Binder BD 260 Standard Incubator with natural convection, 253 l, 9010-0329

For those who require more incubation capacity than a compact benchtop unit can offer, but still need a quiet, low-draught interior, the Binder BD 260 Standard Incubator is the ideal size. With a usable volume of 253 litres and a temperature range from +5 °C above room temperature up to 100 °C, the unit can accommodate significantly larger sample runs than the smaller BD models, without compromising on the principle of natural convection.

Free convection even with a larger internal volume

The BD 260 operates entirely without a fan. APT.line technology ensures that heat is distributed evenly throughout the interior via the chamber walls, even in a chamber of this size. For open-incubated agar plates, cell cultures or other flow-sensitive samples, this maintains a stable microclimate even at higher sample throughput – a result that cannot be achieved to the same extent with forced-air units.

LCD controller with Ethernet and USB connectivity

The setpoint temperature is adjusted via a controller with an LCD display. A USB port records the process data, whilst an Ethernet interface enables integration into a laboratory network. For quality assurance and GLP-compliant documentation, the temperature history can thus be recorded in an audit-proof manner without the need to log the data manually. A programme memory retains parameters once they have been set; the unit can also be programmed for recurring incubation cycles.

Safety in accordance with DIN 12880 and practical controls

An integrated Class 3.1 temperature selector monitor in accordance with DIN 12880, featuring a visual alarm, monitors the setpoint temperature independently of the control system – an important feature for longer, unattended incubation runs. The electromechanically controlled exhaust air flap regulates air exchange without the need to open the chamber door. The full-surface inner door made of toughened safety glass (ESG) allows visual inspection of the samples from the outside, whilst the ergonomic handle design makes it easier to open the outer door during daily use.

253 litres in a compact footprint

With external dimensions of 810 x 760 x 940 mm (W x D x H) and a weight of 85 kg, the BD 260 can be set up as a benchtop unit or on a sturdy base frame, despite its large internal space. The scope of delivery includes two chrome-plated insert grids, which can be adjusted in height to accommodate different vessel sizes.

Energy-efficient operation thanks to APT.line technology

With a connected load of 0.85 kW, the BD 260 operates up to 30 per cent more energy-efficiently than comparable devices on the market, according to the data sheet. It is connected via a Euro plug (Type C) with a rated voltage of 230 V, meaning no separate electrical installation is required. The low energy consumption is particularly noticeable during continuous operation lasting several weeks, for example with long-term cultures or recurring stability tests, in day-to-day laboratory operations.

From the BD 56 to the BD 260: the step up to the next size

If the usable volume of smaller BD models, such as the BD 56 (57 litres) or the BD 115 (112 litres), is no longer sufficient for the volume of samples being processed, the BD 260, with a capacity of 253 litres, is the logical next size up within the BD series. The operating principle of natural convection and the safety features in accordance with DIN 12880 remain identical across all sizes, meaning that existing workflows do not change fundamentally when switching to a larger chamber.

Natural versus forced convection: BD 260 or BF 260

With the BF series, Binder offers a forced-air variant with a similar usable volume; the BF 260 has a capacity of 257 litres, just slightly more than the BD 260. The key difference lies in the convection principle: the BF series actively circulates the air via a fan, thereby achieving faster, more uniform heating of the entire interior. The BD 260 deliberately omits this fan and, as a result, produces minimal airflow – an advantage for open-incubated samples that are sensitive to air movement. Which variant is the right choice depends on the specific type of sample, not on a general quality distinction between the two series.

Fewer moving parts in the BD 260 also mean fewer potential points of wear during continuous operation: without a fan motor, there is one less component that needs to be checked regularly for proper functioning in forced-air units. For laboratories that use their incubators in shift operation over many years, this can be an additional, practical argument in favour of natural convection.

Typical areas of application

The BD 260 is suitable for microbiological and laboratory tasks involving a higher sample throughput:

• Microbiological quality control with larger sample batches
• Incubation of parallel batches in research and teaching
• Stability testing and conditioning of heat-sensitive media
• Quality assurance in food and beverage laboratories with a regular volume of batches
• A supplementary unit alongside smaller BD models when capacity requirements increase

For example, in a food testing laboratory, a complete daily series of bacterial count determinations can be incubated in a single BD 260, rather than operating several smaller units in parallel, whilst USB data logging records the temperature curves for subsequent documentation.

Technical details

Contents

• 1x Binder BD 260 Standard Incubator, 230 V (9010-0329)
• 2x chrome-plated shelf grids
• User manual

Customised requirements & procurement service

Further accessories are available for the BD 260, such as additional chrome-plated shelves or calibration certificates. Do you require any of these items, advice on the appropriate model size, or assistance with procurement? LT Laborhandel will be happy to assist you via our procurement service.