A freezer is laboratory equipment used for preserving and storing samples or reagents at low temperatures. It is essential in many biological, medical, and chemical laboratories, where temperature-sensitive samples or reagents need to be stored for extended periods.
Freezers come in various sizes and designs, including upright, chest, and under-counter models. They can also have different temperature ranges, with some reaching as low as -86°C. The most common type of freezer used in laboratories is the ultra-low-temperature freezer, which is designed to maintain a stable temperature below -40°C.
Ultra-low-temperature freezers typically use compressors or Stirling cycle engines to cool the interior. They also have insulation to reduce heat transfer and maintain temperature stability. Some models also come with additional features such as alarms for temperature fluctuations, automatic defrost systems, and backup power supplies to prevent the loss of samples in case of power outages.
In addition to ultra-low-temperature freezers, laboratories also use other types of freezers, such as refrigerators and -20°C freezers. Refrigerators are used for storing samples that do not require very low temperatures, while -20°C freezers are used for storing samples that are not as sensitive to temperature changes.
Freezers are critical laboratory equipment for many types of research and experiments. They help maintain the integrity of biological and chemical samples and prevent degradation or contamination. Freezers are also important for the long-term storage of reagents and other laboratory materials, allowing researchers to reduce the cost and time required to prepare samples for their experiments.