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Installation - Operation Manual
SMI INCUBATORS
110 – 120 Voltage
SMI31 SMI39
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Pictured on Cover: SMI31 left, SMI39 right
Warning: This product contains chemicals, including triglycidyl isocyanurate, known to the State of
California to cause cancer as well as birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information,
go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
¡Advertencia! Este producto contiene sustancias químicas, incluido el triglicidil isocianurato, que el
estado de California sabe que causa cáncer, así como defectos de nacimiento u otros daños
reproductivos. Para obtener más información, visite www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Avertissement! Ce produit peut vous exposer à des produits chimiques, dont l'isocyanurate de
triglycidyle, reconnu par l'État de Californie pour provoquer le cancer, des anomalies congénitales
ou d'autres problèmes de reproduction. Pour plus d'informations, visitez le site
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
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SMI General Purpose Incubator
Large Capacity Models
110 – 120 Voltage
Part Number (Manual): 4861763
Revised: November 5, 2019
SHEL LAB is a brand of Sheldon Manufacturing, INC, an ISO 9001
certified manufacturer.
Safety Certifications
These units are CUE listed by TÜV SÜD as incubators for professional, industrial, or educational use
where the preparation or testing of materials is done at an ambient air pressure range of 22.14 – 31.3
inHg (75 – 106 kPa) and no flammable, volatile, or combustible materials are being heated.
These units have been tested to the following requirements:
CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1:2012
CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-2-010:2015
UL 61010-2-010:2015
UL 61010-1:2012
EN 61010-1:2010
EN 61010-2-010:2014
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................................................................ 5
Read this Manual .................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Safety Considerations and Requirements ...................................................................................................................... 5
Contacting Assistance .......................................................................................................................................................... 6
Manufacturing Warranty ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
Engineering Improvements.................................................................................................................................................. 6
Reference Sensor Device .................................................................................................................................................... 7
RECEIVING YOUR UNIT ........................................................................................................................................... 9
Inspect the Shipment ............................................................................................................................................................. 9
Orientation Images .............................................................................................................................................................. 10
Recording Data Plate Information ................................................................................................................................... 13
INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 15
Installation Procedure Checklist ...................................................................................................................................... 15
Required Ambient Conditions ........................................................................................................................................... 16
Required Clearances ........................................................................................................................................................... 16
Power Source Requirements ............................................................................................................................................. 17
Lifting and Handling ............................................................................................................................................................ 18
Leveling ................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Install the Incubator ............................................................................................................................................................. 19
Deionized and Distilled Water .......................................................................................................................................... 19
Installation Cleaning and Disinfecting ........................................................................................................................... 19
Shelving Installation............................................................................................................................................................ 20
Access Port ........................................................................................................................................................................... 20
GRAPHIC SYMBOLS ................................................................................................................................................ 21
CONTROL PANEL OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................................. 23
OPERATION.............................................................................................................................................................. 25
Theory of Operation ........................................................................................................................................................... 25
Put the Incubator into Operation .................................................................................................................................... 26
Set the Temperature Setpoint ..........................................................................................................................................27
Set the Over Temperature Limit (OTL) .......................................................................................................................... 28
Loading Samples ................................................................................................................................................................. 29
Chamber Accessory Power Outlets ............................................................................................................................... 29
Humidifying the Incubator................................................................................................................................................. 29
Condensation and the Dew Point .................................................................................................................................. 30
USER MAINTENANCE .............................................................................................................................................. 31
Cleaning and Disinfecting .................................................................................................................................................. 31
Minimizing Contamination Exposure ............................................................................................................................. 32
Door Components ............................................................................................................................................................... 33
Electrical Components ....................................................................................................................................................... 33
Storing the Incubator .......................................................................................................................................................... 33
Calibrate the Temperature Display ................................................................................................................................ 34
UNIT SPECIFICATIONS .......................................................................................................................................... 39
Weight ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Dimensions ............................................................................................................................................................................ 39
Chamber Volume ................................................................................................................................................................ 40
Shelf Capacity ...................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Temperature ......................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Power ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
PARTS LIST ................................................................................................................................................................ 41
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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing a SHEL LAB incubator. We know you have many choices in today’s competitive
marketplace when it comes to constant temperature equipment. We appreciate you choosing ours. We
stand behind our products and will be here for you if you need us.
READ THIS MANUAL
Failure to follow the guidelines and instructions in this user manual may create a protection
impairment by disabling or interfering with the unit safety features. This can result in injury or death.
Before using the unit, read the manual in its entirety to understand how to install, operate, and
maintain the unit in a safe manner. Ensure all operators are given appropriate training before the unit
begins service.
Keep this manual available for use by all operators.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Follow basic safety precautions, including all national laws, regulations, and local ordinances in your
area regarding the use of this unit. If you have any questions about local requirements, please
contact the appropriate agencies.
SOPs
Because of the range of potential applications this unit can be used for, the operator or their
supervisors must draw up a site-specific standard operating procedure (SOP) covering each
application and associated safety guidelines. This SOP must be written and available to all operators
in a language they understand.
Intended Applications and Locations
These incubators are engineered for constant temperature, non-humidified general incubation
applications in professional, industrial, and educational environments. The units are not intended for use
at hazardous or household locations.
Power
Your unit and its recommended accessories are designed and tested to meet strict safety
requirements.
• The unit is designed to connect to a power source using the specific power cord type
shipped with the unit.
• Always plug the unit power cord into a protective earth grounded electrical outlet
conforming to national and local electrical codes. If the unit is not grounded properly, parts
such as knobs and controls can conduct electricity and cause serious injury.
• Do not bend the power cord excessively, step on it, or place heavy objects on it.
• A damaged cord can be a shock or fire hazard. Never use a power cord if it is damaged or
altered in any way.
• Use only approved accessories. Do not modify system components. Any alterations or
modifications to your unit not explicitly authorized by the manufacturer can be dangerous
and will void your warranty.
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INTRODUCTION
CONTACTING ASSISTANCE
Phone hours for Sheldon Technical Support are 6 am – 4:30 pm Pacific Coast Time (west coast of
the United States, UTC -8), Monday – Friday. Please have the following information ready when
calling or emailing Technical Support: the model number, serial number, and part number (see
page 13).
support@sheldonmfg.com
+1-800-322-4897 extension 4
+1-(503) 640-3000 extension 4
FAX: +1-(503) 640-1366
Sheldon Manufacturing, INC.
P.O. Box 627
Cornelius, OR 97113
USA
MANUFACTURING WARRANTY
For information on your warranty and online warranty registration please visit:
• sheldonmanufacturing.com/warranty
ENGINEERING IMPROVEMENTS
Sheldon Manufacturing continually improves all of its products. As a result, engineering changes and
improvements are made from time to time. Therefore, some changes, modifications, and
improvements may not be covered in this manual. If your unit’s operating characteristics or
appearance differs from those described in this manual, please contact your SHEL LAB dealer or
customer service representative for assistance.
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INTRODUCTION
Temperature
REFERENCE SENSOR DEVICE
Must be purchased separately
A reference sensor device is required for calibrating the unit temperature display.
Reference devices must meet the following standards:
• Accurate to at least 0.1°C
The device should be regularly calibrated, preferably by a third party.
Temperature Probes
Use a digital device with wire thermocouple probes that can be introduced into the unit chamber
through the door space or access port. Select thermocouples suitable for the application temperature
you will be calibrating at.
Reference
Why Probes?
Reference readings taken outside the chamber using wire temperature probes avoid chamber door
openings. Openings disrupt the chamber temperature. Each disruption requires a minimum 1-hour wait
to allow the atmosphere to re-stabilize before continuing.
No Alcohol or Mercury Thermometers
Alcohol thermometers do not have sufficient accuracy to conduct accurate temperature calibrations.
Never place a mercury thermometer in the unit chamber. Always use thermocouple probes.
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INTRODUCTION
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RECEIVING YOUR UNIT
INSPECT THE SHIPMENT
• When a unit leaves the factory, safe delivery becomes the responsibility of the carrier.
• Damage sustained during transit is not covered by the manufacturing defect warranty.
• Save the shipping carton until you are certain that the unit and its accessories function
properly.
When you receive your unit, inspect it for concealed loss or damage to its interior and exterior. If you
find any damage to the unit, follow the carrier’s procedure for claiming damage or loss.
1. Carefully inspect the shipping carton for damage.
2. Report any damage to the carrier service that delivered the unit.
3. If the carton is not damaged, open the carton and remove the contents.
4. Inspect the unit for signs of damage. Use the orientation images in this chapter as a reference.
5. The unit should come with an Installation and Operation Manual.
6. Verify that the correct number of accessory items has been included.
7. Carefully check all packaging for accessories before discarding.
Included Accessories
Model Shelves Shelf Clips Leveling Feet Power Cord
SMI31 6 24 4 1
SMI39 6 24 4 1
Shelves
SMI31 SMI39
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Control Panel
Access Port
OTL Probe (Top)
Chamber Door
Incubation Chamber
Roller Bottle Apparatus
Shelf Standard Rail
Door Gasket
Chamber Outlet
RECEIVING
ORIENTATION IMAGES
SMI31
Temperature Probe (Bottom)
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Wheel Groove
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RECEIVING
Control Panel
Access Port
OTL Probe (Top)
Chamber Door
Incubation Chamber
Roller Bottle Apparatus
Shelf Standard Rail
Door Gasket
Chamber Outlet
SMI39
Temperature Probe (Bottom)
Wheel Groove
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Power Cord Inlet with Fuse Holder
RECEIVING
Power Panel, Left Side of Units
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RECEIVING
RECORDING DATA PLATE INFORMATION
Record the unit model number, serial number, and part number below for future reference. Tech
Support needs this information to provide accurate help during support calls and emails.
• The data plate is located on the lower, left side of the unit, above the power inlet.
MODEL NO:
SERIAL NO:
PART NO:
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RECEIVING
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INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION PROCEDURE CHECKLIST
For installing the unit in a new workspace location.
Pre-Installation
Check that the required ambient conditions for the unit are met, page 16.
Check that the spacing clearance requirements are met, page 16.
• Unit dimensions may be found on page 39.
Check that a suitable electrical outlet and power supply is present, page 17.
Install the incubator in a suitable workspace location
Review the lifting and handling instructions, page 18.
Install the unit leveling feet, page 18.
Install the unit in its workspace location, page 18.
Set up the incubator for use
Clean and disinfect the unit and shelving (recommended), page 19.
Install the shelving, page 20.
Verify the port cap has been installed in the access port, page 20.
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Power Cord
2” (51 mm)
2” (51 mm)
4” (102 mm)
4” (102 mm)
4” (102 mm)
Door Swing
INSTALLATION
REQUIRED AMBIENT CONDITIONS
These units are intended for use indoors, at room temperatures between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F),
at no greater than 80% Relative Humidity (at 25°C / 77°F). Operating these units outside of these
conditions may adversely affect its incubator temperature stability and effective operating range.
When selecting a location to install the unit, consider all environmental conditions that can adversely
impact its temperature performance. These include:
• Proximity to ovens, autoclaves, and any device that produces significant radiant heat
• Heating and cooling vents or other sources of fast-moving air currents
• High-traffic areas
• Direct sunlight
REQUIRED CLEARANCES
These clearances are required to provide airflows for ventilation and cooling.
SMI31 36.0” (914 mm)
SMI39 42.3” (1075 mm)
4 inches (102 mm) of clearance is required on the sides and back.
2 inches (51 mm) of headspace clearance is required between the top of the unit and any overhead
partitions.
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INSTALLATION
Standard
POWER SOURCE REQUIREMENTS
When selecting a location for the unit, verify each of the following requirements is satisfied.
Power Source: The power source must match the voltage and amperage requirements listed on
the unit data plate. These units are intended for 110 – 120V, 50/60 Hz applications at the following
amperages:
Model Amperage Model Amperage
SMI31
• The wall power source must be protective earth grounded and single phase.
• The unit may be damaged if the supplied voltage varies by more than 10% from the data
plate rating.
• Use a separate circuit to prevent loss of the unit due to overloading or circuit failure.
• The recommended wall circuit breaker is 15 amps.
• The wall power source must conform to all national and local electrical codes.
Power Cord: The unit must be positioned so that all end-users can quickly unplug the cord in the
event of an emergency.
• Each unit comes provided with a 125 volt, 15 Amp, 9 ft 5 in (2.89 m) NEMA 5-15P power
cord. Always use this cord or an identical replacement.
Fuses: These units each ship with a fuse installed in the power cord inlet.
12.0 Amps
SMI39
14.5 Amps
NEMA 5-15R
wall socket
• The fuse must be installed and intact for the unit to operate.
• Always find and fix the cause of a blown fuse prior to putting the unit back into operation.
• Fuse type
o 250V T16A, 5x20mm
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INSTALLATION
LIFTING AND HANDLING
The unit is heavy. Use appropriate lifting devices that are sufficiently rated for these loads. Follow these
guidelines when lifting the unit.
• Lift the unit only from its bottom surface.
• Doors, handles, and knobs are not adequate for lifting or stabilization.
• Restrain the unit completely while lifting or transporting so it cannot tip.
• Remove all moving parts, such as shelves and trays, and lock doors in the closed position
during transfers to prevent shifting and damage.
LEVELING
Install the 4 leveling feet in the 4 corner holes on the bottom of the unit. The unit must be level and
stable for safe operation.
Note: To prevent damage when moving the unit, turn all 4 leveling feet so that the leg of each foot
sits inside the unit.
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INSTALLATION
INSTALL THE INCUBATOR
Install the unit in a workspace location that meets the criteria discussed in the previous entries of the
Installation chapter.
DEIONIZED AND DISTILLED WATER
Do not use deionized water to clean the unit, even if DI water is readily available in your laboratory.
• Use of deionized water may corrode metal surfaces and voids the manufacturing warranty.
• The manufacturer recommends the use of distilled water in the resistance range of 50K
Ohm/cm to 1M Ohm/cm, or a conductivity range of 20.0 uS/cm to 1.0 uS/cm, for cleaning
applications.
INSTALLATION CLEANING AND DISINFECTING
The manufacturer recommends cleaning and disinfecting the shelving and chamber prior to
installation of the shelving in the chamber.
• The unit was cleaned at the factory but may have been exposed to contaminants during
shipping.
• Remove all wrappings and coverings from shelving prior to cleaning and installation. Do not
clean the shelving with deionized water.
• Please see the Cleaning and Disinfecting procedure on page 31 in the User Maintenance
chapter for information on how to clean and disinfect without damaging the unit.
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Rocking Motion
Install 4 Shelf Clips
Place the Shelf
INSTALLATION
SHELVING INSTALLATION
1. Install the 4 shelf clips in the slots of the shelf standard mounting rails located on the sides
of the chamber interior.
a. Squeeze each clip, insert the top tab first, and then the bottom tab using a
rocking motion.
2. Set the shelf on the clips.
a. Verify the shelf is level.
ACCESS PORT
Always leave the access port cap in place, except when introducing sensor probes into the chamber.
Removing the cap during normal operations can adversely impact temperature stability and uniformity.
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GRAPHIC SYMBOLS
The unit is provided with multiple graphic symbols on its exterior. These identify hazards and
adjustable components as well as important notes in the user manual.
Symbol Definition
Consult the user manual
Consulter le manuel d'utilisation
Temperature Display
Indique l'affichage de la température
Over Temperature Limit system
Thermostat température limite contrôle haute
Repère le courant alternatif
I/ON O/OFF
I indique que l'interrupteur est en position marche.
AC Power
O indique que le commutateur est en position d'arrêt.
Protective earth ground
Terre électrique
Adjusts UP and DOWN
Ajuster le haut et vers le bas
Manually adjustable
Indique un réglage manuel
Recycle the unit. Do not dispose of in a landfill.
Recycler l'unité. Ne jetez pas dans une décharge.
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SYMBOLS
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CONTROLS OVERVIEW
Control Panel
Over Temperature Limit System (OTL)
This graduated dial sets the mechanical heating cut off point for the Over Temperature Limit system.
The system prevents unchecked heating of the chamber in the event of an electronics failure or
external heat spike. The red Over Temp Activated light illuminates when the OTL system is rerouting
power away from the heating elements. For more details, please see the Over Temperature Limit
System description in the Theory of Operations (page 25).
Power Switch
Power is supplied and the green Power On light illuminates when in the ( I ) ON position.
Set Temperature Display and Controls
Shows the current chamber temperature. The Up and Down arrow buttons are used to access the
Temperature Setpoint (SP) or Calibration Offset (C O) display modes and input the temperature
setpoint or calibration adjustment value.
The Heating indicator light illuminates when the incubator powers the chamber heating elements.
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CONTROLS
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OPERATION
THEORY OF OPERATION
Heating
When powered, the incubator heats to and maintains a user-selected target setpoint in the incubation
chamber. The incubator senses the chamber air temperature using a solid-state probe mounted on the
chamber interior wall. When the incubator detects that the chamber temperature has dropped below the
target setpoint, it pulses power to the heating element inside the chamber heating duct in the chamber
ceiling.
The incubator uses Proportional – Integral – Derivative (PID) control to avoid significantly overshooting the
setpoint. This means the rate of heating slows as the chamber temperature approaches the target
temperature. If the chamber temperature is above the setpoint, the incubator uses minimum heating to
control the rate of cooling and avoid dipping below the setpoint.
Additionally, the PID loops optimize heating rates for the temperature environment around the incubator.
If the incubator is operating in a cool room, it will increase the length of heating pulses to compensate.
Likewise, when operating in a warm room the incubator uses shorter pulses. If the ambient temperature
conditions change significantly, there may be minor over or undershoots as the incubator adapts.
The incubators rely on natural heat radiation for cooling. These units can achieve a low-end temperature
just above the ambient room temperature plus the internal waste heat of the unit.
Air Circulation
When powered the incubator circulates air between the incubation chamber and a heating duct
located immediately above the chamber. This air circulation is required to maintain the chamber
temperature uniformity and stability.
The Over Temperature Limit System (OTL)
The OTL is a user-set, mechanical heating cutoff connected to a hydrostatic sensor probe inside the
incubation chamber. The system operates independently of the main microprocessor temperature
controller and routes power away from the incubator heating elements if the chamber temperature
exceeds the OTL temperature cutoff setting. It will continue doing so as long as the chamber temperature
remains above the OTL setting. This helps safeguard the unit by preventing runaway heating in the event
of electronics failures or a sudden external heat spike.
The OTL must be set by the user in order to function. The manufacturer recommends a setting of
approximately 1°C above the highest temperature setpoint of your heating application. A red indicator
illuminates when the OTL is rerouting power.
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1. Plug in the power cord
2.
OPERATION
PUT THE INCUBATOR INTO OPERATION
Perform the following steps and procedures to put the unit into operation after installing it in a new
workspace environment.
Turn on the incubator
Attach the power cord that came with the unit to the inlet
receptacle on the left side of the incubator.
Plug the power cord into the workspace electrical outlet.
Place the incubator Power Switch in the ON ( I ) position.
3. Set the Temperature Setpoint
See the Set the Temperature Setpoint procedure on page
27.
4. Allow the incubator to heat soak for a minimum of 8 hours
Run the unit for at least 8 hours (for example, overnight) with
chamber door closed prior to:
• Setting the Over Temperature Limit (next step).
• Loading samples.
5. Set the Over Temperature Limit
The incubator is now ready for use.
• You may Load Samples, see page 29.
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Set the Over Temperature Limit. See page 28.
• The incubator must be heated and stable at your
application temperature prior to performing this procedure.
Page 27
OPERATION
1.
3.
4. Wait for 5 seconds after entering the Setpoint
SET THE TEMPERATURE SETPOINT
Perform the steps below to adjust the setpoint to your process or application temperature.
Set the Over Temperature Limit control to its maximum setting, if not already set to max.
• This prevents the heating cutoff system from
interfering with this procedure.
2. Navigate to the Temperature Setpoint Adjustment mode
Briefly push and release either the Up or Down arrow
buttons to activate the temperature setpoint adjustment
mode.
• The display will briefly flash the letters “SP”, then
show the flashing, adjustable temperature
setpoint.
Note: The display will automatically exit the adjustment mode after 5
seconds of inactivity, with the last shown setpoint value saved.
Setpoint Adjustment
Mode
Initial Setpoint
Set the Temperature Setpoint
Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to change the
temperature setpoint.
New Setpoint
• The display will stop flashing, and the setpoint is
now saved in the controller.
• The chamber will now automatically heat or
Heating to New
passively cool to match your setpoint.
Setpoint
• The display will revert to showing the current
chamber air temperature.
End of Procedure
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Page 28
2. Turn the dial counterclockwise (left) until the Over Temperature Activated light illuminates.
3. Slowly turn the dial clockwise (right) until the Over Temperature light turns off.
4. Leave the OTL dial set just above the activation point.
Optional: Turn the dial slightly to the left (counterclockwise).
•
OPERATION
Note: Test the OTL system at least once per year to verify its functionality. Failure to set the OTL
voids the manufacturing defect warranty if over temperature damage occurs.
SET THE OVER TEMPERATURE LIMIT (OTL)
This procedure sets the mechanical heating cutoff to approximately 1˚C above the current chamber
temperature. Perform this procedure when the unit has been running with no temperature
fluctuations at your application temperature for at least 8 hours.
1. Set OTL control to its maximum setting, if not already set to max.
• There is a soft click when the OTL begins rerouting power
away from the heating elements.
• The Over Temperature Limit is now set approximately 1˚C
above the current chamber air temperature.
This sets the cutoff threshold nearer to the current
chamber temperature.
If the Over Temperature Limit sporadically activates after setting the control, turn the dial very slightly to
the right (clockwise). If the OTL continues activating, check for ambient sources of heat or cold that may
be adversely impacting the unit temperature stability. If you find no sources of external or internal
temperature fluctuations, contact Tech Support or your distributor for assistance.
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OPERATION
LOADING SAMPLES
The manufacturer strongly recommends waiting at least 8 hours after putting the incubator in
operation before loading samples in the chamber. This safeguards against temperature instability.
• Samples should be placed at least 1 inch (25 mm) away from the chamber walls.
• Proper spacing allows for maximum air circulation and a higher degree of temperature
uniformity.
• Proper spacing also decreases the chance of condensate forming in the incubator when
operating with a large number of samples in the chamber.
CHAMBER ACCESSORY POWER OUTLETS
The incubator is provided with four 110 – 120-volt, 1-amp power outlets inside the chamber. Do not
attach powered equipment that draws more than 1 amp.
• Verify that any powered accessory equipment used inside the chamber can safely and
effectively operate within your selected temperature range.
• Powered equipment, such as stirrers or shakers, can generate heat sufficient to disrupt the
thermal uniformity and stability of the chamber.
HUMIDIFYING THE INCUBATOR
Long-term use of a large water container, such as a humidifier pan, will create excess water vapor in
the unit and can damage the electrical components of the incubator. Additionally, the use of
deionized water may cause significant corrosion damage to the incubator. Overloading the unit with
sample media may also damage the incubator from excessive media evaporation and disruption of
airflow pathways through the shelf space.
Small Sample Load
Placing a small number of Petri dishes or other media containers in the incubator chamber may lead
to excessively fast drying of sample media. A small water-filled container, such as an open flask, may
be placed in the chamber to help slow sample drying with small loads.
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OPERATION
CONDENSATION AND THE DEW POINT
Relative humidity inside the incubation chamber should never be allowed to exceed 80% at 25°C.
Exceeding this threshold will likely result in condensation or possible leaks around the incubator, and
may cause corrosion damage if allowed to continue for any significant length of time.
Condensation takes place whenever the humidity level in the incubation chamber reaches the dew
point. The dew point is the level of humidity at which the air cannot hold more water vapor. The
warmer the air, the more water vapor it can hold.
As the level of humidity rises in an incubation chamber, condensate will first appear on surfaces that
are cooler than the air temperature. Near the dew point, condensate forms on any item or exposed
surface even slightly cooler than the air. When the dew point is reached, condensate forms on nearly
all exposed surfaces.
Managing condensation primarily depends on either lowering the humidity level or increasing the air
temperature in the incubation chamber.
Note: Rising or falling air pressure from the weather will adjust the dew point up and down in small
increments. If the relative humidity in the incubation chamber is already near the dew point,
barometric fluctuations may push it across the dew point threshold.
Note: Thin air at higher altitudes holds less humidity than the denser air found at or near sea level.
If excessive condensate has appeared in the incubation chamber, dry the chamber interior. After
removing the condensate, check the following.
• Ensure samples on the shelves are evenly spaced to allow for good airflow.
• Ensure the chamber door is closing and latching properly.
• Verify the chamber access port is closed. The black, plastic shipping cap that came with the
unit should be installed on the outside of the incubator and not in the chamber.
• Are frequent or lengthy chamber door openings causing significant temperature disruptions
and chilling the chamber surfaces? If so, reduce the number of openings.
• Are there too many open or “breathable” containers of evaporating sample media in the
chamber? If so, reduce the number of open sample containers.
• Does the ambient humidity in the room exceed the stated operating range of 80% relative
environmental humidity? If so, lower the room humidity.
• Is the incubator exposed to an external flow of cold air such as an air-conditioning vent or a
door to a cooler hallway or adjacent room? Block or divert the air, or reposition the unit.
• Check the door gasket for damage, wear, or signs of brittleness or dryness. Arrange for
replacement of the gasket if damaged or excessively worn.
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Page 31
USER MAINTENANCE
Warning: Disconnect this unit from its power supply prior to performing maintenance or services.
Avertissement: Débranchez cet appareil de son alimentation électrique avant d'effectuer la maintenance
ou les services.
CLEANING AND DISINFECTING
If a hazardous material or substance has spilled in the unit chamber, immediately initiate your site
Hazardous Material Spill Containment protocol. Contact your local Site Safety Officer and follow
instructions per the site policy and procedures.
• Periodic cleaning and disinfection are required.
• Do not use spray-on cleaners or disinfectants. These can leak through openings and coat
electrical components.
• Consult with the manufacturer or their agent if you have any doubts about the
compatibility of decontamination or cleaning agents with the parts of the equipment or
with the material contained in it.
• Do not use cleaners or disinfectants that contain solvents capable of harming paint
coatings or stainless steel surfaces. Do not use chlorine-based bleaches or abrasives;
these will damage the chamber liner.
Warning: Exercise caution if cleaning the unit with alcohol or flammable cleaners. Always allow the
unit to cool down to room temperature prior to cleaning and make sure all cleaning agents have
evaporated or otherwise been completely removed prior to putting the unit back into service.
Avertissement: Soyez prudent lorsque vous nettoyez l'appareil avec de l'alcool ou des produits de
nettoyage inflammables. Laissez toujours refroidir l'appareil à la température ambiante avant le
nettoyage et assurez-vous que tous les produits de nettoyage se sont évaporés ou ont été
complètement enlevés avant de remettre l'appareil en service.
Cleaning
1. Disconnect the unit from its power supply.
2. Remove all removable interior components such as shelving and accessories.
3. Clean the unit with a mild soap and water solution, including all corners.
o Do not use an abrasive cleaner. These will damage metal surfaces.
o Do not use deionized water to rinse or clean with.
o Take special care when cleaning around the temperature sensor probes in the
chamber to prevent damage. Do not clean the probes.
4. Rinse with distilled water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
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Page 32
MAINTENANCE
Disinfecting
When disinfecting the unit, keep the following in mind:
• Always turn off and disconnect the unit to safeguard against electrical hazards.
• For maximum effectiveness, disinfection procedures are typically performed after cleaning.
• Disinfect the unit chamber using commercially available disinfectants that are non-corrosive,
non-abrasive, and suitable for use on stainless steel and glass surfaces. Contact your local
Site Safety Officer for detailed information on which disinfectants are compatible with your
applications.
• If permitted by your protocol, remove all removable interior accessories (shelving and other
non-attached items) from the chamber.
• Disinfect all surfaces in the chamber, making sure to thoroughly disinfect the corners.
Exercise care to avoid damaging the sensor probes.
• Gas concentrations from evaporating disinfecting agents can inhibit growth or cause
metabolic symptoms in microbiological sample populations. Make sure that chlorines,
quaternary ammonias, or any other overtly volatile disinfecting agents have been rinsed or
otherwise removed from the chamber surfaces, prior to placing samples in the chamber.
When disinfecting external surfaces, use disinfectants that will not damage painted metal, glass, and
plastic.
MINIMIZING CONTAMINATION EXPOSURE
Suggestions for minimizing exposure of the incubator chamber to potential contaminants.
• Maintain a high air quality in the laboratory workspaces around the incubator.
• Avoid placing the incubator near sources of air movement such as doors, air vents, or high
traffic routes in the workspace.
• Minimize the number of times the incubator chamber door is opened during normal
operations.
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Page 33
MAINTENANCE
DOOR COMPONENTS
Periodically, inspect the door latch, trim, catch, and gasket for signs of deterioration. Failure to
maintain the integrity of the door system shortens the life span of the unit.
ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
Electrical components do not require maintenance. If the incubator fails to operate as specified,
please contact your distributor or Technical Support for assistance.
STORING THE INCUBATOR
Perform the following steps if the incubator will be out of use for more than 24 hours to prevent
microbiological contamination such as fungus or mold.
1. Depower the incubator.
2. Disinfect and clean if required by your laboratory protocol, or if the chamber has been
exposed to pathogenic microorganisms.
3. Use a soft cloth to dry the chamber surfaces.
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Page 34
Heat-resistant
2” (51 mm)
1. Introduce the reference device
MAINTENANCE
CALIBRATE THE TEMPERATURE DISPLAY
Note: Performing a temperature display calibration requires a temperature reference device. Please
see the Reference Sensor Device entry on page 7 for the device requirements.
Temperature calibrations are performed to match an incubator temperature display to the actual air
temperature inside the incubation chamber. The actual air temperature is supplied by a calibrated
reference device. Calibrations compensate for long-term drifts in the incubator microprocessor
controller as well as those caused by the natural material evolution of the sensor probe in the heated
incubator space. Calibrate as often as required by your laboratory or production protocol, or
regulatory compliance schedule. Always calibrate to the standards and use the calibration setup
required by your industry requirements or laboratory protocol.
A suggested calibration setup
thermocouple probe through the
access port on the left side of the unit.
2. Position the sensor probe head as
close as possible to the geometric center
point of the chamber. The probe head
must be at least 2 inches (51 mm) above
or below shelving surfaces to prevent
heat sinking. Secure the probe head in
position using the non-stick tape.
3. After securing the probe head in
position, carefully place the access port
cap in the port over the probe wires.
Use non-stick tape to seal any gaps
created between the cap and the port
by the probe wires.
non-stick tape
recommended
4. The incubator door must be
closed and latched. Failure to do so
will prevent an accurate calibration.
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Page 35
MAINTENANCE
Begin Calibration
Required Stability Period
Unit Powered On
5. The unit temperature must be stable in order to perform an accurate calibration.
• The incubator must run for at least 8 hours prior to conducting a calibration.
• The temperature is considered stabilized when the incubator has operated with the
door closed at your calibration temperature for at least 1 hour with no fluctuations
greater than the specified stability of the unit (see page 40).
Temperature Calibration Procedure
1
Once the unit temperature has stabilized, compare the reference
device and incubator temperature display readings.
• If the readings are the same, or the difference
• If the difference falls outside of your protocol range,
Fluctuations
(Exaggerated)
between the two falls within the acceptable range of
your protocol, the display is accurately showing the
temperature in the chamber. The Temperature
Calibration procedure is now complete.
-Or-
advance to step 2.
1 Hour Minumum
Reference Device
2
A display calibration adjustment must be entered to match the display
to the reference device. See the next step.
Reference Device
Continued next page
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Page 36
MAINTENANCE
Temperature Calibration Continued
3
Note: The display will automatically exit calibration mode after 5
seconds of inactivity, with the last shown temperature display value
saved.
4
Place the display in temperature calibration mode.
a. Press and hold both the Up and Down temperature
arrow buttons simultaneously for approximately 5
seconds.
b. Release the buttons when the temperature display
shows the letters “C O”. The display will begin
flashing the current temperature display value.
Use the Up and Down arrow buttons to adjust the
current display temperature value until it matches the
reference device temperature reading.
Reference Device
5
6
After matching the display to the reference device, wait 5
seconds.
• The temperature display will cease flashing and
store the corrected chamber display value.
• The incubator will now begin heating or passively
Cooling to Setpoint
cooling in order to reach the setpoint with the
corrected display value.
Allow the incubator to operate for at least 1 hour
undisturbed to stabilize after the incubator has achieved
the corrected temperature setpoint.
• Failure to wait until the incubator is fully stabilized
Setpoint Achieved
will result in an inaccurate reading.
Continued next page
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Page 37
MAINTENANCE
Temperature Calibration Continued
7
Compare the reference device reading with the chamber
temperature display.
• If the reference device and the chamber temperature
display readings are the same or the difference falls
within the range of your protocol, the incubator is
now calibrated for temperature.
• See the next step if the readings fail to match or fall
outside of your protocol range.
-Or-
Reference Device
8
Reference Device
If the difference still falls outside the acceptable range of
your protocol, repeat steps 3 – 7 up to two more times.
9
If the temperature readings of the incubator temperature display
and the reference device still fall outside your protocol after 3
calibration attempts, contact your distributor or technical support
for assistance.
End of Procedure
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Page 38
MAINTENANCE
38 | Page
Page 39
UNIT SPECIFICATIONS
These incubators are 110 – 120 volt units. Please refer to the incubator data plate for individual
electrical specifications.
Technical data specified applies to units with standard equipment at an ambient temperature of 25°C
and at nominal voltage. The temperatures specified are determined in accordance with factory
standard following DIN 12880 respecting the recommended wall clearances of 10% of the height,
width, and depth of the inner chamber. All indications are average values, typical for units produced
in the series. We reserve the right to alter technical specifications at all times.
WEIGHT
Model Shipping
SMI31 570 lb / 259 kg 406.0 lb / 184.0 kg
SMI39 657 lb / 298 kg 497.0 lb / 225.0 kg
Net
DIMENSIONS
In inches
Model Exterior W × D × H Interior W × D × H
SMI31 38.8 x 34.3 x 76.9 in 32.5 x 26.0 x 63.3 in
SMI39 41.5 x 34.3 x 90.3 in 35.6 x 26.0 x 76.0 in
In Millimeters
Model Exterior W × D × H Interior W × D × H
SMI31 985 × 871 × 1953 mm 825 × 660 × 1607 mm
SMI39 1054 × 872 × 2293 mm 904 × 660 × 1930 mm
39 | Page
Page 40
SPECIFICATIONS
CHAMBER VOLUME
Model Cubic Feet Liters
SMI31
SMI39
30.9 874.0
38.6 1093.0
SHELF CAPACITY
Model Maximum Weight per Shelf* Max Total Weight**
SMI31
SMI39
*With weight distributed evenly across the shelf.
**Exceeding this weight limit risks damaging the shelf standard rails and the chamber liner.
75.0 lb / 34.0 kg 450.0 lb / 204.0 kg
75.0 lb / 34.0 kg 450.0 lb / 204.0 kg
TEMPERATURE
Model Range Uniformity Stability
SMI31
SMI39
Ambient +8° to 70°C ±0.8°C @ 37°C ±0.1°C
Ambient +8° to 70°C ±0.8°C @ 37°C ±0.1°C
POWER
Model AC Voltage Amperage
SMI31
SMI39
40 | Page
110 – 120 12.0
110 – 120 14.5
Page 41
PARTS LIST
1800510
995-00003
2700506
Description Parts Number Description Parts Number
Fuse, 250V, T16A,
5X20mm
Door Gasket, SMI31,
37 x 64
Door Gasket, SMI39,
Magnetic, 40 x 76
Leveling Foot
Ordering
3300513
3450660
3450715
Power Cord 125 Volt,
15 Amp, 9 ft. 5 in
(2.89m) NEMA 5-15P
Shelf Clip
Shelf, SMI31
Shelf, SMI39
1250512
9750551
Accessories and replacement parts can be ordered online at parts.sheldonmfg.com.
If the required item is not listed online, or if you require assistance in determining which part or
accessory you need contact SHEL LAB by emailing parts@sheldonmfg.com or by calling 1-800-3224897 ext. 4 or (503) 640-3000 ext. 4.
Please have the model, serial, and part numbers and Part ID of the unit ready. Tech Support needs
this information to match your unit to its correct part.
41 | Page
Page 42
P.O. Box 627
Cornelius, OR 97113
USA
support@sheldonmfg.com
sheldonmanufacturing.com
1-800-322-4897
(503) 640-3000
FAX: 503 640-1366
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