Ultra‑low temperature (ULT) freezers, including −86 °C models like the Froilabo ULT freezers, are essential for long‑term preservation of delicate biological samples in laboratories, research facilities and biotech companies. Reaching and maintaining temperatures as low as −86 °C is a complex engineering challenge- but one Froilabo meets across multiple ranges of freezers. Here’s how it all works, and why Froilabo’s designs stand out.

Why Use a −86 °C ULT Freezer?

  • For long‑term preservation of sensitive samples (DNA, RNA, tissue, vaccines, etc.) which degrade at higher temperatures. A “standard” freezer (~ −20 °C) is often insufficient.
  • To slow or halt biochemical reactions, inhibit microbial growth, preserve sample integrity, maintain reproducibility in research, diagnostics, food safety, etc.
  • For regulatory, safety, and quality control reasons in laboratories, hospitals, biotech, food & drink industries.

Key Technical Components of −86 °C Freezers

Reaching −86 °C isn’t about one feature alone – it’s the combined effect of refrigerants, cooling unit design and high-quality insulation. All these will impact the cooling performance, energy efficiency and lifespan of the freezer.

Refrigerants

  • Refrigerants are chosen based on boiling point, pressure characteristics, heat transfer capacity, and environmental impact.
  • Froilabo uses refrigerants compliant with the EU F‑Gas regulation (EU No. 517/2014).

Cooling / Refrigeration Unit

  • Key components in any refrigeration loop:
    1. Evaporator: absorbs heat from inside freezer, causing refrigerant to vaporize.
    2. Compressor: pumps the refrigerant through the system which raises its pressure and temperature.
    3. Condenser: rejects heat to ambient air, causes refrigerant to liquefy.
    4. Expansion valve: controls flow of refrigerant into evaporator. It creates a pressure decrease which creates a 2-phase mixture of liquid and vapour.

Insulation & Thermal Stability

  • Insulation is crucial to minimise heat ingress, reduce energy consumption and improve temperature stability in power cut scenarios. Froilabo uses:
    • Vacuum Insulated Panels (VIP) in the walls, which are up to 8 times more efficient than conventional insulation wool.
    • High‑density polyurethane foam in combination with VIPs.
    • Heated door seals and heated decompression valves to prevent frost formation and allow doors to reopen easily.

Now that you know more about how ULT freezers work, it’s equally important to know how to use and maintain these freezers effectively. Even the best engineered systems rely on proper usage, regular maintenance and smart energy practices to deliver long term reliability and performance.

Performance & Maintenance Tips

Optimizing an ultra-low temperature freezer is important to extend its lifespan, reduce energy consumption and ensure sample preservation. Here are some handy tips to help get the best performance from your Froilabo freezer:

  1. Keep It Full
    • A fuller freezer maintains temperature better, but do not overload it.
    • Use ice packs or dummy boxes to fill empty space without obstructing airflow.
  1. Organize for Efficiency
    • Use racking systems or labelled boxes to speed up retrieval & minimize door-open time.
    • Maintain a sample inventory (e.g. Excel, barcode system) to avoid prolonged searching.
  1. Minimize Door Openings
    • Open the door only when necessary.
  1. Check and Clean the Filters
    • Clean air intake filters monthly (or as recommended by the manufacturer).
    • Clogged filters can reduce cooling efficiency and increase power draw.
  1. Defrost Regularly
    • Ice build-up can affect seal integrity and cooling efficiency.
    • Schedule regular defrosting (e.g. every 6–12 months or as needed).
  1. Ensure Proper Airflow Around Freezer
    • Leave 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) clearance on all sides.
    • Avoid placing near heat sources or in cramped, unventilated rooms.
  1. Monitor Temperature Trends
    • Use a data logger or built-in monitoring system.
    • Spot fluctuations that may indicate door sealing issues or impending failures.
  1. Check the Door Seal
    • Inspect gaskets regularly.
    • Replace if cracked, deformed, or if frost builds up around the door.
  1. Place Freezer in a Cool Room
    • A room at 18–21°C (64–70°F) helps reduce compressor workload.
  1. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient ULT Freezer (if applicable)
    • Modern ULT freezers can use less energy.
  1. Have a Backup Plan
    • Utilise temperature alarms.
    • Have a plan for sample relocation in case of power outage or unit failure.
  1. Log Maintenance
    • Keep a log of filter cleaning, defrosting, seal checks, and service visits.

Froilabo’s ULT Freezer Range: EVOLUTION, TRUST & BIO MEMORY

Froilabo offers a comprehensive range of ULT freezers designed to combine advanced engineering, user-friendly features and operational resilience. Our products are designed in France and manufactured in our modern ISO 9001 and ISO 13485 certified European production facility. Below are some of the key models and what makes them stand out:

Range Volume / Capacity Interface & Monitoring Key Features / Benefits
EVOLUTION 3 volumes: ~ 340 L, 515 L, 690 L Colour touchscreen, intuitive control; 12 LEDs for rapid diagnostics. Designed for daily use; Fast temperature recovery; Narrow footprint, equal compartment sizing; option for cryo accumulator (up to ~18h backup in power cut)
TRUST 3 volumes: ~ 340 L, 515 L, 690 L Simple interface using icons; visual & audible alarms; quick-check ‘OK’ indicator. Designed for long term sample storage; same core refrigeration design; robust & reliable; equal compartment sizing; option for cryo accumulator
BMT 1000 L Original Froilabo design; features small touch-screen. Storage for up to 72,000 tubes; equipped with BoSS as standard; exemplary reliability.
BMH Horizontal / chest style design; 3 volumes: ~ 340 L, 515 L, 690 L Original Froilabo design; Simple controls. Better for certain sample types, or where frequent access from top is acceptable; excellent temperature stability.

Ultra-low temperature freezers are highly sophisticated pieces of equipment, designed to meet the most demanding needs in research, biotech, healthcare and beyond. But even the most advanced technology performs best when paired with consistent, informed use. By understanding how your ULT freezer works and following best practises for operation and maintenance, you can extend the life of your unit, reduce energy consumption and most importantly protect the integrity of your valuable samples.