Thermoblocks

Laboratory thermoblocks are primarily used in experiments that require temperature control.  These are specially designed devices with platforms, modules that maintain a constant temperature of samples or test material, allowing various experiments, tests or chemical reactions to be carried out under controlled conditions.

Applications of thermoblocks

Laboratory thermoblocks are widely used in a variety of scientific fields, including molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, medicine, pharmacy and others. Here are some examples of applications of thermoblocks offered at our store:

• Enzymatic reactions: various enzymatic reactions, e.g. enzymatic degradation reactions, can be performed in termoblocks. Temperature control is crucial for the efficiency of these reactions. Additionally, thermoblocks allow analysis of the effect of temperature on the activity of the tested enzymes.
• Cell incubation: thermoblocks are used to incubate cells under controlled temperature conditions, which is important for  cell cultures , tissue cultures or other biological experiments. When working with bacterial or cell cultures, thermoblocks with a shaking mechanism also prove useful.
• Renaturation and hybridisation of biological material : thermoblocks allow precise temperature control for renaturation, i.e. restoration of the structure and biological properties of macromolecular compounds (proteins and nucleic acids). However, it is important to note that the native state may not always be restored. Thermoblocks are also used to carry out nucleic acid hybridisation when performing a nucleic acid analysis  

Advantages of thermoblocks

Laboratory thermoblocks provide numerous benefits to scientists. The right equipment will not only last for many years, but will also improve your comfort and productivity. This will help you achieve reproducible results and even better final outcomes.

Increased accuracy and precision: thermoblocks enable precise control of the sample ambient temperature, ensuring greater precision in experiments.  Stable temperature conditions eliminate errors associated with uncontrolled temperature variations.

Reduction of cross-contamination: multiple samples or reactions can be run simultaneously in thermoblocks, increasing laboratory productivity. In addition , specially designed blocks minimise the risk of cross-contamination between samples.

Lower costs and easy maintenance:  thermoblocks are relatively inexpensive  compared to more complex temperature control systems. Moreover, they are usually easy to maintain and do not require specialist staff or complicated procedures.

Types of thermoblocks

Thermoblocks, like other  laboratory equipment , come in different variants. The product should be selected to meet your requirements. Before purchasing a thermoblock, it is important to consider how and what you will use the device for in your current and future experiments. It is worth analysing which heating/cooling system will be best and selecting the right equipment based on this criterion. There is a wide range of options available:

• Fluid-based thermoblocks : fluid-based thermoblocks use heated fluids, such as ethylene glycol, to maintain a stable temperature. The samples are placed in special containers, and the liquid in the thermoblock maintains the proper temperature around the samples.
• Air-cooled thermoblocks : air-cooled thermoblocks use fans and cooling systems to maintain low temperatures. They are used when samples need to be cooled or the temperature needs to be kept below ambient.
• Thermoblock systems with removable blocks or plates are also available on the market: some thermoblocks are equipped with removable blocks or plates that can be adapted to different types of samples or experiments. This makes it easy to change the configuration of the thermoblock as needed.

Important criteria for the selection of a laboratory thermoblock

When selecting a thermoblock device, in addition to the variants regarding temperature range or cooling options mentioned above, it is also worth considering other features offered by different manufacturers. The following should also be taken into account when selecting the most suitable equipment. If you have any doubts, we are happy to help.

Temperature range and homogeneity requirements : before selecting a thermoblock, consider the temperature range required for specific experiments. It is also important that the thermoblock provide a homogeneous temperature throughout the chamber to avoid temperature variations between samples.

Tube capacity as well as systems with different numbers and capacities of samples subject to simultaneous temperature treatment, i.e. the size and number of samples to be placed in the thermoblock, are an important aspect in the decision-making process. If you plan to work with a large number of samples at the same time, we recommend a multi-chamber thermoblock with a system that accommodates several blocks with different sample capacities, allowing the experiment to be carried out simultaneously for different purposes.

Type and size of platform, including compatibility with other instruments : the type and size of the platform on which the samples are placed should be considered. A thermoblock should be compatible with other instruments and accessories that are needed for experiments.

Thermoblocks can also come with a shaking mechanism which does not affect the temperature conditions. In such a variant, thermoblocks have a specially designed platform that mixes the material at a specific speed in an orbital motion while keeping the samples at the right temperature.

Maintenance requirements and costs:  before purchasing a thermoblock, it is worth considering maintenance requirements , such as calibration, cleaning or part replacement. Costs related to the purchase, operation and maintenance of a thermoblock should also be taken into account.

Laboratory thermoblocks are extremely useful devices in laboratories, enabling precise temperature control of samples. They have a plenty to advantages, such as increased accuracy and precision, as well as lower costs and easy maintenance. When selecting the right thermoblock, such factors as temperature range, tube capacity, platform type, as well as maintenance requirements and costs should be considered.

At EPRO, we make sure the equipment is perfectly suited to your needs. We will be happy to assist you with your purchase and advise you on the most suitable thermoblock for your tests. Have a look at our range of products and do not hesitate to contact us. We are at your service.