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Constant Temperature Water Bath for Laboratory Use

A Constant Temperature Bath for laboratory use is a device designed to maintain a precise and stable temperature for incubating or heating samples over extended periods. Commonly used in scientific research, quality control, and various laboratory applications, these baths ensure uniform thermal conditions for experiments. Below is a comprehensive overview based on available information:

Types of Constant Temperature Baths

1. Standard Water Baths:

-Basic models for general heating tasks.

-Suitable for warming reagents, melting substrates, and incubating cell cultures.

-Temperature range: Typically room temperature (RT) +5°C to 99.9°C.

-Limitations: Not suitable for temperatures above 100°C; alternatives like oil, silicone, or sand baths are used.

2. Circulating Water Baths:

-Feature a pump for water circulation, ensuring uniform temperature distribution.

-Ideal for applications requiring high precision, such as enzymatic or serologic experiments.

-Example: Accumax India microprocessor-controlled baths with stainless steel chambers.

3. Shaking Water Baths:

– Include a shaking mechanism to mix samples during heating, useful for microbiological cell cultures.

-Features: Adjustable shaking frequencies, digital displays, and optional lift-up covers.

4. Oil Baths:

   – Used for temperatures above 100°C (up to 180°C or higher).

   – Compact designs available for small-scale reactions.

5. Low-Temperature Water Baths:

   – Operate at sub-ambient temperatures (e.g., -10°C to 80°C).

– Used for cooling samples or maintaining low temperatures.

6. Viscometer Baths:

-Specialized for viscosity measurements, adhering to standards like ASTM D445.

-Feature precise temperature control (e.g., ±0.01°C from 20–100°C).

Key Features

• Temperature Control:

  – Digital or analog interfaces for setting precise temperatures.

-Advanced models use PID controllers, NTC sensors, or solid-state relays for accuracy (e.g., ±0.1°C).

-Microprocessor systems with LCD displays for real-time monitoring.

• Materials:

-Stainless steel chambers for corrosion resistance and durability.

-Heat resistant glass or insulated metal lids to minimize evaporation.

• Safety Features:

-Over temperature alarms, low-water level detection, and high temperature cut-offs.

-Nonhazardous spirit-filled thermometers for monitoring.

• Capacity:

– Ranges from 2.5L to 100L, depending on the model.

Applications

• Microbiology: Incubating bacterial/yeast cultures at specific temperatures (e.g., 37°C for biological reactions).
• Molecular Biology: Thawing frozen samples, enzyme reactions, or DNA amplification (PCR).
• Chemistry: Heating flammable chemicals safely (no open flame) or determining melting/boiling points.
• Clinical Labs: Warming solutions to body temperature for diagnostics or maintaining patient sample conditions.
• Industrial: Calibration of temperature probes, quality control, or pasteurization tests.