Everything You Need to Know About Purchasing A Centrifuge

Centrifugation is a process that scientists use to separate substances of different densities. This process is especially useful for separating cells, DNA, and proteins.

It is often used in diagnostic procedures, such as blood tests. By spinning a blood sample, doctors can quickly see if there are any abnormal cells present.

A centrifuge is a device used to perform centrifugation. This post discusses all you need to know about centrifuges.

What is a Centrifuge?

A centrifuge is a device that uses centrifugal force to separate particles from a fluid. It is often used in medical and scientific settings to extract DNA, proteins, and other molecules from biological samples.

It is also used in laboratories to purify liquids or separate blood components.

Centrifugal force is created by spinning the solution in a circular motion. The centrifugal force generated by the spinning motion pushes the particles away from the center of the rotation while the fluid (the solution) remains at the center.

What Are The Types of Centrifuges And Their Application?

Benchtop Centrifuge

Benchtop centrifuges are very compact and practical in smaller laboratories. They come in different variations. The rotor has racks for sample tubes and a lid that closes the working unit of the centrifuge. An electric motor powers the centrifuge, and the tubes rotate around a fixed axis.

Benchtop centrifuges can accommodate most applications. Benchtop models include:

• High-speed instruments for whole-cell harvesting and some nucleic acid applications.
• Slow-speed clinical centrifuges for diagnostics.
• Cell washers for washing red blood cells.
• Multipurpose centrifuges that accept either fixed-arm or swinging bucket rotors.

High-speed Centrifuge

The speed of the high-speed centrifuge can range from 21,000 to 30,000 RPM.

High-speed centrifuges work by a separation method where the components of a sample are separated based on their density according to the centrifugal force they experience.

This centrifuge can collect microorganisms, cellular debris, larger cellular organelles, and proteins precipitated by ammonium sulfate.

High-speed centrifuges come with a mechanism that regulates the speed and temperature of the process, which is required for analyzing delicate biological molecules.

Low-speed Centrifuge

Traditional low-speed centrifuges are the standard lab centrifuges commonly used for particle separation. These are easy and compact centrifuges that may be used to process blood samples and other biological materials.

The maximum rotational speed of these centrifuges is 4000-5000 rpm.

The majority of these are not supplied with a mechanism for regulating the speed or temperature of the operation and therefore operate at room temperature.

Fixed-angle rotors and swinging bucket rotors can be utilized in these centrifuges.

Like all other centrifuges, the low-speed centrifuge works on the same principle.

Microcentrifuge

Because a microcentrifuge is tiny, it has a smaller footprint. As a result, it takes up even less room on the lab bench than a benchtop centrifuge.

Microcentrifuges have a compact design and are typically used for small tubes of between 0.2 ml and 2.0 ml.

Although they are primarily designed for tubes with smaller diameters, some centrifuges include different rotor/rotor adaptors that can be switched to fit tubes with various diameters.

Microcentrifuges are most often employed for the following tasks: pelleting DNA or protein from solutions and filtering small aqueous samples through microfiltration.

Refrigerated Centrifuge

The use of refrigerated centrifuges is appropriate for samples that require a constant temperature range. Such centrifuges must rotate at top speeds while maintaining an exact temperature.

In general, refrigerated centrifuges have a temperature range of -20 to -40 degrees Celsius. They are great for DNA, RNA, PCR, and antibody analysis.

These centrifuges can attain operating speeds of over 30,000 rpm with a relative centrifugal force of over 65,000 x g.

They can be found in various forms, such as the swing bucket, fixed angle, or both. They are smaller (refrigerated microcentrifuges) and big-capacity refrigerated centrifuges with varied applications.

A refrigerated centrifuge is used for smaller samples and biological applications. They come with varying speed ranges and holding capacities (the number of tubes they can hold simultaneously).

On the other hand, large-capacity refrigerated centrifuges can replace rotor chambers of various volumes. These types of centrifuges can reach up to 65,000 x Gs. They're typically utilized for collecting particles that settle rapidly, like yeast cells, chloroplasts, and erythrocytes.

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing The Suitable Centrifuge

When buying a centrifuge, you should consider the following:

G-Force

Otherwise known as Relative Centrifugal Force (RCF), the G-force is a measure of the centrifugal force exerted on an object; and it is determined by the rotational speed of the rotor and the radius of the rotation.

It's essential to consider the maximum G-force that a centrifuge can apply to determine how much force is exerted on the solution. A higher G-force means more pressure exerted on the solution and vice versa.

It is preferable to purchase a centrifuge capable of displaying the G-force it is operating at. This would save you the trouble of manually converting RPM into RCF when documenting your procedures.

The Size and Capacity of The Centrifuge

The size and capacity of the centrifuge are essential considerations to make before purchase because they will help determine the types of samples that can be processed and the volume that can be processed at one time.

For example, a small benchtop centrifuge with only a few thousand rotations per minute (RPM) may be sufficient for processing small volumes of delicate cell culture samples, while a larger floor model with tens of thousands of RPM would be better suited for pelletizing bacterial cells or other relatively tough samples.

When choosing a centrifuge, the capacity also comes into play; a too-large sample for the rotor will not pelletize properly and could potentially damage the centrifuge. It is always best to consult with the manufacturer or an experienced user before purchasing when in doubt.

Speed in Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)

The RPM regarding centrifugation is simply the centrifuge rotor's rate of completing a total revolution in one minute. It's a measure of how fast the rotor is rotating. Centrifuges will be able to reach a specific speed range and vary depending on the centrifuge, with particular models being suitable for specific applications. A low-speed centrifuge might spin at a speed as slow as 3000 RPM, while a high-speed centrifuge can reach up to 30000 RPM.

As stated above, the maximum G-force the centrifuge can attain is more important than the maximum RPM. Nonetheless, it is essential also to pay attention to the RPM as this directly affects what the maximum G-force would be.

Temperature

Refrigerated centrifuges should be considered when purchasing centrifuges because they offer cooling and heating abilities, which can be helpful when working with temperature-sensitive samples.

A centrifuge generates heat as it rotates. If samples are temperature-labile, they could get destroyed due to the heat generated.

Many centrifuges run at room temperature, with no cooling options. These could be ineffective when working with some samples.

Hence, a refrigerated centrifuge should be used with temperature-labile samples such as blood. Some of these centrifuges enable the rotor and chamber to be precooled before a run. The coolant is within the chamber itself, which is ideal for heat-sensitive samples and helps to overcome the heat produced by the rotor's friction.

Refrigerated centrifuges can also have heating functions, maintaining a higher than ambient chamber temperature.

When deciding on which centrifuge to buy, keep in mind the different types of samples that will be run through it and what temperature they should be maintained.

Rotor

Rotor type is an important consideration when purchasing a centrifuge because it determines the types of samples that can be processed, the speed and force that can be achieved, and the capacity of the centrifuge.

The most common rotors in laboratory centrifugation are fixed-angle, swing-bucket, and vertical rotors.

Swing-bucket rotors are great for separating large-volume samples (up to 12 L) at low speeds. They are adaptable to a range of tube shapes because they are flexible. The metal strain on the rotor and buckets is increased by the moving swing-bucket components, which puts a burden on the two pivots and grooves.

When compared to a fixed-angle rotor, a swing-bucket rotor has a lower maximum g-force and longer centrifuge times. The pellet is housed in the tube's bottom based on the swing-bucket design.

Fixed-angle rotors are the most popular rotors used in centrifugation. Most are utilized in simple pelletizing procedures.

The lack of moving components in the rotor is the apparent benefit. This leads to lower metal stress (longer life), which allows for a greater maximum g-force and faster centrifugation times in many cases.

The main disadvantage is the fixed-angle rotor's restricted capacity (less flexibility).

Safety

Before buying a centrifuge, rotor safety should be considered because it is crucial in preventing lab accidents and exposure to aerosolized compounds.

The centrifuge rotor is made from a variety of materials. Low-speed rotors are frequently constructed of steel or brass, whereas high-speed rotors are often made of aluminum, titanium, or fiber-reinforced composites.

Because of the high speeds involved, there is a risk of the rotor shattering and causing explosions if it is not made correctly or maintained.

As a result, it is crucial to choose a centrifuge with a reliable rotor.

Carbon-fiber rotors are corrosion-resistant and are not susceptible to stretching. However, they are quite expensive.

Metal rotors may be coated with corrosion-resistant coatings to increase safety and minimize the risk of rust.

For example, rotors made of titanium alloy are covered with a polyurethane layer, and aluminum rotors are protected by a protective, electrochemically formed layer of aluminum oxide.

In addition, it is also essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully when using the centrifuge. By taking these precautions, you can help to prevent accidents and ensure that your laboratory remains safe.

Warranty

A lab centrifuge may be a significant investment. As a result, it's important to plan and investigate the warranties available from each manufacturer.

Benchmark Scientific offers a one- or two-year warranty on specific models, and Eppendorf, Ohaus, Sartorius, and Scilogex usually include two years in the price. Hermle usually gives a five-year guarantee, as does NuAire (in the United States and Canada).

Price

Centrifuge pricing depends on the manufacturer, make, and model. Thermo Fisher Scientific, Eppendorf, Sigma, and Ohaus are among the top manufacturers. Price ranges for each type are:

• Benchtop – $1,000 to $5,000
• Large Capacity / High Speed – $10,000 to $25,000
• Ultracentrifuge – $10,000 to $50,000

Benchtop equipment is typically less expensive than more specialized versions, but it may not be the ideal option for your lab. Consider your research needs when comparing pricing on a centrifuge. Finally, make sure you're getting an instrument to meet your demands.

The cost of refrigerated centrifuges is often higher than that of non-refrigerated ones. Unless the material you're spinning is sensitive to warm temperatures, it's unlikely that the centrifuge you need will require refrigeration. Blood is an excellent illustration of this.

These all add to the overall cost of the device, so don't buy one unless you truly need it.

Price Guide

Below is a list of centrifuges from different manufacturers and their prices per unit.

• Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 8 Small Benchtop Centrifuge:$4810.00 - $10040.00
• Eppendorf Refrigerated/Heated Centrifuge Model 5702RH: $8,173.49
• Heraeus Megafuge X1 Centrifuge: $13,118.21
• Sigma 3-16KL Refrigerated tabletop centrifuge: $8,985

Medwish.com prices for centrifuges are as follows:

• ZJ-HC-16F High-Speed Refrigerated Centrifuge: $3,774
• ZJ-LC-05F Low-Speed Refrigerated Centrifuge: $3,774
• LXY-TG16-WS Tabletop High-Speed Centrifuge: $1,015
• ZJ-HC-20L-A200212 High-Speed Centrifuge: $879

See more here.

Where To Buy Centrifuge In Bulk With Wholesale Pricing

Laboratories and clinical institutions can save money by buying centrifuges in bulk with wholesale pricing from Medwish.com.

This will help them get the best possible price for the equipment and ensure that they have a good stock of centrifuges on hand in case of any emergencies.

Wholesale pricing from Medwish.com is also available for other medical equipment and supplies, so laboratories and clinical institutions can save even more money by buying in bulk.

The company's commitment to quality and customer service is second to none, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee backs its products. With Medwish.com, you can be sure you're getting the best possible equipment for your facility.

Final Thoughts

Centrifuges are used in various settings to spin liquid samples at high speeds to separate the different components. This process is essential for many medical tests and procedures, and having a reliable supply of centrifuges is crucial for any laboratory or clinical institution.

With wholesale pricing from Medwish.com, laboratories and clinical institutions can get the centrifuges they need at a fraction of the cost. In addition, Medwish.com offers a variety of other medical supplies and equipment at discounted rates, making it an ideal one-stop shop for all your laboratory and clinical needs.