Optimizing Large-Scale Cell Culture: Forcibly gas infusion functionality of the MaxCell MLF Incubator

We have received many inquiries regarding our MaxCell MLF, a large volume incubator designed for large-scale cell culture, so far. While we have previously introduced the MLF incubator on this blog, we would like to dive deeper into one of its most critical features: Forcibly gas infusion functionality.
The MLF series is specifically optimized for large-scale culture vessels such as CellSTACK and CellFactory (CF40/52). MLF1 can accommodate 4 pcs of 40-layer vessels, while MLF2 can accommodate 8.
When using standard 36-layer HYPERStack, MLF1 can accommodate 8 pcs, and MLF2 can accommodate 16.
The dedicated flask holders (Item No. MLF-UW) can be customized (for an additional fee) to support specific vessels, such as 36-layer HYPERStacks.

The standout feature of the MLF series is the forcibly gas infusion functionality (FA model). Unlike other standard large-capacity incubators that regulate CO2 concentration only within the chamber, the MLF FA model uses a pump to actively inject pre-mixed CO2 gas directly into the flasks.

Why is this functionality necessary and important?

In a standard incubator, even if the chamber is set to 5% CO2, the gas only reaches the top 2–3 layers of a 40-layer. Without forced infusing, the lower layers rarely reach the target (setting) CO2 concentration. This results in inconsistent culture environments between the top and bottom layers.
In large-scale production using 40-layer flasks, CO2 consistency is frequently overlooked. However, inconsistent environments lead to variations in cell quality, which could make difference in the integrity of your results or production batch.
By using the forcibly gas infusion function, CO2 gas (e.g. 5%) is delivered directly into the vessels (see image below). This ensures that every layer reaches close to 5%, effectively eliminating environmental disparities and ensuring uniform cell quality across all layers.

We also offer customization to meet customers’ specific needs. Whether you require the integration of a hygrometer, display support for languages other than English (such as Spanish, Portuguese, German, Chinese, Korean, and so on), or the capacity to accommodate 16pcs of 40-layer flasks, we are here to provide a solution. We often succeed where others cannot. Even if you’ve been told “no” by other manufacturers, we encourage you to reach out to us.
We have local distributors in a lot of countries, and they can strongly support you, for example in case you face some problems with our product.
If you are planning cell culture with multi-layer flasks, please contact us to discuss how MaxCell MLF can support your project.