Memmert ULT Freezer ULT1000, ultra-low-temperature freezer

The Memmert ULT1000 ultra-low temperature freezer represents a highly advanced cryogenic system solution for the long-term preservation and storage of biological and pharmaceutical samples in biobanks, university research institutions and industrial laboratories. When handling highly sensitive samples such as RNA extracts, protein isolates or primary cell lines, absolute temperature stability is the primary criterion for physically ruling out any structural damage to the integrity of the samples caused by thermal fluctuations. The ultra-low temperature freezer covers a precisely adjustable temperature range from -50 °C to -86 °C and, thanks to its advanced system architecture, ensures seamless compliance with strict SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures). For procurement professionals in the pharmaceutical industry, this flagship model, with its enormous capacity of 966 litres, offers maximum process reliability and investment value, as it has been specifically designed for demanding, energy-optimised continuous operation under GLP and GMP conditions.

Cascade cooling and inverter-controlled compressor dynamics

The refrigeration heart of the Memmert ULT1000 freezer is based on a high-performance system comprising two cascade-connected compressors. This cascade configuration is physically necessary to bridge the extreme temperature differences between the laboratory environment and the interior of the chamber in a way that is gentle on materials and thermodynamically efficient. The R455A refrigerant is used in the first stage, whilst the second stage is operated with R170 to reliably achieve the ultra-low target temperatures. Through the integration of inverter-controlled compressors, the system dynamically adjusts its cooling capacity in real time to match the actual cooling demand. When the door is opened, the electronic control system compensates for the influx of heat and moisture by increasing the compressor speed. In steady-state operation, however, the system runs in the energy-optimised partial-load range, which drastically reduces energy consumption, minimises mechanical wear and extends service life.

Material-science barrier function and ergonomics

The structural boundary of the Memmert ULT1000 ultra-low temperature freezer is defined by a high-quality housing made of textured stainless steel and an interior made of pure stainless steel. This choice of materials guarantees outstanding corrosion resistance against aggressive disinfectants and prevents cross-contamination in multi-user settings at universities. To minimise uncontrolled entropy exchange when accessing the stored cryoboxes, the interior features an intelligent 4-compartment layout, protected by two separate stainless steel inner doors. This thermal barrier ensures that, when accessing samples, only a small portion of the internal volume is exposed to ambient air. A mechanical door lock protects the valuable contents from unauthorised access, whilst an integrated pressure relief vent with a diameter of 26 mm allows the outer door to be reopened immediately after closing by physically equalising the resulting internal vacuum. With a maximum load capacity of 220 kg per shelf and 440 kg for the entire unit, the system is designed for dense sample loading of up to 770 standard 50 mm boxes.

Cyber security and Lab 4.0 documentation

For scientific quality management, the Memmert ULT1000 ultra-low temperature freezer offers a sophisticated digital operating concept via a 7-inch touchscreen integrated into the outer door, which is positioned ergonomically. Temperature is measured using high-precision Pt1000 resistance sensors, which enable a setting accuracy of 0.1 °C. The cybernetic safety concept includes both visual and audible alarm systems in the event of temperature deviations or an open door, triggered via door-open detection. An integrated backup battery ensures that monitoring and alarm functions are fully maintained even in the event of a total power failure, and that valuable sample batches remain protected. Via modern communication interfaces such as Ethernet LAN and USB, the ULT freezer can be seamlessly integrated into digital laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and monitored remotely, which guarantees seamless documentation of the cold chain for audits.

Technical details

Thermodynamics & Refrigeration Technology

• Cooling system: Cascade system with two compressors
• Compressor control: Inverter-controlled for optimised dynamics
• Refrigerant, stage 1: R455A
• Refrigerant, stage 2: R170
• Condenser: Air-cooled
• Temperature range: -50 °C to -86 °C

Metrology & Control Technology

• Control unit: Ergonomic 7-inch touchscreen, integrated into the outer door
• Setting accuracy: 0.1 °C
• Temperature sensor: Pt1000
• Interfaces: Ethernet LAN, USB
• Safety features: Visual and audible alarm, door-open detection
• Power failure protection: Backup battery for continuous alarm and monitoring

Construction & dimensions

• Internal volume: 966 litres
• Internal dimensions (W x H x D): 1035 x 1276 x 732 mm
• Housing dimensions (W x H x D): 1285 x 1992 x 973 mm
• Housing material: Textured stainless steel
• Interior material: Stainless steel
• Max. Load capacity per unit: 440 kg
• Max. Load per drawer: 220 kg
• Maximum capacity (50 mm boxes): 770 pieces

Infrastructure & Logistics

• Door construction: Insulated stainless steel outer door with mechanical lock
• Pressure equalisation: Side feed-through / pressure relief opening with a diameter of 26 mm
• Installation: Mobile and lockable on sturdy swivel castors
• Net weight: 425 kg
• Gross weight (including packaging): 590 kg
• HS code: 8418 69 00
• Certifications: CE-approved

Contents of delivery

• 1 x Memmert ULT1000 ULT freezer base unit
• 2 x stainless steel internal doors for thermal segmentation
• 3 x stainless steel shelves (height-adjustable)
• 1 x Integrated backup battery for power failure protection
• 1 x Integrated castor unit (movable and lockable)
• 1 x operating instructions

Important note: Storage racks and cryoboxes for the systematic storage of samples inside the chamber are not included as standard and must be configured to suit the specific application.

Customised requirements & accessories

To make optimum use of the 966-litre interior of the Memmert ULT1000 ultra-low temperature freezer and to minimise convective heat exchange when accessing samples, the use of bespoke stainless steel racks and cryoboxes is physically advisable. The system can accommodate up to 770 standard 50 mm boxes. For the vertical storage of extremely heavy sample batches (max. 220 kg per drawer), we recommend an even weight distribution to protect the fibre structures of the drawers. For GMP-relevant applications, we are happy to assist you with manufacturer-compliant qualification (IQ/OQ). Please make use of our procurement service to select your cryogenic infrastructure.