The Thermo Scientific Heraguard ECO 1.8 Laminar Flow Clean Bench is designed to provide ISO Class 5 clean air conditions for applications requiring product protection from airborne contamination. Utilizing horizontal laminar airflow and HEPA filtration, the Heraguard ECO 1.8 creates a clean work environment for media preparation, sterile assembly, pharmaceutical compounding, electronics manufacturing, and other contamination-sensitive procedures. This refurbished Thermo Scientific Heraguard ECO 1.8 from American Instrument Exchange offers a cost-effective alternative to new equipment while delivering the clean airflow performance required for critical laboratory workflows.
The Heraguard ECO 1.8 is engineered for laboratories and production environments where product protection is critical but personnel protection is not required. The cabinet generates a continuous stream of HEPA-filtered horizontal airflow across the work area, helping prevent airborne contaminants from contacting sensitive samples and materials. Thermo Scientific's ECO platform utilizes energy-efficient DC motors that reduce power consumption and heat output while maintaining stable airflow performance. The spacious 6-foot work area allows users to work with larger assemblies, multiple samples, or high-throughput workflows while maintaining validated clean air conditions.
Common Applications for the Thermo Scientific Heraguard ECO 1.8 Laminar Flow Clean Bench
The Heraguard ECO 1.8 is commonly used for sterile media preparation, non-hazardous cell culture preparation, pharmaceutical compounding, microbiological sample preparation, optical component assembly, electronics manufacturing, medical device assembly, and laboratory procedures requiring product protection from airborne particulates. Clean benches are frequently selected for workflows where maintaining sample cleanliness is the primary objective.
Ideal Lab Types for the Thermo Scientific Heraguard ECO 1.8 Laminar Flow Clean Bench
This clean bench is well suited for pharmaceutical laboratories, biotechnology companies, hospital laboratories, medical device manufacturers, electronics facilities, cleanroom environments, university research laboratories, and industrial quality control departments. Facilities utilizing biosafety cabinets, incubators, centrifuges, and laboratory refrigerators often incorporate laminar flow clean benches into contamination-sensitive workflows.
Specifications compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature, distributor technical references, and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Refurbishment and Testing Process
At American Instrument Exchange, each refurbished clean bench is inspected and evaluated by our technicians prior to shipment. Testing procedures may include blower operation verification, control panel functionality testing, lighting inspection, airflow assessment, sash and side panel evaluation, electrical safety checks, and general operational testing. Unless otherwise specified, HEPA filters are inspected and evaluated prior to shipment. Components showing excessive wear are addressed as needed to help ensure reliable operation. Final cleaning and inspection are completed before packaging and shipment.
Shipping and Installation Considerations
The Thermo Scientific Heraguard ECO 1.8 requires adequate laboratory space to accommodate its 6-foot footprint and should be installed away from HVAC vents, doorways, and other sources of airflow disruption. Buyers should verify doorway clearances, hallway dimensions, elevator access, and electrical requirements before delivery. Depending on laboratory requirements, airflow testing and certification may be recommended following installation.
Related Laboratory Equipment
Laboratories purchasing laminar flow clean benches often also require biosafety cabinets, CO₂ incubators, centrifuges, laboratory refrigerators, and freezers. American Instrument Exchange offers a wide selection of refurbished laboratory equipment to support cell culture, sample preparation, contamination control, and research workflows.
No. The Heraguard ECO 1.8 is a laminar flow clean bench designed to protect products and samples from contamination. It does not provide personnel or environmental protection and should not be used with hazardous biological materials.
What cleanliness level does the cabinet provide?
The Heraguard ECO 1.8 is designed to achieve ISO Class 5 clean air conditions within the work area and meets EU GMP Grade A environmental requirements.
Why are DC motors used in the Heraguard ECO series?
The dual DC motor design reduces energy consumption, lowers heat output into the laboratory, and helps maintain stable airflow performance while minimizing operating costs.
What applications are best suited for a clean bench?
Clean benches are commonly used for sterile media preparation, non-hazardous cell culture preparation, pharmaceutical compounding, electronics assembly, and other applications where product protection is required.
What warranty is included?
This refurbished Thermo Scientific Heraguard ECO 1.8 Laminar Flow Clean Bench includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Click here to see a video of this clean bench on our YouTube channel.
What is the Thermo Heraguard ECO 1.8 laminar flow clean bench?
The Thermo Heraguard ECO 1.8 is a horizontal laminar flow clean bench that provides HEPA-filtered air across a 1.8-meter workspace to protect samples from contamination. It is designed for product protection only, making it ideal for sterile, non-hazardous laboratory applications.
How does the Thermo Heraguard ECO 1.8 laminar flow clean bench work?
A laminar flow clean bench works by pulling air through a HEPA filter and pushing it in a smooth, uniform stream across the work surface. This continuous airflow removes airborne particles and maintains a clean, ISO-class environment for sensitive materials.
What is the difference between a clean bench and a biosafety cabinet?
A clean bench protects the product only, while a biosafety cabinet protects the product, user, and environment. The Thermo Heraguard ECO 1.8 should not be used with hazardous or infectious materials because airflow is directed toward the operator.
The “1.8” refers to its 1.8-meter (approximately 6-foot) working width, providing a large workspace for handling multiple samples or instruments at once. This size is ideal for high-throughput laboratory environments.
What are the key features of the Heraguard ECO 1.8 clean bench?
Key features include:
High-efficiency HEPA filtration
Energy-saving DC blower motor
Quiet operation (<55 dBA)
Uniform airflow distribution
Integrated lighting and outlets
These features ensure reliable contamination control and efficient lab operation.
What is a HEPA filter and why is it important?
A HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter removes at least 99.97% of particles ≥0.3 microns, ensuring clean airflow. In the Heraguard ECO 1.8, it is essential for maintaining a contamination-free workspace.
What applications is the Heraguard ECO 1.8 best for?
This clean bench is ideal for:
Cell culture (non-hazardous)
Media preparation
Pharmaceutical compounding
Electronics assembly
Microbiology research
It is widely used wherever product sterility is critical.
What maintenance does a laminar flow clean bench require?
Regular maintenance ensures consistent performance and compliance with lab standards.
Where should a laminar flow clean bench be installed?
Install the unit in a low-traffic, draft-free area away from doors, vents, or HVAC airflow disruptions. Proper placement is essential to maintain laminar airflow and prevent contamination.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Biosafety Cabinets
Ensure Containment, Airflow Integrity, and Operator Safety
Used and refurbished biosafety cabinets (BSCs) from American Instrument Exchange are thoroughly tested to ensure they meet NSF/ANSI 49 performance standards for containment, airflow uniformity, and HEPA filtration. Each Class I, II, or III unit is evaluated through a series of specialized inspections and certifications, ensuring the cabinet performs reliably in research, clinical, and pharmaceutical lab environments.
Why Testing Used Biosafety Cabinets Is Essential
Before any biosafety cabinet is deployed in a working lab, it must be tested for:
• HEPA filter integrity and leak-free performance
• Inflow and downflow air velocity balance
• Containment efficiency and personnel protection
• Electrical system function and safety compliance
• Cleanliness and readiness for sterile applications
Proper testing of refurbished biosafety cabinets helps prevent cross-contamination, exposure to hazardous materials, and airflow disruption—critical for maintaining laboratory protocols. Our structured multi-point BSC testing protocol ensures dependable protection for operators, products, and the lab environment.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Biosafety Cabinets
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect exterior panels, window sashes, hinges, and seals for signs of wear or damage
• Confirm visibility and integrity of the viewing window
• Check power cords, display screens, and control interfaces for usability
2. Cabinet Decontamination and Cleaning
• Interior and exterior cleaned with non-corrosive disinfectants
• Decontamination protocols followed to remove biological contaminants
• Work surface, sidewalls, and return air grills are fully sanitized
• Conduct aerosol challenge test using PAO or DOP to verify HEPA filter seal integrity
• Identify and resolve any filter leaks in accordance with NSF/ANSI 49 standards
• Ensure HEPA filters are correctly seated and uncompromised
4. Inflow and Downflow Velocity Testing
• Measure air velocities using calibrated thermo-anemometers
• Confirm inflow velocity meets requirements
• Verify downflow uniformity within the work zone to prevent turbulence and contamination
5. Airflow Smoke Pattern Testing
• Conduct visual smoke tests to demonstrate laminar airflow and containment
• Confirm that airflow barriers prevent cross-contamination and exposure
6. Electrical Safety and Alarm System Checks
• Inspect grounding, insulation resistance, and GFCI protection
• Test alarm functionality for sash position, airflow disruption, and power failure
• Verify interior lighting, outlets, and blower controls operate reliably
7. Final Certification and Quality Assurance
• Run full performance test cycle and confirm compliance with NSF/ANSI 49 and manufacturer specs
• Document data and generate a detailed service report
Guaranteed Performance from American Instrument Exchange
All refurbished biosafety cabinets from American Instrument Exchange are tested and verified to ensure maximum containment, user protection, and airflow performance. Whether used for microbiology, tissue culture, pharmaceutical compounding, or other work necessitating containment, our BSCs meet industry standards—so your team can work safely and confidently from day one.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Biosafety Cabinets
Certified Protection and Performance from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used biosafety cabinet (BSC) we offer is thoroughly repaired and refurbished to meet the highest standards for safety, airflow performance, and compliance. Whether it’s a Class I, Class II Type A2/B2, or Class III unit, we follow a meticulous refurbishment process to ensure your BSC provides reliable containment, sterile workspace conditions, and long-term durability.
Why Choose a Refurbished Biosafety Cabinet from American Instrument Exchange?
Fully tested and certified for airflow integrity and containment
Backed by warranty and performance guarantee
Cost-effective alternative to new biosafety cabinets
Environmentally responsible through expert reuse and restoration
Serviced by experienced technicians trained in NSF/ANSI 49 protocols
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every biosafety cabinet at American Instrument Exchange undergoes the following comprehensive multi-stage process to ensure it is lab-ready:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Visual inspection of cabinet exterior, control panel, and sash mechanism
• Evaluation of hinges, seals, gaskets, and electrical components
• Missing parts or functional issues are documented for repair
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, disinfectant-safe products
• Decontamination protocols followed to remove biohazardous or chemical residue
• Removable surfaces, work trays, and grilles are cleaned and sanitized
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair
• Repair or replacement of worn components, including sash latches, lighting, and controls
• Electrical systems including switches, alarms, and outlets are tested and serviced
• Wiring is inspected and repaired to meet safety and performance standards
4. HEPA Filter Evaluation and Replacement
• Filters are tested for integrity using DOP/PAO aerosol challenge testing
• HEPA filters are replaced with OEM or equivalent filters
• Filter seals are verified for leak-free performance
5. Airflow and Performance Testing
• Inflow and downflow velocities are measured using calibrated instruments
• Smoke pattern testing confirms laminar airflow and containment effectiveness
• Blower motor function and airflow uniformity are verified across the cabinet
6. Safety System Verification
• Alarms for airflow disruption, sash height, and power loss are tested
• GFCI protection, lighting, and emergency shutoff systems are confirmed functional
7. Final Quality Control and Certification
• Performance testing is conducted to confirm NSF/ANSI 49 compliance (where applicable)
• Final visual inspection and cleaning performed prior to shipping
• Detailed service report and airflow test results provided with each unit
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted name in refurbished biosafety cabinets. Our repair and refurbishment protocol ensures each cabinet provides dependable protection for personnel, products, and the environment—delivering maximum safety at a fraction of the cost of new.
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.
