Introduction to the Maintenance and Use of Centrifuges

A centrifuge is a common laboratory instrument primarily used to separate solid and liquid phases in colloidal solutions. By spinning at high speeds, the centrifuge subjects particles within the centrifuge tube to acceleration. Since the density of solids is generally greater than that of liquids, this acceleration effectively separates the solid phase from the liquid phase. Centrifuges are widely used in various industries, including chemical engineering, petroleum, food processing, pharmaceuticals, mineral processing, coal mining, water treatment, and shipbuilding. When operating, centrifuges run at high speeds; therefore, it’s crucial to pay attention to safety during use. Luxiangyi Centrifuge. www.lxylxj.com Let me briefly introduce the use and maintenance of universal centrifuges.

When using a centrifuge, the weight of the material must not exceed the centrifuge’s maximum allowable capacity. The material should be evenly distributed in the correct positions to prevent overloading, which could shorten the centrifuge’s service life. Of course, we also need to regularly lubricate and maintain the centrifuge—typically every six months. Additionally, it’s important to check whether any internal components of the centrifuge have become worn or loose. If wear is severe, they should be replaced promptly.

1. When using a centrifuge, place it on a stable and sturdy workbench. The base of each centrifuge is equipped with rubber suction feet that, thanks to atmospheric pressure and the weight of the instrument itself, ensure tight contact with the workbench surface. Large-capacity low-speed centrifuges and high-speed refrigerated centrifuges should be placed on a solid, level floor accordingly. Ultracentrifuges, which can weigh several hundred kilograms, must be installed on a very solid floor and equipped with dustproof and moisture-proof devices to ensure that the rotor chamber maintains a sufficient vacuum level for normal operation.

2. A safety distance of more than 750px must be maintained around the centrifuge, and no hazardous materials may be stored near the centrifuge.

3. Select the appropriate rotor and control its speed; the set rotational speed must not exceed the maximum allowable speed.

The maximum rotational speed of the rotor should be reduced under the following circumstances:

A) When the operating time and number of cycles of the swivel reach the specified service life;

B) When the head exhibits localized surface damage or slight corrosion inside the tube holes;

C) When using stainless steel centrifuge tubes, sleeves, thick-walled tubes, or centrifuge bottles;

D) When the average density of the sample exceeds 1.2 g/cm³; or when the rotor is exposed to high temperatures.

4. Before each use, carefully check the hole for any foreign objects or dirt to ensure balance.

A) The rotor must be kept dry and clean, and must not be subjected to impacts or scratches. If it accidentally falls, the rotor should be X-rayed.

Only after a radiographic examination confirms there is no internal damage can it continue to be used.

B) After each use, the head should be soaked and cleaned with warm water (50℃-60℃) and a neutral detergent. Finally, rinse thoroughly with distilled water or deionized water, dry it with a soft cloth, then blow-dry it with a hairdryer, apply wax, and store it in a dry place.

5. Different centrifuge tubes have varying tensile strengths and elongation rates; they should be selected according to need.

A) Centrifuge tubes can be made from a variety of different materials, such as polyethylene, cellulose, polycarbonate, and polypropylene. When using these tubes, ensure that the sample, solvent, and gradient materials do not corrode the centrifuge tubes or their cap components.

B) Centrifuge tubes that are expired, aged, cracked, or corroded should be avoided whenever possible or used at reduced speeds.

C) Control the number of uses of plastic centrifuge tubes and ensure proper matching of specifications.

6. Centrifuge tubes must be placed symmetrically and filled with equal volumes of sample. Note that centrifuge tubes should be filled only to 70% capacity.

Although equipped with a lid, the contents may still leak out due to excessive centrifugal force. Most centrifuge tubes come with lids; be sure to balance the lids along with the tubes themselves, and never allow the rotor to operate under unbalanced conditions.

7. It’s best not to run the centrifuge for more than 60 minutes in a single session.

8. During the centrifugation process, if any abnormal phenomena are detected—such as unusual noises or vibrations—immediately stop the machine by pressing STOP (rather than turning off the power switch, POWER). Do not resume operation until the cause has been identified.

If a machine malfunction or component damage occurs during instrument use, promptly contact the technical staff.

9. During operation of the centrifuge, do not open the centrifuge chamber lid. Do not touch the rotating rotor or centrifuge tubes with your hands or foreign objects. Also, do not bump into or move the centrifuge, nor lean on or sit against it.

10. After the centrifugation is complete, wait until the centrifuge has come to a complete stop before opening the chamber door, and promptly remove the centrifuge tubes. First, check whether the centrifuge tubes have fully settled and note the position of the pellet.

Whether you’re collecting the supernatant or the pellet, be sure to use a clean beaker to avoid contamination. When decanting the supernatant, proceed with caution to prevent accidentally pouring out the pellet as well. If the supernatant and pellet do happen to mix inadvertently, you’ll need to start over from scratch. If there’s a leak in the centrifuge tube, identify the cause immediately and promptly clean the centrifuge chamber or rotor compartment.

11. After using the machine, be sure to clean it thoroughly and keep it tidy.