1

What is a CO2 incubator?

CO2 Incubators are used in biological experiments to allow growth of organisms in optimal conditions of temperature, carbon dioxide and humidity.  Incubators are generally supplied in one of these configurations: air jacket or direct heat and water jacket. 

 
2
 What are the parameters to be considered in choosing an incubator?
  Chamber capacity
  Temperature range
  Temperature accuracy
  CO2 concentration control
  Humidity control
  Protection from contamination
  Ease of operation
  Fast recovery
   
3
 What is the general operating temperature range for CO2 incubators?
  The general operating temperature is 37oC. However certain type of cultures like fish culture might require lower temperature.
   
4
 What is the % humidity maintained in the incubator?
  Generally a very high humidity of 90-95% RH is maintained inside the incubator.
   
5
 What are the precautions to be taken for maintaining aseptic environment in the CO2  incubator?
  You have to work under proper sterile conditions. The risk of contamination are raised when
 
  • Open or close the door more than necessary
  • Bare hands or any part of the body are exposed.
  • Not use disposable extraction kits.
  • Incubator located below knees.
  To avoid the risk of contamination by;
 
  • Regular chamber cleaning
  • Regular replacement of air dust filter
  • Dry-heat sterilization by air jacketed type
6
 What is the quality of water I need for my water jacketed CO2 incubator?
 
  • For jacket, RO water with antirust solution If water resistance level is higher than RO water,  the sensors may not detect the water level.
  • For humidifying pan, RO water with antirust solution
7
 How do I calibrate my CO2 incubator?
 
  • At start up, automatic setup function will automatically calibrate the CO2 zero adjustment.
  • Regular calibration should be carried manually for temperature and CO2.
  • For multi-gas type incubator has auto O2 calibration function on a weekly basis.
8
 Should I use a voltage stabilizer for my equipment?
  Yes. It is always safe to use a stabilized voltage supply for the incubator.