40+ jaar expertise in laboratoriumapparatuur
Service & onderhoud door gecertificeerde specialisten
An ultra low temperature freezer stores DNA, RNA, cells, vaccines and biological samples between -50°C and -86°C. Furthermore, our Thermo Scientific TSX series and Labselect models combine stable cooling with natural refrigerants. Moreover, they offer datalogging and alarms. We also supply upright and chest configurations, with optional CO₂ or LN₂ back-up.
Showing all 6 results
An ultra low temperature freezer (ULT freezer) is a professional freezing unit for the long-term storage of temperature-sensitive biological samples. The temperature range falls between -50°C and -86°C. This type of freezer differs from a regular laboratory freezer in several ways. Most notably, the extreme cooling capacity, dual compressor systems, multi-layer insulation and advanced alarms set it apart. In addition, our ULT freezers keep the temperature stable across the entire working volume. As a result, the unit remains reliable even during power interruptions or frequent door openings. This stability is essential for the integrity of DNA, RNA, cells and tissue samples that you store for years.
For long-term storage of biological samples at temperatures below -50°C, a regular laboratory freezer is insufficient. Therefore, you need a ULT freezer when samples are sensitive to degradation at higher freezing temperatures. Examples include genomic material, proteins, cells, stem cells, vaccines and clinical samples in biobanks. For storage above -50°C we refer to our laboratory freezers. Furthermore, our cryogenic storage with liquid nitrogen handles storage below -150°C.
Our ULT freezers come in two main configurations. The choice depends on your application and available space.
Upright ULT freezer: this is the most common configuration for laboratories. Doors and shelves sit at working height. Moreover, this version is optimal for systematic biobank storage of 2-inch and 3-inch cryoboxes. Capacities range from 400 to 815 litres, with 400 to 700 box storage capacity.
Chest ULT freezer: this is a horizontal ULT freezer with top lid. As a result, the chest configuration suits heavy samples, racks and large volumes. In addition, chest models offer better temperature stability on opening. Cold air stays at the bottom. Therefore, laboratories choose this configuration for long-term archiving where door frequency is low.
Finally, we also supply compact undercounter ULT freezers for decentralised storage within research groups.
Poly Temp Scientific supplies ULT freezers from Thermo Scientific and Labselect. These are the two leading brands for modern ultra low temperature cooling.
Thermo Scientific TSX series: this is the flagship for modern ULT applications. It comes in two main variants. The TSX Universal uses natural HC propane refrigerant. As a result, this model delivers up to 50 percent energy savings versus conventional ULT freezers. The TSX Core, on the other hand, is the standard version for routine laboratory use. It offers reliable performance and favourable pricing. Both models reach -86°C. Moreover, they come standard with datalogging, alarms and V-Drive technology for variable compressor speed.
Labselect: this brand supplies reliable and user-friendly ULT freezers. Both upright and compact undercounter configurations are available. Lab managers select these models based on practical experience. Standard features include audible and visual alarms and intuitive operation. This is a suitable choice for decentralised storage. In addition, Labselect suits laboratories looking for a cost-effective ultra low freezer without compromising reliability.
For storage between -10°C and -40°C we refer to the laboratory freezers category.
The Revco brand has been associated with ultra low freezers in research and biobanks for decades. Classic Revco models such as the RDE60086FV (816 litre), RLE50086V and the UxF series are no longer in production. However, many laboratories still use these ULT freezers daily. Therefore, at Poly Temp Scientific we provide maintenance, calibration and spare parts for existing Revco models. Moreover, Thermo Scientific continues Revco’s technology and design within the current TSX series. As a result, you get the same reliability level, but with modern natural refrigerants and energy efficiency. Are you replacing an old Revco ULT freezer? Then our specialists advise on the suitable TSX successor, based on your existing rack configuration and sample volume.
A ULT freezer runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Therefore, the unit ranks among the largest energy consumers in the laboratory. A conventional upright ULT freezer consumes 8 to 18 kWh per day. The exact figure depends on setpoint, volume and ambient temperature. By contrast, our Thermo Scientific TSX Universal series consumes up to 50 percent less energy. This comes from the natural HC propane refrigerant and the V-Drive compressor technology. As a result, annual electricity consumption drops from around 6000 kWh to 3000 kWh per ULT freezer. That gives direct savings on operational costs and CO₂ emissions. In addition, natural refrigerants have a much lower global warming potential than synthetic HFCs.
Beyond technology, the setpoint itself also affects energy consumption. More and more laboratories run their ULT freezer at -70°C instead of -80°C. Research shows that most biological samples remain just as stable at -70°C as at -80°C. Moreover, energy consumption drops by around 30 percent through this 10°C higher setpoint. Therefore, initiatives such as My Green Lab and the ULT Freezer Challenge recommend this setting where sample requirements allow. Our Thermo Scientific TSX series and Labselect models support setpoints from -50°C to -86°C, including -70°C, without compromising stability or alarms.
For laboratories with irreplaceable samples we recommend a back-up system. This system takes over the ULT freezer in case of power failure or compressor failure. Two options are available.
CO₂ back-up: a gas cylinder with automatic injection keeps the temperature temporarily below -50°C during compressor failure. This system is easy to install. Moreover, it suits most research applications.
LN₂ back-up (liquid nitrogen): this is a heavier back-up for longer bridging periods. The system connects to a liquid nitrogen tank. As a result, LN₂ back-up suits biobanks and pharmaceutical production where continuity is critical.
You can integrate both systems into our Thermo Scientific TSX and Labselect models.
Research and universities: storage of DNA, RNA, primers, proteins, antibodies and cell cultures for molecular biology and biochemistry research.
Clinical laboratory: storage of plasma, serum and tissue samples for medical diagnostic applications, with validation documentation where required.
Pharmaceutical industry and biotech: GMP-compliant storage of vaccines, biological medicines and cell lines. This covers production processes and R&D, in accordance with GMP class C and D requirements.
Biobanks: systematic long-term archiving of clinical samples, stem cells and tissue banks. Biobanks often combine this with LN₂ back-up or cryogenic storage for very long-running projects.
Food and agricultural research: storage of genetic samples and quality control materials within the food industry and agriculture and horticulture sector.
For GLP, GMP and GDP compliant storage, continuous temperature monitoring with datalogging is mandatory. Therefore, we equip our ULT freezers standard with digital display and temperature registration with timestamps. Moreover, you get audible and visual alarms for temperature deviation, door-open detection, power failure and filter maintenance. Full datalogger modules with audit trail and monitoring software are available as an option. In addition, we offer integration with external monitoring systems via 4-20mA, RS485 or Ethernet. A ULT freezer with validation documentation and IQ/OQ protocols is available on request. This is particularly relevant for laboratories with higher compliance requirements under GMP class C or D.
Poly Temp Scientific guides you from advice to installation and maintenance. Our certified service engineers provide periodic maintenance, condenser cleaning, calibration, validation and breakdown service for your ULT equipment. Classic Revco models also fall under this service. Regular condenser cleaning is especially important for a ULT freezer. A contaminated condenser makes the compressor work harder. As a result, energy consumption rises by up to 30 percent. Moreover, the risk of premature failure increases. For advice on the right ULT freezer for your situation and possible back-up systems, please contact our specialists. In addition, you can request a quote directly. The complete overview of our cold storage equipment is available on the cold storage equipment page.
An ultra low temperature freezer (ULT freezer) is a professional freezing unit for the long-term storage of biological samples. The temperature range covers -50°C to -86°C. It provides uniform temperature distribution, dual compressor systems, multi-layer insulation and alarms for temperature deviation. You use ULT freezers for DNA, RNA, cells, vaccines and clinical samples that you store for years.
A ULT freezer operates between -50°C and -86°C. The common setpoint is -80°C or -86°C. Our Thermo Scientific TSX series and Labselect models maintain uniform temperature throughout the working volume, even at ambient temperatures up to +32°C. For storage above -50°C we refer to our laboratory freezers. In addition, our cryogenic storage handles storage below -150°C.
In practice, lab staff use both terms interchangeably. They often refer to the same equipment. The industry standard for an ultra low temperature freezer is a minimum temperature of -86°C. Moreover, -80°C serves as the common operational setpoint for optimal balance between sample protection and energy consumption. “Minus 80” and “minus 86” are therefore interchangeable terms for the same -80 freezer class.
Yes, our ULT freezers support any setpoint between -50°C and -86°C. More and more laboratories choose -70°C as a pragmatic setpoint. That saves around 30 percent energy compared to -80°C. Research shows that most biological samples retain the same stability at -70°C as at -80°C. Initiatives such as My Green Lab and the ULT Freezer Challenge actively promote this setting. For specific samples with strict temperature requirements, -80°C or -86°C of course remains the right choice. Our specialists advise you on the optimal setpoint for your application.
An upright ULT freezer has doors and shelves at working height. As a result, this type is ideal for systematic biobank storage with frequent use. A chest ULT freezer, by contrast, has a top lid. Cold air stays at the bottom when opened. This provides better temperature stability, but less accessibility. Therefore, laboratories choose chest freezers for long-term archiving and heavy samples where door frequency is low.
Our available ULT brands are Thermo Scientific and Labselect. Thermo Scientific covers the TSX Universal with natural propane refrigerant and the TSX Core for routine use. Labselect supplies upright and undercounter configurations. Classic Revco ULT freezers such as the RDE, RLE and UxF models are no longer produced. However, we do provide maintenance, calibration and spare parts for existing Revco models. Moreover, the current Thermo Scientific TSX line continues Revco’s technology.
A conventional upright ULT freezer of 800 litres at -80°C consumes around 16 to 18 kWh per day. Annually, that comes to 5800 to 6500 kWh. By contrast, our Thermo Scientific TSX Universal series consumes up to 50 percent less. As a result, consumption drops to approximately 8 to 10 kWh per day. For a laboratory with 5 ULT freezers, that means an annual energy saving of around 15,000 kWh.
We strongly recommend a back-up system for laboratories with irreplaceable samples. CO₂ back-up keeps the temperature temporarily below -50°C during compressor failure. You install this system easily with a gas cylinder. LN₂ back-up (liquid nitrogen), by contrast, bridges longer periods. Therefore, we recommend this type for biobanks and pharmaceutical production. Both systems integrate into our Thermo Scientific TSX and Labselect models.
A ULT freezer operates mechanically between -50°C and -86°C. Therefore, this type suits most biological samples, including DNA, RNA and cell cultures. Cryogenic storage, by contrast, uses liquid nitrogen and reaches -150°C to -196°C. This is needed for very long-term stem cell and tissue storage, where cellular activity must fully halt. Cryogenic storage is more expensive in maintenance due to LN₂ refilling. Still, this type remains essential for specific biobank applications.
A natural refrigerant ULT freezer uses natural refrigerants such as HC propane (R290). This is an alternative to synthetic HFC gases. The main advantage is a much lower global warming potential (GWP). As a result, the unit significantly reduces the laboratory’s environmental impact. The Thermo Scientific TSX Universal series is a natural refrigerant ULT freezer. Moreover, this model combines sustainability with 50 percent lower energy consumption than conventional models.
For GLP and GMP environments, annual calibration and validation is mandatory, with temperature mapping at installation. ISO 17025 and ISO 15189 accreditation have comparable requirements. For regular ULT applications we advise at least annual condenser cleaning and functional checks. In addition, daily logging review belongs to the routine. Our certified service engineers carry out these checks as part of a maintenance contract, including calibration certification. You do not manually defrost ULT freezers. We remove ice build-up at the door seal periodically during maintenance.
'%3E%3Cpath d='M0,0 v30 h60 v-30 z' fill='%23012169'/%3E%3Cpath d='M0,0 L60,30 M60,0 L0,30' stroke='%23fff' stroke-width='6'/%3E%3Cpath d='M0,0 L60,30 M60,0 L0,30' clip-path='url(%23t)' stroke='%23C8102E' stroke-width='4'/%3E%3Cpath d='M30,0 v30 M0,15 h60' stroke='%23fff' stroke-width='10'/%3E%3Cpath d='M30,0 v30 M0,15 h60' stroke='%23C8102E' stroke-width='6'/%3E%3C/g%3E%3C/svg%3E)