Safe operation of a centrifuge begins with understanding the principle of centrifugal force.
Release time:
2019-10-12
Overview:
Centrifuge Its function is to generate a certain centrifugal force by rotating at a specific speed, thereby separating substances—whether solid-liquid or liquid-liquid, and so on. As long as the centrifuge equipment has no defects, operates normally, and is properly covered, contamination during the separation process will basically be avoided.
Therefore, centrifuges are widely used in laboratories and research institutes across the country and even worldwide, as well as in hospitals, beauty salons, and other similar facilities.
Below is a brief explanation of the separation process in a centrifuge:
When centrifuging a sample at extremely high speeds, the components of the mixture are subjected to centrifugal force, causing particles with higher densities to move away from the axis of rotation, while particles with lower densities move toward the axis.
These particles will settle at the bottom of the tube, forming what is known as a precipitate. The sample separated in this way—or the supernatant liquid remaining after separation—can be used for further processing or analysis. A centrifuge simulates the linear acceleration generated when an object undergoes circular motion by utilizing the principle of centripetal acceleration. By precisely controlling the centrifuge’s rotational speed and the distance from the sensitive center of mass to the axis of rotation, the centrifuge can produce a stable centripetal acceleration output at a constant rotational speed. This is achieved by comparing the output value from the sensor being tested with the setpoint value of the centrifuge.
Of course, rather than focusing on the separation principles of centrifuges, it’s actually more important for users to pay close attention to the precautions for operating them.
Before starting to centrifuge your sample, you should first consider the temperature. If you’re using a refrigerated centrifuge, you’ll need to allow the instrument’s internal temperature to reach your desired value before starting, or else use another method to cool the rotor.
Before centrifugation begins, make sure that all your tube caps are securely tightened and won't come loose.
When placing centrifuge tubes into the rotor, ensure that each sample has the same weight as the sample positioned opposite it.
If you only have one centrifuge tube, you’ll need to find another centrifuge tube of equal weight to ensure balance.
If you have three centrifuge tubes of equal weight, you can arrange them in a triangular configuration to ensure mutual balance.
Weight balance is crucial in centrifugation. The rotor of a centrifuge possesses significant dynamic energy when rotating at high speeds. If it is not properly balanced, the entire centrifugal unit could become dislodged from its position, causing severe damage.
Once you’ve confirmed that both the rotor and the lid are securely fastened, you can start the centrifugation. Do not leave your post until the speed reaches the maximum rpm you’ve set. If you encounter any issues, ask an experienced lab technician to assist you.
After centrifugation is complete, you should see your biological sample as a pellet at the bottom of the centrifuge tube. It has been separated from the supernatant—the remaining liquid above it.
The above is an explanation of the centrifuge’s centrifugal principle as well as guidelines for safe operation of centrifuges. Although centrifuges are becoming increasingly compact nowadays, their rotational speeds are steadily rising. Therefore, extra caution is required during use—safety testing remains the key to ensuring safe operation.