Binder KBF-S ECO 400 Constant-Temperature Chamber, Peltier technology, 400 litres, 9020-0463

For laboratories that regularly need to test several batches simultaneously under defined climatic conditions, but do not yet require a large-volume cabinet, the Binder KBF-S ECO 400 is the obvious middle ground. With a usable volume of 400 litres, this constant-climate cabinet offers significantly more capacity than the entry-level 240 model, without taking up the floor space of a large unit – a practical compromise for ongoing ICH stability programmes involving multiple test samples.

Peltier technology for energy-efficient climate control

The KBF-S ECO 400 utilises thermoelectric Peltier technology with patented heat dissipation instead of a conventional compressor cycle. This means: no refrigerant, no F-gas issues, no recurring leak tests and noticeably quieter operation than with compressor-based climate chambers. The temperature range extends from 0 °C to +70 °C, with the Peltier cooling system capable of lowering the unit’s temperature to a maximum of 24 to 28 Kelvin below ambient temperature. Whilst the series is not designed for a true deep-freeze range, it fully covers the relevant range for stability tests within a typical climatic range (e.g. 25 °C/60 per cent RH or 40 °C/75 per cent RH), it fully covers the relevant range. Humidity control extends from 10 per cent to 80 per cent relative humidity.

Uniform conditions throughout the entire interior

With a usable volume of 400 litres, it is particularly important that temperature and humidity are uniform throughout the entire chamber, regardless of whether a sample is located in the upper or lower part of the chamber. The APT.line preheating chamber technology conditions the supply and recirculated air before it flows into the test chamber, thus ensuring homogeneous distribution. The inner chamber is made entirely of stainless steel, is corrosion-resistant and easy to clean. Two stainless steel insert grids, including base supports, are included in the scope of supply.

Operation, data logging and connections

The KBF-S ECO 400 is controlled via an LCD display showing temperature, humidity, additional information and alarms. An internal data logger records the measured values, which can be downloaded in an open format via USB – a practical feature for documentation in accordance with GMP/GLP guidelines. An integrated self-test function supports ongoing status analysis, whilst an Ethernet interface enables connection to a laboratory monitoring system. Humidification is provided via an independent water supply using a canister, without the need for a fixed water connection. A feed-through with a silicone plug (Ø 30 mm, left-hand side) allows external sensors or cables to be inserted without opening the chamber.

Peltier or compressor: the right technology in the Binder range

In addition to the KBF-S-ECO series, LT Laborhandel also stocks the compressor-based KBF and KBF PRO constant-climate chambers. The KBF series covers a temperature range from 0 °C to +70 °C (with humidity control from 10 °C to 70 °C), whilst the KBF PRO series, with its extended range, even covers temperatures from -20 °C to +100 °C at humidity levels of 10 % to 98 % RH. For laboratories that require only the temperature range typical of ICH stability tests – between 0 °C and 70 °C – the Peltier technology of the KBF-S ECO 400 offers tangible advantages: no refrigerant, no recurring leak tests and quieter operation in day-to-day laboratory work, which is particularly noticeable when several units are running in parallel. If, on the other hand, extreme climates are required – such as cold stress tests below freezing point or test temperatures up to 100 °C – the compressor-based KBF-PRO series is the more suitable choice. For ongoing ICH stability programmes involving multiple batches, however, the KBF-S ECO 400 offers the advantage of lower energy consumption during continuous operation.

Typical areas of application

The KBF-S ECO 400 is suitable for applications involving several test runs operating simultaneously, without the need for the largest models in the series:

• Routine stability tests in accordance with ICH guidelines involving several batches running in parallel
• Shelf-life tests on cosmetic, packaging or food samples under defined climatic conditions
• Materials research involving a higher volume of samples than in individual tests
• Quality assurance in pharmaceutical and cosmetics companies with a regular testing workload
• As a medium-sized model, it serves as a starting point for laboratories planning to expand their testing volume in the medium term

Technical details

Contents

• 1x Binder KBF-S ECO 400 constant-climate chamber (9020-0463)
• 2x stainless steel insert racks, including base supports
• Operating instructions

Customised requirements & procurement service

Further accessories are available for the BINDER KBF-S-ECO series, such as additional stainless steel shelves for higher loading capacity, the APT-COM software for centralised data backup, or calibration services. Do you require any of these accessories, a bespoke configuration, or assistance in selecting the right size for your application? LT Laborhandel will be happy to assist you with procurement and configuration via our procurement service.