How to Monitor Temperature in an Ultra-Low Temperature Freezer?
Monitoring Temperature in Your ULT: Start with Built-in Systems
Monitoring temperature in an ultra low freezer (ULT) is incredibly important since fluctuations in temperature can cause samples to spoil. As a starting point, utilize your ULT freezer’s built-in monitoring system that provides a digital display of the temperature inside your freezer. Your ULT should have data logging capabilities so that you can log temperature readings over time and export this data for analysis. While helpful, built-in systems are best checked against independent temperature monitoring systems as described below. Let’s take a look at the different options you have to monitor temperature in your ULT.
Monitoring Your ULT with Continuous Temperature Monitoring Systems
The most reliable method for monitoring your ULT freezer is a continuous temperature monitoring system. This method is sometimes called “continuous thermal monitoring” or CTM. The key element of continuous monitoring systems is their internal batteries, enabling them to function even through power failures or internet outages. Plus, the advanced sensors of a CTM system are designed to function reliably in the extreme cold over an extended period of time. These features makes them more accurate and trustworthy in the long run.
Continuous temperature monitoring involves placing a probe or probe system designed for continuous monitoring at strategic points inside your freezer to record temperature results over time. To maximize your monitoring efforts, consider using temperature mapping alongside continuous monitoring as outlined below.
Monitoring Your ULT with Temperature Mapping Systems
“Temperature mapping” involves placing multiple probes in a strategic layout throughout your freezer to capture a true representation of the temperatures inside. Temperature mapping is the most comprehensive form of temperature monitoring for your ULT because a collection of temperature readings throughout your freezer can give you a much more accurate assessment of performance than a single reading. Plus, by using temperature mapping, you can identify “hot spots” or areas in your freezer that are prone to temperature fluctuations. This knowledge can help you protect and organize your samples accordingly.
Think about this in an everyday setting. We all experience these fluctuations in our own refrigerators at home. For example, our milk sours on the door of the fridge but freezes on the back shelf. If you’re using purpose-built lab refrigeration, these temperature changes shouldn’t be as drastic. But temperature mapping will help you see clearly if there is a temperature change in your freezer, and exactly where that change is occurring. Which is important—because your scientific samples are much more valuable than milk.
Why You Need an Independent Temperature Monitoring System for Your ULT Freezer
There are many benefits to continuous temperature monitoring, including the ability to capture real-time data and digitally file a historical log of temperature readings. These reports are incredibly helpful for compliance reporting, auditing, and identifying trends that may cause a problem in the future. By using a battery-powered external monitoring system, you can still track temperatures and data even through power outages and internet interruptions.
Many independent monitoring systems also provide an additional layer of security through which you can program your own alarms and even keep tabs on your temperature readings remotely when you’re away from the lab. If wireless connectivity is important to you, be sure the devices or systems you choose offer these features.
Why NIST Standards Matter in Temperature Data Logging
When looking for temperature and data logging equipment, be sure to look for systems that comply with NIST standards so that you receive the most precise temperature records possible. NIST provides calibration services to ensure that all the instruments they certify meet the highest level of accuracy. At ABS, all our temperature monitoring devices offer 2-year certificates of NIST calibration so that you can trust the temperatures you’re reading are accurate to the highest standard. Above all, remember that temperature monitoring will keep your samples effective and safe. And that’s what matters most.
Now you know all about how to monitor temperature in an ultra-low temperature freezer. Want to learn more about ULTs? Explore our ULT freezer selection at ABS or reach out to our friendly customer service team at 1-843-821-8010 Option #3 or customerservice@horizonscientific.com.
Technical Writer and Marketing Editor
Christine works as a Technical Writer for Standex Scientific. She holds a B.A. in Creative Writing and has used her writing expertise in various companies from engineering firms to non-profits.