VWR SCUCFS-0404 Freestanding Undercounter Laboratory Refrigerator
The VWR SCUCFS-0404 Undercounter Laboratory Refrigerator is a compact, general-purpose laboratory refrigerator designed for laboratories that need convenient refrigerated storage without sacrificing valuable floor or bench space. With 4.6 cu. ft. of capacity, a 0°C to 10°C adjustable temperature range, solid door, probe access port, and compact undercounter footprint, the SCUCFS-0404 provides practical cold storage for reagents, media, samples, standards, and other temperature-sensitive laboratory materials.
At only 21.5 inches wide and 33.5 inches high, the SCUCFS-0404 can fit beneath many laboratory work surfaces while providing considerably more appropriate construction for research environments than a household-style compact refrigerator. Its straightforward mechanical temperature control also makes this model a practical choice for applications where sophisticated microprocessor controls and integrated alarm systems are not required.
This used VWR undercounter refrigerator is tested and reconditioned by American Instrument Exchange prior to shipment and includes a 90-day warranty.
Key Features
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4.6 cu. ft. capacity in a compact undercounter footprint
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Adjustable 0°C to 10°C temperature range
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21.5"W × 22.5"D × 33.5"H exterior dimensions
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Solid door for insulated refrigerated storage
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Mechanical temperature control for straightforward operation
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Probe access port for independent temperature monitoring
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Compact design for placement beneath laboratory counters or benches
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Freestanding configuration for flexible laboratory placement
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Corrosion-resistant exterior
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Easy-to-clean interior
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115V, 50/60 Hz electrical requirements
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90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange
Overview
Space is often at a premium in research laboratories, making undercounter refrigeration an attractive alternative to full-height cold-storage equipment. The VWR SCUCFS-0404 provides 4.6 cu. ft. of refrigerated capacity while occupying little more than 21 inches of laboratory width.
Its compact dimensions allow the refrigerator to be positioned beneath many laboratory counters, next to workstations, or in other locations where a full-size refrigerator would be impractical. This can be particularly useful when researchers need frequently accessed reagents or samples close to the point of use.
The SCUCFS-0404 uses a straightforward mechanical temperature control rather than a complex microprocessor interface. For routine laboratory applications where highly precise electronic control and integrated alarm functionality are unnecessary, this simple design provides convenient and economical refrigerated storage.
A probe access port provides an important advantage over many household-style compact refrigerators. Laboratories can introduce an independent temperature probe or data-logging sensor into the chamber without routing the cable through the door gasket.
The solid insulated door provides additional storage space and helps separate the refrigerated chamber from ambient laboratory conditions.
Freestanding vs. Built-In Undercounter Refrigeration
Although the SCUCFS-0404 is commonly described as an undercounter laboratory refrigerator, it is important to recognize that this particular model is a freestanding unit rather than a built-in refrigerator.
Freestanding refrigeration systems require adequate ventilation around the cabinet so heat generated by the refrigeration system can dissipate properly. The SCUCFS-0404 should therefore not be tightly enclosed inside laboratory casework or installed in an unventilated cabinet opening.
A true built-in undercounter refrigerator typically uses a front-facing ventilation system specifically designed to allow installation within cabinetry or beneath a countertop with limited side clearance.
The SCUCFS-0404 can still be positioned beneath an appropriately configured laboratory work surface, but adequate ventilation clearance should be maintained according to installation requirements. Laboratories planning a tightly integrated casework installation should consider a purpose-built front-venting undercounter refrigerator instead.
Common Applications
The VWR SCUCFS-0404 is well suited for reagent storage, media storage, sample preparation materials, standards, controls, buffers, laboratory consumables, and other temperature-sensitive materials compatible with its 0°C to 10°C operating range.
Its compact footprint makes it particularly useful as point-of-use refrigeration. Instead of repeatedly accessing a central full-height refrigerator, researchers can keep frequently used materials close to a laboratory workstation or experimental area.
The SCUCFS-0404 can also provide supplemental refrigerated capacity in laboratories where existing full-size refrigerators are becoming overcrowded.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The VWR SCUCFS-0404 is a practical choice for academic research laboratories, biotechnology laboratories, pharmaceutical R&D facilities, chemistry laboratories, life science laboratories, analytical laboratories, industrial R&D facilities, and general research environments.
Its small footprint is especially useful in laboratories with limited available floor space or facilities where individual research groups need dedicated refrigerated storage near their workstations.
The relatively simple temperature control system also makes this model particularly appropriate for general-purpose applications where laboratories do not require the advanced alarms, remote monitoring, or tight electronic control offered by higher-performance laboratory refrigerators.
Performance & Temperature Uniformity
The VWR SCUCFS-0404 provides an adjustable 0°C to 10°C temperature range, allowing the refrigerator to accommodate a variety of routine refrigerated laboratory materials.
Temperature is adjusted using a mechanical control located inside the refrigerator. This simple control system is appropriate for general-purpose applications but should not be confused with the microprocessor-based temperature management systems found on higher-performance laboratory and pharmaceutical refrigerators.
Because the SCUCFS-0404 does not provide the sophisticated alarm and monitoring capabilities of those systems, laboratories storing critical or particularly temperature-sensitive materials should consider independent temperature monitoring.
The integrated probe access port makes this relatively easy to accomplish without compromising the door seal.
Sample Storage Recommendations
Samples, reagents, media, and other materials should be organized so that cold air can circulate throughout the refrigerator. Avoid overpacking the chamber or positioning large containers in ways that could create isolated areas with reduced airflow.
Frequently used materials should be positioned for easy retrieval to minimize door-open time.
For applications where maintaining a documented temperature range is important, an independent thermometer, temperature probe, or data logger should be used. The SCUCFS-0404 includes an approximately 0.95 cm probe access port, allowing compatible monitoring equipment to be installed without running a cable through the door gasket.
The SCUCFS-0404 is intended for general-purpose laboratory refrigeration. Flammable or volatile materials requiring specialized storage should be kept in an appropriately rated flammable-material storage refrigerator rather than a conventional general-purpose unit.
Key Specifications
| Specification |
VWR SCUCFS-0404 |
| Manufacturer |
VWR |
| Model |
SCUCFS-0404 |
| Product Type |
General-purpose undercounter laboratory refrigerator |
| Installation Type |
Freestanding |
| Configuration |
Compact, single-door |
| Door Type |
Solid |
| Capacity |
4.6 cu. ft. |
| Temperature Range |
0°C to 10°C |
| Exterior Dimensions |
21.5"W × 22.5"D × 33.5"H |
| Temperature Control |
Mechanical / analog |
| Probe Access Port |
Yes, approximately 0.95 cm |
| Defrost |
Manual |
| Electrical Requirements |
115V, 50/60 Hz |
| Weight |
69 lbs. |
| Warranty |
90 days from American Instrument Exchange |
Energy Efficiency & Operating Costs
One of the inherent advantages of a compact laboratory refrigerator is that laboratories do not need to refrigerate a large cabinet when only a small amount of storage capacity is required.
With 4.6 cu. ft. of capacity, the SCUCFS-0404 can provide dedicated storage for a research group, workstation, or specific class of materials without the electrical requirements and heat output associated with a full-height laboratory refrigerator.
Its solid insulated door also helps reduce heat transfer into the chamber during normal operation.
Actual energy consumption will vary according to laboratory temperature, selected setpoint, sample loading, frequency and duration of door openings, ventilation around the cabinet, and other operating conditions.
Proper ventilation is particularly important. Restricting airflow around a freestanding refrigerator can cause the refrigeration system to work harder, potentially increasing energy consumption and reducing equipment life.
Refurbishment & Testing
American Instrument Exchange technicians inspect, clean, test, and recondition used VWR laboratory refrigerators prior to shipment.
Temperature-controlled equipment is tested using NIST-traceable temperature probes and data loggers to verify cooling performance, temperature stability, and proper operation of the temperature controls. The refrigeration system, compressor, thermostat, door gasket, hinges, shelving, probe access port, electrical components, and cabinet are inspected for condition and functionality.
Hardware and components are repaired or replaced as necessary during the refurbishment process. The refrigerator is then thoroughly cleaned and prepared for shipment.
This VWR SCUCFS-0404 includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
Shipping & Installation
One of the advantages of the VWR SCUCFS-0404 is its manageable size. The refrigerator measures approximately 21.5"W × 22.5"D × 33.5"H and weighs approximately 69 lbs., making it considerably easier to transport and position than a full-height laboratory refrigerator.
Before installation, laboratories should confirm that adequate ventilation space is available around the unit. Although it is an undercounter refrigerator, the SCUCFS-0404 is a freestanding model and should not be tightly enclosed within cabinetry.
The refrigerator should be installed on a stable, level surface and connected to an appropriate 115V, 50/60 Hz electrical supply.
After installation, allow the refrigerator to reach and stabilize at the desired operating temperature before loading temperature-sensitive materials.
Related Laboratory Equipment
American Instrument Exchange carries a wide selection of laboratory refrigerators, including undercounter refrigerators, glass-door refrigerators, chromatography refrigerators, general-purpose full-height refrigerators, flammable-material storage refrigerators, and large-capacity double- and triple-door models.
Laboratories that need compact frozen storage can also explore available undercounter laboratory freezers, while applications requiring lower storage temperatures may benefit from full-size laboratory freezers or ultra-low temperature freezers.
American Instrument Exchange also supplies complementary equipment including centrifuges, incubators, biosafety cabinets, balances, water baths, shakers, and other refurbished laboratory equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the VWR SCUCFS-0404?
The SCUCFS-0404 provides approximately 4.6 cu. ft. of refrigerated storage capacity. Its compact design makes it well suited for individual laboratories, workstations, and facilities that need supplemental refrigerated storage without installing another full-size refrigerator.
What is the temperature range of the SCUCFS-0404?
The refrigerator provides an adjustable 0°C to 10°C temperature range using a mechanical temperature control located inside the cabinet.
Can the VWR SCUCFS-0404 fit underneath a laboratory counter?
Yes. At approximately 33.5 inches high, the SCUCFS-0404 can fit beneath many laboratory work surfaces. However, it is a freestanding refrigerator and requires adequate ventilation clearance rather than being tightly enclosed within laboratory casework.
What is the difference between a freestanding and built-in undercounter refrigerator?
A freestanding refrigerator requires ventilation space around the cabinet to dissipate heat generated by its refrigeration system. A purpose-built built-in refrigerator generally uses front ventilation that allows it to operate within a more enclosed cabinet opening. The SCUCFS-0404 should therefore be installed with appropriate ventilation clearance.
Does the SCUCFS-0404 have digital temperature control?
No. This model uses a mechanical temperature control. Its straightforward design makes it appropriate for general-purpose refrigerated storage where precise microprocessor control and advanced alarm functions are not required.
Can I independently monitor the temperature inside the refrigerator?
Yes. The SCUCFS-0404 includes a probe access port that can accommodate a compatible independent temperature probe or data logger. This allows laboratories to monitor chamber conditions without routing the probe cable through the door seal.
Can flammable solvents be stored in the VWR SCUCFS-0404?
The SCUCFS-0404 is a general-purpose laboratory refrigerator, not a flammable-material storage refrigerator. Flammable or volatile materials requiring specialized refrigerated storage should be placed in equipment specifically designed and rated for that application.
Is this refrigerator appropriate for critical samples?
The SCUCFS-0404 is best suited for general-purpose laboratory refrigeration. Applications involving critical, irreplaceable, regulated, or highly temperature-sensitive materials may require a higher-performance laboratory refrigerator with microprocessor control, integrated alarms, and additional monitoring capabilities.
How does American Instrument Exchange test the SCUCFS-0404?
American Instrument Exchange tests temperature-controlled equipment using NIST-traceable probes and data loggers. Refrigeration performance, temperature stability, controls, door seals, electrical components, and other major functions are inspected and tested, with repairs or replacement performed as necessary before shipment.
Does this VWR undercounter refrigerator include a warranty?
Yes. This used and reconditioned VWR SCUCFS-0404 undercounter laboratory refrigerator includes a 90-day warranty from American Instrument Exchange.
