Centrifuges: The core of laboratory separation technology

In biological, chemical, and medical laboratories, centrifuges are among the most commonly used and critical pieces of equipment. Their function seems simple—using high-speed rotation to generate centrifugal force to separate substances of different densities—but their performance often directly impacts the accuracy and reproducibility of experimental results. Whether separating blood components, extracting DNA, purifying proteins, or precipitating cells, centrifuges are an indispensable part of the experimental process.

The core advantage of centrifuges lies in their ability to complete separation tasks quickly and efficiently. The centrifugal force generated by high-speed rotation allows precipitation to occur within minutes, while traditional natural sedimentation often takes hours or even longer. This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of sample contamination or degradation during processing.

When choosing a centrifuge, the first consideration should be the rotation speed. Different experiments require different centrifugal forces; for example, ordinary cell precipitation typically requires lower speeds, while separating subcellular structures or proteins requires higher speeds. Therefore, laboratories need to choose low-speed, high-speed, or ultracentrifuges based on their specific needs. Secondly, capacity is crucial; the rotor capacity determines the number of samples that can be processed at once, which is especially important for high-throughput experiments.

The type of rotor is also critical. Angle rotors are suitable for rapid sedimentation, while horizontal rotors are better suited for temperature-sensitive samples because they offer more stable temperature control. Furthermore, some experiments require specialized rotors, such as large-capacity rotors for blood bags or small rotors for microtubules. Choosing the right rotor not only improves efficiency but also protects sample quality.

Safety is equally crucial. High-quality centrifuges are typically equipped with automatic capping, imbalance detection, and overspeed protection. These safety features effectively prevent accidents caused by improper operation or equipment malfunction, protecting the safety of personnel and samples.