Ultra-low freezer for intensive use

Ultra-Low Temperature (ULT) freezers store temperature-sensitive specimens at temperatures as low as –80 °C, preserving their viability and integrity for long-term research and clinical use. Common in laboratories, biobanks, and pharmaceutical settings, ULTs feature advanced refrigeration and insulation to maintain precise storage temperatures.

Challenges of intensive use
ULTs often face intensive use in clinical labs, pharmaceutical R&D, and biobanking, where multiple users access the freezer frequently, sample rotation is high, or workflows are time-sensitive. Examples include:

• Frequent door openings: High sample turnover, inventory checks, and ongoing sample management increase daily door cycles.
• Extended door openings: Fully loaded or poorly organized freezers require longer retrieval times.
• Adverse environmental conditions: High ambient temperatures stress the cooling system.

These conditions can cause temperature fluctuations, frost buildup, higher energy use, and mechanical wear, reducing reliability and lifespan.

Intensive use and energy efficiency
Energy efficiency is critical in modern labs, not just for cost savings, but also to meet sustainability goals. Intensive use exposes the freezer interior to ambient air, requiring the cooling system to work harder to maintain the –80 °C setpoint. This increases energy consumption and can shorten the life of components if the freezer isn’t designed for heavy use. Consequently, reliable, energy-efficient ULTs are essential infrastructure, balancing performance with operational and environmental considerations.

The U701V, created by B Medical Systems, is a durable and sustainable ULT freezer that combines reliability with energy efficiency under intensive use. Its variable-speed compressor enables operation from –86 °C to –20 °C while maintaining superior temperature uniformity and rapid Door Opening Recovery (DOR).Certified as an EU MDR Class IIa device with an SN/T climate classification, it operates efficiently even in ambient temperatures up to +43 °C.
The U701V uses natural hydrocarbon refrigerants, reducing environmental impact compared with conventional refrigerants.

By integrating advanced cooling technology, insulation, adaptable temperature range, and eco-friendly refrigerants, the U701V sets a new standard in ULT freezers. It delivers uncompromised performance and sustainability, meeting the evolving demands of modern research and clinical labs, even under intensive ­usage.

This article from Lekshmi Padmavathy, Head of Marketing, B Medical Systems, was originally published in the Special CDMOs & CROs as part of European Biotechnology Magazine Autumn 2025.