BINDER B 28, standard incubator with mechanical control, B028-230V

The BINDER B 28 B028-230V is a specialised standard incubator designed specifically to provide stable incubation conditions in microbiological laboratories, educational institutions and routine quality assurance applications. The basic physical principle of this system is based on natural convection, which enables gentle and controlled heating of the sample chamber without the need for active fan components. For purchasers in academic settings and diagnostic laboratories, this offers a decisive advantage: by avoiding forced air circulation, the evaporation of samples – particularly in the case of sensitive agar plates or liquid media in open vessels – is significantly reduced. The BINDER B 28 B028-230V thus establishes a thermal equilibrium that optimally supports the biological kinetics of microorganisms, whilst at the same time minimising the mechanical complexity of the unit to ensure maximum service life.

Thermodynamics of natural convection and heat transfer

The thermodynamic efficiency of the BINDER B 28 B028-230V is achieved through the tried-and-tested APT.line™ preheating chamber concept, which ensures above-average temperature accuracy even in this mechanically controlled series. In a system with natural convection, heat transfer occurs primarily due to differences in the density of the air masses. Heating takes place over a large area via the chamber walls, creating a stable thermal jacket (air jacket). This physical arrangement prevents cold spots inside the chamber, which could otherwise have an uneven effect on the growth of cultures. As no turbulent flows are induced, the humidity within the chamber remains more stable, which enhances the metrological validity of long-term incubations. In pharmaceutical research, this model is therefore often used for simple sterility tests or the incubation of standard microorganisms, where excessive air movement would be counterproductive to the morphology of colony formation.

Materials science aspects and structural integrity

The inner chamber of the BINDER B 28 B028-230V is made of high-quality stainless steel (grade 1.4301 / AISI 304), which guarantees excellent corrosion resistance and chemical inertness. From a materials science perspective, this is essential, as incubation processes are often associated with elevated humidity, which could accelerate the oxidation of metallic surfaces. The smooth surfaces allow for easy decontamination in accordance with standardised hygiene protocols. A distinctive feature is the integrated inner door made of toughened safety glass. This acts as a thermal barrier: it allows visual inspection of the samples without disrupting the thermodynamic system environment by fully opening the main door. This minimises heat loss and significantly reduces the system’s recovery time following access, thereby enhancing process reliability in the hectic day-to-day laboratory environment of universities and schools.

Cybernetics of mechanical control and occupational safety

The BINDER B 28 B028-230V is controlled by a robust hydraulic-mechanical thermostat. In an increasingly digitalised laboratory environment, this form of cybernetic control offers unrivalled reliability and ease of use, which is particularly valued in teaching settings. The system is designed for a temperature range of 30 °C to 70 °C, covering the entire spectrum of classical bacteriology. To ensure the safety of the unit, the incubator features an integrated temperature limiter. This acts as a redundant safety system which, in the event of a malfunction in the primary controller, physically cuts off the heating power, thereby protecting both the valuable samples and the laboratory infrastructure from thermal damage. For purchasers, this combination of technical simplicity and high reliability guarantees low maintenance costs and a long service life (Total Cost of Ownership).

Cost-effectiveness and use in education and research

All things considered, the BINDER B 28 B028-230V is the ideal investment for laboratories seeking a cost-effective solution for standard tasks without compromising on BINDER’s brand quality. Its compact design, with an internal volume of 28 litres, allows it to be placed in a minimal amount of space, which is particularly important in crowded practical classrooms. As it does not feature complex electronics, the unit is unaffected by mains voltage fluctuations and requires only minimal training for new staff or students. With this incubator, you are choosing a system that perfectly balances the physical requirements for stable incubation with the economic need for low-maintenance operation.

Technical details

Thermodynamics & Heating Capacity

• Temperature range: 30 °C to 70 °C
• Spatial temperature deviation (at 37 °C): ± 0.5 K
• Temperature deviation over time (at 37 °C): ± 0.2 K
• Heating time to 37 °C: approx. 45 min
• Heat transfer: Natural convection (no fan)
• Heat dissipation (at 37 °C): 15 W

Metrology & Control Engineering

• Control: Hydraulic-mechanical thermostat
• Safety device: Integrated temperature limiter (TB)
• Adjustment: Manual via rotary control
• Temperature display: Optional via plug-in thermometer

Chamber infrastructure & dimensions

• Internal volume: 28 l
• Housing dimensions (W x H x D): 580 mm x 405 mm x 425 mm
• Internal dimensions (W x H x D): 400 mm x 330 mm x 215 mm
• Number of shelves (standard/max.): 2 / 4
• Max. total load: 25 kg
• Max. load per shelf: 12 kg
• Interior material: Stainless steel 1.4301 (highly corrosion-resistant)
• Inner door: Safety glass (ESG)

Electrical Engineering & Infrastructure

• Rated voltage: 230 V (1~ 50/60 Hz)
• Rated power: 0.25 kW
• Energy consumption (at 37 °C): 15 Wh/h
• Protection class in accordance with DIN EN 60529: IP 20
• Plug: Schuko plug (CEE 7/7)

Ambient conditions

• Permissible temperature range: 15 °C to 30 °C
• Distance from rear wall: 100 mm
• Side clearance from wall: 160 mm

Contents

• 1 x BINDER B 28 B028-230V standard incubator
• 2 x chrome-plated shelf racks
• 1 x mains lead for 230 V connection
• 1 x operating instructions

Important note: A thermometer for precise reading of the current internal temperature is not permanently fitted. It is recommended that you purchase a calibrated insertion thermometer for the upper feed-through separately to ensure metrological monitoring.

Individual requirements & accessories

For use in regulated areas or for the accurate documentation of incubation parameters, the addition of a digital or analogue control thermometer is physically essential. Furthermore, to maximise sample throughput, additional stainless steel inserts can be used to fully utilise the vertical capacity of the 28-litre chamber. To ensure sterility, we recommend the regular use of alcohol-based disinfectants that are gentle on materials. Please use our procurement service to select the appropriate validation documents or accessories.