All products ship from our 30,000 sq. ft. Haverhill, MA warehouse
VWR Basic Model 414005-134 Gravity Convection Incubator
Reliable temperature control is essential for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, food safety analysis, and routine laboratory incubation. The VWR Basic Model 414005-134 Gravity Convection Incubator combines a spacious 155-liter (5.4 cubic foot) chamber with gentle gravity convection heating to provide consistent incubation conditions while minimizing sample dehydration. Designed for dependable everyday laboratory use, the 414005-134 offers stable temperature control, intuitive digital operation, and durable construction in a large-capacity floor-standing configuration.
Unlike forced-air incubators that continuously circulate heated air with an internal fan, the VWR Basic 414005-134 utilizes natural gravity convection to create gentle airflow throughout the chamber. This design reduces evaporation from agar plates and other moisture-sensitive samples while maintaining excellent temperature stability and uniformity. Operating from Ambient +8°C to 65°C, the incubator is well suited for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, water analysis, and general laboratory incubation. Purchasing a refurbished VWR Basic 414005-134 from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with dependable incubation equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment.
VWR Basic Model 414005-134 Key Features
155 L (5.4 cu. ft.) chamber capacity
Natural gravity convection heating
Temperature range from Ambient +8°C to 65°C
Temperature fluctuation of ±0.3°C
Temperature variation of ±0.7°C at 37°C
Digital microprocessor PID controller
PT100 temperature sensor
Digital LED display
Stainless steel chamber
Adjustable shelving system
Inner tempered glass door
Over-temperature safety protection
Quiet fanless operation
120 V, 60 Hz operation
90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Designed for Reliable Everyday Laboratory Incubation
The VWR Basic 414005-134 was engineered for laboratories requiring dependable temperature control within a large-capacity chamber. Its 155-liter interior accommodates high volumes of Petri dishes, media bottles, culture tubes, Erlenmeyer flasks, environmental samples, and quality control materials while maintaining stable chamber temperatures throughout routine laboratory operation.
The gravity convection heating system naturally circulates warm air throughout the chamber without internal circulation fans. This gentle airflow minimizes drying of microbiological media while promoting excellent temperature consistency. Combined with a PID microprocessor controller and PT100 temperature sensor, the incubator delivers reproducible incubation conditions for routine laboratory workflows.
Common Applications
The VWR Basic Model 414005-134 is commonly used for:
The VWR Basic Model 414005-134 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 requiring dependable large-capacity incubation.
Its generous chamber volume makes it an excellent choice for laboratories processing larger sample loads while still benefiting from the gentle heating characteristics of gravity convection technology.
Gentle Gravity Convection with Precise Digital Control
The VWR Basic 414005-134 combines natural gravity convection heating with a digital PID microprocessor controller to maintain stable chamber temperatures across its operating range of Ambient +8°C to 65°C. The PT100 temperature sensor provides accurate temperature feedback while the controller maintains chamber fluctuation of approximately ±0.3°C and variation of approximately ±0.7°C at 37°C. The fanless design minimizes evaporation from microbiological media and reduces airborne particle movement, making the incubator particularly well suited for microbiology and other applications requiring gentle incubation conditions.
Sample Storage Recommendations
The 155-liter (5.4 cubic foot) chamber of the VWR Basic Model 414005-134 provides ample capacity for laboratories processing moderate to high volumes of microbiological cultures, pharmaceutical quality control samples, environmental specimens, and research materials. The spacious interior is well suited for incubating Petri dishes, agar plates, culture tubes, media bottles, Erlenmeyer flasks, environmental samples, and other laboratory containers requiring stable, uniform temperatures.
Multiple shelf positions allow laboratories to configure the chamber for a wide variety of sample sizes and laboratory workflows. For optimal temperature uniformity, samples should be distributed evenly throughout the chamber with adequate clearance between shelves and chamber walls to promote unrestricted natural airflow. The gravity convection heating system provides gentle circulation that helps reduce evaporation from culture media while maintaining consistent incubation conditions throughout the chamber.
Energy Efficiency and Operating Costs
The VWR Basic Model 414005-134 utilizes a natural gravity convection heating system, eliminating the need for an internal circulation fan. This simple, reliable design reduces mechanical complexity while providing quiet operation and minimizing routine maintenance requirements.
The insulated cabinet and digital PID controller work together to maintain stable chamber temperatures with efficient energy use and rapid recovery following routine door openings. The stainless steel chamber resists corrosion and simplifies cleaning, while the fanless design helps reduce wear associated with moving components. These features contribute to dependable long-term performance and lower operating costs for laboratories performing routine incubation.
VWR Basic Model 414005-134 Gravity Convection Incubator Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
VWR
Model
414005-134
Incubator Type
Gravity Convection Laboratory Incubator
Chamber Capacity
155 L (5.4 cu. ft.)
Temperature Range
Ambient +8°C to 65°C
Temperature Fluctuation
±0.3°C
Temperature Variation
±0.7°C at 37°C
Heating System
Natural Gravity Convection
Controller
Digital PID Microprocessor
Temperature Sensor
PT100
Chamber Material
Stainless Steel
Interior Dimensions
22.8" W × 18.5" D × 22.4" H
Exterior Dimensions
27.6" W × 25.8" D × 35.0" H
Inner Door
Tempered Glass
Shelves Included
2 adjustable stainless steel shelves
Shelf Positions
9
Electrical Requirements
120 V, 60 Hz, 600 W
Approximate Weight
128 lb (58 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.
VWR Basic Model 414005-134 Gravity Convection Incubator Frequently Asked Questions
What applications is the VWR Basic Model 414005-134 designed for?
The 414005-134 is ideal for microbiology, pharmaceutical quality control, environmental testing, food safety laboratories, water quality analysis, educational laboratories, and general laboratory incubation requiring dependable temperature control.
Why choose a gravity convection incubator?
Gravity convection incubators heat the chamber using the natural movement of warm air rather than a circulation fan. This gentle airflow helps reduce evaporation from agar plates and other moisture-sensitive samples while minimizing airborne particle movement within the chamber.
Can the 414005-134 be used for mammalian cell culture?
No. The VWR Basic 414005-134 is a general-purpose laboratory incubator and does not provide CO₂ concentration or humidity control required for mammalian cell culture. Cell culture applications require a dedicated CO₂ incubator.
How accurate is the temperature control?
The incubator utilizes a digital PID microprocessor controller and PT100 temperature sensor to maintain excellent temperature stability, with a fluctuation of approximately ±0.3°C and a variation of approximately ±0.7°C at 37°C under normal operating conditions.
Is the chamber easy to clean?
Yes. The stainless steel chamber, tempered glass inner door, removable shelves, and smooth interior surfaces simplify routine cleaning and preventative maintenance.
What laboratories commonly use the VWR Basic Model 414005-134?
This incubator is widely used in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical manufacturers, hospitals, universities, environmental laboratories, food and beverage testing facilities, industrial quality control laboratories, and government research organizations.
Does the incubator operate quietly?
Yes. Because it utilizes natural gravity convection instead of a fan-driven circulation system, the incubator operates quietly while maintaining gentle, uniform heating throughout the chamber.
Why purchase a refurbished VWR Basic Model 414005-134 from American Instrument Exchange?
Purchasing a refurbished VWR Basic Model 414005-134 from American Instrument Exchange provides laboratories with dependable large-capacity incubation equipment at substantial savings compared with purchasing new equipment. Combining a 155-liter chamber, gravity convection heating, digital PID temperature control, and a durable stainless steel interior, the 414005-134 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 Hereto see the VWR Basic Gravity Incubator on the American Instrument Exchange 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.
