Desktop low-speed centrifuge is a basic equipment commonly used in laboratories, widely applied in fields such as biology, chemistry, and medicine, for separating samples of different densities. Its working principle is to generate centrifugal force through high-speed rotation, and layer different components in the sample according to density differences. The following are the operating procedures for a desktop low-speed centrifuge:
1、 Equipment inspection and preparation
Check equipment:
Ensure that the centrifuge is in normal condition, check if the power is connected, and ensure that the equipment is not loose, damaged, or otherwise abnormal.
Check if the rotor is securely installed and ensure that the rotor and test tube rack are not damaged.
Check if the operation panel of the instrument is clean and if the control buttons are sensitive.
Prepare samples:
Ensure that the sample has been thoroughly mixed and the volume of the sample meets the requirements of the centrifuge.
Load the sample into a suitable centrifuge tube or test tube and ensure that the tube is tightly covered to prevent leakage.
If the sample volume is uneven, an equilibrium material can be used for balancing. Usually, another tube or balance block of the same volume is needed to be placed opposite the centrifuge.
Check the cooling system (if any):
If the centrifuge has a cooling function, it should be ensured that the cooling system has been started and the temperature setting is reasonable (usually 4 ℃ or room temperature). Especially for biological samples that require low-temperature operation, cooling function is very important.
2、 Operation steps
1. Loading samples
Distribute all samples evenly in the slots of the centrifuge rotor, ensuring that the number and volume of samples in each slot are the same. This can ensure that the centrifuge maintains balance during operation, preventing mechanical damage or instability caused by imbalance.
If the sample weight is uneven, use a balance block or other test tube to balance it.
2. Set parameters
Set speed: According to the experimental requirements, set an appropriate centrifugal speed. Generally speaking, the speed of low-speed centrifuges is usually between 1000 and 5000 revolutions per minute, and the specific speed can be selected according to the sample type and experimental requirements.
Set centrifugation time: According to the experimental requirements, set the centrifugation time. The common centrifugation time range is between a few minutes and 30 minutes.
Temperature setting (if equipped with temperature control function): Set the centrifugation temperature according to experimental needs, usually set at 4 ℃, but it can also be set to room temperature or other suitable temperature.
3. Start the centrifuge
Confirm that the centrifuge door is closed and the rotor is correctly installed.
Press the start button, and the centrifuge will start working. Pay attention to the operation of the centrifuge to ensure smooth operation. If there is any abnormal sound or vibration, the machine should be stopped immediately for inspection.
4. End the operation
After completing the set centrifugation time, the centrifuge automatically stops working. Wait for the centrifuge to completely stop rotating before opening the lid of the centrifuge.
After opening the centrifuge door, carefully remove the sample. Attention should be paid to safety during sampling to prevent low temperature or damage to the sample.
If the sample is in a frozen state, it is recommended to wear protective gloves to avoid frostbite.
5. Cleaning and maintenance
Immediately clean the inside and rotor of the centrifuge after each use. Wipe with a soft cloth and avoid using rough or damp materials.
Check for any damage, cracks, or other issues with the rotary head. If any abnormalities are found, immediately stop using it and send it for repair.
When cleaning the outside of the centrifuge, wipe it with a non corrosive cleaning agent and a clean cloth.
3、 Precautions
Balance:
The most important thing about a centrifuge is to maintain sample balance. Ensure that each slot is filled with samples of the same volume or mass. If the sample is unbalanced, it can cause unstable operation of the centrifuge and even damage the equipment.
Operational safety:
During operation, avoid opening the lid of the centrifuge. The equipment can only be turned on after the centrifuge has completely stopped.
If it is necessary to divide or transfer the sample, it must be done after the centrifuge has stopped running.
Use appropriate centrifuge tubes:
Select the appropriate centrifuge tube based on the volume of the sample. Generally speaking, centrifuge tubes should meet the requirements of the centrifuge rotor and avoid using incompatible containers to prevent equipment damage.
Avoid overload:
Do not overload the centrifuge, as exceeding its rated capacity may not only affect the sample separation efficiency but also damage the equipment.
Temperature control:
If low-temperature centrifugation is required (such as biological sample separation), ensure that the temperature setting is correct and the equipment cooling system is working properly. Especially for sensitive samples such as cells, proteins, DNA, etc., low-temperature centrifugation can prevent sample degradation.
Regular maintenance:
Regularly inspect the mechanical components of the centrifuge, such as the rotor and sealing ring, to avoid affecting the service life of the instrument due to aging or damage.
Conduct a comprehensive inspection of the equipment every six months or one year to ensure that all its functions are functioning properly.
Avoid excessive vibration:
Avoid vibration when starting and stopping the centrifuge. Ensure that the centrifuge is placed on a stable and sturdy workbench.
4、 Common faults and solutions
Centrifuge cannot start:
Check if the power is connected, check if the fuses or cables are damaged, and ensure that the operation panel is functioning properly.
Check if the door is securely closed, some centrifuges cannot start when the door is not closed.
Excessive vibration of centrifuge:
Confirm if the sample is balanced. Reposition the sample to ensure balance.
Check if the rotor and centrifuge tube are securely installed, free from looseness or damage.
The centrifuge produces abnormal noise:
Check if the rotor is damaged and if the centrifuge tube is securely placed to ensure there are no gaps.
Check if there is any mechanical malfunction in the centrifuge itself.
summary
Desktop low-speed centrifuges are easy to operate, but proper use and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the accuracy of experimental results and the long-term stable operation of the equipment. Adequate preparation should be made before operation to ensure sample balance and normal operation of the equipment; During use, caution should be exercised to avoid any abnormal situations; After use, it is necessary to clean and maintain the equipment in a timely manner to extend its service life.