Phcbi MCO-18ACL User manual

MCO-18ACL
Please read the operating instructions carefully before using this product, and keep the operating
instructions for future use.
See page 43 for model number.

Operating Instructions
CO2Incubator
This product is for research use only.
Not for clinical diagnosis or treatment of humans or animals.

1
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 2
PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE OPERATION.......................................................... 3
LABELS ON INCUBATORS ................................................................................ 8
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS ...................................................................... 8
INCUBATOR COMPONENTS............................................................................. 9
Control panel and keypad .............................................................................. 11
Remote alarm terminal................................................................................... 12
INSTALLATION SITE ........................................................................................ 13
INSTALLATION ................................................................................................. 14
Connecting CO2gas cylinder ......................................................................... 15
PREVENTING CONTAMINATION .................................................................... 16
PRECAUTIONS FOR CULTURES.................................................................... 17
INITIAL CLEANING METHOD........................................................................... 18
REMOVING INNER ATTACHMENTS ............................................................... 19
INSTALLING INNER ATTACHMENTS.............................................................. 21
FILLING HUMIDIFYING PAN ............................................................................ 22
WATER LEVEL SENSOR (MCO-18ACL with MCO-18UVS3).......................... 24
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE................................................................................ 25
CORRECT OPERATION................................................................................... 25
SETTING CHAMBER TEMPERATURE AND CO2DENSITY........................... 26
SETTING OF ALARM RESUME TIME.............................................................. 27
Operation after power failure.......................................................................... 27
KEY LOCK FUNCTION ..................................................................................... 28
UV LAMP (MCO-18ACL with MCO-18UVS3)
......................................................... 29
Precautions when using UV lamp .................................................................. 30
Setting UV lamp ON period............................................................................ 31
Lighting UV lamp for 24 hours........................................................................ 32
ALARMS, SAFETY, AND SELF-DIAGNOSIS ................................................... 33
CALIBRATION
Temperature calibration ................................................................................. 34
CO
2calibration ............................................................................................... 35
TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................................... 36
DISPOSAL OF UNIT.......................................................................................... 37
AUTOMATIC CO2CYLINDER CHANGEOVER ................................................ 38
STACKING INCUBATORS................................................................................ 40
SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................. 42
PERFORMANCE ............................................................................................... 43
SAFETY CHECK SHEET .................................................................................. 44

2
INTRODUCTION
■Read the operating instructions carefully before using the Product and follow the instructions for safety
operation.
■PHC Corporation disavows any responsibility for safety if the Product is used for other than the
intended use or used with any procedures other than those given in the operating instructions.
■Keep the operating instructions in a suitable place so that it can be referred to as necessary.
■The contents of the operating instructions are subject to change without notice for improvement of
performance or functions.
■Contact our sales representative or agent if any page of the operating instructions is lost or the page
order is incorrect.
■Contact our sales representative or agent if any point in the operating instructions is unclear or if there
are any inaccuracies.
■No part of the operating instructions may be reproduced in any form without the expressed written
permission of PHC Corporation.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
PHC Corporation guarantees this product under certain warranty conditions. However, please note that
PHC Corporation shall not be responsible for any loss or damage to the contents of the product.
<Intended Use>
This equipment is designed for cell and tissue culture for laboratory use. Not for clinical diagnosis or
treatment of humans or animals.

3
PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE OPERATION
It is imperative that the user complies with the operating instructions
as it contains important safety advice.
Items and procedures are described so that you can use this unit correctly and safely.
If the precautions advised are followed, this will prevent possible injury to the user and
any other person.
Precautions are illustrated in the following way:
WARNING
Failure to observe WARNING signs could result in a hazard to personnel
possibly resulting in serious injury or death.
CAUTION
Failure to observe CAUTION signs could result in injury to personnel and
damage to the unit and associated property.
Symbol shows;
This symbol means caution.
This symbol means an action is prohibited.
This symbol means an instruction must be followed.
Be sure to keep the operating instructions in a place accessible to users of this unit.
WARNING
As with any equipment that uses CO2gas, there is a likelihood of oxygen depletion in the vicinity
of the equipment. It is important that you assess the work site to ensure there is suitable and
sufficient ventilation. If restricted ventilation is suspected, then other methods of ensuring a
safe environment must be considered. These may include atmosphere monitoring and
warning devices.

4
PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE OPERATION
USA Only (Model with a lamp): This product has a lamp that contains mercury. Disposal may be
regulated in your community due to environmental considerations. For disposal or information, please
visit PHC website: https://www.phchd.com.
Contains mercury / Contenu avec mercure
For more information on safe handling
procedures, the measures to be taken in
case of accidental breakage and safe
disposal options visit:
ec.gc.ca/mercure-mercury/.
Dispose of or recycle in accordance with
applicable laws.
Pour plus de renseignements sur les
procédures de manutention sécuritaire, les
mesures à prendre en cas de bris accidentel et
les options d’élimination sécuritaire visitez:
ec.gc.ca/mercure-mercury/.
Mettez au rebut ou recyclez conformément
aux lois applicables.

5
Do not use the unit outdoors. Current leakage or electric shock may result if the unit is exposed to
rain water.
Only qualified engineers or service personnel should install the unit. The installation by
unqualified personnel may cause electric shock or fire.
Install the unit on a sturdy floor and take an adequate precaution to prevent the unit from
turning over. If the floor is not strong enough or the installation site is not adequate, this may result
in injury from the unit falling or tipping over.
Never install the unit in a humid place or a place where it is likely to be splashed by water.
Deterioration of the insulation may result which could cause current leakage or electric shock.
Never install the unit in a flammable or volatile location. This may cause explosion or fire.
Never install the unit where acid or corrosive gases are present as current leakage or electric
shock may result due to corrosion.
Always ground (earth) the unit to prevent electric shock. If the power supply outlet is not
grounded, it will be necessary to install a ground by qualified engineers.
Never ground the unit through a gas pipe, water main, telephone line or lightning rod. Such
grounding may cause electric shock in the case of an incomplete circuit.
Connect the unit to a power source as indicated on the rating label attached to the unit. Use
of any other voltage or frequency other than that on the rating label may cause fire or electric shock.
Never store volatile or flammable substances in this unit if the container cannot be sealed. These
may cause explosion or fire.
Do not insert metal objects such as a pin or a wire into any vent, gap or any outlet on the unit.
This may cause electric shock or injury by accidental contact with moving parts.
Use this unit in safe area when treating the poison, harmful or radiate articles. Improper use
may cause bad effect on your health or environment.
Turn off the power switch (if provided) and disconnect the power supply to the unit prior to any
repair or maintenance of the unit in order to prevent electric shock or injury.
Do not touch any electrical parts (such as power supply plug) or operate switches with a wet
hand. This may cause electric shock.
WARNING

6
PRECAUTIONS FOR SAFE OPERATION
Ensure you do not inhale or consume medication or aerosols from around the unit at the time of
maintenance. These may be harmful to your health.
Never splash water directly onto the unit as this may cause electric shock or short circuit.
Never put containers with liquid on the unit as this may cause electric shock or short circuit when
the liquid is spilled.
Never bind, process, or step on the power supply cord, or never damage or break the power
supply plug. A broken power supply cord or plug may cause fire or electric shock.
Do not use the power supply cord if its power supply plug is loose. Such power supply cord
may cause fire or electric shock.
Never disassemble, repair, or modify the unit yourself. Any such work carried out by an
unauthorized person may result in fire, or electric shock or injury due to a malfunction.
Disconnect the power supply plug if there is something wrong with the unit. Continued
abnormal operation may cause electric shock or fire.
When removing the power supply plug from the power supply outlet, grip the power supply
plug, not the cord. Pulling the cord may result in electric shock or fire by short circuit.
Disconnect the power supply plug before moving the unit. Take care not to damage the power
supply cord. A damaged cord may cause electric shock or fire.
Disconnect the power supply plug when the unit is not used for long periods. Keeping the
connection may cause electric shock, current leakage, or fire due to the deterioration of insulation.
If the unit is to be stored unused in an unsupervised area for an extended period, ensure that
children do not have access and that doors cannot be closed completely.
The disposal of the unit should be accomplished by appropriate personnel. Remove doors to
prevent accidents such as suffocation.
Do not put the packing plastic bag within reach of children as suffocation may result.
Do not position this unit and the other unit so that it is difficult to operate the disconnection of
the power supply plug. Failure to disconnect the power supply plug may cause fire if there is
something wrong with the unit.
WARNING

7
This unit must be plugged into a dedicated circuit protected by branch circuit breaker.
Use a dedicated power source as indicated on the rating label attached to the unit. A multiple-tap
may cause fire resulting from abnormal heating.
Never store corrosive substances such as acid or alkali in this unit if the container cannot be
sealed. These may cause corrosion of inner components or electric parts.
Check the setting when starting up of operation after power failure or turning off of power
switch. The stored items may be damaged due to the change of setting.
Be careful not to tip over the unit during movement to prevent damage or injury.
Prepare a safety check sheet when you request any repair or maintenance for the safety of service
personnel.
CAUTION

8
LABELS ON INCUBATORS
Warning and caution labels are attached to the incubator. The following table describes the labels.
This label is attached to covers that access high-voltage electrical components to
prevent electric shock. Only a qualified engineer or service personnel should be
allowed to open these covers.
This symbol indicates an ultraviolet light (UV) caution.
This symbol indicates that caution is required. Refer to product documentation for
details.
This symbol indicates a hot surface.
This symbol indicates an earth.
This symbol means “ON” for a power switch.
This symbol means “OFF” for a power switch.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
This equipment is designed to be safe at least under the following conditions (based on the IEC 61010-1):
■Indoor use;
■Altitude up to 2000 m;
■Temperature 5 oC to 40 oC
■Maximum relative humidity 80 % for temperature up to 31 oC decreasing linearly to 50 % relative
humidity at 40 oC;
■Mains supply voltage fluctuations up to ±10 % of the nominal voltage;
■Transient overvoltages up to the levels of OVERVOLTAGE CATEGORY II;
■Temporary OVERVOLTAGES occurring on the mains supply;
■Applicable pollution degree of the intended environment (POLLUTION DEGREE 2 in most cases);

9
INCUBATOR COMPONENTS
2
3
4
5
6
7 9 (inside)
10, 11
13
19,20 (inside)
14
15
Rear Right Side
When an optional UV system set
MCO-18UVS3 is installed.
12
16
21
Rear Left Side
When an optional UV system set
MCO-18UVS3 is installed.
18
17
8
1
Handles
Handles

10
INCUBATOR COMPONENTS
1. Outer door: Sticks to frame with magnetic seal. Door heater is installed in the outer door panel.
The door opening is reversible. Contact our sales representative or agent to change the door hinge from
left to right or vice versa.
2. Inner door: Made of tempered glass, however avoid excessive impact on the glass.
3. Leveling feet: Screw type for adjusting the height. Adjust the feet so that the incubator can be
level.
4. Tray: Can be pulled toward you.
5. Tray support: Can be removed by lifting the front side and pulling toward you.
6. Side support: Right and left side supports can be removed for disinfection. See page 19 and 20.
7. Fan cover: Inlet of circulating air. Removable.
8. Duct: Flow path for circulating air. Removable.
9. Fan (inside the rear duct): Made from polypropylene resin. Can be disinfected by an autoclave.
10. Sample air outlet: This also functions as an internal gas outlet. Normally, cover this outlet with the
sample air outlet cap.
11. Sample air outlet cap: Always attach this cap except at the time of using of sample air outlet.
Note: Operation without sample air outlet cap may result low humidity or condensation on the outer door.
12. Connecting port A/B for CO2gas pipe: When an optional component MCO-21GC (gas auto
changer) is installed, both A and B are available. If MCO-21GC is not used, only A is available. Refer
to page 15 for gas cylinder connection. Ensure that the gas pressure is set at 0.03 MPa(G) (0.3
kgf/cm2(G), 4.4 psi(G)). Refer to page 42 for gas auto changer.
13. Door switch: Detects the door opening/closing and stops the circulating fan, the UV lamp* and
electromagnetic valve for CO2when the outer door is open.
14. Humidifying pan: Use sterile distilled water to fill the humidifying pan. (When an optional UV
system set MCO-18UVS3 is installed) Install the humidifying pan properly so that it can be covered with
the humidifying pan cover.
15. Remote alarm terminal: Refer to page 12.
16. Access port: When not in use, cap with the silicon caps on both outside and inside.
17. Power switch: Main switch of the incubator (ON-“I”, OFF-“O”). Also functions as an over-current
breaker. The switch is covered by a switch cover to prevent the accidental push. To turn on or off the
switch, remove the switch cover by loosening the screw.
18. Humidifying pan cover*: Prevents UV light being exposed to the chamber. When filling the
humidifying pan, lift the front side and take out the humidifying pan. See page 22 for details.
19. UV lamp*: This UV lamp does not generate ozone. Never look at the UV light directly. For
replacement, contact our sales representative or agent.
20. Water level sensor*: Detects the water level in the humidifying pan. See page 24 for details.
21. Glow starter*: The glow is started when the UV lamp light.
*When an optional UV system set MCO-18UVS3 is installed.

11
Control panel and keypad
1. Digital temperature indicator (TEMPERATURE oC): Normally, this indicator shows the chamber
temperature. In the setting mode, it shows the set value of the chamber temperature. If the self
diagnostic function detects any abnormality, an error code will be displayed.
2. Heater lamp (HEAT): This lamp lights when the heater is energized.
3. UV indicator (UV): This lamp lights when the UV lamp is ON. The blink of this indicator
recommends the replacement of the UV lamp. See page 29 for the details. When an optional UV
system set MCO-18UVS3 is installed.
4. Door lamp (DOOR): This lamp lights when the outer door is open.
5. Water level alarm lamp (RH PAN): This lamp blinks when the water in the humidifying pan is less
than approximately 0.8 L. When an optional UV system set MCO-18UVS3 is installed.
6. High limit regulator: This regulator is used to set the high limit temperature. See page 26 for the
details.
7. Over heat lamp (OVER HEAT): This lamp lights when the chamber temperature reaches the high
limit temperature.
8. CO2inject lamp (INJECT): This lamp lights when CO2gas is being injected.
9. Digital CO2density indicator (CO2%): Normally, this indicator shows the CO2density in the
chamber. In the setting mode, it indicates the set value of the CO2density. In the calibration mode, the
decimal point in the digital CO2density indicator blinks.
10. Set key (SET): Pressing this key to enter the setting mode, and the digits to be set will blink.
11. Calibration key (CAL): Pressing this key to enter the CO2calibration pre-conditioning mode.
Normally when the outer door is opened, the fan motor will stop operating. This mode allows the fan
motor to continue to circulate the chamber environment for 5 minutes to ensure accurate CO2uniformity
inside the chamber. At this time, by pressing this key for approximately 5 seconds, the incubator enters
the temperature calibration input mode. And then pressing this key again, the incubator enters the CO2
calibration input mode. See page 34 and 35 for the details. Also, used to change the UV lamp ON
period. See page 31 for the details.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
151617

12
INCUBATOR COMPONENTS
12. Alarm buzzer stop key (BUZZER): Press this key to silence the buzzer when the alarm operates
and the buzzer sounds (The remote alarm is not stopped).
13. CO2gas supply line indicator (A/B): The lamp for the supply line currently in use lights up
provided that MCO-21GC gas auto changer (option) is installed.
14. CO2gas supply line switching key : This key to select CO2gas supply line is available only when
a gas auto changer MCO-21GC (option) is installed. When one CO2 cylinder is empty, the CO2 is
supplied by the other cylinder automatically.
15. Enter key (ENT): Pressing this key memorizes the set value in the controller.
16. Numerical value shift key ( ): Pressing this key in the setting mode causes the numerical value
to shift. In key lock mode, pressing this key makes key lock ON or OFF. See page 28 for details.
17. Digit shift key ( ): Pressing this key in the setting mode causes the changeable digit to shift.
Pressing this key more than 5 seconds enters key lock mode. See page 28 for the key lock.
Remote alarm terminal
The terminal of the remote alarm is installed at the rear right side of the incubator. The alarm is
outputted from this terminal. Contact capacity is DC 30 V, 2 A.
Contact output:
between COM. and N.O. between COM. and N.C.
At normal Open Close
At abnormal Close Open
Note:
The alarm is actuated when the power supply cord is disconnected from the outlet or the power switch is
OFF.
• The remote alarm cannot be stopped by pressing the alarm buzzer stop key (BUZZER) since the remote
alarm is not conjunct with the alarm buzzer stop key (BUZZER).
Remote alarm terminal

13
INSTALLATION SITE
For correct operation of the incubator, install it in a location with the following conditions.
WARNING
When using CO2gas for control, make sure that there is adequate ventilation. Using CO2gas in a
small room without adequate ventilation may cause gas poisoning or oxygen deprivation. In addition,
when opening the incubator doors, do not directly inhale the air in the chamber.
Si l’appareil est utilisé dans un evdroit restreint, le niveau de la densite CO2de l’air peut s’élever et peut
être nocif aux humains. Evitez d’aspirer l’air provenant de l’inérieur de l’appareil quand vous ouverz la
porte.
Normal air environment
Install the incubator in an environment with normal air.
Do not expose to direct sunlight
Do not install the incubator in a location where it will be exposed to direct sunlight. If the incubator is
operated in direct sunlight, performance will be adversely affected.
Separate from heat sources
Do not install the incubator near significant heat sources, such as heaters, boilers, ovens, or autoclaves.
Heat will adversely affect the performance of the incubator.
Ambient temperature at least 5 C lower than set temperature
The control temperature of the incubator is at least 5 C higher than the ambient temperature. For
example, if the chamber is controlled at 37 C, the ambient temperature normally must be no more than
32 C. Do not allow the ambient temperature to become too high.
Strong and level floor
Select a site with a strong and level floor. If the floor is uneven or the installation is not level, the incubator
will be unstable and this may cause accident or injury. To avoid vibration and noise, always make sure
that the installation is stable. An unstable surface may result in vibration or noise.
WARNING
Install the incubator at a location that can support the weight. If the floor is not strong enough or if the
installation is insufficient, the incubator may fall over and cause injury.
Always make sure that the floor is strong, even, and level, and that the incubator will not tip over.
An insufficient installation may result in injury due to water leakage or the incubator falling over.
Low humidity
Select a site with a relative humidity of 80 %R.H. or lower. Using the incubator in high humidity may result
in current leakage or electric shock.
WARNING
Do not use the incubator outdoors. If the incubator is exposed to rain water, it may result in current
leakage or electric shock.
Never install the incubator in a moist location, such as near a sink or water line, or where it is
likely to be exposed to water. In addition, do not install it near water or steam pipes. Moisture can
cause the insulation to deteriorate, which may result in current leakage or electric shock.
No inflammable or corrosive gas
Never install the incubator in a location where it will be exposed to inflammable or corrosive gas. Doing so
may result in explosion or fire. In addition, insulation may deteriorate due to corrosion of protective casing,
resulting in current leakage or electric shock.
No falling objects
Do not install the incubator in a location where there is the possibility of objects falling from above. Doing
so may result in damage or accident.

14
INSTALLATION
1. Remove the packing tape and clean up.
Remove all the tapes that are securing the doors and inner attachments. Open the doors for ventilation. If
the outer panels are dirty, dampen a cloth with a diluted neutral detergent and wipe them. (Using an
undiluted solution may damage the plastic. Follow the diluting instructions for the detergent that is used.)
Wipe off the residual detergent with a wet cloth and then wipe off any moisture.
Note:
Remove the cable tie banding the power supply cord. Prolonged banding may cause the corrosion of
the cord coating.
WARNING
Do not leave plastic wrapping bags within reach of children. If a bag is placed over a child’s head, it
can block mouth and nose and cause suffocation.
2. Adjust the leveling feet.
Adjust the leveling feet by turning them counterclockwise to level
the incubator. (See the illustration on the right.)
3. Ground the incubator.
Ground the incubator during installation to prevent electric shock
in case the insulation is not sufficient. If there is no ground wire at
the location, contact with qualified service personnel.
When a ground must be installed
If a grounded 3-pole outlet is not available, then a ground must
be installed. Contact with qualified service personnel.
WARNING
To prevent electric shock, always ground the incubator. If grounding is not possible, then have a ground
installed by qualified service personnel. If the incubator is not grounded, it may result in electric shock.
Never connect the ground wire to a gas pipe, water pipe, lightning rod, or telephone ground wire.
Doing so may cause electric shock.
Installing a ground fault circuit breaker
If using the incubator in a location with moisture or humidity cannot be avoided, then it is recommended
that a ground fault circuit breaker be installed in the power supply circuit (i.e., the power supply at the
incubator). Have the circuit breaker installed by qualified service personnel.
CAUTION
Do not climb on the incubator or place objects on top of it. Doing so may damage it or cause it to fall
over, resulting in injury. If it is to be stacked, refer to page 40 and stack it securely.
When the incubator is not in use
Empty the water from the humidifying pan and remove moisture from the chamber. Make sure that the
chamber is completely dry before closing the doors. Failure to do so may result in damage.
Before moving the incubator
Before moving the incubator, empty the water from the humidifying pan, disconnect the power supply plug
from the outlet, and make sure that the power supply cord will not be damaged. Failure to do so may
result in electric shock or fire.
Leveling feet

15
Connecting CO2gas cylinder
WARNING
When connecting a gas cylinder to the incubator, confirm the gas type. Confirm that the connections
are secure and that no gas will escape. Be sure to use the specified pressure. Using an incorrect
gas or pressure may result in explosion or fire, or in gas poisoning or oxygen deprivation due to escaping
gas.
Install the incubator in a location with adequate ventilation. If adequate ventilation cannot be
provided, then install an alarm system using CO2and O2 densitometers.
1. Use a liquefied CO2gas cylinder (at least 99.5 % pure). The siphon (dip tube) type cannot be used.
2. Install a gas regulator rated at 25 MPa(G) (250 kgf/cm2(G), 3600 psi(G)) for the primary pressure, and
0.25 MPa(G) (2.5 kgf/cm2(G), 36 psi(G)) for the secondary pressure on the CO2gas cylinder.
3. Using the gas tube that is provided, connect the gas regulator to the connecting port A/B for CO2gas
pipe (located at the lower left-hand side on the rear panel of the incubator).
Note:
If CO2is supplied to multiple CO2incubators from a single gas cylinder, a CO2solid will be formed in the
gas regulator. The gas regulator safety valve will operate, and there may an explosive sound.
When the MCO-21GC is not mounted
Using the gas tube that is provided, connect the gas regulator for the CO2gas cylinder to connecting port
A for CO2gas pipe on the incubator. After connecting the gas tube, make sure that no gas is leaking.
When the MCO-21GC is mounted
Connect a pair of CO2gas cylinders with gas regulators independently. The gas supply line will be
switched automatically. Connect the main cylinder to connecting port A for CO2gas pipe and the reserve
cylinder to connecting port B for CO2gas pipe. After connecting the cylinders, make sure that no gas is
leaking.
For details on installing the optional gas auto changer (MCO-21GC), refer to the MCO-21GC
installation guide. For details on using the MCO-21GC, refer to page 38.
4. Set the CO2gas on the secondary side to 0.03 MPa(G) (0.3 kgf/cm2(G), 4.4 psi(G)) for gas injection. As
the pressure increases, the CO2gas density control range will increase. Excessive pressure may cause
gas supply lines inside the incubator to come loose, which may result in gas poisoning or oxygen
deprivation due to the escaping of gas. If gas lines come loose, the incubator must be repaired.
The gas lines connected to the incubator will degrade over time. If any deterioration or abnormalities
are found during inspection, replace the lines immediately.

16
PREVENTING CONTAMINATION
To prevent contamination of the chamber, select a suitable installation site.
Avoid locations with high temperatures or humidity.
Avoid locations with high temperatures or humidity, because of a greater presence of microorganisms in
the air.
Avoid locations with passers-by or drafts.
Avoid locations near doors, air conditioners, fans, etc., where passers-by or drafts can facilitate the entry
of microorganisms into the chamber.
If possible, use a cleanroom.
To achieve a better culture result, it is recommended that a cleanroom be used if one is available.
Use clean containers.
The greatest cause of contamination is dirty containers used in cultures. Be careful not to get containers
or trays dirty when taking them in and out.
Keep the chamber clean.
Wipe off any fingerprints. If water spills from the humidifying pan, or if the doors are left open for a long
time, condensation may form on the inside of the doors. If that occurs, wipe off the condensation with a
dry sterile gauze. In particular, clean and disinfect the chamber if the culture medium is spilled. For details,
refer to “ROUTINE MAINTENANCE “on page 25.
Use sterile distilled water in the humidifying pan.
Always use sterile distilled water in the humidifying pan. Do not use ultrapure water, because red rust-like
suspended particles might be generated.
The water level alarm lamp (RH PAN) on the control panel blinks when the water level is low. Quickly refill
the water in the humidifying pan when the water level alarm is displayed. Adding low-temperature water
will significantly lower the temperature in the chamber. Clean the humidifying pan once a month.
Keep the incubator out of direct airflows from air conditioners or fans.
Cool airflow from an air conditioner may cause condensation and lead to possible contamination.

17
PRECAUTIONS FOR CULTURES
Leave space between culture containers.
Always leave space for ventilation between culture containers (Petri dishes, flasks, etc.). Inadequate
spacing may result in uneven temperature distribution and CO2gas density.
Do not place harmful materials in the chamber.
Never place samples that release acidic, alkali, or corrosive gas in the chamber. Doing so may cause
damage resulting from discoloration or corrosion.
Close the inner door.
Always close the inner door before closing the outer door. Failure to close the inner door will adversely
affect performance even if the outer door is closed.
Open and close the doors gently.
Always open and close the doors gently. Closing the doors forcefully may cause spillage of the culture
medium, incomplete closing, or damage to the gasket. Before opening the inner door, check through the
glass to confirm that the UV lamp is OFF.
Be careful when closing the outer door.
Use the handle when closing the outer door. Holding the door in other places may cause injury by getting
fingers caught in the door. Do not lean on the outer door. Doing so may result in injury from the outer door
coming loose or the incubator falling over, or it may cause current leakage or electric shock.
Be careful of the inside of the outer door.
The inside of the outer door may become hot.
Avoid using excessive force on the inner door.
Do not put your hand on the glass, poke it with sharp objects, or apply strong force. Doing so may result
in injury from breaking the glass.
Check the cause of any alarm buzzer.
If an alarm buzzer sounds while the incubator is in use, immediately check the cause of the alarm. For
details on what may cause an alarm buzzer to sound, refer to page 33.
●Thermal conductivity CO2sensor
It is not abnormal that the thermal conductivity CO2 sensor displays CO2density higher than the actual
density when the chamber humidity temporarily goes down. And take care of the level of humidifying
water because the lack of water affects the CO2density.

18
INITIAL CLEANING METHOD
Before using the incubator for the first time, clean dirt (tape residue, smear, etc.) from the
chamber and the inner attachments thoroughly. To keep the chamber clean is essential
to get the proper performance out of the incubator. Use the following steps to clean the
incubator properly.
1. Remove the inner attachments, referring to “REMOVING INNER ATTACHMENTS”on page 19.
2. Clean the removed inner attachments, the chamber inside walls and the inner door gaskets with a cloth
or sponge soaked in neutral detergent, diluted by 5 % or less. (Undiluted detergent can damage the
plastic components. For the dilution, refer to the instruction of the detergent.) (Fig. 1)
CAUTION
Do not use detergents or antiseptic solutions with acid, alkali, or chlorine. Doing so may cause
discoloration, corrosion, or rusting.
Be careful to keep the diluted detergent or water out of the temperature sensor, the CO2gas injection
hole and the fan motor shaft bearing (Fig.2 ). Also, do not wash the temperature sensor, the water
level sensor and the UV lamp using detergent. Doing so may cause failure. (Fig.2)
3. Soak a gauze or unwoven cloth in distilled water and wring it tightly, and then wipe off the residual
detergent thoroughly.
4. Wash the silicon caps (2 pcs) for the access port and the fan using the above mentioned detergent and
rinse them with distilled water, and then autoclave them for sterilization (121 oC, 20 minutes).
5. Wipe up the inside walls, and the inner attachments like trays thoroughly with a cloth or unwoven cloth
soaked in alcohol for disinfection. Be careful not to leave any residue alcohol.
6. Reinstall the inner attachments correctly and securely, referring to “INSTALLING INNER ATTACHMENTS”
on page 21.
Fig. 1 Fig. 2
(UV lamp)
Temp.
sensor
(Water level sensor)
Silicon
cap
CO2sensor