Annual Refresher Centrifugation Hazards. Centrifugation 101 Every time you use a centrifuge, you...
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Transcript of Annual Refresher Centrifugation Hazards. Centrifugation 101 Every time you use a centrifuge, you...
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.
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