Platelet incubator and agitator: choosing a compatible system

When purchasing platelet storage equipment, select a coordinated system: the incubator maintains the temperature environment, while the agitator provides movement of the bags. Compatibility involves more than whether the device fits inside the chamber.

This guide applies to platelet components whose approved process requires storage at controlled room temperature with agitation. Operating conditions and permitted deviations must follow the requirements for the specific component, bag and institution's procedure. Other storage technologies require a separate equipment assessment.

Available models are listed in the platelet incubator and agitator category.

Start with the maximum stock held at one time

Count the bags that will be in the system simultaneously, allowing for peak demand and spare capacity. An average daily quantity does not represent the highest actual load. Describe the bag types, their filled dimensions and the permitted loading arrangement separately.

The rated number of positions helps compare models, but it does not replace a check with your bags. Include their product codes and the expected loading layout in the supplier enquiry. Check whether labels will remain accessible and whether a selected bag can be removed without disturbing the others.

EMSAS ECI and EAJ compatibility examples

The official EMSAS catalogue lists the following combinations. Its ECI 01 and ECI 02 designations correspond to the models listed on the website as ECI-1 and ECI-2.

The stated capacities are up to 30 bags for the EAJ-05 and up to 54 for the EAJ-09. Confirm usable capacity for the actual bag type and permitted loading layout. Other combinations, including mixed configurations, require separate written confirmation from the manufacturer or supplier.

Check system operation as well as dimensions

Agree the mounting arrangement, agitator power supply, drawer travel and clearance during movement. Ask how the system detects an agitator stoppage and how staff are notified. Establish what happens when the door opens and after it closes.

Include a demonstration of the agreed configuration with a representative load in the acceptance plan, following the institution's procedure. Checking an empty chamber does not answer every question about accommodating the working stock.

Distinguish backup monitoring from backup operation

The EMSAS catalogue describes battery backup for the control panel and thermal printer. This does not establish autonomous operation of cooling or the agitator. If the entire system must keep working, agree external backup power separately.

Specify which devices will be connected to the UPS, their load and the required runtime. Also establish a procedure for extended power loss and assign responsibility for transferring components to an agreed backup location.

Agree records and alarm response

Define continuous temperature recording, checks of measurement channels, record review and documentation of deviations. These issues are covered, for example, in the UK's JPAC guidance on blood component storage; your institution must approve its own working procedure.

For each required alarm, identify the recipient, notification method and follow-up action. Recording an event in memory and delivering a notification to the person on duty should be checked separately.

Supplier enquiry checklist

• Incubator model, agitator model and number of agitators.
• Bag types, peak stock and agreed loading layout.
• All cables, connections, shelves and accessories needed for the system.
• Required alarms, data recording and export method.
• Backup power coverage with a confirmed runtime.
• Installation, checks, training, documentation and service terms.

Frequently asked questions

Is the agitator included in the incubator price?

The specific quotation determines this. OSELY's ECI-1 and ECI-2 listings exclude the agitator from the base package; its model and quantity must be agreed separately.

Can capacity be estimated from the chamber volume in litres?

Stock planning depends on the compatible agitator, available positions and the loading arrangement for the actual bags. Chamber volume alone does not determine how many components the system can store.