Benchmark Scientific SureAir™ PCR Workstation (B5200)
The Benchmark Scientific SureAir™ PCR Workstation (B5200) is a compact benchtop enclosure that creates an ISO 5 clean-air workspace for PCR and qPCR setup. A whisper-quiet internal fan produces laminar-flow conditions through a HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 µm and larger, while a germicidal UVC light decontaminates the chamber between runs to destroy stray DNA. It is used by molecular biology, clinical research, university, and QA/QC laboratories that need to protect sensitive amplification reactions from contamination — with no ductwork or installation required.
Ideal For
- Molecular biology and genomics laboratories running PCR or qPCR
- Clinical and research labs preparing sensitive amplification reactions
- University and college teaching labs
- Food, beverage, and environmental testing labs using PCR-based assays
- Any lab that needs a dedicated clean zone for nucleic acid work without a full cleanroom
Why Choose the SureAir PCR Workstation?
Two barriers against contamination. HEPA-filtered laminar airflow continuously sweeps particles away from your work surface, and the 8W germicidal UVC light destroys residual DNA between runs — addressing both airborne and surface carryover contamination in one unit.
No ductwork, no installation. The self-contained fan and filter system sits on any benchtop with a compact 22 × 16 in. footprint, so the workstation can be placed exactly where PCR setup happens.
Designed around the PCR workflow. An integrated pipette holder accommodates up to three standard pipettes, a storage shelf keeps tips and small instruments inside the clean zone, and a cable access port on the right side lets you run power to a mini centrifuge or vortexer inside the chamber.
UV safety built in. The UVC light only operates when the cover is closed and shuts off automatically after 15 minutes — or immediately if the cover is opened.
Clear visibility and access. The UV-resistant polycarbonate enclosure, energy-efficient LED lighting, and double-hinged front panel (which opens fully for placing equipment inside) keep the workspace bright and easy to work in.
Technical Specifications
| UV Light | 8W UVC, germicidal |
| UV Auto-Shutoff | 15 minutes, or immediately on cover opening (safety interlock) |
| Air Filtration | HEPA filter — 99.97% of particles 0.3 µm and larger; ISO 5 clean conditions (manufacturer rated) |
| Air Velocity | 0.2 m/s |
| Construction | UV-resistant polycarbonate |
| Outer Dimensions (W × D × H) | 55 × 40 × 59.2 cm (21.7 × 15.7 × 23.3 in.) |
| Inner Dimensions (W × D × H) | 50 × 39 × 40 cm (19.7 × 15.4 × 15.7 in.) |
| Hand Access Opening (W × H) | 50 × 16 cm (19.7 × 6.3 in.) |
| Weight | 20 kg (44 lbs) |
| Electrical | 115V, 60 Hz (B5200 — Canadian configuration) |
| Power Consumption | 24W (manufacturer specification) |
| Warranty | 2 years (manufacturer) |
Common Applications
| Application | How This Product Helps |
|---|---|
| PCR / qPCR reaction setup | HEPA-filtered airflow and UV decontamination reduce amplicon carryover that causes false positives |
| Nucleic acid sample preparation | ISO 5 clean conditions protect DNA/RNA samples during handling |
| Housing small instruments | Cable access port allows a mini centrifuge or vortexer to operate inside the clean zone |
| Pipette and consumable staging | Integrated holder and shelf keep pipettes, tips, and tubes within the decontaminated workspace |
Compatible Accessories / Consumables
- Included: HEPA filter (Benchmark B5200-FIL) and pre-filter (Benchmark B5200-PRE) come installed in the unit.
- Replacement filters: Benchmark B5200-FIL (replacement HEPA filter) and B5200-PRE (replacement pre-filter) — contact Cambridge to confirm availability and pricing.
Use only manufacturer-specified replacement filters to maintain the stated filtration performance.
Compatibility / Selection Notes
Not a biosafety cabinet. The SureAir protects your samples from contamination; it is not a Class II biosafety cabinet and does not protect the operator from biohazards. Do not use it for work with infectious agents or hazardous chemicals requiring operator protection or exhausted airflow.
- Voltage: Cambridge supplies the 115V/60Hz Canadian configuration (B5200). A 230V-specific SKU (B5200-E) exists in some markets but is not the Canadian version.
- Throughput: The 50 × 39 cm interior suits PCR setup and small instruments; it is not sized for large equipment or high-throughput automation.
- UV lamp life: Like all germicidal lamps, the 8W UVC bulb degrades with use and will eventually need replacement — factor this into operating costs.
Canadian Purchasing Support
Cambridge Environmental Products is a family-run Canadian distributor based in Komoka, Ontario (est. 1993). We support Canadian laboratories with CAD pricing, domestic shipping, and technical guidance on selecting the right PCR workstation for your application. Volume or institutional pricing and leasing options are available — contact us for a quote. Reach us at 1-800-535-3751 or sales@ceproducts.ca.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the SureAir PCR workstation used for?
It provides a clean, low-particulate workspace for setting up PCR and qPCR reactions. HEPA-filtered laminar airflow keeps airborne particles away from your samples, and the built-in UVC light decontaminates the chamber between runs to destroy stray DNA that could cause false positives.
Is this the same as a biosafety cabinet or fume hood?
No. A PCR workstation protects your samples from contamination; a Class II biosafety cabinet protects you from biohazards, and a fume hood exhausts chemical vapours. The SureAir is ductless and recirculates filtered air — choose it for contamination-sensitive PCR work, not for hazardous materials.
Does it need ductwork or special installation?
No. The SureAir is fully self-contained — the internal fan, HEPA filter, and UV light run from a standard electrical outlet. Place it on any benchtop with a 55 × 40 cm footprint and it is ready to use.
How does the UV safety interlock work?
The 8W germicidal UVC lamp only operates when the front cover is fully closed. It shuts off automatically after 15 minutes, or immediately if the cover is opened — so operators are never exposed to direct UVC light during normal use.
What replacement filters does it use, and how often should they be changed?
The unit uses Benchmark part B5200-FIL (replacement HEPA filter) and B5200-PRE (replacement pre-filter). Replacement intervals depend on usage and lab conditions — contact Cambridge for guidance and availability.
Is the SureAir PCR workstation available in Canada, and which voltage will I receive?
Yes — Cambridge stocks and ships the 115V/60Hz Canadian configuration (B5200) within Canada with CAD pricing.
Related Products
- CoolCube™ Microtube and PCR Plate Cooler — keep PCR samples cold at the bench
- MTC Bio nUVaClean™ UV Pipette Sterilizer — decontaminate pipettes between PCR runs
- MTC Bio Disposable Transfer Pipettes — single-use pipettes for contamination-sensitive work
- Accuris qMAX Probe One-Step RT-qPCR Kit — reagents for the reactions you set up in the workstation
Need Help Choosing the Right PCR Workstation?
Tell us about your application (PCR, qPCR, or other molecular work) and your benchtop space — we'll confirm fit and provide a quote.