OM3750 Rev. 5 11 January 2004
Page 4 of 24
1. Introduction
1.1 Product Description
The IEC Centra CL3 Series units are high-speed, multi-
purpose centrifuges used in medical, industrial, and
scientific applications. They are available in two models:
• Ventilated (CL3)
• Refrigerated (CL3R)
Both units accommodate a wide variety of rotors including
fixed angle, swinging bucket, and fixed horizontal designs.
They can process tubes, bottles, microplates,
microcapillary tubes and microsample tubes. The units can
centrifuge up to one liter of fluid in a single operation.
Operation Modes
There are two operation modes:
• Manual Mode: to enter temperature (refrigerated units
only), speed/force, and time values for individual runs
• Program Mode: to define and save a maximum of 99
specific sets of run parameters, to recall and reuse
Timing Modes
Three timing modes are available on each unit:
• Automatic timed run
• Short spin (momentary)
• Hold (continuous mode).
Other Features
Acceleration and brake rates may be controlled to optimize
runs; rapid for fast separations or slow for delicate
samples. Repeat runs, with the same speed and time
settings, may be achieved at the touch of a key.
A fail-safe cover interlock insures that the cover is closed
before a run can begin, and keeps the cover closed until the
rotor has reached a safe low speed (below 100 rpm), even
in the event of a power failure.
The rugged steel cabinet and rigid construction provide
quiet operation and long-term reliability.
1.2 About This Manual
Contents
This manual contains information to install, operate, and
maintain IEC Centra CL3 Series Centrifuges. Differences
between the refrigerated and ventilated models are noted in
the text. This manual also contains speed and force,
derating, chemical resistance, and decontamination tables.
Audience/Purpose
This manual is written for centrifuge operators. In addition
to operation information, it contains a few basic
troubleshooting techniques, and a chapter on maintenance.
This manual is not a guide for servicing centrifuge units.
2. Installation
2.1 Receive the Unit
All units are shipped in protective packaging.
1. Follow the unpacking instructions on the carton.
2. Inspect the unit upon receipt and immediately file any
damage claims with the shipper/carrier.
3. Complete and return the postage-paid warranty card.
2.2 Prepare the installation site
The unit normally resides on a bench top.
1. OPTIONAL:
Ventilated models can be placed in a cold room (no
colder than 4°C), for processing temperature-sensitive
samples.
CAUTION
!
When you remove the centrifuge from a cold
environment, do not operate for a minimum of two
hours to allow condensation to evaporate prior to
use.
NOTE: When used in a cold room environment, some
bearing noise may become evident. The bearing
lubricant thickens at low temperatures. As the
centrifuge speeds up, it is thinned and distributed more
evenly. Once this occurs, any noise should subside.
2. Place the centrifuge on a clean, dry surface, to make
certain that the suction feet at the bottom grip the
surface firmly. Keep the area beneath the unit free of
debris and loose materials.
CAUTION
!
The resting surface must be level, to ensure quiet,
vibration-free operation. A rigid and stable location is
important. An improperly loaded centrifuge may
vibrate or move
3. Locate the centrifuge to allow a clearance of 8 cm
(3 inches) on all sides of the unit, to ensure proper
ventilation.
Dimensions:
WARNING
WARNING
!
International Electrotechnical Commission standard
1010 part 2-20 limits the permitted movement of a
laboratory centrifuge to 12” (300 mm) in the unlikely
event of a disruption. Laboratory management
procedures should require that no person or any
hazardous materials enter within this boundary while
the centrifuge operates.
IEC Centra CL3R IEC Centra CL3
Sample Loading Height 12.5” (32 cm)
Cover Closed Height 14.5” (37 cm)
Cover Open Height 33” (84 cm)
Width 26.5” (68 cm) 19.25” (49 cm)
Height 21” (53 cm)