A microcentrifuge is a laboratory equipment, with which, we centrifuge the samples that have been placed in small capillary tubes; In this way, the components of the sample can be separated into two phases.
The components that are placed in the test tubes can be: liquid and solid; or two liquids of different density. These teams, which are characterized by being very small; They generally specialize in meeting the needs of a clinical laboratory. They are mostly high speed and usually have interchangeable rotors.
To give you an idea of its dimensions, in this type of equipment tubes ranging from 0.2 ml to 5 ml are used. Given its speed, you will discover that some of the microcentrifuges are refrigerated.
Some types of microcentrifuges
The microcentrifugesare divided into several types, but the most used are:
- High speed microcentrifuge
- Refrigerated high speed microcentrifuge
Applications given to microcentrifuges
High speedmicrocentrifuges can be used for analysis in the field of: biology, agriculture, biotechnology, microbiology, biochemistry, microchemistry, hepatology, immunology, clinical chemistry, endonocrinology, pharmacology, toxicology.
How are microcentrifuges used?
Since the handling given to these equipment is the same explained in the case of laboratory centrifuges; We invite you to click on the previous link. There you will find information on the parts that make up a microcentrifuge, how to operate it correctly and the precautions that should be taken with this type of equipment.
What considerations should you take into account when loading your microcentrifuge?
- Place loads that have the same mass or weight opposite to the rotor.
- In addition to having the same mass, they must have the same center of gravity, do not place tubes and containers as opposing pairs.
- Use the centrifuge by placing all accessories on the rotor.
- Use the rotor and original equipment accessories. Non-original parts can cause an imbalance.
- Complement these recommendations with the manufacturer’s instructions.
What precautions should I take when using a microcentrifuge?
Given the high speeds they drive; It is recommended not to open them before the microcentrifuge stops. Cases have occurred, in which, due to the curiosity of opening them to see them working, the contents of the tubes have been disseminated by the laboratory; spreading like a spray. If a tube were to fly at these speeds, it can generate very serious wounds; and if the content is bacterial, they can infect laboratory personnel simply by inhaling them.
It is preferable to use tubes with caps; since it has been shown that with the increase in temperature produced by centrifugation, a part of the sample can be evaporated.
In Kalstein we offer microcentrifuges for hematocrits of the highest technology. That’s why we invite you to take a look at our microcentrifuges available HERE
