Cole Parmer StableTemp 146E User manual

StableTemp® Low Temperature Incubator
Model 146E
Catalog Number
39063-00(115VAC)
39063-05(230VAC
StableTemp®Low Temperature Incubator offers
laboratories precise temperature control over the -10°C to
60°C range. Performance meets requirements for the
preservation of vaccines, biologicals, incubation of bacterial
cultures, and determination of bio-chemical oxygen demand
of sewage. The extended operating temperature range
also includes temperatures associated with drug stability
projects, dairy product evaluation and entomological
studies.
Features include:
ØSpacious 6.1 cu ft chamber accommodates up to 114
standard BOD bottles or similar containers.
ØUnder the counter model with reversible door
Ø2 Removable shelves
Ø3 Molded door shelves
ØMicroprocessor based temperature controller, with
temperature readout to .1°C
ØSolid state relay for heater
ØOver/ under temperature safety relay and alarm LED
ØOver temperature thermostat
Ø3 Cooling control modes: High precision with cooling,
High precision without cooling and Frost free with variable
cooling
ØCompressor relay for energy conservation
ØCompressor overload relay
ØRTD temperature probe
ØProtected setpoint mode to avoid accidental change
ØConvenience outlet inside chamber, 2 amp
WARNING
•This manual must be carefully read and thoroughly
understood before operating the unit, failure to follow
directions or precautionary measures could result in
serious adverse effects.
•This equipment must be used only as specified in these
instructions.
•This equipment is intended for indoor use only.
•This equipment must be earth grounded for safe
operation.
•Maximum ratings of accessories that may be plugged
into convenience outlet: Load current 2 Amps. @
115VAC, Leakage Current 250 micro Amps.
IMPORTANT: When operating at 100% cooling,
the compressor runs continuously and thus
cools continuously. If no manual defrosting is
conducted for over 2 weeks, ice will build and the unit
will not maintain temperature. See Defrosting.
CAUTION
The aluminum evaporator and other portions of these units
should not be exposed to the corrosive effects of acidic or
caustic materials. Extreme care must be exercised if such
materials are stored within to prevent voiding the warranty.
This Incubator is NOT suitable for flammable material
storage.
SPECIFICATIONS
Power Requirements:
39063-00 115V, 9.5A, 60Hz
39063-05 230V, 5.8A, 50Hz
Including 2A for internal convenience outlet.
Dimensions:
Height: 34.5 in (87.6cm)
Width: 24 in (61cm)
Depth: 24.5 in (62.2cm)
Volume: 6.1 cu ft (0.173m3)
Shelf Data: 2 chamber, 3 door
Capacity: 114 BOD bottles
Shipping Weight:
126 lb. (57 kg)
Operating Environment:
Temperature Range: 10°C to 40°C
Humidity Range: 0% to 90% RH Non-Condensing
Maximum Altitude: 6600 ft (2 km)
Air clearances: Front and back, 3” minimum
Overvoltage Category II (IEC664)
Pollution Degree 2 (IEC664)
Performance Characteristics:
Operating Range: -10°to +60°C
Uniformity: ±1.0°C1
Stability: ±0.2°C1
Display Readability: 0.1°C
1Per ASTM method E 1292-94, cooling modes 00 and 100
PACKING LIST
Qty Item
1 Low Temperature incubator
1 Instructions
1 Latching Duct
1 End Cap for Duct
3 J Clamps
1 Plastic Bag containing 4 feet
UNPACKING and INSPECTION
NOTE: If damage is observed, keep the shipment intact
(including the carton and all packing material) and file a
claim with the final carrier.

INSTALLATION
The Low Temperature Incubator should be installed on a
level, stable floor. Install the 4 adjustable feet per
instructions inside package. Use the adjustable feet to level
the incubator. Locate the unit so that area in front of door
and kick grill is clear. To prevent heat build up within the
unit, do not install it where it will be exposed to strong
sunlight, nor near radiators, furnaces, or other sources of
heat. Do not install the incubator where flammable or
corrosive atmospheres may exist. The Low Temperature
Incubator is not to be used out-of-doors or where excessive
moisture or contamination could cause degrading of
mechanical or electrical components.
1. Remove all protective tape from doors and shelves.
2. Clean interior and exterior with warm soap and water.
Shipping tape residue can be removed using isopropyl
alcohol.
3. Uncoil line cord from rear of unit. Connect the plug to a
power outlet that complies with the electrical requirements
specified on the unit's label and with proper safety ground
connection. If line cord replacement is necessary, use CSA
types: SJ, SJO or SJT, 16 GA, 3 conductor or equivalent.
Door Reversal:
1. Disconnect unit from power source. On inside of door,
directly behind controller, open snapped conduit and
remove controller cable.
2. Remove screw that secures cable clamp holding
controller cable, then replace screw.
3. Remove controller cable from J clamps that run along
inside chamber side and back walls.
4. Place 3 J clamps (Provided) at approximately the same
spacing (on opposite side) as existing J clamps.
5. Support door with one hand remove screw securing door
to upper hinge, then lift door off bottom hinge.
6. Remove the three screws securing each hinge to
chassis.
7. Remove three plug screws covering holes on left side,
then install them in holes on right side,
8. Install hinges on left side using screws removed in step
6. Position hinge with door screw on bottom.
9. Position door on hinge then insert screw previously
removed in step 5.
10. Attach supplied latching duct to inside on door, in line
with controller cable toward opposite side on door from
other duct.
11. Route cable using J clamps and latching duct.
12. Remove screw on left front of enclosure and install
cable clamp with removed screw.
13. Adjust size of loop in cable where door is hinged to
ensure door can fully open and close without interference.
CONTROLS
Power ON/OFF Switch: Located inside chamber area, is
used to turn power (1) ON or (0) OFF to entire unit.
Keys: Located on front panel.
MENU Used to access menus.
SET Used to display setting.
∆INCREASE setting.
∇DECREASE setting.
DISPLAY and INDICATORS
DISPLAY: (On front panel)
Displays chamber and set point temperatures in °C and
prompts from menu.
INDICATORS: (Front panel)
DELAY: Lights when delay start timer for compressor is
timing. Will begin timing when power is first applied or
when cooling is first turned off.
ALARM: Indicates that chamber temperature is not within
limits and the safety relay is opened.
COOL: Lights when cooling compressor is on.
HEAT: Lights when controller demands heat.
GENERAL FUNCTIONAL CHECKS
1.Turn power on to unit by placing the Power ON/ OFF
Switch to I (ON) position. The Controller (mounted on front
of door) will display S , then, 88.8 (to test display), then
begins reading actual chamber temperature.
Note: When power is first applied, if display indicates an L
instead of an S, a switch setting on the controller must be
changed. Refer to Replacing Temp Controller (TC1).
2. After 3 seconds, the alarm LED on the controller should
extinguish and the safety relay should close applying power
to the heater, fan, compressor relay and convenience
outlet.
3. Press and hold MENU key, after 3 sec. the display will
indicate CAL. Release and press MENU again to display
Pct, press SET, display should indicate 100. Press and
release MENU again to indicate Pro, press SET, display
should indicate 00, press and release MENU to return to
normal control mode. Press SET to display control
setpoint, display should read 25.0. If the control setpoint or
any of the other parameters aren't set correctly, use the ∆
or ∇keys while pressing SET to change the setting.
4. The DELAY LED will be lit for 7 minutes after power is
first applied, the COOL LED will be out during this delay
period. When the DELAY LED goes out, the COOL LED
will light and the compressor relay will close starting the
compressor.
5. Allow unit to stabilize for 1 hour at 25°C, to ensure that all
systems are functioning.
OPERATION
Perform the procedure under General Functional Checks if
incubator is new or hasn't been operated for a long time.
Controller operation:
Usually the only controller setting that is necessary to
change is the chamber temperature control setpoint. Other
parameters of the controller may be changed by accessing
them through the MENU key, covered later.
Changing Chamber Temperature Control Setpoint
1. The chamber temperature is continuously displayed,
unless a key is pressed.

2. To display the setpoint temperature, press the SET key.
The setpoint temperature will remain on the display for 1
sec. after the SET key is released.
3. To change the setpoint temperature, press and hold SET
while pressing the ∆or ∇keys to change the setting. (Note
that when either ∆or ∇keys are first pressed, the display
will begin to change slowly at first, then increase change
rate after a few seconds.)
4. Select the desired chamber setpoint then release all
keys. The controller display will revert back to actual
chamber temperature after a few seconds. Allow up to an
hour for unit to stabilize at the new setpoint temperature.
After the incubator temperature has stabilized, place
samples into incubator chamber. For best results, arrange
samples evenly throughout the chamber. Liquid samples
should be covered to prevent evaporation and eventual
frost build up on evaporator coils, particularly when
operating below ambient. Note that frost build-up is normal
when unit is being operated below 35°C with cooling set to
100% mode.
The Low Temperature Incubator has an internal 2 amp.
convenience outlet inside chamber to operate devices such
as: shakers, rotators, photosynthesis lights, recording
thermometers etc. Accessing Controller Menus:
The temperature controller has three menu selections that
can be accessed by pressing and holding the MENU key for
3 sec. To access menu parameter, press and hold the SET
key. To change the parameter, use the ∆or ∇keys.
CAL Menu- Calibration Menu is used to change the
temperature offset value to correct for differences in
chamber temperature and the displayed temperature.
Range -5°to 5°C. See Calibration Procedure.
Pct Menu- (Percent Cooling Menu) Used to select one of
three cooling modes:
100% Mode- Compressor runs continuously which provides
high precision control (+/-.2°C Stability) over entire
temperature range. Requires manual defrost.
50% Mode- Compressor runs approximately half the time
which conserves power and also prevents and eliminates
frost buildup inside chamber. This method eliminates the
need for manual defrosting but provides less temperature
stability (+/- 1.5°C).
00% Mode- Compressor is completely off. This mode is
ideal for incubating samples at temperatures 10°C or higher
above ambient (35°C to 60°C). It provides the greatest
power savings yet still maintain the advertised stability.
Pro Menu- Protection Menu - Used to select the Protection
mode of operation that determines when the alarm is
activated and if the control setpoint can be changed.
Range 0.0 to 0.2.
0.0 Mode- Normal mode that allows the user to change
setpoint. Alarm activates if chamber temperature
(chamber) and setpoint temperature (setpoint) are as
follows:
chamber ≤15.0°C and chamber < (setpoint - 3) or
chamber ≥40.0°C and chamber > (setpoint+3)
While ALARM is activated, the safety relay is opened
interrupting power to the heater, fan, convenience outlet
and compressor. When chamber temperature returns to
acceptable limits, the ALARM will automatically terminate
and power is reapplied. In order to allow changing of
setpoint and eliminate nuisance alarms, an alarm by-pass
takes effect when the setpoint is changed or when power is
first applied. The alarm by-pass works as follows: Present
chamber temperature is stored as a nominal alarm
temperature (nominal). If chamber < setpoint then alarm
temperature (alarm) = nominal -3. If chamber > setpoint
then alarm = nominal +3. If chamber should go beyond
alarm or < -13 or > 63 then the ALARM will activate. This
alarm by-pass is active until chamber reaches setpoint
±1°C.
0.1 Mode- Same as 0.0 Mode, except that the setpoint is
locked and can't be changed.
0.2 Mode Setpoint is locked, plus, the ALARM will activate
and the safety relay will open as follows:
chamber < (setpoint -3) or chamber > (setpoint +3)
In order to use this mode of protection, modes 0.0 or 0.1
will have to be used to reach the setpoint temperature.
Once the chamber temperature reaches the setpoint and is
stable, protection mode 0.2 can be set.
Note! If the chamber temperature falls outside the setpoint
by ±3°C, the ALARM will activate and safety relay will
interrupt power. This mode can only be used if the door is
to remain shut and other disturbances don't effect the
chamber temperature.
As an added safety feature, the incubator has a thermostat
in the heater compartment that limits the upper chamber
temperature to 65°C.

MAINTENANCE
WARNING
To reduce the risk of electric shock, disconnect from
power source before servicing.
Before re-applying power, after maintenance is complete,
check to ensure that safety ground is intact and making a
good connection.
CLEANING
Disconnect incubator from power source. Immediately
clean all spilled materials from the incubator and wipe dry.
If necessary, moisten a cloth with soap and water and clean
inside and out. Do not use any harsh chemical cleaners.
DEFROSTING
Periodic defrosting may be necessary. The time between
defrosts depends on operating temperature, ambient
humidity and moisture from samples. Time between
defrosts may be from 30 days to years.
Suggested defrost methods.
Method I: For control setpoint down to 10°C, this method is
the least disruptive, if samples can withstand temperature
stability of +/- 1.5°C for 24 hours. Samples may remain in
chamber during this procedure.
1. (Refer to Accessing Controller Menus) Press and hold
MENU key until CAL is displayed, then release and press
MENU again until Pct is displayed.
2. Select 50 in the Pct menu then press MENU key twice to
return control mode.
3. Allow incubator to remain in this mode for about 24 hours
or until frost disappears.
4. Use the MENU key to re-establish the previous selection
for Pct (i.e. 100).
Method II:
1. Remove any samples that may be damaged by
temperatures up to 35°C.
2. Refer to Accessing Menu section of manual and set Pct
parameter to 00.
3. Place Setpoint to 35.0°C.
4. Allow temperature to stabilize, for 1 hour.
5. After 1 hour, remove power from unit. Open door and
wipe up any excess moisture on floor of chamber with
paper towels or sponge.
6. Apply power and set desired operating parameters back
into controller. After chamber temperature stabilizes, place
samples previously removed back into unit.
CALIBRATION
If it becomes necessary to calibrate temperature controller,
perform the following:
1. Place an accurate temperature-measuring device in the
geometric center of the chamber.
2. Set the controller to the desired operating temperature in
100% cooling mode and allow 2 hours for stabilization.
3. Note the chamber temperature on the controller display
and the temperature at the geometric center.
4. Subtract the chamber display reading from the geometric
center reading.
5. Enter into the Calibration Mode as described in
Accessing Menu.
6. Press and hold SET key, using the ∆or ∇keys, set the
calibration parameter to the value determined in step 4.
7. Allow unit to stabilize for 1 hour and check that controller
value and geometric center value agree ±.2°C. Repeat
calibration if necessary.
Replacing Temp. Controller:
1. Disconnect incubator from power source.
2. Remove front panel bezel by removing four screws in top
and bottom of bezel.
3. Remove four screws that mount controller to mounting
bracket.
4. Note wire colors and positions on TB1 and TB2, then
remove all wires from TB1 and TB2 and remove old
controller.
5. Locate switch DS1 on lower left corner of new controller
and set the switches as follows:
Set DS1-1 (A) to off (up).
Set DS1-2 (B) to off (up).
6. Attach wires previously removed from old controller to
new controller.
7. Mount new controller and bezel, then apply power.
8. Refer to Calibration section of this manual, to calibrate
new controller.
Replacing RTD Temp. Sensor:
1. Disconnect incubator from power source.
2. Refer to Replacing Temp. Controller, but only remove
sensor wires from TB2.
3. Open incubator door, remove Sensor on door bracket.
4. Remove old sensor, then place new sensor on bracket.
5. Connect new sensor wires to controller then mount
controller and bezel.
6. Apply power, then refer to Calibration section.
Replacing SSR1, K1, K2 or T1:
1. Disconnect incubator for power source.
2. Remove screws from lower back panel then tilt back
panel out.
3. Locate device to be replaced on back panel then remove
mounting screws.
4. Unplug quick connect terminals, noting positions.
5. Place quick connects on new device and mount on back
panel.
6. Replace back panel, then apply power.
7. Refer to General Functional Checks to ensure that new
device is operating.
Replacing FAN2, THM1, HTR1:
1. Disconnect incubator from power source.
2. Remove shelves from chamber area.
3. Remove heater cover at top back of chamber by
removing 2 screws on either side.
4. Replace the THM1 or HTR1, if necessary, then coat
electrical connections with RTV102 or other electrical
insulator. To replace Fan, remove HTR1, then remove 4
screws that hold Enclosure, then replace Fan.
5. Re-assemble in opposite order as previously described.
6. Apply power, refer to General Functional Checks to
ensure that new device is operating.

TROUBLE SHOOTING and REPAIR
Symptom Possible Cause Possible Solution to Condition
Incubator controller isn’t
functioning, no lights etc.
Power switch isn’t ON or no power to
unit.
Place Power ON/ OFF switch inside chamber to
ON. Check power outlet by plugging a known
good device into it.
Erratic temperature display
readings above or below set
point.
Frost buildup. Look for frost inside
chamber around evaporator.
Defrost per instructions. If possible operate in
50% Cooling Mode to avoid frost buildup.
Temperature uniformity in
chamber above specified limit.
Frost buildup or airflow blocked by
samples.
Defrost per instruction. If airflow blocked by
sample containers, remove some to allow top to
bottom airflow.
Temperature readings too
high or too low compared to
thermometer.
Controller may need calibrated. Refer to CALIBRATION section of this manual
Control goes into power on
reset sequence while
operating.
Inadequate line power. Test Line
voltage of outlet to Incubator while unit
is operating.
If line voltage is < 106 VAC while unit is running,
then a higher capacity AC line is required.
Compressor not operating
while COOL LED is lit.
Compressor stalled and thermal
overloads opens. Test line voltage of
outlet while unit is operating.
If line voltage is < 106 VAC while unit is running,
then a higher capacity AC line is required.
Temperature readings go far
below setpoint and trigger
alarm at 15°C.
Open heater or heater control relay
SSR1.
Unplug unit from power then refer to replacing
HTR1. Check heater with OHM meter, about 29
ohms (39063-05 model, 60 ohms).
Temperature readings go far
above setpoint and triggers
alarm at 40°C or above.
Defective cooling relay, compressor or
shorted heater SSR1. Check if
compressor is running, if so touch
evaporator in chamber, it should be
cold.
If compressor isn’t running while Cool led is on
then replace K2 relay. If compressor is running
and evaporator isn’t cold then cooling system
needs repair. If evaporator is cold then SSR1
may be shorted.
Controller display works but
heater, compressor and
chamber fan don’t.
Safety relay K1 not closing. K1 relay may need replaced.
Display EEE/99.9 & Alarm 1 Open sensor or sensor connection. Check sensor connection at controller. Check
sensor with ohm meter, 100 ohms at 0°C and
110 ohms at 25°C.
Display EEE/99.8 & Alarm 1 Shorted sensor or connection. Check sensor connection at controller.
Display EEE/temp & Alarm 1 Incubator needs defrosted. See erratic temperature display readings.
1. Temp Limit = Temp (+/-3°C or more from setpoint) & (> 40°C or <15°C), safety relay opens.
Replacement Parts
Description Spare Part Number Description Spare Part Number
TC1 Controller CP102214 S1 Switch CP83373
Sensor, RTD CP88613 HTR1 Heater (115V) CP102079
SSR1 Relay CP88616 HTR1 Heater (230V) CP102080
K1 Safety Relay CP102260 FAN2 (115V) CP30580
K2 Comp. Relay CP102259 FAN2 (230V) CP39854
T1 Transformer CP88678 THM1 Thermostat CP88612
Compressor (39063-00) CP105501
Cole-Parmer Instrument Company
625 East Bunker Court
Vernon Hills, IL 60061-9872
1-800-323-4340
Instruction Manual
Part # 105665 Rev. B
Published date 1/10/03

Schematic Diagram