Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus Cryobiological Storage Vessel
For laboratories with growing cryogenic collections, keeping samples organized can be just as important as maintaining cryogenic temperatures. The Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus Cryobiological Storage Vessel combines compact liquid nitrogen storage with an indexed rack-and-box system that allows researchers to quickly locate and retrieve individual samples while minimizing disturbance to the remaining inventory.
With a 121-liter liquid nitrogen capacity and storage for up to 2,000 standard 2.0 mL cryovials, the Locator 8 Plus is an excellent solution for biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, IVF laboratories, hospitals, universities, cell therapy laboratories, and research facilities requiring dependable cryogenic storage without the footprint of a large institutional repository. Its advanced vacuum insulation and optional ultrasonic level monitoring help reduce liquid nitrogen consumption while protecting valuable biological materials.
Many laboratories integrate the Locator 8 Plus alongside biosafety cabinets for sterile sample preparation, controlled-rate freezers for optimized freezing protocols, ultra-low freezers for intermediate storage, and laboratory refrigerators to create a complete cryopreservation workflow.
Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus Key Features
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121-liter liquid nitrogen capacity
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Stores up to 2,000 standard 2.0 mL cryovials
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Eight indexed storage racks
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Vapor- or liquid-phase storage capability
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Advanced vacuum insulation
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Outstanding temperature uniformity below -180°C
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Optional ultrasonic liquid nitrogen level monitor
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Audible low-level alarm and remote alarm contacts (monitor-equipped models)
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Compact footprint for efficient laboratory use
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Manual-fill operation
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Refurbished and performance tested by American Instrument Exchange
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90-day warranty included
Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus Overview
The Locator Series has been a popular choice for laboratories because it combines dependable cryogenic performance with an intuitive rack-based storage system. Instead of searching through suspended canisters, users organize samples in removable racks and cryoboxes, making inventory management significantly easier while reducing the amount of time samples remain outside the vessel during retrieval.
Despite its relatively compact size, the Locator 8 Plus maintains temperatures below -180°C even when less than 5 cm (2 inches) of liquid nitrogen remains in the vessel, helping protect valuable samples throughout the normal refill cycle. Advanced vacuum insulation minimizes nitrogen evaporation, reducing operating costs while extending holding time between fills.
Common Applications
The Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus is commonly used for storing:
Ideal Laboratory Types
The Locator 8 Plus is well suited for:
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Biotechnology companies
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Pharmaceutical laboratories
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IVF laboratories
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Hospitals
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Universities
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Academic research laboratories
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Clinical research organizations
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Small and mid-sized biobanks
Laboratories that prioritize organized sample storage and efficient retrieval will appreciate the Locator 8 Plus's indexed rack system and compact footprint.
Why Choose the Locator 8 Plus?
The Locator 8 Plus is designed for laboratories that need organized cryogenic storage rather than maximum capacity. Its indexed rack-and-box configuration makes inventory management straightforward while allowing individual sample groups to be retrieved quickly without exposing the remainder of the collection.
Compared with traditional canister-style liquid nitrogen vessels, this organization can save considerable time when laboratories routinely access stored specimens, helping improve workflow while maintaining dependable cryogenic temperatures.
Typical Stored Materials
The Locator 8 Plus is commonly used to preserve:
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Stem cells
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Cell therapy products
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Embryos
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Reproductive specimens
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Cord blood
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Tissue samples
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DNA libraries
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Research cell lines
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Clinical trial specimens
Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus Key Specifications
Liquid Nitrogen Capacity
Sample Capacity
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Up to 2,000 standard 2.0 mL cryovials
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Eight indexed storage racks
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Compatible with standard cryogenic storage boxes
Storage Method
Performance
Construction
Monitoring & Controls
Exterior Dimensions
Interior Dimensions
Weight
Electrical Requirements
Operating Costs & Energy Considerations
Because the Locator 8 Plus uses liquid nitrogen rather than mechanical refrigeration, operating costs are determined primarily by nitrogen consumption. Its advanced vacuum insulation and low evaporation rate help reduce refill frequency while maintaining dependable cryogenic temperatures. Laboratories should establish a routine refill schedule and periodically monitor vessel performance to ensure continued vacuum integrity.
Specifications compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Refurbishment & Testing Process
Every Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus received by American Instrument Exchange undergoes a comprehensive inspection before shipment. Our technicians inspect the vacuum vessel, lid assembly, rack system, neck tube, and overall cabinet condition. Each vessel is filled with liquid nitrogen and monitored to verify acceptable evaporation performance and vacuum integrity. Units equipped with ultrasonic level monitoring are tested for alarm and monitoring functionality before shipment.
Laboratories building complete cryopreservation facilities frequently purchase biosafety cabinets, controlled-rate freezers, ultra-low freezers, laboratory refrigerators, and centrifuges from American Instrument Exchange.
Shipping & Installation Considerations
The Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus ships by freight from American Instrument Exchange. Before installation, laboratories should verify adequate floor space, access to a reliable liquid nitrogen supply, and appropriate cryogenic safety procedures. If equipped with the optional level monitor, electrical service and remote alarm connections should also be planned before commissioning the system.
Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus Frequently Asked Questions
How many samples can the Locator 8 Plus hold?
The Locator 8 Plus stores up to 2,000 standard 2.0 mL cryovials using an indexed eight-rack storage system.
Does the Locator 8 Plus support vapor-phase storage?
Yes. The vessel can be used for both liquid- and vapor-phase cryogenic storage while maintaining temperatures below -180°C.
What makes the Locator 8 Plus different from a traditional LN₂ dewar?
Its indexed rack-and-box storage system makes inventory management significantly easier, allowing faster sample retrieval and better organization than conventional canister-style storage vessels.
How is the Locator 8 Plus tested before shipment?
Every refurbished Thermolyne Locator 8 Plus is inspected and tested by American Instrument Exchange technicians to verify vacuum integrity, liquid nitrogen performance, rack condition, and monitoring functionality (when equipped) before shipment.
