Thermo Fisher Scientific Launches Heracell Vios CR CO2 Incubator

Thermo Fisher Scientific has launched a first-in-market CO2 incubator that combines optimal cell growth capabilities with certified cleanroom compatibility, addressing the growing need among biotechnology, biopharmaceutical and clinical labs for high-performance incubation systems that meet stringent cleanroom and cGMP standards.

The Heracell Vios CR CO2 Incubator expands the Thermo Scientific Cell Therapy Systems (CTS) Series laboratory equipment portfolio with a solution specifically designed for use in GMP environments. The new system provides optimal cell growth for even the most sensitive high-value cell cultures, according to the company. The new Vios CR CO2 incubator has a fully enclosed casing and electronics, minimizing particle emissions in sync with critical particulate control in a Grade A/B cleanroom. Operating on the company’s THRIVE active airflow technology, which delivers homogenous cell growth conditions and rapid parameter recovery in less than 10 minutes, the system prioritizes cell culture protection. Contamination control is enabled through in-chamber HEPA filtration, on-demand 180°C sterilization and an optional 100% pure copper interior chamber.

The Vios CR CO2 incubator has a stainless-steel exterior and IP54-compliant design that can withstand the rigorous and repeated cleaning procedures that are integral to effective cleanroom management, enabling long-term use. The system is compatible with the STERIS Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP) decontamination method, allowing for integration into existing sterilization workflows. Also, the new incubator features independent TÜV SÜD certification for compatibility with ISO Class 5 cleanrooms, allowing scientists plan their cleanrooms to meet strict air quality requirements.

The new incubator comes with a range of cleanroom-compatible accessory options, including stacking adapters and roller bases to facilitate easy insertion into established laboratory processes. In addition, a comprehensive cGMP documentation package with recommended cleaning procedures and preventative maintenance protocols supports user-friendly, time-efficient implementation and validation.