Vesihaude

Vesihaude, commonly known as a water bath, is a laboratory device that provides controlled heating of liquids in a water-filled reservoir to incubate or warm samples at a stable, predefined temperature. It is used to support a range of biochemical, chemical, and clinical procedures where precise temperatures are required.

Most vesihaude units consist of a water reservoir, a heating element, and a temperature sensor connected to a thermostat. Many models include a circulating pump or impeller to promote even heat distribution, while some are static and rely on natural convection. A lid or cover helps minimize evaporation and heat loss.

Operating range typically spans about 5°C to 100°C under atmospheric pressure. Some baths can use glycol-water mixtures to lower the minimum temperature or extend stability at the low end, and higher temperatures may be achievable with oil baths or pressurized systems. Temperature accuracy is commonly around ±0.5°C to ±1°C, depending on the model and calibration, with many units offering programmable set points and ramped temperature profiles.

Applications include enzymatic assays, warming and pre-incubation of reagents, incubation of culture media, preparation of DNA, RNA, or protein samples, and general reagent heating. Vesihaude are widely used in biology, chemistry, clinical laboratories, and food science laboratories for routine sample handling and conditioning.

Maintenance involves using distilled or deionized water, monitoring and maintaining the water level, and periodic cleaning to prevent mineral buildup and microbial growth. Regular calibration checks and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are important for accuracy and safety. Safety considerations include handling hot surfaces, avoiding contact with volatile solvents, and ensuring proper electrical grounding.

Etymology: ves i sta hänet stems from Finnish vesi (water) and haude (bath).