Centrifuge machine
MSC. MAYSS ALREEM NIZAR
What is the principle of lab
centrifuge?
It is a device that uses centrifugal force to separate various components of a fluid. This is
achieved by spinning the fluid at high speed within a container, thereby separating fluids of
different densities (e.g. cream from milk) or liquids from solids.
Typical centrifuge operating speed classifications are
▪ Low speed < 8000 rpm
▪ Medium speed 8000 ~ 30000 rpm
▪ High speed 30000 ~ 80000 rpm
▪ Ultracentrifuge > 80000 rpm
what is the 2 functions of Centrifuge tube
in laboratory?
1. It separates particles from samples such as blood or urine. This gives cell-free plasma or
serum for different tests
2. A centrifuge is used to separate two different kinds of liquids with different densities. For
example, separating lipid components from other components of plasma or serum.
Types of Centrifuges?
The types of centrifuges are all based on the same technique but differ in their applications. The
main differences between them are the speed of rotation and the rotor design. The rotor is the
rotating unit in the device. it has many types, fixed angle or angle head is most common centrifuge
in clinical laboratory.
➢Fixed-angle rotors hold samples at a constant angle
➢swinging head rotors have a hinge that allows sample vessels to swing outward as the rate of spin
increases,
Parts of centrifuge
Faults of centrifuge
Common faults in this device are:
1. The motor, specifically carbon brushes (carbon brushes),
2. Motor’s internal coil
3. for electronic faults, they include the power supply, control panel and screen
What safety precautions should be taken
when working with a centrifuge?
❖Ensure a sturdy, level work surface
❖Balance the centrifuge: Running an unbalanced centrifuge may cause significant damage, and
injure the operator. Ensure all sample tubes are evenly filled. If additional tubes are required for
balancing, fill them with water or a liquid of similar density to the sample
❖Do not open the lid while the rotor is moving: Many centrifuges have a “safety shutoff”.
However, this will only stop power to the rotor, which will still spin due to its own inertia for
some time until it is slowed to a stop by friction.
❖If the centrifuge is shaking, pull the plug: A little vibration is normal, but excessive amounts
can mean danger. First, double check that the tubes are correctly balanced. If this does not
resolve the issue, do not operate the centrifuge until it has been serviced by the manufacturer
or dealer.
Centrifuge care and maintenance
1. Keep the centrifuge properly lubricated.
2. Ensure all users are aware of how to properly operate the centrifuge
3. Pay close attention to noise, vibration, shaking, or grinding and stop the unit immediately if
this occurs.
Centrifuge cleaning
Regularly clean the centrifuge with neutral cleaning solutions (alcohol or alcohol-based
disinfectant) applied with a soft cloth to rotors and accessories. Daily cleaning should include the
interior portion of the centrifuge, the rotor chamber, and surfaces with electronic components,
such as touchscreens and keypads.
