Yingtai: Centrifuge Usage Precautions and How to Avoid Imbalance

Yingtai: Centrifuge Usage Precautions and How to Avoid Imbalance:

1. Ensure a Level, Stable Work Surface: Do not use the centrifuge on an uneven or inclined surface. The work surface should be flat and sturdy.

2. Balance Samples Properly: When the samples are in high-speed operation, the centrifuge can become unbalanced if the samples in the rotor have different masses. For fixed-angle rotors, balance your centrifuge tubes according to their weight. Load the rotor symmetrically and ensure that opposing tubes not only contain the same type of tube but also have the same mass. If the number of tubes with samples is uneven, balance the rotor with additional tubes filled with water. Remember to balance the mass (weight) of the tubes, not the volume (size). Weigh the tubes with your samples and record their masses. If there are more than two tubes, only the tubes directly opposite each other need to have equal mass.

3. For Swing-Bucket Rotors: Load all positions of the rotor (partially loading the rotor may reduce its lifespan). Do not exceed the rotor's maximum weight limit and ensure that the tubes or plates are placed symmetrically.

4. Regular Maintenance Checks: Periodically check that the rotor of the centrifuge is securely attached and stable. Perform routine maintenance and upkeep of the centrifuge chamber.

5. Use Appropriate Tubes: Ensure that the tubes you use are specified for the centrifuge rotor. Maintain compatibility between the centrifuge tubes and the centrifuge itself. If using sealed buckets, check that the length of the tubes matches the cover. Some centrifuge suppliers offer special rotors for centrifuging columns. Using rotors that do not match the centrifuge can lead to spills inside the centrifuge, creating aerosols and potential hazards.

6. Inspect Before Use: Check the centrifuge bottles, tubes, or plates for any cracks before use. During high-speed rotation, if liquid samples are not properly contained, they can become aerosols. Cracked tubes can break under high speeds, causing sample leakage into the rotor.

7. Secure Aerosol Caps: When using high-speed centrifuges, make sure to securely fasten the aerosol-proof caps or covers that come with the rotor.

8. Label Tubes Clearly: Clearly mark all tubes for identification. Avoid using stickers on centrifuge tubes as they may detach during high-speed rotation, making identification difficult.

9. Disinfect Tubes: Wipe the outside of tubes with disinfectant before placing them in the centrifuge. This is especially important if handling materials with biological hazards. Properly disinfecting the tubes can prevent any potential spills or aerosol formation.

10. Follow Manufacturer’s Volume Specifications: Ensure that the samples in the centrifuge tubes are filled according to the manufacturer's recommended volume. Do not overfill or exceed the specified volume to prevent leakage into the centrifuge chamber.

11. Automatic Rotor Recognition: Many centrifuges, especially multifunctional bench-top models, feature automatic rotor recognition. This function detects newly inserted rotors and automatically adjusts the g-force (RCF) or speed (rpm) limits to the rotor's maximum allowed values. Therefore, centrifuges with automatic rotor recognition can effectively control over-speed and over-load conditions, enhancing safety.