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Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultralow Freezer
The refurbished Thermo Scientific RLE50086 Ultra-Low Freezer available from American Instrument Exchange provides dependable ultra-low temperature storage for research laboratories, pharmaceutical facilities, hospitals, universities, biotechnology companies, and biorepositories seeking reliable sample protection at a significantly lower cost than purchasing new equipment. Designed for long-term storage at temperatures as low as -86°C, the Thermo RLE50086 combines advanced monitoring technology, energy-efficient operation, and high-capacity sample storage in a durable upright laboratory freezer platform.
Thermo RLE50086 Ultralow Freezer features
Temperature range from -50°C to -86°C for reliable ultra-low sample storage
Large 24.1 cu. ft. capacity accommodates up to 500 standard 2" storage boxes
Eye-level capacitive touchscreen display provides intuitive operation, alarm monitoring, and temperature control
USB data logging allows convenient export of temperature records and event history without a separate chart recorder
DeviceLink™ remote monitoring enables real-time freezer status and alarm notifications through web and mobile applications
SNAP-compliant hydrocarbon refrigerants improve energy efficiency while supporting environmental sustainability goals
Quiet 50 dB operation allows placement directly in laboratory workspaces instead of equipment rooms
Fast temperature recovery after door openings helps maintain stable storage conditions for sensitive samples
Refurbished and fully tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians with a 90-day warranty
Thermo RLE50086 Ultralow Freezer cabinets are as quiet as home refrigerators. At 50, dB move your freezers out of storage rooms and hallways, and back into the lab for quicker access. The energy-efficient construction and operation provides lower heat emissions equating to lower HVAC costs.
The environmentally friendly units use SNAP-compliant insulation and refrigerants to ensure a long warm-up time (-80° to -50°C in 5 hours).
Thermo RLE50086 Ultralow Freezer additional features
Thermo Scientific’s DeviceLink comes embedded in your ULT freezer providing real-time monitoring of system status and sample temperature. This allows you to view critical lab equipment data and equipment notifications on your mobile and web applications, such as display temperature, ambient temperature, and notifications for alarms and alerts. DeviceLink operates on a client-cloud architecture, requiring minimal IT support.
The InstrumentConnect is a streamlined dashboard-style reporting that reduces time spent interpreting data. And there’s no need to install sensors. The only plug-in is the equipment data port to read the parameters directly from the factory-installed sensors.
CLICK HEREto see the Thermo Revco RLE-50086A ultra-low freezer on our YouTube channel
Testing
Most of our equipment is used and reconditioned. Our technicians verify the accuracy of temperature controls and readouts of all ultralow freezers, making sure that the units hold temperature to within the manufacturer specified tolerance. We replace any hardware or parts as is necessary and if needed replace refrigerant. We clean all freezers thoroughly prior to shipment.
Pictures
The photos of the Thermo RLE50086 Ultralow Freezer above are representative. Please bear in mind that the equipment shown is currently in storage in our warehouse and that in addition to testing each machine we will clean all the equipment thoroughly prior to shipment.
We often have multiple units of each model in stock and sometimes we're unable to feature photos of every single unit. At your request, we can provide photos of the equipment in your order after it has been tested and cleaned.
The RLE series uses SNAP-compliant hydrocarbon refrigerants, including:
R290 (propane) in the first stage
R170 mixed with R290 in the second stage
These refrigerants improve energy efficiency while meeting environmental standards such as EPA SNAP and EU F-Gas regulations.
How energy efficient is the RLE50086?
The RLE50086 typically consumes about 10.8 kWh per day under standard operating conditions.
The unit’s design emphasizes reduced energy consumption and heat output, which can help lower laboratory HVAC loads and operating costs.
How long will the freezer maintain temperature during a power outage?
The RLE50086 has a typical warm-up time from -80°C to -50°C of about 258 minutes (around 4.3 hours) when the door remains closed.
This extended hold time helps protect stored samples during temporary power interruptions.
What types of samples are typically stored in an ultra-low freezer like the RLE50086?
Ultra-low temperature freezers are commonly used to store:
DNA and RNA samples
Biological specimens
Cell lines and tissue samples
Clinical trial materials
Reagents and enzymes
Vaccines and pharmaceuticals
The -80°C storage environment significantly slows biochemical reactions and degradation.
What types of samples are typically stored in the RLE50086?
The RLE50086 is commonly used for storage of DNA, RNA, biological specimens, vaccines, plasma, cell cultures, tissue samples, pharmaceutical materials, enzymes, reagents, and clinical research samples that require ultra-low temperature preservation.
Is the touchscreen interface easy to use with laboratory gloves?
Yes. The RLE50086 features a capacitive touchscreen interface designed to remain responsive even when users are wearing laboratory gloves, simplifying freezer operation and monitoring in laboratory environments.
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Ultralow Freezers Ensure -80°C Stability and Critical Sample Protection
Used and refurbished ultralow freezers from American Instrument Exchange are rigorously tested to ensure reliable long-term storage at temperatures as low as -80°C. Each unit undergoes a detailed inspection, full system evaluation, and extended runtime testing to meet the high standards required by research, clinical, and biorepository environments.
Why Testing Used Ultralow Freezers Is Essential
Before an ultralow freezer is placed back into service, it must be carefully tested for:
• Temperature stability and uniformity at ultralow levels (e.g., -70°C to -86°C)
• Cascade refrigeration system functionality and compressor health
• Seal and insulation effectiveness to prevent thermal loss
• Electrical safety, alarm functionality, and system compliance
Thorough testing helps prevent temperature excursions and equipment failure—crucial for protecting sensitive materials such as biological samples, vaccines, enzymes, and research specimens.
Our structured ULT testing protocol ensures each refurbished unit delivers dependable performance and long-term reliability.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Ultralow Freezers
1. Initial Visual Inspection
• Inspect external cabinet, hinges, and door gaskets for wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check power cords, plugs, and control interfaces for signs of wear or tampering
• Verify that internal racks, shelving, and chamber components are intact and operational
2. Functional Startup and Control Testing
• Power on the unit and confirm successful initialization of digital displays and alarm systems
• Test control panels, keypad responsiveness, and user-setpoint functionality
• Verify that door seals close tightly and form a secure barrier
3. Temperature and -80°C Stability Testing
• Test and evaluate internal temperature sensors thermometers/probes
• Monitor temperature performance at multiple chamber points over extended runtimes
• Confirm uniformity and stability at key setpoints, including -70°C, -80°C, and -86°C
4. Refrigeration System and Cascade Compressor Evaluation
• Test dual-stage (cascade) compressor function, startup times, and cycling behavior
• Evaluate evaporator coils, heat exchangers, and vacuum insulation panels for performance and integrity
• Check for refrigerant leaks, low-pressure faults, and abnormal compressor noise
5. Alarm and Safety System Verification
• Test high/low temperature alarms, power failure alerts, and battery backup systems (if equipped)
• Verify lockout controls, alarm delay settings, and door-open indicators
6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation
• Run a continuous multi-day test cycle at -80°C to confirm sustained performance
• Document temperature logs, controller accuracy, and compressor behavior
• Complete a detailed service report
Dependable Performance from American Instrument Exchange
All refurbished ultralow freezers from American Instrument Exchange are tested to exacting standards for performance, safety, and reliability. With our rigorous inspection and testing procedures, you can trust your ULT freezer to deliver consistent -80°C storage from day one—ideal for research, clinical, pharmaceutical, and biobanking applications.
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Ultralow Freezers -80°C Storage Performance from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, every used ultralow temperature freezer (ULT freezer) undergoes a rigorous, multi-step refurbishment protocol designed to restore reliable -80°C performance. Whether upright, chest-style, or undercounter, our refurbished ULT freezers are tested and restored to deliver the cold storage precision required for biological samples, vaccines, enzymes, and other temperature-sensitive materials.
Why Choose a Refurbished Ultralow Freezer from American Instrument Exchange?
• Fully tested for -80°C cold storage stability and compressor performance
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to expensive new ULT units
• Environmentally responsible through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by experienced technicians specializing in laboratory-grade refrigeration
Every ultralow freezer sold by American Instrument Exchange is carefully evaluated and restored through the following process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
• Exterior inspection for dents, corrosion, or physical damage
• Evaluation of door seals, hinges, and internal chamber components
• Documentation of missing parts or components requiring repair
2. Cleaning and Decontamination
• Comprehensive interior and exterior cleaning using non-abrasive cleaners
• Removal of dust, frost buildup, and residual contaminants
• Decontamination of all internal surfaces and removable parts like shelves and drawers
3. Mechanical and Electrical Repairs
• Replacement or repair of worn or damaged components (door latches, hinges, gaskets, etc.)
• Inspection and repair of control boards, displays, sensors, and switches
• Electrical system evaluation, including fuses, wiring, relays, and connectors
4. Ultralow Refrigeration System Assessment
• Testing of dual-stage compressors and cascade cooling system
• Evaluation of heat exchangers, evaporator coils, and vacuum insulation panels
• Inspection for refrigerant leaks, low pressure, or signs of compressor fatigue
• Verification of thermal insulation integrity
5. Temperature and Performance Testing
• Testing of internal temperature sensors and controllers
• Multi-point testing to verify chamber temperature uniformity at -80°C
• Long-duration, multi-day operational testing to ensure sustained ultralow performance
6. Safety and Compliance Checks
• Electrical safety testing and grounding verification
• Alarm function tests for high/low temperature alerts and power failure warnings
7. Final Quality Control and Documentation
• Multi-day runtime validation at -80°C
• Recording of temperature logs, compressor cycle data, and performance benchmarks
• Final inspection and service/testing report completed
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years in the lab equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is your trusted source for refurbished ultralow freezers. Our certified refurbishment protocol ensures each ULT freezer delivers the precision, performance, and reliability your lab needs—at a fraction of the cost of new equipment.
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.
