In laboratory animal facilities, hygiene is everything. The health and welfare of research animals—and the integrity of scientific data—depend on strict sanitation protocols. One of the unsung heroes in this ecosystem is the cage and rack washer. Among the most advanced solutions in this category is the 650 Series Cage & Rack Washer, a product renowned for its efficiency, reliability, and adaptability.

If you’re managing a vivarium, research center, or biomedical lab, understanding how the 650 Series works—and why it’s a smart investment—is essential. This guide will break down what makes the 650 Series unique, its key features, benefits, and how it fits into modern animal research facilities.

What Are Cage & Rack Washers?

Before diving into the specifics of the 650 Series, let’s quickly define the category.

Cage and rack washers are high-capacity, automated cleaning systems used to sanitize:

  • Animal cages

  • Cage racks

  • Feeding bottles

  • Trolleys and other equipment

They combine high-pressure washing, rinsing, disinfection, and sometimes drying in a fully enclosed chamber. These systems are vital for ensuring compliance with animal welfare regulations, reducing infection risks, and maintaining operational efficiency.

What Is the 650 Series Cage & Rack Washer?

The 650 Series is a premium line of cage and rack washers manufactured by Tecniplast, one of the world’s leading providers of vivarium equipment. These machines are engineered specifically for high-throughput animal research facilities, delivering reliable and validated sanitation cycles.

Key highlights of the 650 Series include:

  • Energy-efficient design

  • Compact footprint for space-limited facilities

  • Customizable configurations for different cage types

  • Smart control systems for cycle monitoring and data tracking

It’s a solution built for performance, compliance, and sustainability.

Key Features of the 650 Series

✅ 1. High-Throughput Capacity

The 650 Series is designed to wash large volumes of equipment in a single cycle. Whether you operate a small research unit or a large vivarium, this washer can:

  • Clean multiple racks or cage types simultaneously

  • Handle intensive daily use without downtime

  • Reduce manual labor in cage washing operations

✅ 2. Advanced Filtration and Rinsing Systems

The system uses multi-stage filtration and high-pressure nozzles to remove organic and inorganic residue from cages, bottles, and trolleys. Final rinse cycles can be configured to include disinfectants or high-temperature water (typically 85–90°C) to ensure complete sanitization.

✅ 3. Energy & Water Efficiency

Sustainability is a core focus of the 650 Series. It incorporates:

  • Heat recovery systems to reduce energy use

  • Water recycling features that reuse rinse water in pre-wash cycles

  • Insulated chambers to reduce heat loss

These features can significantly lower utility costs over time while supporting environmental goals.

✅ 4. Touchscreen HMI Interface

The system is controlled through an intuitive HMI (Human-Machine Interface) touchscreen panel that allows operators to:

  • Select from multiple pre-programmed wash cycles

  • Adjust temperature, pressure, and cycle duration

  • Track performance data and cycle logs

  • Receive maintenance and error alerts

Some models also offer remote access and reporting via network connectivity.

✅ 5. Modular and Customizable Design

Not every facility has the same needs. The 650 Series is modular, meaning it can be tailored with:

  • Double-door pass-through configuration (for clean/dirty separation)

  • Single-door setups

  • Optional drying modules

  • Custom rack adaptors or bottle-wash systems

This flexibility ensures it fits seamlessly into any workflow.

Benefits of Using the 650 Series in Your Facility

🧼 1. Superior Sanitation

High-pressure jets, thermal disinfection, and customizable rinse cycles ensure consistent and validated cleaning. This supports animal health, reduces cross-contamination, and complies with AAALAC and GLP guidelines.

⏱ 2. Time and Labor Efficiency

Manual washing is time-consuming and inconsistent. The 650 Series automates the process, freeing up your staff for more skilled tasks and reducing human error.

🌿 3. Sustainability

With its energy and water-saving features, the 650 Series not only reduces operating costs but also helps labs meet green building standards and sustainability goals.

🔒 4. Operational Safety

Fully enclosed design and automation minimize contact with biological waste, enhancing safety for technicians and animal care staff.

📊 5. Compliance and Traceability

Many regulatory agencies require documentation of sanitation cycles. The 650 Series offers:

  • Digital logging of each cycle

  • Optional data export for audits

  • Password-protected access control

Ideal Applications

The 650 Series is suitable for:

  • Biomedical research centers

  • Pharmaceutical R&D labs

  • University vivariums

  • Contract research organizations (CROs)

  • Animal breeding facilities

Whether you house rodents, rabbits, or small primates, this washer can be configured to handle species-specific cages and cleaning standards.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

✔ Site Preparation

  • Ensure access to hot and cold water, drainage, and power supply

  • Allow for adequate ventilation if including drying modules

  • Allocate floor space for loading/unloading operations

✔ Operator Training

  • Technicians should be trained on safety protocols and correct loading practices

  • Ensure understanding of chemical dosing and cycle selection

✔ Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean filters and nozzles regularly

  • Schedule routine servicing with certified technicians

  • Update software when applicable for security and performance enhancements