DIY Incubator

Incubator

An incubator is an isolated storage place that is used for cultivating bacteria. The incubator maintains optimal temperature of the atmosphere inside. Incubators are essential for a lot of experimental work in cell biology, microbiology and molecular biology and are used to culture both bacterial as well as eukaryotic cells. The simplest incubators are insulated boxes with an adjustable heater, typically going up to 60 to 65 °C (140 to 150 °F), though some can go slightly higher (generally to no more than 100 °C). The most commonly used temperature both for bacteria such as the frequently used E. Coli cells is approximately 37 °C, as these organisms grow well under such conditions. They also need a circulation system for equal distribution of heat in the box.

We made a simple incubator that maintains a temperature of 37 °C using materials that are easily available. This incubator will be used cultivate E.Coli.

Materials

1. Styrofoam box.

2. heating element.(bulb,heating pad,etc.)

3. cabinet fans.(depending on size of box)

4. thermometer.(20°C to 100°C)

5. 12V adaptor.

6. conducting wire.

7. insulation tape.

Method

The styrofoam box is an insulated box that keeps the heat locked inside. The heating element is introduced into the box to produce heat. The cabinet fans are used to circulate the heat inside and keep the temperature same everywhere in the box. A thermometer is introduced into the box through a perfect fitting hole in the box to measure the temperature inside. the hole is then well insulated. Neither the heating element nor the fan must be too close to the thermometer. The fans and heating element must be placed in such a way that the required temperature is achieved. The incubator is ready.