How to Choose and Use Centrifuge Tubes

Common materials for plastic/glass centrifuge tubes are polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene (PP), etc. Among them, polypropylene microcentrifuge tubes, have relatively good performance. Here are some introductions to choosing and using centrifuge tubes.

Classification of centrifuge tube:

The bottom of the tube is divided into:

Conical bottom centrifuge tube 2. Round bottom centrifuge tube

According to the shape of the cap, it is divided into:

Centrifuge tube with cap 2. Socket centrifuge tube 3. Screw-top centrifuge tube

The role of the cap:

The bigger role is to prevent the leakage of the sample, especially when it is for radioactive or highly corrosive samples.
Another function is to prevent sample volatilization and support the centrifuge tube to prevent the deformation of the centrifuge tube.

Precautions for the purchase of centrifuge tube:

When choosing plastic centrifuge tubes, consider PP plastic centrifuge tubes as much as possible.

Pay attention to checking whether the tube cover is tight, so as to achieve the inversion without leakage.

Using centrifuge tubes in a high-speed refrigerated centrifuge:

Select the appropriate rotor and speed, never use it at the fastest speed.
Choose a suitable temperature, usually 4°C, not below zero except for organic solvents, to avoid freezing and damage to the centrifuge tube and rotor.
Before using the rotor, cleaned the tube with a hole-wiping rod, and carefully inspected for cracks and white spots at the bottom of the hole. If so, turn it around and scrap it.
The volume of solution loaded in the centrifuge tube must be appropriate.
The stainless steel tube has no cap and can only fit 2/3, and fitted the plastic tube to the shoulder.
Closed the cap of the tube and no leakage. Deformed empty tubes by centrifugation.
Placed centrifuge tubes in pairs must be strictly balanced, with a deviation of <0.1g.
Allowed no-idling without a rotor, and used the handle to prevent the rotor from slipping.
Placed turning head lightly and firmly, and when unscrewing the handle, hold the handle by hand and only turn the turning head.
Tight the rotor cover closed, and no centrifugation is without the cover.
Do not open the cover during centrifugation, and do not stand on the centrifuge. If there is any abnormal sound or vibration, stop the machine immediately.
After using the rotor, take out of the rotor compartment in time, wiped dry, and carefully wipe the tube holes with a hole-wiping stick.
If the solution overflows, cleaned it, wipe the condensed water in the rotor compartment, and open the door to dry the rotor compartment.
Reserved and registered the centrifuge tube uses after use.
Before centrifugation, carefully check whether there is foreign matter in each hole of the rotor.
Must carefully equilibrate the centrifuge tube.
If the cabin is not clean, should seal the centrifuge tube with plastic film.
Must start slowly, then accelerate.
Do not open the lid during centrifugation.
Do not use the handbrake.