Memmert ICP260 precision cooled incubator: A Reliable Workhorse for Modern Laboratories

When precision, reproducibility and flexibility matter in biomedical research, quality control or industrial testing, having the right precision cooled incubator can make a tangible difference. The Memmert ICP260 cooled incubator represents precisely the kind of incubator that takes laboratory temperature control beyond the basics.

Why the ICP260 stands out
With an internal volume of 256 litres, the ICP260 is more than a benchtop precision cooled incubator – it’s built for serious, versatile use. That chamber size gives labs ample capacity for multiple sample trays or large batches, while still remaining manageable in lab environments.
What truly marks the ICP260 as a cut above standard incubators is its wide temperature range: from –12 °C up to +60 °C. This dual heating and compressor-cooled system means labs can run protocols requiring sub-ambient cooling, elevated incubation temperatures or quick ramp cycles – all within a single piece of equipment. According to its data sheet, the design accommodates rapid temperature changes and “ramp operation” for incubation, storage or other tasks.

Control, precision and safety – built for demanding workflows
The ICP260’s “ControlCOCKPIT TwinDISPLAY” interface delivers fine-tuned, user-friendly control: a PID microprocessor controller with dual high-definition TFT-colour displays. Temperature control is particularly robust: two Pt100 Class A sensors (in a 4-wire circuit) monitor and cross-check each other, with automatic takeover in case of sensor error.
Accuracy is impressive, and the temperature setting resolution of 0.1 °C enables tight control. For experimental protocols, stability studies or sensitive cell-culture work, this degree of precision makes a real difference.
Safety and reliability are equally well thought out. The ICP260 integrates a layered safety architecture: mechanical temperature limiter (as per DIN 12880), over- and under-temperature monitors (TWW/TWB), and an “AutoSAFETY” mode that triggers visual and acoustic alarms and cuts off heating/cooling when preset tolerances are exceeded. There’s also an autodiagnostic system to flag errors – a feature that reduces downtime and safeguards valuable samples.
Furthermore, the incubator uses an air-jacket heating system rather than direct heating, which ensures gentle, uniform heating without drying out or stressing samples. The cooling system is CFC-free, and automatic defrosting helps prevent ice build-up when operating below ambient temperatures.

Practical design and real-world usability
Beyond technical specs, the ICP260 is built for daily lab life. The interior and casing are stainless steel – corrosion-resistant, cleanable and durable. The chamber can support up to 200 kg total load (max. 20 kg per internal shelf) and accepts up to 9 internal racks – ideal for high-throughput labs.
Mobility is considered too: the unit sits on lockable castors, so repositioning or relocating is feasible when required. Data logging and programmability are another strength – using the optional software (on USB or Ethernet) labs can program ramps, log batches, store output, and ensure full traceability of experiments.

For whom is the ICP260 precision cooled incubator best suited?
• Laboratories running varied protocols: from cooling-sensitive storage to elevated-temperature incubation, or even complex ramp-based cycles that require both heating and cooling.
• Research or quality-control teams seeking reproducibility and consistency – with strict temperature accuracy and reliable safety redundancies.
• Medium-to-large labs needing volume and capacity, whether for sample throughput, parallel experiments, or reagent storage.
• Facilities that value long-term reliability and durability – stainless steel build, robust cooling system and well-engineered safety/control features make this unit a long-term asset.

A sensible investment for long-term performance
The ICP260 is not designed for occasional, lightweight use. It is a premium-grade instrument – but for labs that demand reliability, stability, and flexibility, it represents an investment that will pay dividends over time. Its combination of broad temperature range, precise control, safety systems and build quality positions it as a dependable backbone for many lab workflows.
If your lab is evolving – moving towards more complex protocols, higher sample throughput, or stricter documentation and reproducibility standards – bringing in a precision cooled incubator like the ICP260 is forward-looking and prudent.
Contact us to explore how the Memmert ICP260 can support your lab’s requirements or to request a quote. Our team is ready to guide you through the options and help you select the right setup for your needs.