Are you in the market for an ultra-low (ULT) temperature freezer? Not sure where to look or whether to purchase, rent, or lease? Finding major equipment for a laboratory facility isn’t the easiest. Finding equipment that is sustainable and has a small environmental impact is even harder. But, it’s as important today as it’s ever been.
This article will review the major ULT freezer manufacturers and many of their unit specifications, helping you make smarter, more sustainable choices when it comes to laboratory freezing equipment. Rather than purchase or rent your next unit, lease an ULT freezer instead. The benefits of leasing outweigh those of purchasing or renting, and can set your laboratory up for financial and operational flexibility. Let’s take a look.
Ultra-low temperature freezers are freezers that typically range in temperature from -45°C (-49°F) to -86°C (-122°F). They are most often found in hospitals, biomedical engineering facilities, and blood blanks. They house biological samples of blood, semen, bacteria, viruses, tissues, and cell samples. Ultra-low temperature freezers range in size and style to meet a wide range of lab needs. You will find small countertop models, benchtop, undercounter or chest freezers, and high-quality upright freezers.
With all these different variations, it’s important to think of every main consideration when in the market for one. They’re a big investment, and you want your freezer to serve your lab perfectly and endure the test of time. Choosing the right ultra-low temperature freezer can be a big decision, so let’s review some of the main things you need to keep in mind before making that purchase.
Space and Orientation – Firstly, the placement of the freezer in your lab is going to determine the size you will need. You should begin with finding the appropriate space—knowing where it will go beforehand will help you determine the size of the freezer you can actually purchase. A small lab that has only enough space for a countertop model should not look into acquiring an undercounter freezer. And it’s not just about the space; the orientation of the equipment will come in handy as well. You are going to want something with an ergonomic design that offers an excellent control system. Make sure the freezer orientation is optimal for when the doors are open.
Storage – Storage capacity is a must. You actually do not want an excess of storage space as it can alter the effectiveness of the freezing. On the other hand, you also do not want to run out of room. Be realistic with your needs. It might help to have a current inventory of things you’ll be storing so you don’t run into any surprises.
Reliability – Reliability is the next thing to consider. How do you know if a manufacturer creates a reliable piece of machinery? Look at their track history and supplier validation! Most manufacturers will provide the history of a piece of equipment if you ask. Ask your colleagues as well; you know and trust them and they might have special experience or wisdom to lend you. Your colleagues know which companies are worth their salt.
Temperature – Temperature uniformity is equally as important. You do not want to see temperatures all over the place, especially if there is a significant shift after opening the door or lid. Do you need an automatic defrost system? Make sure that is just as uniform as keeping the temperature regulated. Temperature controls on a touch-screen temperature display are very helpful.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability – Remember the efficiency challenges we mentioned earlier? You want an energy-efficient piece of machinery. When you factor in the costs of running an ultra-low temperature freezer, something that doesn’t drive the electric bill over the top is going to be appreciated. You don’t want to run up your bills or have your lab amass an excessive environmental impact.
Now that you have learned a bit about the freezers, now is the time to think about who to buy from. The internet, while vast with all kinds of helpful knowledge and know-how, can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. To help narrow down some of the choices out there, here are some of our suggestions for Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer manufacturers:
Nuaire is a company that found its way into the business in 1971. The National Institute of Health (NIH) was in desperate need of a heavy-duty safety cabinet to meet its needs. Max Peters went to work in his garage and came up with Nuaire and won the contract with NIH. Today, Nuaire still manufactures equipment for use in labs and healthcare centers around the country.
The Blizzard™ HC VIP NU-99338J
Eppendorf is a leader in life sciences and has been around since 1945. Originally founded in Hamburg, Germany, Eppendorf has transcended their borders to now serve a global market. With locations in 26 different countries, Eppendorf specializes in the development and sale of lab instruments, services for liquid-samples, cell handling, and consumables. They have a wide range of lab equipment, including ultra-low temperature freezers. Let’s take a look at a few of their most popular:
Continental Scientific is a Pennsylvania company that began in refrigeration for laboratories and hospitals. They have since grown to include freezers in their lineup and have become leaders in the manufacture and commerce of laboratory equipment since. What sets them apart is their choice to put each piece of equipment through rigorous testing. Before leaving the warehouse, each stainless steel freezer and refrigerator must run for 12 hours straight to test for leaking, uneven temperature, and any other issues that may arise. For a closer look at Continental Scientific, here are a few of their ULT freezers:
Low Temperature Solid Door Laboratory/Pharmacy Freezers
Low Temperature Glass Door Laboratory/Pharmacy Freezers
PHC Corporation of North America Corporate is a subsidiary of PHC Holdings Corporation. You might also know them better as Panasonic Healthcare. They have quite an extensive array of equipment to cover any task or storage need in the healthcare field. Let’s take a look at a few of the Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers they have to offer.
VIP ECO Large Volume Ultra-Low Freezer MDF-DU901VHA-PA
VIP ECO Natural Refrigerant -86°C Freezer MDF-DU702VHA-PA
TwinGuard Series Ultra-Low Temperature Upright Freezer MDF-DU702VXC-PA
Fisher Scientific/Thermo Fisher Scientific is a name synonymous with long-term storage in freezer or refrigeration systems that are also approved by the FDA. This brand likely has the biggest inventory and array of ULT freezers to choose from. Here is a sample of their top two common types of freezers.
Fisherbrand™ Isotemp™ -86°C Ultra-Low Temperature Chest Freezers
Fisherbrand™ Isotemp™ Ultra-Low Temperature Freezers
As you can see, there is a lot to think about when it comes to finding the right ultra-low temperature freezer for your lab or facility. Consider the energy consumption, location for the storage, and what you will be storing in the freezer. All of these considerations will go into the ultimate choice of which ULT freezer you end up buying. A back-up plan is also a must-have; always be prepared for the unexpected. Be sure to check out all these manufacturers and maybe even your local lab auction.
Want some more support in finding your next laboratory freezer? Excedr can you help you find the right lab equipment for you and even help with financing options. We help make lab equipment and freezers a bit more affordable and easier to do. Contact us today!
