Reliable microbiological incubation depends on maintaining accurate temperatures, excellent chamber uniformity, and flexibility to accommodate a wide variety of laboratory protocols. The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S Microbiological Incubator was designed for laboratories requiring both exceptional temperature stability and adaptable airflow. Featuring a 6.3 cubic foot (178-liter) chamber, an advanced dual convection system, programmable controls, and a built-in 140°C decontamination cycle, the IMH180-S provides outstanding performance for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, food safety, and general laboratory incubation applications. The Security version also incorporates a lockable door, user access protection, and temperature alarms to safeguard valuable samples and regulated workflows.
One of the defining features of the IMH180-S is its Dual Convection technology, allowing users to adjust airflow from 0% (gravity convection) to 100% forced-air convection. This unique capability enables laboratories to optimize airflow based on the application. Gentle gravity convection minimizes sample desiccation, while forced-air convection improves temperature uniformity and accelerates recovery after door openings. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium microbiological incubation performance at a significant savings compared to purchasing new equipment.
Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S Microbiological Incubator Key Features
178 L (6.3 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Temperature range: Ambient +5°C to 105°C
Dual Convection technology with adjustable fan speed
Gravity or mechanical convection operation
140°C chamber decontamination cycle
Lockable door with security features
Audible over-temperature and under-temperature alarms
Microprocessor controller
Vacuum fluorescent display
Two stainless steel shelves included
Accommodates up to nineteen shelves
Interior glass door
Stainless steel chamber
120V, 60 Hz operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Routine Laboratory and Microbiological Incubation
The Heratherm IMH180-S is designed to provide the temperature stability and flexibility required across a broad range of laboratory applications. Its dual convection system allows researchers to tailor airflow to specific protocols, reducing sample drying during sensitive incubations while providing excellent temperature uniformity for high-throughput laboratory work. This flexibility makes the incubator equally suitable for microbiological culture, quality control testing, environmental analysis, and general laboratory incubation.
The integrated 140°C decontamination cycle simplifies routine maintenance by reducing microbial contamination throughout the chamber without requiring removal or autoclaving of internal components. Combined with programmable alarms and security features, the IMH180-S helps laboratories protect valuable samples while maintaining compliance with established laboratory procedures.
Common Applications
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S is commonly used for:
Microbiology laboratories
Bacterial culture
Yeast and fungal culture
Pharmaceutical quality control
Environmental microbiology
Food and beverage testing
Water quality analysis
Clinical laboratory incubation
Sample conditioning
Stability testing
General laboratory incubation
Academic research
Microbiology laboratories commonly pair incubators with biosafety cabinets for aseptic sample preparation, laboratory refrigerators for media storage, autoclaves for sterilization, and centrifuges for sample processing to support complete laboratory workflows.
Ideal Laboratory Environments
The Heratherm IMH180-S is an excellent choice for pharmaceutical manufacturers, biotechnology companies, hospital laboratories, environmental testing facilities, food and beverage laboratories, university research laboratories, government agencies, public health laboratories, and industrial quality assurance departments. Its combination of flexible airflow, precise temperature control, and built-in decontamination makes it well suited for laboratories that perform a wide variety of microbiological and quality control procedures.
Why Choose Dual Convection Technology?
Many laboratory incubators use either gravity convection or forced-air convection, requiring laboratories to compromise between gentle sample handling and rapid temperature recovery. The Heratherm IMH180-S eliminates this compromise through its adjustable Dual Convection system.
With the fan turned off, the incubator operates as a gravity convection unit, providing gentle airflow that helps minimize evaporation of culture media and other sensitive samples. Increasing fan speed improves temperature uniformity and speeds recovery after door openings, making the incubator ideal for heavily loaded chambers or applications requiring rapid stabilization. This flexibility allows a single incubator to support a wider variety of laboratory protocols than conventional fixed-convection systems.
Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S Performance and Temperature Uniformity
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S is engineered to deliver accurate, repeatable incubation conditions for routine microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, and laboratory research. Its Dual Convection system allows users to adjust airflow to match individual applications, providing either gentle gravity convection for sensitive cultures or forced-air convection for improved temperature uniformity and faster recovery after door openings. This flexibility enables a single incubator to accommodate a broad range of laboratory workflows while maintaining consistent chamber conditions.
Microprocessor-based temperature control continuously monitors chamber conditions to minimize temperature fluctuations throughout long incubation periods. The integrated 140°C decontamination cycle helps maintain a clean incubation environment between studies, while programmable alarms and security features provide additional protection for valuable samples and regulated laboratory protocols.
Thermo Heratherm IMH180-S Typical Samples and Laboratory Applications
The Heratherm IMH180-S is designed for routine incubation of microbiological cultures, biological samples, and laboratory materials requiring precise temperature control. Common applications include bacterial cultures, yeast, fungi, environmental microorganisms, microbial identification, media preparation, pharmaceutical quality control samples, water quality testing, food safety testing, and general laboratory incubation.
The incubator is also widely used for stability studies, sample conditioning, biochemical testing, plant tissue culture, entomology research, fermentation studies, and educational laboratory instruction. Its adjustable convection system makes it suitable for both delicate samples that benefit from minimal airflow and higher-throughput applications requiring rapid chamber recovery.
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.
Dual Convection allows the incubator to operate as either a gravity convection or forced-air convection incubator. This gives laboratories the flexibility to minimize sample drying during sensitive incubations or maximize temperature uniformity and recovery for demanding applications.
What types of samples can be incubated in the IMH180-S?
The incubator is suitable for bacterial cultures, yeast, fungi, environmental microorganisms, pharmaceutical quality control samples, food products, water testing samples, culture media, plant materials, and numerous other laboratory applications requiring stable temperature control.
What is the purpose of the 140°C decontamination cycle?
The built-in decontamination cycle heats the chamber to 140°C to reduce microbial contamination on interior surfaces, simplifying routine maintenance and helping laboratories maintain clean incubation conditions between studies.
Is the IMH180-S suitable for microbiology laboratories?
Yes. The IMH180-S was specifically designed for microbiological incubation and is widely used in pharmaceutical, clinical, food safety, environmental, and academic laboratories where reliable temperature control is essential.
Why would I use gravity convection instead of forced-air convection?
Gravity convection produces gentler air movement that helps reduce evaporation of culture media and other sensitive samples. Forced-air convection provides faster temperature recovery and improved chamber uniformity, making it better suited for heavily loaded chambers and high-throughput workflows.
Does the incubator include security features?
Yes. The Security version includes a lockable door, programmable alarm functions, and user access controls that help protect valuable samples and support regulated laboratory environments.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S Microbiological Incubator from American Instrument Exchange?
A refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IMH180-S Microbiological Incubator from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with dependable incubation performance at a substantial savings compared to purchasing new equipment. Featuring a 178-liter chamber, Dual Convection technology, an integrated 140°C decontamination cycle, and flexible airflow control, the IMH180-S is an excellent solution for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, food safety, and general laboratory research. Every unit is thoroughly inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
CLICK HEREto see the Thermo Heratherm incubator on our 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.
