Annual RefresherCentrifugation Hazards

Centrifugation 101

Every time you use a centrifuge, you make series of choices. Which centrifuge, which rotor, which tubes and adapters, what speed, for how long, what level of containment.

If you are unsure of your choice, ask an experienced colleague, consult the operating manual, or call the manufacturer’s representative.

Using Centrifuges

Before placing the rotor in the centrifuge, make sure the bowl is dry and the drive spindle is clean

Balance tubes and bottles carefully and avoid overfilling. If tubes used in fixed angle rotors, centrifugal force drives the fluid up the outside tube wall.

Using Centrifuges, continue

Make sure the rotor is seated on the drive hub correctly

Don’t overload beyond the rotor’s maximum mass without reducing the rated speed

When using a horizontal rotor, make sure all buckets are hooked correctly and move freely

Using Centrifuges, continue

Check O-rings on containers and rotors for cracks, nicks, or chemical attack. Apply vacuum grease to the seals at least weekly.

Common user errors are failure to secure the rotor to the drive, failure to put the lid on the rotor, and failure to secure the lid.

Using Centrifuges, continue

It is good practice to stay at the centrifuge until it is running smoothly at the desired run speed.

When the run is complete, do not open door until rotor has come to a halt. Always check for possible spill. If you find one, be sure to clean both the centrifuge and rotor thoroughly

Care and Loading of Rotors

Integrity of rotors can be compromised by corrosion or fatigue.Keep rotors clean and dry. Wash immediately if spills occur or if salts or other corrosive materials have been used

Be gentle with aluminum rotors. Avoid harsh detergents or bottle brushes with sharp wire ends.

Care and Loading of Rotors

Inspect rotors regularly. If there are rough spots, pitting, white powder deposits, or heavy discoloration, do not run the rotor

Maintain rotor logs. Eventually every rotor must be retired and as ultra rotors age, their maximum speed must be de-rated. It is imperative to keep diligent logs.

Centrifuge Explosion Chemical detonation inside an ultracentrifuge

Before

Centrifuge Explosion Chemical detonation inside an ultracentrifuge

After

Centrifuge Explosion Damaged centrifuge well

Aluminum Dust+Freon =

Kablooey

All Done!

Make sure you fill out the quiz, sign it, and drop it off in my mailbox for record keeping.

Remember: This is an annual requirement.

SEE YOU NEXT YEAR

Questions

Contact: Kathie Moh

255-8849

kcm25@cornell.edu