1. How do I clean/disinfect the chamber surfaces?

Chamber surfaces should be cleaned after every manipulation of bacterial cultures. Before exiting the chamber, use a squirt bottle and a paper towel or cleaning cloth to wipe the chamber surfaces with the benzalkonium chloride.  The chamber surfaces should be left damp, do not wipe it dry.

 ONLY USE Benzalkonium CHLORIDE.

Do not use any volatile (i.e. bleach or alcohol) cleaning compounds, they will evaporate and may inhibit sample growth in the incubator.

2.  How much gas does a chamber require per day?

The amount of gas used depends on how often the chamber is in use. A chamber that is used minimally requires 150psi/day. A chamber that runs 3 passbox cycles per day uses about 250 psi/day.

3.  What kind and quality (purity) of gas do I need?

We recommend a 3-gas mixture of anaerobic gas containing:

90% N₂, 5% CO_2, and 5% H₂

 DO NOT EXCEED 5% H₂ IN THE CHAMBER DUE TO RISK OF EXPLOSION!

4.  What oxygen indicator do I use?

We recommend the Oxoid indicator strip, BR0058. Alternately, an oxygen meter can be used as long as it is compatible with H₂ and CO₂.

5.  Is there a non-latex option for the sleeves and cuffs?

Yes, Nitrile Cuffs are available in Small, Medium and Large. Call 1-800-443-3108 and refer to item number B08111 to order.   When ordering, make sure to specify the proper size.

 

6.  What do I do when there is an accidental oxygen exposure inside the chamber?

-Open the incubator doors so that there is a 1/2” gap on either side of the incubator.

-Close the passbox doors.

-Plug the sleeves.

-Insert a thin object (such as an inoculating loop) into the cuff, creating a small leak in the chamber. The leak should be slow so that the chamber gas clicks on once every 5-10 seconds.

-Allow the chamber to purge slowly until it has consumed 50 psi from the gas tank.

- Place an anaerobic indicator strip inside the chamber every hour to check the oxygen level.  Let the strip set for 5 minutes and check the color.  If it is white or very light pink then it is safe to work in again.

-When the chamber is anaerobic, remove the object from the cuff.

-Close the incubator doors.

 

7.  How often do I have to change and clean the catalyst?

The AS-580 Anaerobic Chamber catalyst should not require maintenance for at least one year. If the anaerobic indicator strip becomes solid/dark pink, purge the chamber. If it remains pink or becomes pink often, call 1-800-443-3108 for assistance. 

 Heavy operation of the chamber causes the anaerobic indicator strip to change to a very light pink and this is normal. Expect changes when frequently entering and exiting the chamber, during frequent introductions of supplies and immediately after passbox cycles. The catalyst will remove the excess oxygen. 

8.  What is the purpose of Anatox and how do I use it?

Anatox removes most of the hydrogen sulfide (which can inhibit growth) and organic acids produced by the bacteria’s metabolism. This prevents odor and helps the catalyst remain active.

We recommend placing a small Stainless-Steel Bowl full of anatox inside the chamber incubator.  The Anatox is to be regenerated in an oven on a daily basis and will last 6 months before it needs to be replaced. Call 1-800-443-3108 and refer to item number B480012 to order.

 

9.  How often do I have to replace sleeves and cuffs?

This depends on how often the chamber is used per day. With heavy, daily use, the cuffs should be replaced monthly. Sleeves only need to be replaced when they are worn or damaged. With proper care, they can last several years.  You should always have several pairs of cuffs on hand in case of an accidental tear.  It is also advised to keep a spare set of sleeves on hand.

 

10. How can I keep my plates from drying out in the incubator, and prevent moisture buildup on the lids?

When the incubator is not humid enough, the moisture will leave the plates and condense on the lids. 

Always keep a beaker of water inside the incubator to maintain a humid environment and prevent plates from drying out.

 

11. What are some ways to conserve gas in the chamber?

-Avoid bubbling excess gas out through the manometer (except when first entering the chamber).  If you are going to reach deeper into the chamber where it might cause gas to bubble out, reach with one arm while pulling the other arm out to maintain the gas inside the chamber.

-Always make sure the manometer is filled with 2-3 inches of water.  When the manometer is too low, any small movements while in the chamber will push gas to bubble out of the manometer.

-Minimize passbox cycles by making sure all supplies are brought inside in bulk.  You can also minimize the cycles by bringing in smaller sized items like small numbers of tubes or plates through the sleeves.  You do not have to worry about letting in oxygen in through the sleeves while you put plates or tubes in.  The chamber’s positive pressure inside will vent the anaerobic gas out through the sleeves, preventing oxygen from getting in.