Centrifuges enable the separation of mixtures of substances based on their density by rotating samples at high speed around a central axis. A wide variety of centrifuge models are used in modern laboratories, which are specially adapted to the requirements of a wide range of applications - from the purification of cellular components to routine diagnostic analyses. Two high-performance centrifuge models are available at our institute, which cover a wide range of possible applications.
The 5430 / 5430 R high-speed centrifuge from Eppendorf combines the advantages of classic micro and multifunctional centrifuges in one compact device. With a total of twelve different rotors, it offers exceptional versatility. In addition to rotors for standard tubes and PCR strips, rotors for micro test plates and conical 15 and 50 mL tubes are also available. Particularly noteworthy are the 48-place rotor for 1.5 or 2.0 mL tubes, a rotor for 5.0 mL tubes and a swing-out rotor with a capacity of 24 places for 1.5 or 2.0 mL tubes. The centrifuge achieves a maximum relative centrifugal acceleration of 30,130 × g at speeds between 100 and 17,500 revolutions per minute. The centrifuge has a cooling system that allows temperature control in the range from -11 °C to +40 °C, which enables temperature-critical applications. A multilingual, menu-guided control panel with five quick selection buttons makes it easy to use, while up to 50 programmes can be saved. Safety functions such as automatic rotor detection and unbalance control ensure reliable operation in daily use.
The second centrifuge is the Megafuge 1.0 from the company Heraus and is specially designed for diagnostic and serological applications. This centrifuge is particularly suitable for radioimmunoassays, cytocentrifugal applications and for separating particles from biological fluids. With a maximum rotor speed of 5,000 rpm, it operates in a lower speed range than the Eppendorf centrifuge, but allows the use of larger sample volumes. The centrifuge is equipped with two different bucket types: red buckets for ten 17 x 80 mm tubes each and green buckets with space for three 35 x 80 mm tubes. The maximum load is 600 g. Although this model is older than the 5430 series, its robust construction and ability to process larger samples make it a valuable addition.
If you need to use a centrifuge, please contact the person responsible for the device.
