-86°C Laboratory Ultra-Low Freezer Features

-86°C laboratory-type ultra-low temperature freezers are used for the long-term storage, preservation, and safekeeping of many biological materials. They can also be used to test different samples for cold resistance and for purposes such as shrinking metals at low temperatures.

In general, many brands of -86°C freezers operate within a range of -40°C to -86°C or -50°C to -86°C.

The ambient temperature of the operating environment is one of the most critical factors. Also, the amount of heat released by the unit into the room must be considered.

Many -86°C freezers on the market are not suitable for operating at high ambient temperatures such as +30°C. Therefore, it is highly recommended to select freezers that can operate at +30°C or above.

-86°C freezers come in different volume options. When choosing according to your needs, remember not to completely overfill the unit!!!

Proper air circulation is essential for the safety of your samples. Overloaded freezers will have difficulty cooling samples and may have a shorter lifespan.

-86°C freezers are available in chest and upright models. Chest freezers lose less cold air when opened because cold air settles downward, but they take up more space. For this reason, upright models are generally preferred.

The internal temperature displayed on the unit is based on a single sensor, but temperatures vary at different points inside. A unit with good internal temperature distribution ensures sample safety and provides higher viability after thawing.

Older generation -86°C freezers consume very high amounts of energy (20kWh or more). Thanks to modern compressor technology, refrigerants, and insulation, energy consumption has been reduced by up to 70%. Consumption varies depending on volume.

A unit consuming 20kWh/day costs approx. 14.2 TL/day, 426 TL/month, 5112 TL/year. A unit consuming 8kWh/day costs approx. 5.68 TL/day, 170.4 TL/month, 2044.8 TL/year (based on 1 kWh electricity = 0.71 TL incl. taxes).

Until recently, most brands used HFC (hydrofluorocarbon) and mixed gases. The industry is now transitioning to HC (hydrocarbon) refrigerants. The advantages of HC gases are their very low Global Warming Potential (GWP) and contribution to lower energy consumption.

-86°C freezers release significant heat while operating. A unit that emits less heat will cause less room temperature increase, consume less energy, and last longer. Reduced heat output also reduces or eliminates the need for air conditioning.

Freezers may use single-speed or variable-speed compressors. Variable-speed compressors adjust according to demand, offering very low energy consumption, reduced heat output, and lower noise levels.

-86°C freezers are noisy machines, and users often complain about this. Therefore, noise levels should be carefully considered before purchase.

Good insulation is vital for sample safety during power outages. Well-insulated freezers take longer to reach critical temperatures and also consume less energy. Note that thicker insulation increases unit size, but some brands now use VIP (vacuum insulation panels) to improve insulation without increasing thickness.