Incubator Measurement and Monitoring

One of the most important devices in producing and researching biopharmaceuticals is the CO₂ incubator used for cell culture processes in many applications, including antibody production, tissue engineering, viral vaccine research, reproductive technologies, cell and gene therapies, and toxicity studies. To be effective, incubators must mimic the environmental conditions of a living body (in vivo) to enable successful cell growth in media with the chamber (in vitro). Culturing cells requires not only ideal conditions in the media used, but also in the incubator chamber.

Accurate measurements mean repeatable processes

For carbon dioxide within incubators, the GMP251 CO₂ probe is an ideal solution. The probe is based on Vaisala’s CARBOCAP® technology that ensures measurement stability. The CARBOCAP sensor features a new type of infrared (IR) light source, instead of the traditional incandescent light. This advance significantly extends the expected lifetime of the probe. The GMP251 probe also calculates temperature and pressure compensations, important with any gas measurement and the sensor head can be heated to prevent condensation.

Wireless monitoring simplify installations

In the latest adaptation of GMP251 probe technology, the probe is connected to a wireless data logger to provide easier installation and send real-time and historical data to Vaisala’s viewLinc Continuous monitoring system or viewLinc Cloud. As the software component of this system, viewLinc provides local and remote alarming, real-time trend data, and reports for compliance with regulations. viewLinc monitors multiple parameters, including temperature, relative humidity, and CO₂ differential pressure, level, door switches, etc. and sends alarms via text, email or local display.

The RFL100 CO₂ data logger uses Vaisala’s proprietary wireless technology VaiNet to achieve wired-equivalent connectivity and superior signal strength to 100 m (330 ft.). The  RFL100 carbon dioxide data logger can measure CO₂ %, CO₂ % with temperature, or CO₂ % with temperature and humidity. Designed for incubators, the RFL100 includes probe-mounting options that allow for secure and flexible placement within an incubator. Optional heat-resistant cables simplify heat sterilization processes because only the probe needs to be removed. Easy removal of probes also allows for easy calibration.