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Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 General Protocol Incubator
Reliable temperature control is essential for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, food testing, environmental laboratories, and countless routine research applications. The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 General Protocol Incubator combines a spacious 194-liter (6.85 cubic foot) chamber with gravity convection heating to provide accurate, repeatable incubation while minimizing sample dehydration. Designed for routine laboratory use, the IGS180 delivers excellent temperature stability, intuitive digital controls, and a durable stainless steel chamber that supports years of dependable operation.
Unlike mechanical convection incubators that continuously circulate heated air with a fan, the Heratherm IGS180 utilizes gravity convection to create gentle natural airflow throughout the chamber. This design minimizes drying of agar plates and other moisture-sensitive samples while maintaining outstanding temperature uniformity. Operating from Ambient +5°C to 75°C, the incubator is ideally suited for microbiology, environmental testing, pharmaceutical quality control, food safety analysis, and general laboratory incubation. Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with dependable incubation equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment.
Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 Key Features
194 L (6.85 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Gravity convection heating
Temperature range from Ambient +5°C to 75°C
Temperature stability of ±0.2°C at 37°C
Temperature uniformity of ±0.6°C at 37°C
Microprocessor controller with vacuum fluorescent display
Stainless steel chamber with rounded corners
Two perforated stainless steel shelves included
Supports up to 19 shelf positions
Adjustable 24-hour timer
Access port for external probes
Over-temperature safety protection
120 V, 60 Hz operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Consistent Everyday Laboratory Performance
The Heratherm IGS180 was engineered for laboratories requiring dependable incubation across a broad range of biological, pharmaceutical, and industrial applications. Its 194-liter chamber provides generous capacity for Petri dishes, agar plates, media bottles, Erlenmeyer flasks, culture tubes, environmental samples, and quality control materials while maintaining highly stable chamber temperatures.
The gravity convection heating system naturally circulates warm air without the turbulence associated with forced-air incubators. This gentle airflow helps preserve sample moisture while promoting excellent temperature uniformity throughout the chamber. Combined with Thermo Scientific's microprocessor controller and vacuum fluorescent display, the incubator offers straightforward operation and reproducible laboratory performance.
Common Applications
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 is commonly used for:
The Heratherm IGS180 is well suited for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, environmental testing laboratories, food and beverage quality control facilities, industrial research organizations, and government laboratories.
Its large chamber capacity makes it an excellent choice for laboratories processing higher sample volumes while still benefiting from the gentle airflow provided by gravity convection technology.
Gentle Gravity Convection with Precise Digital Control
The Heratherm IGS180 utilizes gravity convection to maintain stable chamber temperatures with minimal air movement, reducing the risk of sample dehydration while supporting highly reproducible incubation conditions. The incubator maintains temperatures from Ambient +5°C to 75°C with ±0.2°C temperature stability and ±0.6°C spatial uniformity at 37°C. The microprocessor controller features a bright vacuum fluorescent display and an intuitive user interface that allows laboratories to quickly set temperatures and program the integrated 24-hour timer. The rounded stainless steel chamber simplifies cleaning, while the removable shelf system allows users to configure the chamber for a wide variety of sample containers.
Laboratory-Friendly Design
Designed for years of dependable operation, the Heratherm IGS180 combines durable construction with practical laboratory features. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel chamber is easy to clean, while the removable perforated shelves promote excellent airflow throughout the chamber. An integrated access port allows temperature probes or monitoring devices to be routed into the chamber without disrupting incubation conditions. Combined with independent over-temperature protection and straightforward digital controls, the Heratherm IGS180 provides reliable performance for demanding laboratory environments.
Sample Storage Recommendations
The 194-liter (6.85 cubic foot) chamber of the Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 provides ample capacity for laboratories performing routine microbiological, pharmaceutical, and quality control testing. The incubator accommodates Petri dishes, agar plates, culture tubes, media bottles, Erlenmeyer flasks, environmental samples, food testing materials, and other laboratory containers requiring consistent incubation temperatures.
The incubator includes two perforated stainless steel shelves and supports up to 19 shelf positions, allowing laboratories to configure the chamber for a wide variety of vessel sizes and sample volumes. For optimum temperature uniformity, samples should be distributed evenly throughout the chamber with adequate spacing between shelves and chamber walls. Maintaining unrestricted natural airflow helps preserve the consistent gravity convection performance that makes this incubator well suited for moisture-sensitive microbiological applications.
Because the IGS180 relies on gentle natural convection rather than forced-air circulation, it is particularly effective for incubating agar plates and other samples that may be susceptible to drying during extended incubation periods.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
The Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 was designed to provide dependable laboratory performance while minimizing long-term operating costs. Its gravity convection heating system operates without an internal circulation fan, reducing mechanical complexity while providing quiet operation and dependable temperature control.
The insulated cabinet helps maintain stable operating temperatures with efficient energy use, while the corrosion-resistant stainless steel chamber simplifies routine cleaning and maintenance. The digital microprocessor controller continuously regulates chamber temperature with minimal user intervention, and the rounded interior corners allow laboratories to clean and disinfect the chamber quickly between projects.
For laboratories requiring reliable incubation without the additional maintenance associated with mechanical convection systems, the Heratherm IGS180 offers an economical and dependable solution for everyday laboratory operation.
Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 General Protocol Incubator Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific
Model
Heratherm IGS180
Incubator Type
Gravity Convection General Protocol Incubator
Chamber Capacity
194 L (6.85 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range
Ambient +5°C to 75°C
Temperature Stability
±0.2°C at 37°C
Temperature Uniformity
±0.6°C at 37°C
Heating System
Gravity Convection
Controller
Digital Microprocessor Controller
Display
Vacuum Fluorescent Display
Chamber Material
Stainless Steel
Interior Dimensions
18.3" W × 23.2" D × 27.9" H
Exterior Dimensions
25.2" W × 29.1" D × 36.2" H
Shelves
2 perforated stainless steel shelves
Shelf Positions
Up to 19
Electrical Requirements
120 V, 60 Hz, 720 W
Approximate Weight
143 lb (65 kg)
Specifications are believed to be accurate but may vary depending on production date or factory-installed options. Please verify all specifications prior to purchase.
Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 General Protocol Incubator Frequently Asked Questions
What applications is the Heratherm IGS180 designed for?
The Heratherm IGS180 is designed for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, food safety testing, environmental monitoring, water quality analysis, educational laboratories, and general laboratory incubation where precise temperature control is required.
Why choose a gravity convection incubator?
Gravity convection uses the natural movement of heated air rather than an internal fan. This produces gentler airflow that helps minimize evaporation of agar media and moisture-sensitive samples while maintaining excellent chamber temperature uniformity.
Can the Heratherm IGS180 be used for mammalian cell culture?
No. The IGS180 is a general-purpose laboratory incubator and does not provide CO₂ control or high-humidity regulation required for mammalian cell culture. Laboratories performing tissue culture should instead use a dedicated CO₂ incubator.
How flexible is the shelving system?
The incubator includes two perforated stainless steel shelves and supports up to 19 shelf positions, allowing laboratories to configure the chamber for different sample heights and laboratory workflows.
Does the incubator include over-temperature protection?
Yes. The Heratherm IGS180 incorporates an independent over-temperature safety system that helps protect both the incubator and valuable laboratory samples during operation.
Is the chamber easy to maintain?
Yes. The stainless steel chamber features rounded interior corners and removable shelves, simplifying routine cleaning and reducing maintenance time between laboratory projects.
What laboratories commonly use the Heratherm IGS180?
The incubator is frequently used by biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, environmental laboratories, food and beverage testing facilities, industrial quality control departments, and government research laboratories.
Why purchase a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 from American Instrument Exchange?
Purchasing a refurbished Thermo Scientific Heratherm IGS180 from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with dependable incubation equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment. Combining a 194-liter chamber, gravity convection heating, excellent temperature stability, and a durable stainless steel interior, the Heratherm IGS180 is an excellent choice for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, and general laboratory applications. Every incubator is inspected and tested prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty for added confidence.
CLICK HERE to see the Thermo HERAtherm IGS180 on our YouTube channel
Features
Designed for everyday heating and drying applications, the HERAtherm IGS180 operates efficiently at temperatures up to 75°C. Its advanced microprocessor control system optimizes performance, while the automatic overtemperature alarm enhances safety by preventing overheating. The unique airflow design ensures even heat distribution, creating a consistently reliable environment for laboratory applications.
This incubator also features a large, easy-to-read vacuum fluorescent display, making monitoring simple and precise. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel chamber includes rounded corners, which simplify cleaning and help reduce contamination risks. These thoughtful design elements make the HERAtherm IGS180 a durable and user-friendly choice for laboratory professionals.
Testing
The HERAtherm IGS180 is used and reconditioned. Our technicians test ovens using a digital data logger to verify the accuracy of temperature controls and readouts. If it’s a CO2 incubator, we use a Fyrite indicator to measure CO2 levels in the chamber and confirm the accuracy of the onboard display. We replace any hardware or parts as is necessary and clean all incubators thoroughly prior to shipment.
Additionally, if you have specific testing requirements or requests, please inform us. We will gladly work with you to ensure these requirements are addressed during testing.
HERAtherm IGS180 - Additional Specifications
External Dimensions
25.25”W x 29”D x 36.25”H
Interior Dimensions
18.32”W x 23.25”D x 27”H
Temperature Range
Ambient + 5° to 75°C
Capacity
6.3 cu.ft.
Electrical requirements
120 V, 60 Hz
Pictures
The photos above represent our equipment, which is currently stored in our warehouse. Since we often stock multiple units of each model, we may not feature photos of every unit. However, if you request, we can provide photos of the equipment in your order after it has been tested and cleaned.
For inquiries about the Thermo HERAtherm IGS180, please give us a call at 978-521-2221, or fill out the form on this page.
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.
