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Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer
When the contents of a freezer represent years of research or irreplaceable patient samples, temperature stability becomes more than a specification—it becomes a safeguard for the laboratory's work. The Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer was designed to provide dependable long-term storage at temperatures as low as -86°C, combining high-capacity sample storage with advanced monitoring, energy-efficient refrigeration, and rapid temperature recovery.
With 24.1 cubic feet (682 liters) of storage capacity and room for up to 500 standard 2-inch cryoboxes, the RLE50086 is an excellent choice for research laboratories, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, biotechnology companies, and biorepositories that require reliable ultra-low temperature preservation. A professionally refurbished unit from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with premium ultralow freezer performance while significantly reducing capital equipment costs.
Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer Key Features
Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer Overview
The RLE50086 was engineered for laboratories where dependable ultra-low temperature storage directly supports research continuity and sample integrity. Rather than simply reaching -80°C, the freezer is designed to minimize temperature fluctuations during everyday use while providing advanced monitoring tools that help laboratories track freezer performance over time.
Its hydrocarbon cascade refrigeration system combines excellent cooling performance with lower energy consumption than many earlier-generation ultralow freezers. The large touchscreen interface provides intuitive access to freezer settings, alarm history, temperature data, and system diagnostics, while integrated DeviceLink™ connectivity allows laboratories to remotely monitor freezer status through compatible monitoring platforms.
Common Applications
The Thermo Scientific RLE50086 is commonly used for long-term preservation of DNA and RNA libraries, cell lines, tissue samples, plasma, serum, vaccines, pharmaceutical compounds, biological specimens, microbiology collections, clinical trial materials, forensic evidence, and other research samples requiring storage at ultra-low temperatures.
Its combination of large storage capacity and dependable temperature control makes it particularly well suited for centralized laboratory storage, biorepositories, core research facilities, and laboratories supporting multiple research groups.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The RLE50086 is well suited for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, academic research institutions, hospitals, clinical laboratories, government research facilities, biobanks, public health laboratories, and contract research organizations.
Laboratories managing valuable or irreplaceable biological collections will particularly benefit from the freezer's combination of high storage capacity, advanced monitoring capabilities, and dependable long-term performance.
Temperature Recovery & Sample Protection
Every time an ultralow freezer door is opened, valuable samples are exposed to warmer ambient air. The RLE50086 was engineered to minimize this impact through rapid temperature recovery, five insulated inner doors, and a refrigeration system designed to restore storage temperatures quickly after routine sample retrieval.
The cabinet's insulation and refrigeration design also provide extended temperature hold times during temporary power interruptions, helping protect valuable research materials while laboratory personnel respond to unexpected events. Combined with onboard monitoring and alarm systems, these features contribute to a comprehensive approach to sample protection.
Typical Stored Materials
The Thermo Scientific RLE50086 is commonly used to store:
DNA and RNA samples
Cell lines
Stem cells
Tissue specimens
Plasma and serum
Whole blood derivatives
Vaccines
Pharmaceutical compounds
Clinical trial materials
Enzymes
Protein samples
Microbial cultures
Biological reference materials
Long-term research collections
Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer Key Specifications
Capacity
24.1 cu. ft. (682 L)
Up to 500 standard 2-inch cryoboxes
Temperature Range
Adjustable from -50°C to -86°C
Refrigeration System
Hydrocarbon cascade refrigeration
SNAP-compliant natural refrigerants
Monitoring & Controls
Capacitive touchscreen display
USB data logging
DeviceLink™ remote monitoring compatibility
Event history and alarm logging
Interior Configuration
Five insulated inner doors
Compatible with most standard cryobox rack systems
Electrical Requirements
208–220V, 60 Hz
Dimensions
Exterior: 34" W × 37.8" D × 86.4" H
Interior: 28.8" W × 28.2" D × 51.2" H
Weight
Approximately 613 lbs.
Energy Efficiency & Operating Costs
Energy consumption has become one of the most important considerations when selecting an ultralow freezer. The RLE50086 utilizes a modern hydrocarbon refrigeration system that reduces electrical consumption while producing less heat than many previous-generation ULT platforms. Lower heat rejection can reduce HVAC demand within the laboratory, helping decrease overall operating costs while supporting sustainability initiatives. Quiet operation also allows the freezer to be installed directly within research laboratories rather than dedicated equipment rooms.
Specifications compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Refurbishment & Testing Process
Every Thermo Scientific RLE50086 received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection and extended performance evaluation before shipment. Our technicians verify pull-down performance, confirm stable operation throughout the operating temperature range, inspect the cascade refrigeration system, test alarms, monitoring systems, touchscreen controls, and electrical components, evaluate door gaskets and insulation, and thoroughly clean the freezer prior to delivery.
Any necessary repairs or replacement components are completed before the freezer is approved for shipment, helping ensure dependable long-term performance in demanding laboratory environments.
Shipping & Installation Considerations
The Thermo Scientific RLE50086 ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before delivery, laboratories should verify doorway clearances, electrical requirements, floor loading capacity, and adequate ventilation around the cabinet. Because ultralow freezers operate continuously, careful installation planning can improve energy efficiency, service accessibility, and day-to-day workflow.
Liftgate delivery, inside delivery, and other specialized freight services are available when required.
Related Laboratory Equipment
Laboratories purchasing the Thermo Scientific RLE50086 frequently also consider laboratory refrigerators, laboratory freezers, cryogenic storage systems, CO₂ incubators, refrigerated centrifuges, biosafety cabinets, and laboratory temperature monitoring systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of samples are typically stored in the RLE50086?
The RLE50086 is commonly used for long-term storage of DNA, RNA, cell lines, tissue samples, plasma, serum, vaccines, enzymes, pharmaceutical compounds, microbiological collections, and other valuable biological materials requiring storage at temperatures as low as -86°C.
How many cryoboxes can the freezer hold?
The freezer accommodates up to 500 standard 2-inch storage boxes, making it suitable for high-volume research and biorepository applications.
Does the RLE50086 support remote monitoring?
Yes. The freezer is compatible with Thermo Scientific DeviceLink™, allowing laboratories to remotely monitor freezer status, alarms, and operating conditions through supported monitoring platforms.
How is the freezer tested before shipment?
Every refurbished Thermo Scientific RLE50086 is inspected, cleaned, and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians to verify pull-down performance, temperature stability, alarm functionality, monitoring systems, and overall freezer operation before shipment.
CLICK HEREto see the Thermo Revco RLE-50086A ultra-low freezer on our YouTube channel
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.
