratories. It is commonly used for mammalian cell lines, primary cells, stem cells, induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), hybridomas, cancer cell lines, fibroblasts, epithelial cells, immune cells, and other temperature-sensitive cultures requiring tightly controlled incubation conditions.

Researchers also utilize the incubator for gene editing, cell therapy development, monoclonal antibody production, vaccine research, regenerative medicine, toxicology studies, virology, microbiology, tissue engineering, and pharmaceutical drug discovery. Its excellent contamination control features make it particularly well suited for laboratories culturing valuable or irreplaceable cell lines.

Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Thermo Scientific
Model	Heracell VIOS 160i LK
Catalog Number	51033546
Equipment Type	CO₂ Incubator
Chamber Capacity	165 L (5.8 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range	Ambient +3°C to 55°C
Temperature Uniformity	±0.3°C at 37°C
Temperature Variation Over Time	±0.1°C at 37°C
CO₂ Control Range	0–20%
CO₂ Sensor	TC180 Thermal Conductivity
Humidity System	Direct-Heated Water Reservoir
Interior Chamber	100% Solid Copper
HEPA Filtration	ISO Class 5 In-Chamber Air Quality
Standard Shelves	3
Maximum Shelf Capacity	11
Internal Dimensions	18.3 × 24.7 × 26.5 in. (W × D × H)
External Dimensions	25.2 × 31.0 × 34.8 in. (W × D × H)
Electrical Requirements	120V, 50/60 Hz
Weight	Approximately 185 lb

Specifications are compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer documentation. Certain specifications may vary depending on production year and factory-installed options. Please verify installation requirements prior to purchase.

Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator Frequently Asked Questions

What is the advantage of a copper-lined incubator?

Solid copper naturally inhibits microbial growth on interior chamber surfaces, providing continuous passive antimicrobial protection. Combined with HEPA filtration and high-temperature decontamination, the copper chamber helps reduce contamination risks for sensitive cell cultures.

What types of cells can be cultured in the Heracell VIOS 160i LK?

The incubator is ideal for mammalian cell lines, primary cells, stem cells, hybridomas, cancer cell lines, immune cells, fibroblasts, epithelial cells, and many other research cultures requiring tightly controlled incubation conditions.

How does the TC180 thermal conductivity sensor benefit cell culture?

The TC180 sensor provides accurate and stable CO₂ measurement while recovering quickly after door openings. It is well suited for humidified incubator environments and requires less routine maintenance than some infrared sensor designs.

Does the incubator include HEPA filtration?

Yes. The Heracell VIOS 160i LK continuously circulates chamber air through an integrated HEPA filter that maintains ISO Class 5 air quality, helping remove airborne contaminants before they reach valuable cultures.

How is the incubator decontaminated?

The incubator includes an automated 180°C high-temperature decontamination cycle that sterilizes the chamber interior without requiring removal of the copper lining or major internal components, simplifying routine maintenance.

Why choose the copper-lined model instead of the stainless steel version?

Both models provide excellent environmental control, but the LK version adds the antimicrobial benefits of a solid copper chamber. Laboratories working with valuable cell lines or maintaining multiple ongoing research projects often choose the copper-lined version for its enhanced contamination protection.

Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?

A refurbished Thermo Scientific Heracell VIOS 160i LK Copper-Lined CO₂ Incubator from American Instrument Exchange delivers premium cell culture performance at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring a 165-liter chamber, 100% solid copper interior, TC180 thermal conductivity CO₂ sensor, ISO Class 5 HEPA filtration, and an integrated 180°C decontamination cycle, the VIOS 160i LK provides the environmental stability and contamination control required by modern research laboratories. 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.

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.