A centrifuge for hematocrit is specialized equipment that allows to obtain the compact ratio of the volume of erythrocytes in the blood. In less than seven minutes, this machine allows the erythrocytes to reach their maximum compaction density, thus knowing their hematocrit level and also having cell-free plasma used later in other analyzes. Therefore, they are centrifugal machines widely used in laboratories, both in public health, as well as in research, in clinics, among others.
The hematocrit test is a type of blood test. Blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Blood cells and platelets are suspended in a liquid called plasma. Hematocrit measures the amount of blood made up of red blood cells. Red blood cells contain the protein hemoglobin that carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Having too high or low hematocrit levels can indicate a blood problem, dehydration, or other medical conditions.
How does this centrifuge work?
This powerful centrifuge separates samples in minutes. With a maximum centrifugal acceleration of 16,060 xg, this hematocrit centrifuge requires less than seven minutes for the erythrocytes to reach their maximum compaction density or to have cell-free plasma available for further analysis. Each cycle can centrifuge up to a total of 24 capillary tubes depending on the equipment.
These centrifuges generally have a segmented rotor that offers an individual chamber for each capillary tube. This has the advantage that, should a glass tube break, none of the other capillary tubes will be damaged by a chain reaction. Glass splinters and blood from the affected capillary tube are collected in a buffer cuvette located on the outer margin of each segment. At the same time it supports the capillary tubes, it is easy to clean and exchange.
In the most modern equipment, once the sedimentation has been carried out, the hematocrit values can be consulted using the rotor lid, which, at the same time, is an evaluation disk. This will not require you to remove the capillary tubes. This saves you time and provides additional security.
What considerations should you take into account when using this equipment?
During the work process with the hematocrit centrifuges, it is recommended first that only highly trained personnel be found in the area where the work is to be carried out, in order to preserve the integrity of the sample, for this same purpose it is essential keep the lid closed while the centrifuge works; in the same way, it is essential that the surface where the machine is going to work is properly leveled.
As part of the care and maintenance of these centrifuges, it is recommended to maintain a periodic check, in order to detect and replace parts in poor condition, avoiding their use at all costs; and keep the centrifuge perfectly clean, free from sample remains, glass, dust or any other material.
Before starting to work, in addition to loading the centrifuge and closing it, it is necessary to make sure that it is properly closed and later regulate the ignition speed, as well as the time in which it is going to work.
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