Centrifuge Use And Maintenance

I. Centrifuge Operation Methods

1. When using any centrifuge, the centrifuge tubes and their contents must be precisely balanced on a balance beforehand. The weight difference during balancing must not exceed the range specified in the centrifuge's instruction manual. Each centrifuge rotor has its own allowable weight difference. An odd number of tubes should not be loaded into the rotor. When the rotor is only partially loaded, the tubes must be placed symmetrically in the rotor to ensure even distribution of the load around the rotor.

2. If centrifugation is to be performed at a temperature below room temperature, the rotor should be pre-cooled in a refrigerator or placed in the centrifuge's rotor chamber before use.

3. Do not leave the centrifuge unattended during centrifugation. Observe the instruments on the centrifuge regularly to ensure they are working properly. If any abnormal sounds are heard, stop the centrifuge immediately, check, and troubleshoot the problem promptly. 

4. Each rotor has its maximum permissible speed and cumulative usage time limit. Consult the instruction manual before using any rotor and do not exceed the permitted speed. A usage record should be kept for each rotor, documenting the cumulative usage time. If the maximum usage time limit for that rotor is exceeded, the speed must be reduced as specified.

5. When loading solutions, follow the specific operating instructions for each centrifuge. Select appropriate centrifuge tubes based on the properties and volume of the liquid to be centrifuged. Some centrifuge tubes are capless; do not overfill them to prevent spillage during centrifugation, which could cause rotor imbalance, rust, or corrosion. Preparative ultracentrifuges often require the tubes to be completely filled to prevent the upper part of the plastic tubes from deforming during centrifugation. After each use, carefully inspect the rotor, clean and dry it promptly. The rotor is a critical component of the centrifuge and must be handled with care to avoid collisions and damage. When the rotor is not in use for extended periods, apply a protective coating. Never use significantly deformed, damaged, or aged centrifuge tubes.

II. Centrifuge Usage Guidelines

Safety is paramount when using a centrifuge. Uncontrolled centrifugal force can cause significant damage. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the centrifuge tubes are balanced, the rotation speed is not exceeded, and the rotor is free from corrosion.

While centrifuges may seem simple to use and require little technical expertise, proper use and maintenance are essential. Malfunctions can cause significant delays in experiments, which is a greater loss than the gain.

1. When the centrifuge is in pre-cooling mode, the centrifuge lid must be closed. After centrifugation, the removed rotor should be placed upside down on the lab bench, and any remaining water inside the chamber should be wiped dry. At this time, the centrifuge lid should be open.

2. During rotor pre-cooling, the rotor lid can be placed on the centrifuge platform or on the lab bench. Never leave it loose and floating on the rotor, as this could cause it to fly off and cause an accident if the centrifuge is started accidentally!

3. After tightening the rotor lid, always check the connection between the rotor and the lid with your fingers to ensure there are no gaps. If there are gaps, loosen and retighten until there are no gaps before starting the centrifuge.

4. During centrifugation, operators must not leave the centrifuge room. In case of any abnormality, operators must not turn off the power, but press STOP. A centrifuge usage record must be filled out before pre-cooling.

5. Do not use counterfeit or substandard centrifuge tubes. Do not use aged, deformed, or cracked centrifuge tubes.

6. On holidays and in the evening, the last person to use the centrifuge must perform a routine safety check before leaving.

7. In case of machine malfunction or component damage during instrument use, contact the manufacturer immediately.

III. Daily Maintenance of the Centrifuge

1. Before operating the centrifuge, disconnect the power and release the centrifuge brake. Manually rotate the drum to check for any jamming. Check other parts for looseness or abnormalities. Connect the power and start the centrifuge clockwise (usually it takes about 40-60 seconds to go from a standstill to normal operation). Each unit should typically be run idle for about 3 hours after arrival at the factory. If no abnormalities are found, it can be put into operation.

2. Materials should be placed as evenly as possible. Operation must be performed by designated personnel, and the capacity must not exceed the rated capacity.

3. The mesh size of the filter cloth should be determined according to the size of the solid particles in the material being separated; otherwise, the separation effect will be affected. Additionally, when installing the filter cloth, the sealing ring should be embedded in the sealing groove of the rotating drum to prevent material from entering.

4. Ensure the centrifuge operates normally. Lubricate and maintain rotating parts every 6 months. Also check the lubrication of the bearings for wear; check the components in the braking device for wear, and replace severely worn parts; check for oil leaks from the bearing covers.

5. After use, clean the machine thoroughly to keep it tidy.

6. Do not use non-corrosion-resistant centrifuges for separating highly corrosive materials; strictly follow the equipment requirements and operating procedures. Non-explosion-proof centrifuges must never be used in flammable or explosive environments.