Percival Scientific Building

What We Do
Percival Scientific engineers environmental growth chambers for the superior control of temperature, humidity and lighting for universities, colleges, government institutions and businesses both domestically and internationally. We have grown to represent a rich tradition of product ingenuity and reliability throughout the world. Our facility encompasses all engineering, design, fabrication, and construction of our biological incubators and other product lines, allowing Percival Scientific to maintain complete control of the manufacturing process. This dedication ensures customers the highest quality product upon which they have come to depend.

A History of American Success
Originally established in 1886, by C.L. Percival and J.E. Smith, Percival Manufacturing based in Des Moines, Iowa, initially manufactured and sold butcher tools, machinery and fixtures. By 1901, they had perfected the design for a refrigerated cabinet; prompting Percival to pursue and receive a patent. Forty years later, in 1941, the company moved to a new 24,000 sq. ft. facility and continued to manufacture a complete line of refrigerated display units.

The Industry’s First Commercial Plant Growth Chamber
In the early 1950's, at the request of Iowa State University, Percival became involved in creating the first commercially available plant growth chamber. This began the company's tradition of designing and manufacturing chambers that control the environment for specific research applications. Percival recently partnered with Iowa State University's Department of Engineering to create a highly resourceful incubator control package that is an exclusive product in the industry.

Maintaining Engineering Excellence
Today, our chambers are manufactured in a state-of-the art 60,000 square foot facility in Perry, Iowa.  We maintain the highest quality of environmental chambers by incorporating a one-piece flow, hand-crafted system utilizing the most advanced equipment.  Our chambers are shipped to the world’s top research labs.

With a history that spans more than a century, Percival will continue its commitment to improving research methods that will impact tomorrow.


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