The MSE Centaur 2 Centrifuge is a laboratory device designed for separating components of a liquid mixture through rapid rotation. It is CE marked, complying with European Directives for Electromagnetic and Low Voltage Compatibility. 120V units are also designed for CSA approval to standards C22.2 No. 1010.1-92 and C22.2 No. 1010.2.020-94.
Function Description:
The Centaur 2 Centrifuge uses centrifugal force to separate substances of different densities. It features a motor-driven rotor that spins at high speeds, causing denser components to move outwards while lighter components remain closer to the center. This process is crucial in various scientific and medical applications, including biochemistry, clinical diagnostics, and research. The device is designed for safe and efficient operation, with several interlocks and safety features to prevent misuse and accidents.
Important Technical Specifications:
- Models: MSB020.CX1.5, MSB020.CX1.1
- Dimensions:
- Height: 336mm (470mm with lid open)
- Width: 436mm
- Depth: 487mm
- Weight: 36kg (without rotor)
- Power Supply:
- Cat. No. MSB020.CX1.5: 220/240V, 50/60 Hz
- Cat. No. MSB020.CX1.1: 110/120V, 50/60 Hz
- Fuse Rating: 5 Amp (20mm long glass cartridge fuse)
- Operating Conditions:
- Humidity: MRH 80% up to 31°C, decreasing linearly to 50% RH at 40°C
- Altitude: Up to 2000M
- Motor: Fitted with an overtemperature cut-out device.
- Speed Range: 300 rev/min to maximum rotor speed (varies by rotor type).
- Rotor Types (Examples):
- 4 Place Swing out rotor (43124-126): Max. Speed 3300 RPM (200ml tubes), Max. RCF 2000.
- 4 Place Swing out rotor (34121-607): Max. Speed 4200 RPM (50ml tubes), Max. RCF 3130.
- 8 Place Swing out rotor (43121-111): Max. Speed 3500 RPM (15ml tubes), Max. RCF 2200.
- 8 Place Angle rotor (34117-603): Max. Speed 4600 RPM (50ml tubes), Max. RCF 3120.
- 12 Place Angle rotor (34117-604): Max. Speed 4600 RPM (15ml tubes), Max. RCF 3000.
- Accessories Supplied: Fuse 5A (20mm), Lid Lock Release Key, Lid Seal Insertion Tool, Operating Manual, Guarantee Cards (240V & 120V), Spindle Nut (for specific rotors).
Usage Features:
- Control Panel: Features a Power On rocker switch (illuminated), a Fuse Holder, a Timer control (up to 30 minutes or 'Hold' for continuous running), a digital Rev/min indicator, and a Speed control knob.
- Safety Indicators:
- Imbalance indicator lamp (Red): Warns of rotor misloading, stops the drive, and initiates rotor rundown. Requires checking and correcting balance before restarting.
- Lid Unlocked indicator lamp (Amber): Illuminates when the rotor is at a standstill and the lid can be safely opened. Remains off when the rotor is spinning and the lid is locked.
- Lid Interlock: Electrically prevents the lid from opening while the rotor is turning or when power is disconnected.
- Manual Lid Release: A Lid Lock Release Key is provided for access during power failure.
- Friction-Controlled Lid: The lid remains open at any intermediate position.
- Rotor Installation/Removal: Rotors are secured with a spindle nut. Removal involves loosening the nut, gripping the rotor, and applying gentle upward pull with downward thumb pressure.
- Loading: Samples must be symmetrically loaded and balanced within 2 grams. Sealed containers are recommended for corrosive or infective materials.
- Speed Calculation for Dense Samples: If the sample has a relative density greater than 1.2, the maximum permissible speed of the rotor must be calculated using the formula: M = N * sqrt(1.2 / S), where M is the new maximum speed, N is the maximum rotor speed at 1.2 specific gravity, and S is the specific gravity of the sample used.
- Operation Procedure:
- Ensure rotor is correctly loaded and secured, and Timer is set to Off.
- Close lid firmly and press Power switch On.
- Select Timer to 'Hold' or desired time. Lid will lock.
- Adjust Speed control to desired rev/min (300 rev/min to max. rotor speed).
- Stop Procedure:
- For 'Hold' mode, set Timer to Off. Rotor will run down with automatic braking.
- For 'Time' mode, rotor stops automatically when time expires.
- Lid Unlocked indicator illuminates when rotor stops, allowing lid to be opened.
- Power Failure: If power is interrupted, the rotor coasts to a stop, and the lid remains locked. The Lid Lock Release Key can be used for access. If power is restored, the centrifuge will resume operation if in 'Hold' mode or continue for the remaining time if in 'Time' mode. A 3.5-minute delay for lid unlocking is inherent after power failure if the timer runs out during the outage.
- Independent Speed Sensing (120V machines only): A small window in the cover allows for independent speed checks using an optically coupled tachometer.
Maintenance Features:
- User Maintenance: Primarily involves cleanliness and care of rotors and accessories.
- Cleaning: The centrifuge body and bowl should be cleaned periodically with a soft cloth dampened in mild detergent and warm water. Immediate removal of liquid spills is crucial to prevent corrosion.
- Drive Shaft: Clean periodically with solvent and re-lubricate lightly with petroleum jelly.
- Corrosion Prevention: Avoid scratching rotor surfaces. Wash rotors, metal buckets, cups, carriers, and adaptors in warm soapy water after use, dry, and store inverted. MSE Rotor Spray (Cat. No.17341.151) is recommended for protection. Regular inspection for corrosion is advised.
- O-Rings: Lightly coat with silicone grease. Check regularly for cuts/abrasions and replace at least once a year.
- Sterilisation: All rotors (except 8-place swing-out rotor Cat. No. 43121.111), buckets, sealing caps (O-Rings removed), and the bowl can be autoclaved at 120℃.
- Disinfecting: Recommended cleaning fluids include TERMINEX 2 (Arrow Chemicals Ltd.) and VIRKON (Antec International). Solvents, gritty cleaners, and excessive water should be avoided.
- Motor Brushes: Carbon brushes are expendable items. A spare set is included, and replacement instructions are provided (section 6.7).
- Centrifuge Bowl Removal: The bowl is easily removable for cleaning or disinfection. Instructions for removal and refitting are provided (section 6.9).
- Lid Friction Adjustment: A socket screw allows adjustment of lid friction to control opening/closing resistance (section 6.10).
- Servicing (for competent engineers): Includes calibration of speed control, removal of the motor, and adjustment of the balance detector. Detailed instructions are provided for these procedures.
- Product Disposal: Complies with ISO 14001. The product is treated as industrial waste, with no toxic materials used in manufacturing. Most materials are recyclable. Refrigerant gas (if applicable) must be recovered by a qualified person prior to disposal.
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