From biotechnology and pharmaceuticals to medical research and clinical diagnostics, the use of laboratory centrifuges is essential in many areas of scientific research. Centrifuges are used to separate components of a sample by exploiting the differences in density and sedimentation between the two. This versatile tool can be used for a range of applications, from protein purification to subcellular fractionation and even cell harvesting. In this article, we will discuss how laboratory centrifuges are being used to accelerate scientific discovery in various fields, as well as provide an overview of the different types available on the market today. A laboratory centrifuge is a machine that uses centrifugal force to separate particles from a solution, or to separate different components of a mixture. There are many different types of centrifuges, each with its own specific use. For example, a microcentrifuge can be used to separate DNA from other cellular components, while a larger floor-standing centrifuge can be used to separated blood cells from plasma.
How do laboratory centrifuges work?
Laboratory centrifuges work by using centrifugal force to separate particles in a liquid suspension. This process is known as sedimentation. The laboratory centrifuge can be used for a variety of applications, including separating blood cells from plasma, purifying proteins, or separating different isotopes. The most common type of laboratory centrifuge is the benchtop centrifuge. Benchtop centrifuges are relatively small and can be operated without too much training. Most benchtop centrifuges have a swinging bucket rotor, which means that the buckets swing out when the centrifuge is turned on. This type of rotor is best suited for smaller samples (up to 50 mL). Larger samples (up to several liters) can be processed in floor-standing models of laboratory centrifuges. Floor-standing models typically have a fixed-angle rotor, which means that the tubes are fixed in place during operation. Fixed-angle rotors are not as efficient as swinging bucket rotors for smaller samples, but they are better suited for large-scale separations.
Some applications of laboratory centrifuges
Laboratory centrifuges are one of the most versatile tools in a scientist’s arsenal. They can be used for a wide variety of applications, from separating different types of cells to purifying proteins. Here are just a few examples of how centrifuges can be used in the lab: Cell separation: Centrifuges can be used to separate different types of cells, such as blood cells or bacteria. This is done by spinning the sample at high speeds, which causes the heavier cells to settle at the bottom of the tube while the lighter cells stay near the top. Protein purification: Centrifuges can also be used to purify proteins. This is often done by spinning a protein sample in a solution known as an ammonium sulfate gradient. The different concentrations of ammonium sulfate cause the proteins to separate into different bands, which can then be collected and purified. DNA extraction: Centrifuges can also be used to extract DNA from cells. This is done by breaking open the cell and spinning it in a solution that contains salt and ethanol. The salt helps to break up the DNA while the ethanol prevents it from reattaching to itself or other cellular debris. The DNA will then form a pellet at the bottom of the tube which can be collected and purified.
