A centrifuge is a lab device that separates several components of a fluid by its centrifugal force. It is executed when you spin the fluid at high speed within a container, which separates fluids of various densities or liquids from solids. Centrifuges are categorized based on their maximum rates and are measured as revolutions per minute (RPM). They exist as either floor-standing models or numerous benchtops. Because they are sensitive, that affects the surroundings when used with negligence.

Here we will discuss the safety and measures to be taken when working with a centrifuge.

Precautions to be taken when using a centrifuge

The precaution when using a centrifuge is as follows.

• Confirm a well-made, level work surface

Always ensure the centrifuge is on an appropriate surface before operation.

• Stable the centrifuge

Using an unstable centrifuge could be the basis of significant damage and harm to the worker and laboratory staff. It is substantial to negate tubes by mass, not by volume. The entire mass per tube should be near each other- especially at very high rotor speeds. Maintaining masses to the nearest 0.1 gram is preferable. It says it would be best to balance it with mass, not a sample containing fluid with a higher or lower density than water with an identical volume.

• Avoid opening the lid when the rotor is moving.

Most of the centrifuges contain a security shutoff. It will only stop the passage of power to the rotor. It will still rotate due to its inertia for some period unless it is blocked by friction.

• Pull the plug when the centrifuge is vibrating or shaking.

It is normal when it vibrates a bit, but extreme volumes can be a hazard. Then initially, double-verify that the tubes are correctly composed. If the issue is still not resolved, stop using the centrifuge and contact the manufacturer or dealer to deal with it.

How do you balance a centrifuge?

When you start the centrifuge, make sure to load it properly. Stabilizing the centrifuge stops severe damage to the instrument because it is crucial for a safe process.

Make things clear that all sample tubes are consistently filled. When required for extra tubes for the balancing, fill the tubes with fluid, water, or a liquid of the same density as the sample. Make sure that mass is balanced to the nearest 0.1 grams.

Add a tube of exact weight straight opposite it per tube injected in the rotor. It will confirm that the center of gravity is in the rotor’s middle. Increase two other tubes straight opposite and rotate the rotor at 90 degrees centigrade. Repeat the process.

Centrifuge Maintenance

Some stages can possess a centrifuge functioning accurately and decrease the hazard of damage or harm.

• Keep the centrifuge adequately lubricated. Keep the threaded components cleaned frequently and lubricated with appropriate grease to confirm the correct procedure and to avoid erosion and cross-threading. Keep O-rings lubricated before installing a new rotor or the following cleaning as they are the critical basis of safety against sample leaks.
• Ensure all users are alert to the centrifuge operation process and how to operate appropriately. Confirm balancing tubes in the rotor, buckets are correctly seated in their pins, not scraping the rotor, and working rotors within specified guiding principles for speediness and determined compartment mass.
• Review critical components, and examine for signs of wear-like effects of chemical contact on the rotor or scratches. Stop the unit immediately if this occurs while paying close attention to grinding, high sound, shuddering, or vibration.

Conclusion

Clean the centrifuge regularly with neutral cleaning solutions such as alcohol or alcohol-based purifiers. Ensure cleaning the inner share of the centrifuge, the rotor chamber, and surfaces with electronic gears, such as touchscreens and keypads. Apply a soft cloth to rotors and accessories. Keep aware of any specific products or procedures essential for cleaning spills and different kinds of samples used with the centrifuge.

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(Manager, 2019)

Bibliography

Manager, L. (2019, 7 18). labmanager. Retrieved from Lab Manager: https://www.labmanager.com/product-focus/the-basics-of-centrifuge-operation-and-maintenance-1433