Whitley Workstation-VA

Whitley Workstation VA-500 shown with optional airlock

The Whitley variable atmosphere (VA) workstations are used primarily in the study and isolation of microaerophilic organisms such as Campylobacter spp and Helicobacter pylori and other similar organisms. Up to 4 gases - nitrogen, carbon dioxide, air and a 10% hydrogen/nitrogen mix -can be combined within safe and varying ratios to provide a specific atmosphere. A microprocessor controls and maintains the selected mixture. The Whitley Workstation VA can become anaerobic by replacing the nitrogen tank with 1 x ANO₂ tank. Use the microprocessor to set the nitrogen (now anaerobic mixture) to 100% and the other gases at 0%. Anotox and catalyst will have to be purchased to complete the anaerobic conversion, as they are not included standard with the MACS VA.

The Whitley Workstation VA-500 has a 540 plate capacity and the Whitley Workstation VA-1000 has a 1080 plate capacity, both are constructed of rigid acrylic (6mm thick front panels, 10mm thick side panels). The panels are chloroform annealed, creating a uni-body construction capable of withstanding positive pressure well in excess of the 4 PSI maintained constantly by the system.

Patented use of “oval” shaped gloveless entry ports allow the introduction of samples/materials by acting as a transfer air lock. This process allows the user to place their materials in the chamber while placing their hands in the chamber, reducing overall gas consumption considerably by not having to run a secondary airlock cycle. Evacuation and gassing of sleeves as well as opening of inner doors are controlled via the wireless footswitch.

The entire workstation is temperature controlled, allowing for temperatures between 4C and 44C. There is no need for extra incubators and loss of space efficiency.

Humidity is controlled automatically by an electronically controlled water removal system. Water is pumped to a container containing a silver-impregated bacteriostatic wick to evaporate the water externally. There are no containers to empty. The humidity setting is user programmable.

The electronics and lighting are located in an external control housing. There is no need to compromise the workstation to change light bulbs or perform fuse replacement.

The 100 plate airlock is an option to the Whitley Workstation VA

. The airlock cycle is electronically controlled and requires only a press of the button to operate.

The system uses a radio controlled footswitch to eliminate clumsy wiring. There is a manual override for use when necessary.

There are audible alarms to notify the user of low gas pressure, gas leaks, or power failure. The system is capable of maintaining atmosphere in the event of power loss for up to 24 hours.

Whitley VA-500

Whitley VA-500 w/airlock

For rapid transfer of individual plates into the chamber

Accessories

-Microscope and Bracket

A long focal length microscope, complete with bracket, fixtures and fittings.

-HEPA filtration unit

The HEPA filtration unit is available for all MACS systems and recommended for BSL2 and higher safety environments. Atmosphere within the chamber is exhausted during normal cycle operations. This exhaust air can be filtered through the optional HEPA filtration sys tem to avoid contamination of the lab environment. The system is comprised of dual stage filter units that are easily replaced every six months.

-Orbis Microplate and Tube Shakers

The Orbis shaker is a compact choice of microplate shaker for any test environment. It is small enough to fit easily into yourWhitley chamber for use with organisms requiring the strict atmosphere. With a footprint marginally larger than that of the microplate it shakes, the Orbis offers the most advance solution for your shaking applications. The counter-balanced orbital movement guarantees a stable, quiet and life long operation. The Orbis shaker can be operated as a microtube shaker when used with an accessory tube platform.

- Basket tag set.

20 x 7 colors, perfect for organizing your chamber.

-10 plate Petri dish holder.

-20 plate Petri dish holder.

Used in conjunction with the 20 Plate Adaptor Kits

-30 plate Petri dish holder.

For users with an Airlock Module.

-Whitley 20 plate Adaptor kit.

Converts each porthole to be capable of transferring up to 20 plates in or out of the workstation at any one time.

-Whitley Workstation Trolley.

A purpose-designed tubular steel trolley of welded construction with white powder-coated finish, equipped with heavy duty castors for ease of mobility. Available for 500 and 1000 workstations. Whitley Workstation MG-1000 trolley, with airlock extension shown)

-Whitley Workstation Airlock Trolley.

Converts any Whitley Workstation 500 or 1000 trolley to accommodate an airlock.