The Steelco AC 1200 Compact Cage and Bottle Washer delivers high-performance sanitation for vivarium equipment in a space-saving cabinet design, making it ideal for biomedical research facilities managing animal vivarium equipment and supplies where floor space is at a premium. This compact cage washer efficiently processes animal cages, feeding bottles, fish tanks, and related accessories through an advanced thermal/chemical disinfection system that achieves 85°C (185°F) rinse temperatures for complete microorganism elimination. Available in single or double-door pass-through configurations, the AC 1200 cage and bottle washing system integrates seamlessly into existing cage, rack and bottle washer workflows while offering superior cleaning efficacy through separate washing and rinsing hydraulic circuits. The Steelco AC 1200 features a distinctive vertical space-saving drop-down door that doubles as a loading platform, streamlining the loading and unloading process for material handling operations in high-throughput vivarium settings.

Built with a 316L stainless steel chamber for maximum corrosion resistance and longevity, this compact bottle washer incorporates three-level rotating spray arms positioned at the top, middle, and bottom of the wash chamber to ensure comprehensive coverage of all equipment surfaces during the sanitation cycle. The unit’s multistage water filtering system combined with a self-cleaning filter enables efficient recirculation of washing water, reducing operational costs while maintaining optimal cleaning performance. Researchers and vivarium managers can select between electrical or steam heated versions based on facility infrastructure, with each model supporting up to three chemical dosing pumps for customized detergent delivery. The microprocessor controller with LCD display simplifies operation and cycle programming, while the electric control panel mounted on sliding rails facilitates routine maintenance access. For facilities processing aquatic research equipment, the AC 1200 offers a specialized aquatic tanks processing kit that includes enhanced washing circuits, flow meters, conductivity probes, and three chemical dosage pumps specifically designed for zebrafish and aquatics washers applications.

This laboratory cage washer represents an optimal solution for vivarium sanitation programs requiring validated thermal disinfection while working within limited square footage constraints. The AC 1200’s compact footprint does not compromise performance, as the independent hydraulic circuits and precision spray arm positioning deliver the same level of cleaning efficacy found in larger industrial cage washing systems. The vertical sliding door with inspection window allows continuous monitoring of the wash cycle, while the drop-down door mechanism eliminates the ergonomic challenges associated with front-loading cabinet washers. Facilities implementing automated cage wash systems will find the AC 1200’s pass-through double-door option particularly valuable for maintaining unidirectional workflow and preventing cross-contamination between dirty and clean zones. With frontal access to two 10-liter (2.64-gallon) chemical storage tanks equipped with level control sensors, the Steelco AC 1200 minimizes downtime while supporting continuous production demands in busy vivarium facilities focused on animal welfare and regulatory compliance.