One of the tools used in biology and microbiology laboratories to cultivate and grow samples such as tissues and microorganisms is the incubator. By controlling the amount of humidity, temperature, air pressure, carbon dioxide and oxygen, the incubator provides the necessary conditions for the survival and growth of microorganisms.

Incubator over time

The first incubators were created in ancient China and Egypt. These incubators consisted of rooms that were heated by the fire inside the chamber to provide the necessary conditions for fresh eggs until the chicks hatched. In the 19th century, with the advancement of medical science, incubators were used to maintain and save the lives of babies who were born less than 37 weeks. In the 20th century, the first laboratory incubators were produced and used for the identification of microorganisms and their correct diagnosis.

Today, with the advancement of technology, a new generation of incubators has been produced, which are used according to their characteristics. In addition to the mentioned cases, another application of the incubator device is to use it in the genetics laboratory for the cultivation and reproduction of tissue to extract the genetic material (DNA) to make different organisms.

The main components of the incubator

Sample storage compartment

The sample storage chamber is a double-walled insulated chamber made of stainless steel or aluminum to minimize the possibility of gases entering and exiting the chamber from the outside. The presence of stainless steel used in the chamber makes the environment inside the incubator safe from high temperature, humidity, possible spillage of liquids and samples, as well as rust and corrosion.

Temperature regulation system

In general, the heat regulation of the chamber inside the incubator is done by electric heaters. Heat transfer is done by two methods: Conduction (heat transfer through a solid body) and Convection (heat transfer through the movement of a liquid). Although the most common mode of heat transfer is done by air, for this reason, the presence of ventilators for forced convection is necessary so that the temperature of the chamber is the same at all points. Used control systems such as thermocouples, thermostats, or other semi-conducting agents are used to control the internal temperature of the incubator chamber.

Gas control system

Some incubators have the ability to mix gas inside the chamber depending on the usage. In this case, it is necessary to have measuring sensors to check the level of gases in the chamber, so that if it decreases, it can be supplied through the existing tank.

Humidity control system

Moisture is necessary for the growth and reproduction of microorganisms. For this reason, sensors are installed in the incubator to control the humidity required for the sample. The humidity in the chamber is supplied by heating the water tank and creating steam.

Important tips on how to work with an incubator

• According to laboratory standards, it is necessary to have an emergency switch to cut off the power in emergency situations away from the incubator.
• The surface on which the incubator will be placed should be leveled and have proper ventilation and should not be hot or humid in terms of temperature.
•  For the convenience of using the incubator, the minimum necessary distance (16 cm) should be observed from the sides.
• Do not place objects in front of the ventilation valve of the separate incubator.
• Turn off the device while cleaning and do not turn it on until it is completely dry.
• Use solutions with a pH of 5 to 8 when disinfecting the inner chamber of the incubator.
• For better air circulation inside the chamber, place the samples at a distance from each other.
• Do not put flammable materials inside the separate incubator compartment.
• Use appropriate gloves (disposable latex) when using the device.