These units are general purpose incubators for professional, industrial or educational use where the
preparation or testing of materials is done at approximately atmospheric pressure and no flammable,
volatile or combustible materials are being heated. These units are not intended for hazardous or
household locations or use.
Sheldon Manufacturing Inc.
P.O. Box 627
Cornelius, Oregon 97113
PARTS LIST................................................................................................................................................ 29
Figure 1. Control Panel ...............................................................................................................................10
Figure 2. Auxiliary Control Panel ................................................................................................................11
Figure 3. Setup for ½ Inch Stroke ...............................................................................................................18
Figure 4. Setup for ¾ Inch Stroke ...............................................................................................................19
Figure 5. Setup for 1 Inch Stroke ................................................................................................................20
Thank you for choosing an orbital shaking incubator. These units are not intended for use at hazardous or
household locations.
Before you use the unit, read this entire manual carefully to understand how to install, operate, and
maintain the unit in a safe manner. Your satisfaction with the unit will be maximized as you read about its
safety and operational features.
Keep this manual on-hand so it can be used by all operators of the unit. Be sure all operators of the unit
are given appropriate training before you put the unit in service.
Note: Use the unit only in the way described in this manual. Failure to follow the guidelines and
instructions in this manual may be dangerous and illegal.
General Safety Considerations
Your incubator and its recommended accessories have been designed and tested to meet strict safety
requirements.
For continued safe operation of your incubator, always follow basic safety precautions including:
• Read this entire manual before using the incubator.
• Be sure you follow any city, county, or other ordinances in your area regarding the use of this unit.
• Use only approved accessories. Do not modify system components. Any alterations or modifications
to your incubator may be dangerous and will void your warranty.
•Always plug the unit’s power cord into a grounded electrical outlet that conforms to national and local
electrical codes. If the unit is not grounded, parts such as knobs and controls may conduct electricity
and cause serious injury.
•Do not connect the unit to a power source of any other voltage or frequency beyond the range stated
on the data plate at the rear of the unit.
•Do not modify the power cord provided with the unit. If the plug does not fit an outlet, have a proper
outlet installed by a qualified electrician.
•Avoid damaging the power cord. Do not bend it excessively, step on it, place heavy objects on it. A
damaged cord can easily become a shock or fire hazard. Never use a power cord after it has become
damaged.
Before leaving our factory, all units are packaged in high quality shipping materials designed to provide
protection from transportation related damage.
Once a unit leaves our factory, however, safe delivery becomes the responsibility of the carrier who is
liable for loss or damage to your unit. Damage sustained during transit is not covered under your unit
warranty.
When you receive your unit, inspect it for concealed loss or damage to its interior and exterior. Should
you find any damage to the unit, follow the carrier’s procedure for claiming damage or loss.
Inspection Guidelines
Carefully inspect the shipping carton for damage. If the carton is damaged, report the damage to the
carrier service that delivered the unit.
If the carton is not damaged, open the carton and remove its contents. Verify that all of the following
equipment is included in the crate:
• Two (2) shelves
• Eight (8) shelf clips
• One (1) sample tray
• Six (6) counter weights
• Four (4) leveling feet
Accessories
Carefully check all packaging before discarding. Save the shipping carton until you are sure everything is
in order.
Returning Shipment
If you must return the unit for any reason, first contact your service representative for authorization. You
will be asked to provide the data plate information. See Recording Data Plate Information below.
Once you have determined the unit is free from damage, locate the data plate at the back of the unit. The
data plate indicates your unit’s model number and serial number. Record this information below for future
reference.
Figure 1 provides an illustration of the control panel.
Figure 1. Control Panel
Section
Power Switch
The main power I/O (on/off) switch controls all power to the unit and must be in the I position before any
systems are operational.
Main Temperature Control
Marked °C, the Main Temperature Control consists of the digital display and Up/Down arrow pads for
inputting set point temperature and calibration.
Heating Lamp
This pilot lamp is ON when the unit is heating up to set point. It is blinking when the controlling
temperature is at set point.
Overtemperature Thermostat
This control is marked SET OVERTEMPERATURE. It is equipped with a graduated dial marked from 0 to
10 and a knob that requires a flat-edged tool for adjusting settings to eliminate accidental changes.
Completely independent of the Main Temperature Controller, the Overtemperature Thermostat guards
against any Main Temperature Controller failure, which would allow the temperature to rise past the set
point. If the temperature rises to the Overtemperature set point, this thermostat takes control of the
heating element and allows continued use of the incubator until the problem can be resolved, or service
can be arranged.
We do not recommend operating the unit for an extended period of time using only the Overtemperature
as the temperature uniformity will be affected.
Safety Lamp
Located directly below the Overtemperature Thermostat, this pilot lamp comes ON when the
Overtemperature Thermostat is activated. During normal operating conditions, this light should never
come on.
Shaker Switch
Located to the right of the Overtemperature Thermostat, this switch engages the oscillation mode of the
incubator. To enable oscillation, this switch must be in the I position. This switch does not have to be ON
to adjust the oscillation set point.
Oscillation Controller
This control is labeled RPM and consists of the UP/DOWN arrow pads and a digital display that shows
oscillations per minute. This control is adjustable from 20 to 400 RPM.
Auxiliary Control Panel
The Auxiliary Control Panel is located on the lower right hand side of the unit. See Figure 2.
This equipment must be used only for its intended application; any alterations or modifications will void
your warranty. Local city, county, or other ordinances may govern the use of this equipment. If you have
any questions about local requirements, please contact the appropriate local agency. The end user may
perform installation.
Under normal circumstances this unit is intended for use indoors, at room temperatures between 5° and
40°C, at no greater than 80% Relative Humidity (at 25°C) and with a supply voltage that does not vary by
more than 10%. Customer service should be contacted for operating conditions outside of these limits.
Location
In selecting a location, consider all conditions that might affect performance, for example:
• Heating/cooling ducts
• Ovens
• Stoves
• Autoclaves
• Direct sun
• Fast moving air currents
• High-traffic areas
Allow a minimum of 20 cm between the unit and walls or partitions that might obstruct free airflow.
Lifting and Handling
These units are heavy and care should be taken to use appropriate lifting devices that are sufficiently
rated for these loads. Follow the guidelines below when lifting and handling the unit.
• Units should be lifted only from their bottom surfaces.
• Doors, handles, and knobs are not adequate for lifting or stabilization.
• The unit should be completely restrained from tipping while lifting or transporting.
• All moving parts, such as shelves and trays, should be removed and doors must be positively locked
in the closed position during transfer to prevent shifting and damage.
The unit must sit levelly and solidly. Leveling feet are supplied and must be installed in the four holes in
the bottom corners of the unit. Turn the leveling feet counterclockwise to raise the level. Adjust the foot
at each corner until the unit stands levelly and solidly without rocking.
Note: If the unit must be moved, turn the leveling feet all the way clockwise to prevent damage while
moving.
Power Source
Check the data plate for voltage and ampere requirements before making a connection. VOLTAGE
SHOULD NOT VARY MORE THAN 10% FROM THE DATA PLATE RATING. This unit is intended for
50/60 Hz application. We recommend a separate circuit to prevent loss of product due to overloading or
circuit failure.
Note: Electrical supply to the unit must conform to all national and local electrical codes.
Cleaning
The incubator interior was cleaned at the factory but not sterilized. See MAINTENANCE for cleaning and
sterilizing instructions.
1. Check the power supply against unit data plate; they must match.
2. Plug the service cord into the grounded electrical outlet. Ensure that the fuse is installed in the power
inlet of the unit.
3. Push the power switch to the ON position.
4. Turn the Overtemperature Thermostat to its maximum position, clockwise.
Installing the Sample Tray
To install the sample tray, perform the following steps:
1. Position the front two corners of the sample tray on the shaking mechanism.
2. Set the rest of the tray down
3. All corners of the shaking mechanism should be enclosed within the lips of the sample tray.
4. Shake the tray by its handles to confirm that it is firmly in place.
Setting the Main Temperature Control
To set the main temperature controller, perform the following steps:
1. Enter desired set point temperature. To enter set point mode on the controller, press either the UP or
DOWN arrow pad one time.
2. The digital display will start to blink, going from bright to dim. While blinking, the digital display is
showing the set point.
3. To change the set point, use the UP and DOWN arrow pads. If the arrow pads are not pressed for
five (5) seconds, the display will stop blinking and will read the temperature of the unit.
Note: The Overtemperature Thermostat at should be turned to its maximum position until the unit has
stabilized at desired set point temperature.
Allow the incubator at least 24 hours to stabilize.
We recommend that you calibrate your unit once it has been installed in its working environment and has
been stable at the set point for 24 hours. To calibrate the unit, perform the following steps:
1. Place a certified reference thermometer in the chamber by placing it either directly inside or through
the access tube at the top left of the unit. Ensure that the thermometer is not touching any shelving. If
you place the thermometer directly inside the chamber, taping the thermometer to a Petri dish will
raise it off the shelf and keep the scale in view.
2. Allow the temperature to stabilize again until the thermometer reads a constant value for one hour.
3. Compare the digital display with the reference thermometer.
4. If there is an unacceptable difference, put the display into calibration mode by pressing both the Up
and Down arrow pads at the same time for approximately five (5) seconds until the display blinks off
and on.
5. While blinking, the display can be calibrated by pressing the Up or Down arrow pads until the display
reads the correct value.
6. Allow the incubator temperature to stabilize again, and recalibrate if necessary.
Setting the Overtemperature Thermostat
To set the Overtemperature Thermostat, perform the following steps.
1. Once the incubator is stable at the desired set point, turn the Overtemperature Thermostat
counterclockwise until the Overtemperature indicator light turns on.
2. Turn the Overtemperature Thermostat clockwise just the safety indicator light turns off.
3. Continue to turn the Overtemperature Thermostat clockwise an additional two small divisions on its
scale past the point where the indicator light went out. This will set the Safety Thermostat at
approximately 1°C above the Main Temperature set point.
Setting the Oscillation Control
To set the oscillation control, perform the following steps:
1. Enter set point mode by pushing and releasing either the UP or DOWN arrow pad one time. The
display will start to blink on and off showing the RPM set point.
2. Push the UP or DOWN arrow pad to increase or decrease the RPM set point in increments of 10
RPM. The range for this set point is 30 – 400 RPM.
3. If the arrow pads are not pressed for five (5) seconds the display will stop blinking and revert to
displaying the actual RPM.
Note: For oscillation controls to work as described, the door must be completely closed.
To set the oscillation stroke, perform the following steps.
Note: A 3/16 -inch Allen wrench should be used.
1. Assure that the power cord has been disconnected to prevent accidental operation.
2. Remove sample tray.
3. Open the access panel by rotating the wing nut ¼ turn counterclockwise and rotate the counterweight
platform until the stoke adjuster appears.
4. Remove the locking bolt and adjust the arm to any of the available options.
5. The dimensions shown are the total stroke of the oscillator, i.e., ½ designates a pattern that is + ¼”
from center.
Note: When the stroke has been changed, counterbalance adjustments may be required.
Setting the Counterbalance
To set the counterbalance, perform the following steps:
1. Assure that the power has been disconnected to prevent accidental operation.
2. Remove the sample tray.
3. Open the access panel and rotate the counterweight platform until the counterweight appears.
4. Remove the wing nuts to adjust the counterweights.
Table 3 shows counterbalance starting locations. For example, 5 kg of sample load being shaken with ½
inch stroke will require four counterweights attached to the counterbalance platform as shown in Figure 3.
Loads should be properly counterbalanced before continuous operation. Unbalanced loading may
damage mechanical and electrical operating systems.
Table 3. Counterbalance Starting Locations
No Load 5 kg of samples 10 kg of samples
Counterweights 2 4 6
For ½” stroke See Figure 3 See Figure 3 See Figure 3
For ¾” stroke See Figure 4 See Figure 4 See Figure 4
For 1” stroke See Figure 5 See Figure 5 See Figure 5
Note: Each unit includes six (6) single counterweights when shipped.
This unit features an accessory outlet to provide power for equipment such as magnetic stirrers, rockers,
etc. The weight of this equipment should not exceed 25 pounds (55.125 kg) per shelf. This equipment
may provide additional heat that could affect the temperature range of this incubator. We recommend
testing the incubator and any accessory equipment to ensure that the desired operating conditions can be
met.
Caution: This incubator operates at conditions that might damage accessory equipment. Verify that
your accessory equipment is capable of operating under the same conditions as the incubator.
The outlet is located inside the incubator in the upper right rear of the chamber. The voltage available at
the accessory outlet is the SAME as the voltage supplied to the incubator. For example, a 120-vac
incubator will have 120 vac at the accessory outlet, and a 240-vac incubator will have 240 vac at the
accessory outlet. DO NOT exceed 500 va rating of the accessory outlet.
Warning: Prior to any maintenance or service on this unit, disconnect the power cord from the power
supply. Before reattaching the unit to its power supply, be sure all volatile and flammable
cleaners are evaporated and dry.
Cleaning
Note: The unit chamber should be cleaned and disinfected prior to use.
Periodic cleaning is required. To clean the incubator, perform the following steps:
1. Remove all of the interior parts, if assembled.
2. Clean the incubator with a mild soap and water solution, including all corners.
DO NOT USE spray cleaners that might leak through openings and cracks and get on electrical
components, or that may contain solvents that will harm coatings. DO NOT USE chlorine-based
bleaches or abrasives, as they will damage the stainless steel interior.
3. Rinse with distilled water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Disinfecting
Disinfect the incubator on a regular basis. To disinfect the incubator, perform the following steps.
1. Remove all of the interior parts, if assembled. The fan blade is replaceable. Stainless steel parts are
autoclavable.
2. Disinfect the incubator using a suitable disinfectant. When washing the interior, handle the gasket
carefully so as not to impair the positive seal. Decontamination of the shaker mechanism should be
done in place if possible. If further disassembly is desired, call customer service.
DO NOT USE spray cleaners that might leak through openings and cracks and get on electrical
components, or that may contain solvents that will harm the coatings. DO NOT USE chlorine-based
bleaches or abrasives, as they will damage the stainless steel interior. Special care should be taken
when cleaning around sensing heads to prevent damage and around the door gasket so as not to
impair the positive seal.
Controls
There is no maintenance required on the main temperature controller, Overtemperature Thermostat or
main temperature probe. If the incubator fails to maintain temperature, see TROUBLESHOOTING,
before calling customer service.
Wiring problem Check all functions and compare wiring to the
owner’s manual, especially around any areas
recently worked on.
Loose connection Call customer service.
Display reads "LO"
Unit will not heat over a
temperature that is below set
point
Unit will not heat up at all
Ambient temperature is lower
than range of unit
Sensor is plugged in backwards Call customer service.
N/A Confirm that fan is moving and that amperage and
N/A Confirm that set point is set high enough. Turn
N/A Check connections to sensor.
N/A Check calibration. Using an independent
N/A Verify that controller is asking for heat by looking
N/A Check amperage. Amperage should be virtually at
N/A Do all controller functions work?
N/A Is the Overtemperature Thermostat set high
N/A Has the fuse or circuit breaker blown?
Compare set points and ambient temperature to
rated specifications in UNIT SPECIFICATIONS.
voltage match data plate. Check fan motor motion
by removing back body panel of the unit.
Overtemperature all the way clockwise and see if
HEATING light or OVERTEMP light comes on.
thermometer, follow instructions in Calibrating the
Main Temperature Control.
for HEATING light. If pilot light is not on
continuously during initial start up, there is a
problem with the controller.
maximum rated (data plate) amperage.
enough? For diagnostics, the Overtemperature
Thermostat should be fully clockwise, and the
Overtemperature light should not be on.
Indicated chamber temperature
unstable
N/A ±0.1 may be normal.
N/A Is the fan working? Remove back panel and verify
movement of cooling fan.
N/A Is ambient temperature radically changing? The
door opening, room airflow from heaters, or air
conditioning may be destabilizing temperature.
Stabilize ambient conditions.
Sensor miss-located or
damaged or wires may be
damaged.
Calibration sensitivity Call customer service.
Overtemperature set too low Ensure that the incubator setting is more than 5
Check mounts for control and Thermostat
sensors, then trace wires or tubing between
sensors and controls.
degrees over desired set point. Check if pilot light
is on continuously. Turn the controller knob
completely clockwise to see if the problem is
solved, then follow instructions in Setting the Main
N/A Tighten door latch until it pulls door tightly closed.
N/A Assure that gasket clamps are in original location.
N/A
Adjust hinge blocks or twist the door
Water leaking
Shaker motor noise
Note: N/A is not available.
N/A
N/A If leaking inside:
N/A If leaking outside:
N/A Continuous squealing noise of a constant pitch or tone. Changes
N/A If noise is from the shaft or fan blade, realign the shaft.
Confirm that unit has not been damaged and body is not out of
square
• Dry chamber
• Run at temperature with door open.
• Check all seams with flashlight including front face
• Dry out and see if leak repeats and find source of leak.
• Sources may include: fittings that need tightening,
condensation due to missing insulation or a leak developed in
compressor compartment
only in intensity for various rpm settings. Stops when the oscillate
switch is turned off. Appears to be coming directly from the
motor, not the mechanism or gear box:
• Make sure the motor cable plugs are properly seated
Sheldon Manufacturing, Inc., (“Manufacturer”) warrants for the original user of this product in the U.S.A.
only that this product (parts only if outside of the U.S.A.) will be free from defects in material and
workmanship for a period of two years from the date of delivery of this product to the original user (the
“Warranty Period”). During the Warranty Period, Manufacturer, at its election and expense, will repair or
replace the product or parts that are proven to Manufacturer’s satisfaction to be defective, or, at
Manufacturer’s option, refund the price or credit (against the price of future purchases of the product) the
price of any products that are proven to Manufacturer’s satisfaction to be defective. This warranty does
not include any labor charges if outside of the U.S.A. This warranty does not cover any damage due to
accident, misuse, negligence, or abnormal use. Use of Manufacturer’s product in a system that includes
components not manufactured by Manufacturer is not covered by this warranty. This warranty is void in
the event that repairs are made by anyone other than Manufacturer without prior authorization from
Manufacturer. Any alteration or removal of the serial number on Manufacturer’s products will void this
warranty. Under no circumstances will Manufacturer be liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages. The terms of this warranty are governed by the laws of the state of
Oregon without regards to the principles of conflicts of laws thereof. If any provision of this limited
warranty is held to be unenforceable by any court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this limited
warranty will remain in full force and effect.
This warranty is in lieu of and excludes all other warranties or obligations, either express or
implied. Manufacturer expressly disclaims all implied warranties, including without limitation, the
warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose.
For fast and efficient support, please have the following information available anytime you request
service: