COOLING CENTRIFUGE
Introduction
Cooling centrifuge works on the concept of sedimentation principle by holding up
the sample tubes with a capacity of 2ml, 10ml and 50ml in rotation around a fixed axis. In
this, the centripetal force causes the denser substances to separate out along the radial
direction in the bottom of the centrifuge tube. The rate of the centrifugation is calculated by
the acceleration applied to the sample and it is typically measured in revolution per minute
(RPM) or relative centrifugal force (RCF). The particle's settling velocity during
centrifugation depends on the function of their size and shape, centrifugal acceleration, the
volume fraction of solids present, the density difference between the particle and the liquid,
and the viscosity. This equipment is extensively used in chemistry, biology, and
biochemistry for isolating and separating suspensions. It additionally provides the cooling
mechanism to maintain the uniform temperature throughout the operation of the sample.
Principle
Refrigerated centrifuge works on the concept of sedimentation principle by holding
up the sample tubes with a capacity of 2ml, 10ml and 50ml in rotation around a fixed axis.
In this, the centripetal force causes the denser substances to separate out along the radial
direction in the bottom of the centrifuge tube. The rate of the centrifugation is calculated by
the acceleration applied to the sample and it is typically measured in revolution per minute
(RPM) or relative centrifugal force (RCF). This equipment is extensively used in chemistry,
biology, and biochemistry for isolating and separating suspensions. It additionally provides
the cooling mechanism to maintain the uniform temperature throughout the operation of the
sample.
Working Procedure
1. Wear disposable gloves when there is a risk of contamination.
2. Ensure that the centrifuge is switched on at the wall plug socket.
3. Keep the lid of the centrifuge open when it is not in use
4. Unscrew the lid of the rotator bucket to be used
5. Place the tubes in the tri union rings inside the rotator buckets
6. Ensure that the centrifuge is balanced, making sure on opposite sides there is an
identical tube balanced by weight
7. Ensure that the rotator buckets are firmly closed with the covers in place for each
centrifugal run
8. Set the time and speed on the centrifuge according to study protocol and press start
Safe Operating Procedure
If the refrigeration unit is operating, keep the chamber door closed as much as
possible to prevent moisture build up inside the chamber
If you notice any unusual vibrations, sounds or odours, TURN THE POWER OFF
until the cause can be determined
Turn the POWER switch OFF when centrifuge is not in regular use, to conserve
power, and reduce equipment wear and tear
Sure the rotor is securely installed prior to use
When removing the rotor, lift it vertically to avoid bending the driveshaft
Periodically defrost the chamber and wipe up accumulated moisture
Clean the condenser fins at the back of the instrument every 4-6 months
Do not operate the instrument if any panels have been removed – this is an
electrical shock / mechanical injury hazard
Do not operate the equipment if the ambient temperature exceeds 38°C
Do not operate the equipment unless it has a valid electrical testing tag
Applications
1. Refrigerated centrifuges are used for samples that need a consistent range of
temperature.
2. With such centrifuges therefore; it is essential that they run at maximum speeds while
still maintaining a consistent temperature. For the most part, the temperature range of refrigerated centrifuges is between -20 and -40c. This range makes them ideal for the
analysis of DNA, RNA, PCR and antibodies.
3. Refrigerated centrifuge are capable of high speeds of up to 60,000g. As such, they can
produce significant force that is used for the purposes of collecting cellular debris,
micro-organisms as well as larger cell organelles and proteins.
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