Excella® E24 shaker incubator: performance and versatility for cell culture
The Excella® E24 from Eppendorf is a benchtop shaker-incubator designed to offer an ideal combination of temperature control and orbital motion, meeting the requirements of cell biology and microbiology laboratories. Compact yet powerful, it allows for the efficient cultivation of a wide variety of cell types, including mammalian cells, yeast, aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, insects and hybridomas.
The movement system is based on a single-centre counterbalanced mechanism, generating a circular orbit of 1.91 cm (3/4 in), which allows for gentle but effective agitation. This precise movement is managed by a Proportional-Integral (PI) microprocessor, ensuring optimal speed control across the entire operating range. Thanks to this technology, the system ensures homogeneous agitation without causing splashing or excessive mechanical stress on sensitive cells.
The temperature is also electronically controlled via a factory-calibrated sensor, with an accuracy of ±0.1°C at 37°C. The temperature range extends from 7°C above ambient temperature to 60°C, allowing for a wide variety of experiments. This precise control is essential for maintaining ideal culture conditions, particularly for demanding applications such as stem cell or insect cell culture.
The Excella® E24 offers two operating modes: a continuous mode and a timed mode of up to 99.9 hours. At the end of the programmed cycle, the agitation stops automatically while the temperature is maintained, ensuring the safety of the cultures. A series of visual and audible alarms inform the user of any temperature or speed deviations, lid opening or power failure.
Another highlight of this device is its ability to automatically resume operation after a power failure. Previously entered settings are stored in a non-volatile memory and, as soon as power is restored, the device restarts in the previously stored operating state.
The E24 is designed for flexibility. It can accommodate different types of platforms – universal, dedicated, or specific to microplates and test tubes – depending on the laboratory's needs. It is also possible to mount holders for Erlenmeyer flasks of various sizes, up to 2.8 litres, ensuring maximum compatibility with a wide range of experimental protocols.
The intuitive control panel allows quick setting of temperature, speed and operating time, with a clear digital LED display. It is equipped with selection and adjustment buttons and status indicators for accurate real-time monitoring.
In terms of maintenance, the E24 requires only basic servicing: regular cleaning, replacement of fuses if necessary, and checking the platform clamping system. Access to service components is simple and secure, ensuring easy intervention while minimising risks to the user.
Compact, precise and robust, the Excella® E24 shaker-incubator is an all-in-one solution that optimises cell growth while ensuring safe and uninterrupted operation. Its user-friendly design and numerous features make it the preferred choice for demanding laboratories.