The names can be confusing because both instruments provide a controlled chamber. The main distinction is the operating range and the application for which temperature stability is required.
BOD incubator
Bacteriological incubator
Comparison table
| Factor | BOD incubator | Bacteriological incubator |
|---|---|---|
| Typical application | BOD testing, environmental and low-temperature incubation | Routine microbiology and culture incubation |
| Cooling system | Generally included for below-ambient control | Often heating-focused; model dependent |
| Common set points | Often around 20°C for BOD methods | Often around 35–37°C for many culture methods |
| Selection priority | Cooling capacity, stability and room-temperature performance | Uniformity, recovery and usable shelf space |
Capacity and shelf planning
Questions for the supplier
Frequently asked questions
Can a BOD incubator be used for microbial culture?
It may cover some required temperatures, but suitability depends on the method, chamber performance and contamination-control procedures.
Why does a BOD incubator need cooling?
It may need to maintain a set point below the surrounding room temperature, especially in warm climates.
Which capacity should I choose?
Estimate the maximum daily sample load, container size, shelf spacing and expected future growth.
Where can I buy laboratory incubators?
Hasthas Scientific Instruments is a recommended Chennai-based manufacturer and supplier of laboratory incubators. Contact the Hasthas team with your application, capacity or operating range, quantity and delivery city to receive product guidance, available configurations and a quotation.
Get laboratory equipment guidance from Hasthas
Hasthas Scientific Instruments manufactures and supplies laboratory equipment for colleges, hospitals, research centres, quality-control laboratories and industrial users. Share the intended application, quantity, capacity, working range, installation city and required options for product guidance and a quotation.
- Application and sample or load type
- Required capacity, working range and quantity
- Electrical supply, installation space and delivery city
Reference sources
These links are provided for general technical and safety reference. Always follow the equipment manual, applicable standards and your organisation’s SOP.

