Gas Vent

BMG LABTECH’s microplate readers have the option of a gas vent system. This feature offers a tremendous advantage over other microplate reader brands for assays where special or inert gas (e.g. CO2, Ne or Ar) is needed when working with atmospheric gas sensitive samples. The gas vent system allows the user to either pump in an inert gas or to pull a vacuum. This is especially important when working with volatile oxidizing solutions that could damage sensitive moving parts. No additional connections are necessary beyond the single connector in the rear of the unit. The system utilizes a “quick connect” system to allow the user the freedom to move their instrument or change to different gas systems easily. BMG LABTECH’s microplate readers are not air tight so the flow of air is not hindered through the system when either a negative or positive pressure is applied.

One of the most popular uses for the gas vent system is the study of bacterial and fungal growth on the NEPHELOstar. These assays are especially sensitive to oxygen and the rates can be affected by altering the percentage of oxygen in the air. The gas venting system allows the user to pipe in an exact air mixture that is required for their assay. Combined with onboard incubators, environmental conditions can be controlled by the user.

The gas vent system is also available as an upgrade for existing BMG LABTECH microplate readers.