What is a Desktop High-Speed Centrifuge?

A Desktop High-Speed Centrifuge is a commonly used separation device in laboratories. It achieves rapid separation of components with different densities in samples through centrifugal force generated by high-speed rotation. Its speed range is usually 10,000–30,000 rpm. The maximum relative centrifugal force (RCF) can reach 70,000×g. It is suitable for separating trace or complex components such as biological samples, nucleic acids, and proteins.

Core working principle

It is based on the centrifugal force formula \( F = m \cdot r \cdot \omega^2 \) (where \( m \) is the sample mass, \( r \) is the centrifugal radius, and \( \omega \) is the angular velocity). The rotor rotates at high speed to generate centrifugal force far exceeding gravity. This makes particles with higher density in the sample settle to the bottom of the tube. Components with lower density suspend or stratify.

Core advantages of Desktop High-Speed Centrifuge

Compared with floor-standing centrifuges or low-speed centrifuges,desktop High-Speed Centrifuge have become the first choice for small and medium-sized laboratories due to their compact design, efficient performance, and versatility. The specific advantages are as follows:

1. Space-friendly and flexible deployment

Benchtop models usually weigh 20–80 kg. They cover an area of only 0.3–0.6 m². They can be directly placed on the laboratory bench. They are suitable for laboratories with limited space.

2. High speed, high efficiency, and precise separation

• Speed and centrifugal force

The maximum speed can reach 21,000 rpm. The centrifugal force reaches 30,642×g. It can separate tiny particles such as viruses (0.02–0.3 μm in diameter) and subcellular structures (such as mitochondria).

• Fast response

The acceleration time is as short as 10 seconds. It is combined with 10 levels of acceleration/deceleration curves. This avoids secondary suspension of samples.

3. Multifunctional adaptation and wide scenarios

• Rotor compatibility

It supports angular rotors (for rapid separation), horizontal rotors (for large-capacity processing), microplate rotors, etc.

• Temperature control option

The refrigerated model supports temperature control from -20℃ to 40℃. It protects the activity of heat-sensitive samples such as proteins and nucleic acids. The temperature difference control is ≤±1℃.

How to choose a suitable desktop High-Speed Centrifuge?

1. Clarify experimental needs

• Sample type

For separating cells (within low speed of 10,000 rpm), viruses/nucleic acids (high speed of 15,000–20,000 rpm), and proteins (refrigeration function required).

• Processing capacity

For trace samples (24×1.5 mL angular rotor), choose a micro model. For large capacity (4×250 mL), choose a horizontal rotor model.

2. Safety and compliance

• Biological safety

Choose a closed rotor to prevent aerosol leakage.

• Certification requirements

Medical scenarios need to pass ISO 13485 certification. Scientific research scenarios need to meet GLP data traceability requirements.

Complete guide to maintenance

1. Daily operation specifications

• Sample balance

The weight difference of centrifuge tubes should be ≤0.1 g. They should be placed symmetrically. For large-capacity samples, use a horizontal rotor and fill the centrifuge tubes.

• Operation monitoring

Observe vibration after startup (normal ≤65 dB). If there is abnormal noise, stop immediately to check whether the rotor is installed in place.

2. Common fault handling

• Excessive noise

Check if the sample is balanced and if the rotor is loose. If the bearing is worn, it needs to be replaced (it is recommended to check the carbon brush after 3000 hours of operation).

• Refrigeration failure

Clean the dust on the condenser (for air-cooled models). Check the refrigerant pressure. If it is insufficient, contact the manufacturer for supplementation.

• Centrifuge tube rupture

Stop immediately. Seal the cavity for 30 minutes (to prevent aerosol diffusion). Use tweezers to clean up the debris. Disinfect thoroughly with 75% alcohol.

Benchtop high-speed centrifuges are "separation tools" in fields such as biomedicine, pharmaceuticals, and environmental testing. When choosing, it is necessary to balance performance, budget, and scenario adaptability. Daily maintenance should focus on cleaning, calibration, and safe operation. This guide can help laboratories select models efficiently, extend equipment life, and ensure accurate and reliable experimental data.