Microcentrifuge with Vacuum Concentrator Function

What is the Microcentrifuge with Vacuum Concentrator Function?

A centrifugal vacuum concentrator spins microtubes under reduced pressure with optional heating and a cold trap to evaporate solvents gently. It is used for concentrating DNA, RNA, peptides and small molecules, drying samples, and solvent removal from 0.2 to 2.0 mL tubes.

Overview

This variant combines a low-speed rotor with a vacuum pump, heating element and condensate management, forming a centrifugal evaporator. Centrifugal force at 1,000 to 1,500 rpm keeps samples at the tube bottom and prevents bumping as vacuum lowers the boiling point. Vacuum down to 1 to 10 mbar, typically from a diaphragm or rotary vane pump, is combined with heating at ambient to 80 C. A cold trap at -50 to -105 C or an oil-free condenser collects solvent vapor. Rotors hold 24 to 48 x 1.5/2.0 mL tubes or plate carriers for 96-well plates. A typical run for 1.5 mL aqueous samples takes 30 to 90 minutes. Chemical-resistant chambers and pumps allow use with organic solvents such as acetonitrile, methanol or ethanol when specified.

How does it work?

A microcentrifuge spins a small, lightweight rotor directly coupled to a brushless DC motor, reaching top speed in 10 to 30 seconds. Fixed-angle rotors hold tubes at 45 degrees, which shortens the sedimentation path and gives rapid pellet formation on the tube wall. The rotor is made of aluminum or engineering plastics and has a sealed lid option for biosafety. RCF equals 1.118 x 10^-5 times rotor radius in centimeters times rpm squared, and most models let the user enter either value. Short-spin or pulse functions run while a key is held. An imbalance sensor and lid lock stop the motor if the load is uneven or the lid opens. Refrigerated versions add a compact compressor. PCR strip rotors and colored tube adapters handle small sample formats.

What are the key features?

• Centrifugal force prevents bumping and sample loss during evaporation
• Vacuum down to 1 to 10 mbar with diaphragm or rotary vane pump
• Heating from ambient to 80 C accelerates solvent removal
• Cold trap or condenser collects solvent vapors for safe disposal
• Rotors for 24 to 48 microtubes or 96-well plate carriers

What are the technical specifications?

A typical microcentrifuge with vacuum concentrator function configuration offers rotor speed of 1,000–1,500 rpm, ultimate vacuum of 1–10 mbar, heating range of Ambient to 80 °C, cold trap temperature of -50 to -105 °C, rotor capacity of 24–48 x 1.5/2.0 mL or 2 x 96-well plates and evaporation time (1.5 mL water) of approx. 30–90 min. 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 Microcentrifuge with Vacuum Concentrator Function is used in concentrating nucleic acids and peptides, drying compound libraries, solvent removal after extraction and sample preparation for mass spectrometry. Across the wider Microcentrifuges class, laboratories also deploy it for DNA and RNA spin-column purification, PCR tube pulse spins and protein precipitation.

Which standards and certifications apply?

Relevant standards and methods include IEC 61010-1, IEC 61010-2-020, IEC 61326-1, ISO 15189, CLSI MM13 and GB 4793.1. Certification candidates for this model are CE, ISO 9001 manufacturing and RoHS; each is to be confirmed for the specific configuration before shipment, and certificates are supplied only where they have been issued.

Keep the lid clean and free of residue, since dried sample or salts can cause rotor corrosion and imbalance. Wipe the chamber and rotor with 70 percent ethanol or mild detergent, and autoclave rotors only if rated. Tubes should be balanced in opposing positions, with matched volumes and tube types. Inspect the rotor for cracks, pitting or deformation at least every six months and retire it at the stated lifetime. Verify speed and timer annually with a tachometer. Keep aerosol-tight lids closed when handling pathogens. Place the unit on a flat bench away from edges, because vibration can cause walking during unbalanced runs.

How do I select the right Microcentrifuge with Vacuum Concentrator Function?

Select this variant when samples must be concentrated or dried, not simply pelleted. It is a different instrument class from spin-only siblings, with vacuum and solvent-handling requirements. In the RFQ, specify solvents used, cold trap temperature, vacuum level, rotor capacity and any explosion-protection or exhaust-handling considerations for your site.

How does it compare with other Microcentrifuges variants?

Choose by RCF first: spin-column work typically needs 10,000 to 14,000 x g, while RNA and protein precipitation often calls for 12,000 to 21,000 x g. Decide whether refrigeration is necessary; ambient models suffice for DNA spin columns and quick spins, but RNA, enzymes and long spins benefit from 4 C. Rotor capacity matters, with 12, 24 and 30 tube positions common. Look for interchangeable rotors, aerosol-tight lids, PCR strip adapters, programmable timers, and quiet operation below 55 dB(A). For high-throughput settings, consider units accepting 96-well plates or PCR strips. Verify that tubes are rated for the RCF and confirm the unit is compact enough for shared benches and biosafety cabinets.