A microcentrifuge is an essential piece of equipment in any laboratory. Lab personnel use it to spin a variety of liquid samples at very high speeds. A microcentrifuge enables the pelleting of proteins from a solution, microfiltration of aqueous samples, and collecting liquid into the bottom of a tube.
Since using a microcentrifuge does not need a technician’s presence when operating it, it is crucial to choose the suitable unit for your lab. First, there are several types of micro centrifuges in the market today, but they are not created equal. Buying this device is also a long-term investment, so you should know how to acquire one worth your money.
Among the questions to ask when shopping for microcentrifuges include:
What are you going to use the unit for?
Are you going to use it for purely medical and clinical diagnostic activities? What liquid samples are you going to place in the device? There are liquid samples that are better spun in a bigger type of centrifuge, so make sure your activities match with the functions of a micro centrifuge.
How many people are going to use the unit?
Some users can be more careful than others when using lab equipment. While micro centrifuges can be operated easily, they can still be prone to damage when not used properly. Repair and maintenance procedures on the unit can be managed more effectively when only a few people use it. Hence, make sure that there are designated persons to operate and clean the microcentrifuge.
What g-force and volumes of material are you looking at working with?
Some liquid samples are better tested in centrifuges with different settings than that of a micro centrifuge. If you happen to work with these liquids more often, then you may want to invest in another type of centrifuge unit instead.
