A lab incubator is a particular machine that provides ambient temperature inside a chamber for cell culture and other cultures. It is essential in biological and pharmaceutical science. Often scientists use the lab incubators to culture different cells, microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, etc. Incubators are also prominent in the case of stem cell culture.
A lab can use a CO2
incubator or a regular incubator or a conventional incubator. The
bacteriological and CO2 incubators are quite expensive. Hence, the
machine needs proper care to ensure it remains functional. Often incorrect
method of operating decreases the lifespan of the incubator and you may need to
replace the device too often.
But, maintaining the machine can
save from many hassles. If you continue the device properly, it will remain
efficient and functional for a long time. Additionally, proper maintenance also
keeps the machine in good condition, and it requires less repair.
Here is the comprehensive guide on
what you need to do about keeping the Shel lab
incubator in proper condition-
In general, a lab incubator is
involved in four easy habits. That is,
● Proper placement of the machine
● Regularly monitor the
temperature.
● Monitor the environment condition
● Regular cleaning
Proper placement of the machine
The placement of an incubator is
essential. It keeps the machine in good health and also allows smooth
operation. Here are some guidelines that you need to follow during the machine
placement-
●
It should
be placed away from doors, windows, and vents.
These openings can often blow contaminants
inside the incubator. It can increase the chances of fungal growth.
●
Make sure the machine has at least a
three inches gap with the walls to allow it to work and regulate temperature.
●
Direct sunlight can increase the temperature
range of the incubator. Hence, always place it away from direct sunlight.
● The incubator should be placed on a stand to ensure it does not come in contact with humidity, damp, dust, or dirt.
Monitor the temperature regularly
In general, lab incubators have a
temperature of 37 degree Celsius to allow the cells to get the proper
environment to develop cultures. A little change in the temperature can even
cause the culture to go wrong or maybe destroyed completely. If you do not want
to ruin the culture, make sure to maintain the temperature of the incubator regularly.
Although lab incubators contain
temperature sensors, using another thermometer is a great idea. It allows you
to monitor the range precisely. You can easily use a calibrated thermometer
inside its glass door to check if the machine is in the right temperature
range.
If you want to keep the temperature fixed, it is better to stop improper handling of the machine. Try to use it only when you need it. Frequently opening the machine may cause the temperature to fluctuate.
Always monitor the environment inside the temperature
If you want to get the best cell
culture results, you need to maintain the quality environment inside the
machine. The common environmental factors are the carbon dioxide level, oxygen
level, and humidity. The cell culture samples are susceptible to all these
environmental conditions and may react in the adverse way of the environment is
not ideal.
For example, if the humidity level
is below the average or required level, the culture media can evaporate, and
the growth medium can become concentrated. Try to maintain the humidity of the
machine near 95%. It is the ideal range. Always place a water tray under the
culture sample to ensure the machine is humid in its model range.
If your lab has a carbon dioxide incubator, you need to maintain the CO2 level. An ideal CO2 incubator has 5% with constant pH level to allow the cells to develop. It is better to keep a close watch on the CO2 meter. Additionally, check the sensor and try to maintain the gas level whenever the machine requires it. Furthermore, check the external gas analyzer to check the gas level inside the incubator.
Regular cleaning
The Incubator
needs regular cleaning and sanitizing to maintain its efficiency. If you
leave any culture tray inside the machine for a long time, it may become
contaminated, and the machine can also develop fungus. Som regularly clean it-
●
Use gloves to clean the machine and try to clean
the humidity pan once a week.
●
The chamber, shelves, and any other parts can be
cleaned three to four times a month.
●
If there is any old medium inside, check its
condition and discard that if not needed.
●
Use the HEPA filter to filter inside the
chamber.
You can follow the above guide to
keep the lab incubator clean and in proper condition to ensure it works
properly.
In case your
lab requires a new incubator, you can check the official website of globallabsupply.com. It is a well-known lab equipment
supplier that provides different types of lab equipment. For any queries
related to lab equipment, you can contact us.