IKA INC 125 FCS digital (SP25), cooling and shaking incubator, 125 L, 0020136638

The IKA INC 125 FCS digital (SP25) is a cooling and shaking incubator with a chamber volume of 125 litres for the cultivation of heat-sensitive cells and microbiological samples. The unit utilises compressor cooling with the refrigerant R290 (propane) and, in combination with the heating function, covers an operating temperature range of 5 °C to 80 °C with the shaking function active, and up to 100 °C in static mode without shaking. A PID control system and reversibly controllable air circulation from 40 to 100 per cent ensure temperature uniformity of ± 0.3 K throughout the chamber.

SP25 shaking platform: 25 millimetre stroke for large vessels

The designation SP25 refers to the oscillation amplitude (stroke) of the shaking platform, which is 25 millimetres – the largest stroke within the INC-125 series. Driven by the same direct drive operating at 10 to 300 revolutions per minute, this extended stroke achieves intensive mixing even at low to medium speeds. This is particularly suitable for large Erlenmeyer flasks with a volume of over 1 litre, as it improves oxygen transfer without requiring very high speeds and the associated higher shear forces on the cells. The SP25 platform can also be removed without tools, meaning the unit can alternatively be used as a static cooling incubator with a temperature range up to 100 °C.

SP25 compared to the SP20 model

The INC 125 FCS digital is also available with the SP20 shaking platform, which has a shorter stroke of 20 millimetres and is designed for small to medium-sized vessels. The SP25 version described here, with a 25-millimetre stroke, is specifically designed for applications involving large-volume Erlenmeyer flasks, where the greater range of motion ensures sufficient mixing even at moderate speeds. The chamber, refrigeration system and temperature control are identical in both versions; the difference lies solely in the shaking platform.

Stainless steel chamber and thermal decontamination

The welded inner chamber is made of corrosion-resistant AISI 304 stainless steel with generous edge radii, which make it difficult for biofilms to form. To facilitate switching between critical batches, the incubator features an automated decontamination mode that heats the chamber in a controlled manner to 100 °C. A defrost function with continuous drainage prevents ice formation inside the chamber during low-temperature incubations. The drainage system features a hose connection with an internal diameter of 10 mm.

Capacity and configuration

The chamber accommodates up to 6 wire shelves, each designed for a maximum load of 20 kg. On the shaking platform itself, a surface area of 340 x 480 mm is available for a permissible shaking weight of 7.5 kg – a figure that must be taken into account, particularly when using large-volume flasks. A viewing window in the door allows the samples to be monitored without having to open the chamber and thereby disrupt the temperature control. With system dimensions of 700 x 1000 x 635 mm and a weight of 95 kg, sufficient floor space must be allowed for when installing the unit.

Operation, Display and Safety

An LCD display with a timer function for up to 100 days shows the relevant process data. Temperature control is provided by a PT-100 sensor with a four-wire connection; the setting and display resolution is 0.1 K. A Class 1 safety device in accordance with DIN 12880 is fitted as a thermal safety measure, supplemented by an integrated setpoint limiter which protects the chamber in the event of an unexpected temperature overshoot. Permissible ambient temperatures range from 15 to 32 °C at a maximum relative humidity of 70 per cent.

Connection, power consumption and noise emission

The incubator features a USB-C data interface and is designed for a maximum power consumption of 1,000 W at 220 to 240 V, 50/60 Hz; other voltage options, such as 100 to 120 V, are available. The isothermal energy consumption at 37 °C is 79 Wh/h. With a noise emission of 55 dB(A), the INC 125 FCS can also be operated digitally in laboratory environments where several units are running simultaneously.

Typical applications

The INC 125 FCS digital (SP25) is particularly suitable for cultivation tasks involving large-volume vessels and moderate speed requirements:

• Cultivation in large-volume Erlenmeyer flasks over 1 litre
• Cell culture and fermentation batches with high oxygen requirements at moderate speeds
• Switching between shaking incubation and static cold storage at temperatures up to 100 °C thanks to a tool-free removable platform
• Quality assurance and routine cultivation with high sample throughput thanks to the decontamination mode

Thanks to the combination of compressor cooling and a heating function, a single unit thus covers both cold storage and shaking incubation tasks for large-volume cultures, which would otherwise require two separate units.

Technical details

Contents

• 1 x IKA INC 125 FCS digital (SP25) cooling and shaking incubator
• 1 x IKA IO SP 25 shaking platform (25 mm stroke, removable)
• 2 x IKA IO T 1.00 wire mesh trays (stainless steel)
• 1 x USB cable (C-A) and power lead

Clamps for Erlenmeyer flasks and STICKMAX adhesive mats for securing the vessels are not included in the scope of delivery and are required additionally for shaking operation. Due to the greater stroke, secure fixing of the vessels is particularly important with the SP25 model.

Custom requirements & procurement service

For large-volume Erlenmeyer flasks, we recommend custom-fit stainless steel retaining clips; for asymmetrical vessels, the universal STICKMAX adhesive mat. Through our procurement service, we can assist you in putting together and scaling your setup.