Today, CO2 Incubators are among the most prevalent pieces of equipment found in the laboratory. Carbon Dioxide Incubators are intended for tissue and Cell Culture applications. These incubators work to control three essential variables related to replicating the mammalian environment; stable CO2 Level, temperature, and relative humidity (RH). CO2 Incubators allow these elements to work together to create an ambient environment for cells to thrive. The result is a balanced controlled pH (7.2–7.4), stable temperature (37°C), high relative humidity (95%), and controlled CO2 level (5%).

Water Jacketed vs. Air Jacketed Insulation
Water Jacketed CO2 Incubators envelope the chamber providing superior temperature stability while eliminating contamination and cold spots. In addition, the water jacket is surrounded by insulation, which makes this type of incubator ideal for precise incubation conditions. Air Jacketed CO2 Incubators use traditional fiberglass insulation along with sophisticated microprocessor controls to provide uniform conditions and eliminate condensation.

Contamination Control
A HEPA filtration system, the use of copper for key components, and effective cleaning of the inner chamber have proven to be the most effective tool in the challenge to eliminate contamination. Only the SHEL LAB Select Series and Personal Series of CO2 Incubators feature a patented Copper Coated HEPA Filtration System.

Infrared CO2 Control
The IR sensor is the most sophisticated technology for CO2 detection and control. Since the IR sensor is unaffected by changes in temperature and humidity it is especially ideal for applications in which the incubator door is opened frequently. The Thermal Conductivity (TC) Sensor is a more indirect method of CO2 detection and control since it measures the level of CO2 by sensing temperature difference as CO2 is introduced into the chamber. TC Sensors have been used in CO2 detection for many years.