Binder CO2 gassing module for climate chambers, control range 0 to 20 vol.%, NDIR sensor, 8012-2138

Some applications require significantly higher CO₂ concentrations than those found in natural plant growth, such as cell culture work, which traditionally requires a CO₂ incubator. With its control range of 0 to 20 vol.%, the Binder CO₂ gas supply module 8012-2138 covers precisely this broader spectrum and additionally equips a Binder KB PRO series refrigerated incubator or a KBF and KBF PRO series constant-climate chamber (development stage E7) with CO₂ control.

Measuring principle and operation

Like the version with the narrower control range, this module also measures the CO₂ concentration using an infrared measuring cell with an NDIR sensor and provides continuous control to a reference value. The method has fast response times and, according to the manufacturer, remains virtually drift-free between calibrations, as interference and ageing effects in the measuring system are largely ruled out. The CO₂ control is managed entirely via the MB2 controller of the climate chamber; standalone operation without a connected climate chamber is not intended. To ensure the concentration is displayed correctly in vol.%, the sea-level altitude of the installation site must be entered into the controller so that differences in air pressure do not distort the measurement.

Connections and gas supply

The CO₂ gas supply box has an analogue output of 4 to 20 mA for the CO₂ concentration, via which the measured value can be transmitted to an external data acquisition system or a recording device. The gas connection is made via a quick-release coupling, connected to a CO₂ gas cylinder, which is not included in the scope of delivery and must be procured separately. The data connection between the gas injection box and the climate chamber is established via a patch cable supplied with the unit; a fine gas filter in the gas injection box can be replaced if necessary.

Cannot be combined with the light modules

According to the operating instructions, the CO₂ gas injection module, with a control range of 0 to 20 vol.%, cannot be operated simultaneously with the ICH light module or the ICH-LQC light module, as both occupy the same interface on the climate chamber. Simultaneous operation with the LED plant light module, however, is possible, even though the wide control range up to 20 vol.% is rarely utilised in practice for pure plant growth applications and is intended more for other gas injection tasks. Those who require only low, plant-specific concentrations of up to 1 vol.% are generally better served by the more precise control range of the 8012-2140 variant.

Operation and maintenance

The fine gas filter in the gas supply box can be replaced as required to ensure that measurement accuracy is maintained throughout the operational life of the unit. Two CO₂ warning stickers are included in the scope of delivery and should be affixed to a clearly visible position on the climate chamber, as special safety precautions must be observed when handling CO₂ in enclosed spaces. Before initial commissioning, the correct CO₂ outlet pressure of the gas supply and the tightness of all connections must be checked, particularly given the significantly wider control range of up to 20 vol.% in this case. A connection panel on the rear of the incubator or climate chamber houses the data connection to the gas supply unit, ensuring that the cabling remains neatly organised.

Typical applications

• Upgrading a climate chamber to function as a CO₂ incubator, for example for cell culture work
• Gassing experiments with higher CO₂ concentrations beyond purely botanical applications
• Processes that require a documented, constant CO₂ atmosphere to be recorded via an analogue output
• Research applications with varying CO₂ setpoints across the entire control range

Installation takes place on the prepared side panel of the climate chamber, connected via a data cable, gas hose and sensor lead.

Technical details

Scope of supply

• CO₂ fumigation box
• CO₂ sensor with cable
• 2 CO₂ warning stickers
• 24 V mains adaptor with adaptors
• Operating instructions
• 2 mounting rails with screws (4 × M8, 2 × M5)
• 2 silicone foam plugs for the slotted hole feed-through
• Patch cable for the data connection between the gas supply box and the device
• Hose set for the gas connection

The CO₂ gas cylinder and pressure regulator are not included; these must be purchased separately.

Customised requirements & procurement service

LT Laborhandel’s procurement service can assist you in choosing between the CO₂ control ranges of 0 to 20 vol.% and 0 to 1 vol.%, as well as with other accessories for constant-climate cabinets and refrigerated incubators. Details can be found on our services page.