Micro-Volume High-Speed Homogenizer

What is the Micro-Volume High-Speed Homogenizer?

A micro-volume high-speed homogenizer uses a very small rotor-stator probe, about 3 to 8 mm in diameter, to homogenize 0.1 to 10 mL samples in microtubes or small vials. It suits molecular biology labs that extract nucleic acids or proteins from small tissue samples.

Overview

The micro-volume homogenizer is optimized for small samples. A slim generator of 3 to 8 mm diameter fits in 1.5 to 15 mL tubes and operates at 10,000 to 30,000 rpm. The low displacement volume allows 0.1 to 10 mL to be processed with minimal sample loss. Some models have a clamp or rack that holds the tube and lifts it around the probe, while others are handheld. The small generator keeps heat generation low, but ice baths are still advised for RNA work. Probes are made from stainless steel or from disposable polymer, which avoids cross-contamination between samples. Because the probe is short, the minimum immersion depth is small. The motor is compact, with power of 50 to 150 W. This instrument is used for small tissue pieces, cell pellets, plant material and soft biological samples where a bead mill is not suitable.

How does it work?

A high-speed homogenizer drives a rotor inside a fixed stator at speeds of roughly 5,000 to 30,000 rpm. The rotation creates suction that draws sample into the probe from below, then centrifugal force pushes it radially through slots in the stator. The narrow gap, often 0.15 to 0.5 mm, produces intense mechanical shear, turbulence and, at high speed, cavitation. These forces break tissue fragments, disperse solids and reduce droplets to a few micrometers. Energy transfers as heat, so cooling is often needed for biological samples. Main components are the motor, a drive shaft with dispersing tool, interchangeable rotor-stator generators, a speed controller and a support stand or handle. Probe diameter, slot design and speed determine the working volume, typically from 0.1 mL to 20 L, and the final particle size.

What are the key features?

• Slim 3–8 mm generator fits 1.5–15 mL tubes
• Speed of roughly 10,000–30,000 rpm for small tissue pieces
• Low displacement volume minimizes sample loss
• Clamp or rack options hold the tube and probe stable
• Stainless steel or disposable probes avoid cross-contamination
• Compact 50–150 W motor with low heat generation

What are the technical specifications?

A typical micro-volume high-speed homogenizer configuration offers speed range of 10,000–30,000 rpm, working volume of 0.1–10 mL, probe diameter of 3–8 mm, minimum immersion depth of 5–10 mm, tube compatibility of 1.5–15 mL and motor power of 50–150 W. Values are indicative of the product class; the exact figures for each configuration are confirmed on the quotation and the calibration documents supplied with the instrument.

Which applications is it used for?

The Micro-Volume High-Speed Homogenizer is used in small tissue homogenization, DNA and RNA extraction, protein extraction from tissue, plant material preparation and cell pellet disruption. Across the wider High-Speed Homogenizers class, laboratories also deploy it for tissue disruption for DNA, RNA and protein extraction, emulsion and cream preparation and pharmaceutical suspension dispersion.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include IEC 61010-1, IEC 61010-2-051, ISO 13320, EN ISO 12100 and GB 4793.1. Certification candidates for this model are CE, RoHS and ISO 9001 manufacturing; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Keep the probe immersed to at least the minimum depth during operation to avoid air entrainment, splashing and seal damage. Clamp vessels securely, and use ice baths or short bursts to prevent heating of biological samples. Wear eye protection and guards, and always keep the probe stationary when lifting it from the sample. Clean the probe immediately after use by running it in water and then in detergent or solvent suitable for your sample. Inspect generators for wear, because damaged stators give inconsistent results. Follow IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety. For biological and infectious materials, use a biosafety cabinet or closed system and decontaminate the probe according to your biosafety procedures. Record speed, time and temperature to support reproducibility.

How do I select the right Micro-Volume High-Speed Homogenizer?

Choose a micro-volume homogenizer when sample volumes are below 10 mL and loss must be kept to a minimum. A beadmill may suit hard or fibrous tissue. In the RFQ, specify tube sizes, minimum volume, probe type and whether disposable probes are needed.

How does it compare with other High-Speed Homogenizers variants?

Choose a high-speed homogenizer by working volume, sample type, speed range and format. Handheld units are portable and suited to small volumes in tubes and beakers. Benchtop digital units provide precise speed, timer and torque feedback for reproducible protocols. Micro-volume models work with 0.1 to 10 mL samples in microtubes. Large floor-stand units process liters to tens of liters in pilot work. Disposable-probe systems prevent cross-contamination in clinical and molecular workflows. Consider the maximum speed and the generator options, and whether the probe materials such as 316L stainless steel or PTFE are compatible with your samples. Verify noise, vibration and safety features. Ask the supplier about tip speed, particle size results and cleaning procedures, and request a demonstration with your own sample where possible.