Heraeus Biofuge Pico User manual

Biofuge

Instructions for Use

How to use this manual

Use this manual to get acquainted with your
centrifuge and its accessories.

The manual helps you to avoid inappropriate handling.
Make sure to keep it always close to the centrifuge.

A manual that is not kept handy cannot provide
protection against improper handling and thus
against damage to persons and objects.

The manual comprises chapters on

• Safety regulations

• Instrument description

• Rotor program and accessories

• Transportation and hook-up

• Use of the centrifuge

• Maintenance and care

• Troubleshooting

• Technical data

• Index

Overleaf you will find a graphic

representation of the control panel

with a survey of the most important

functions

Please fold out

speed

rotor turns

Before switching on the centrifuge
please read this manual

time

"set" keys

quick run

open lid

stop

start

back panel:

socket for mains connection
mains switch

The control panel of the

Biofuge pico

Display

Speed

Resting state: preselected speed
During run: current speed; rotating light: rotor turns
End: "End"
Running/resting: error codes (if present)

Time

Resting/end: preselected run time (in minutes; in

"hold" mode, "hd")

During run: remaining run time or (with quick start)

run time passed

Lid open: "OP"

Keys

Start: normal start
Stop: manual stop
Open lid: open lid

(possible only with mains switch ON)

Quick run: short-term acceleration as long as key is

pressed, with indication of run time pas­sed

"Set" keys: stepwise increase/decrease of preset

values, accelerated change when pres­sed permanently

Short pressing of any of the "set" keys: switch from
current to preset value

Error codes (troubleshooting see chapter
"Troubleshooting")

E-0: motor blockage (transport protection removed?)
E-8: excess voltage
E-10: internal error
E-11: internal error
br: power turned off during run or power failure
Lid: lid turned loose or opened during run;

drive overheated

OP: with lid closed: safety circuit triggered (drive

overheated)

Warnings can span several display panels

Contents

Contents

For your safety............................................ 3

Proper use................................................................ 3

Improper use............................................................3

Centrifuging hazardous materials............................3

Handling the centrifuge............................................4

Conformity to current standards............................... 5

Safety instructions in this manual ............................ 5

The Biofuge pico ........................................ 7

Safety systems......................................................... 7

Properties................................................................. 8

„Quick run“ operation ............................................... 8

Pieces delivered.......................................................9

Accessories .............................................. 11

Rotor program........................................................ 12

Adapters for rotor order no. 7500 3328 .................13

Before use................................................. 15

Where to install the centrifuge ............................... 15

Mains connection...................................................15

Removing the transport protection.........................15

Operation .................................................. 17

Transport and installation....................................... 17

Mains connection...................................................17

Opening the lid....................................................... 18

Emergency lid release ........................................... 18

Inserting the rotor................................................... 20

Permissible rotor temperature............................21

Lifetime of the rotor ............................................ 21

Removing the rotor................................................. 22

Loading the rotor.................................................... 22

Maximum loading ............................................... 22

Filling the centrifuge tubes ................................. 23

Aerosol-tight application......................................... 24

Checking for aerosol tightness............................... 25

Placing the tubes in the rotor................................. 26

Selecting the speed................................................ 27

Selecting the run time ............................................ 27

Preselected run time .......................................... 27

Continuous operation.........................................28

Starting the centrifuge............................................ 28

Changing the settings during the run..................... 28

Stopping the centrifuge.......................................... 29

Stopping with preset time................................... 29

Stopping with continuous operation................... 29

Short-time centrifugation........................................ 29

RCF value .............................................................. 30

Turning off the centrifuge....................................... 31

WEEE Compliance:................................................ 31

1

Contents

Maintenance and care .............................. 33

Maintenance to be performed by the customer .....33

Cleaning..............................................................33

Disinfection......................................................... 34

Decontamination.................................................36

Autoclaving.........................................................36

Check whether autoclaving is permitted! ...........36

The Thermo Electron Service offer........................37

Warranty conditions ...............................................37

Troubleshooting .......................................39

Problems you can handle yourself.........................39

In case you must call the Service...........................44

Technical data...........................................46

Component parts and performance.......................46

The "Easycontrol" user interface............................49

Electrical connections / fuses.................................51

Index..........................................................53

Autoclaving protocol................................59

Speed / RCF diagrams..............................60

2

For your safety

For your safety

Heraeus centrifuges are manufactured according to
current technical standards and regulations. Nonethe­less, centrifuges may pose danger to individuals and
surrounding if

• they are not used as designed

• they are operated by untrained personnel

• their design is improperly changed

• the safety instructions are not followed

Therefore, personnel involved with operation and
maintenance of the centrifuge must read and fol­low the safety instructions.

In addition, the pertinent regulations for prevention of
accidents must be strictly followed.

This manual is an integral part of the centri­fuge assembly and must be kept close at
hand at all times.

When damages to the power cord or at
casing are noticed the centrifuge must
to be set out of operation!

Proper use

The centrifuge is designed to separate liquid­suspended materials having different densities and
particle size, respectively (maximum sample density is

1.2 g/cm³ {ml} at maximum speed).

Improper use

During a run, a safety zone of 30 cm around the centri­fuge must be maintained where neither persons nor
hazardous materials may be present.

The centrifuge may cause harm to its user or other per­sons or may damage goods if safety measures are not
followed

:

Centrifuging hazardous materials

• The centrifuge is neither made inert, nor is it explo­sion-proof. Therefore never use the centrifuge in an
explosion-prone environment.

• Do not centrifuge explosive or flammable sub­stances. The same holds for substances prone to
react violently with each other.

3

For your safety

• Do not centrifuge toxic or radioactive substances or
pathogenic microorganisms without suitable safety
systems.
If microbiological samples of risk group II (according
to "Laboratory Bio-safety Manual" of WHO) are be­ing centrifuged, aerosol-tight bio-seals have to be
used.
For materials in a higher risk group, more than one
precaution is required.

• Should toxins or pathogenic substances enter the
centrifuge or its parts, you must perform appropriate
procedures for disinfection (see "Maintenance and
care – Disinfection").

• Strongly corrosive substances that may cause dam­age to materials and reduce the mechanical
strength of the rotor may be centrifuged only inside
protective tubes.

Handling the centrifuge

• Use only original accessories for the centrifuge. The
only exceptions are common glass or plastic centri­fuge tubes if they are approved for the rotor speed
and RCF values.

• Never use the centrifuge unless the rotor is properly
installed.

• You may use the centrifuge only with a properly
loaded rotor. You must not overload the rotor.

• Strictly follow the rules and regulations for cleaning
and disinfection

• If the rotor or the rotor lid shows signs of corrosion
or

wear, you must stop using it.

• Never open the lid manually if the rotor is still turn­ing.

• You may use the emergency lid release only in
case of emergency, e.g. during an interruption of
power supply
(see chapter "Troubleshooting").

• Never use the centrifuge with an opened lid.

• Never use the centrifuge if the front panel has been

partially or totally removed.

• Changes in mechanical or electrical components of
the centrifuge may only be carried out by individuals
authorized by Thermo Electron.

4

For your safety

Conformity to current standards

Heraeus centrifuges are manufactured and tested
according to the following standards and regulations:

for all voltages:

• IEC 1010-1 / EN 61010-1

• IEC 1010-2 / EN 61010-2-020

− Pollution degree 2

− Overvoltage category II

for 120 V only:

• CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010.1-92

• CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010.2.020-94

Safety instructions in this manual

This symbol denotes potential hazards to
persons.

This symbol denotes potential damage to
the centrifuge or parts in its immediate sur­roundings.

General hints are marked with this symbol.

Before switching on the centrifuge please
read this manual

5

For your safety

for your notes

6

The Biofuge pico

The Biofuge pico

The figure below shows the Biofuge pico with the lid
opened and the rotor put in place.

Safety systems

The Biofuge pico is equipped with a number of safety
systems.

• Connection rotor – motor

• Body and rotor chamber made from impact-

resistant plastic

• Lid with hinge and control window

• Lid lock mechanism

You can open the lid only when the power is turned
on and the rotor has come to a halt. You can start
the centrifuge only if the lid is properly locked.

• Warning if lid is manually opened during a run (sa-

fety circuit actuated)
If the lid is manually opened during a run, or if the

temperature of the drive exceeds a critical value, a
corresponding message appears in the dis­play("Lid" and "OP", respectively).

• Emergency lid release (only in case of emergency)

In order to permit you to remove samples even after
a power failure, the centrifuge is equipped with an
emergency lid release. (see chapter "Operation").

Do not tamper with the safety systems!

7

The Biofuge pico

Properties

The Biofuge pico is a benchtop centrifuge for use in the
biochemical and medical laboratory.

The preset speed is reached in seconds. You can also
spin samples for only a few seconds using the "quick
run" key (
The extremely long-lived, maintenance-free induction
motor provides quiet and vibration-free operation even
at high speeds.

The user-friendly "Easycontrol" control panel permits
easy operation. With the centrifuge turned on and the
lid closed, the preset speed and run time are displayed
before the run. During operation, the control panel
shows the actual values; upon briefly pressing any one
of the "set" keys
and run time are displayed instead. After the run, the
"speed" panel displays "End".

If you press the
the corresponding preset value stepwise. If you press
and hold down the chosen key, the respective value
increases continuously, at first slowly and, after a few
seconds, at an accelerated pace.

You can change the preset values during operation.

) if this is required for the task in question.

or the preset values for speed

or keys repeatedly, you increase

„Quick run“ operation

As long as the "quick run" key ( ) is pressed, the ro­tor is accelerated with maximum power, potentially up
to the maximum speed (overriding any preset speed
value).

8

The Biofuge pico

Pieces delivered

The Biofuge pico is delivered complete with:

• a special cap nut for fixing the rotor

• 10-mm tubular socket wrench for fastening the

cap nut

• fixed-angle rotor 24 x 1,5 / 2 ml 7500 3328

• cable for mains connection

• this Manual

cap nut
order no.
70056208

tubular socket
wrench
order no.
2036 0072

9

The Biofuge pico

for your notes

10

Accessories

Accessories

The Biofuge pico is delivered complete with a fixed­angle rotor with 24 holes for placing microliter tubes
with a volume of 1.5 or 2.0 ml.

In addition you may order three sets of adapters con­taining 24 reduction sleeves each. With these adapters
you can centrifuge all commercially available microliter
tubes with a volume between 0.2 and 0.6 ml as well as

0.2-ml PCR reaction vessels.

A further option is a PCR-Strip rotor.

Please consult our sales documentation for a complete
collection of accessories including technical data, order
numbers and special low-cost package offers.

For more information you can visit our web site at
http://www.Thermo.com

11

Accessories

Rotor program

Rotor designation

Microliter rotor

PCR-rotor

24 x 2 ml PP

order no.

7500 3328 7500 3327

places / volume 24 x 1,5 / 2 ml 4 x PCR-Strip
maximum permissible load [ g ] 24 x 4 4 x 4 ( 32 x 0,5 )
maximum speed n
minimum speed n
maximum RCF value at n

[ min-1 ] 13 000 13 000

max

[ min-1 ] 2 000 2 000

min

16 060 12 846 ( 11 524* )

max

maximum radius [ cm ] 8,5 6,8 ( 6,1* )
minimum radius [ cm ]

5,9 6,1 ( 4,7* )
angle [ ° ] 40 45
acceleration / deceleration time [ s ] 15 / 12 15 / 12
aerosol-tight yes (reduced filling) yes (reduced filling)
permissible temperature range

autoclavable (number of cycles)

* The values relate to vessel places 4 and 5 in the PCR-Rotor

-4 °C to +40 °C

121°C, (10 cycles)

-4 °C to +40 °C
121°C, (10 cycles)

12

Adapters for rotor order no. 7500 3328

Accessories

Adapter Dimensions

(∅ x H)

reduction sleeve PCR 6,2 x 20 mm 0,2 ml 24 gray 7600 3750
reduction sleeve 8 x 43,5 mm 0,5/0,6 ml 24 turquoise 7600 3758
reduction sleeve 6 x 46 mm 0,25/0,4 ml 24 red 7600 3759

Capacity Number per

Set

Color Order No.

13

Accessories

for your notes

14

Before use

Before use

Where to install the centrifuge

The centrifuge must be operated in a place meeting
the following criteria:

• A safety zone of 30 cm around the centrifuge must
be maintained. Hazardous materials must not be
kept within this zone during centrifugation.

• The substructure must be stable and resonance­free. A good support is provided by a plane labora­tory bench or a large laboratory carriage with cast­ers that may be locked.

• To ensure sufficient air circulation, a minimum dis­tance from the wall of 10 cm at the back and of
15 cm on each side must be kept.

• The centrifuge must be protected from heat and di­rect sunshine.

• The location should be well ventilated.

Mains connection

Make sure that voltage and frequency correspond to
the specifications on the instrument label.

Turn the mains switch on the back panel off (press
"0"); only then connect the centrifuge with the mains
supply using the power cord supplied with the instru­ment.

Removing the transport protection

Turn the instrument on. The display panel shows for
about 12 s the routine internal software check se­quence. Open the lid by pressing the "open lid" key
and remove the transport protection for the rotor.

Check that the rotor moves freely by lightly turning it,
and make sure the rotor is tightly screwed on.

The Biofuge pico is now ready for use.

15

Before use

for your notes

16

Operation

q

y

Operation

Transport and installation

Damage to the centrifuge by jolts
or jerky placement!

Transport the centrifuge only in the
upright position using the special
box provided with the instrument
and secure it properly. Place the

Mains connection

Make sure that your mains voltage and frequency
match the specifications on the instrument. Turn off the
mains switch on the back panel (push down the "0"
mark), then connect the instrument to the mains sup­ply.

Turn on the mains switch at the back of the centrifuge.

centrifuge carefully.

Before using the centrifuge, make sure that
the transport protection has been removed!

type plate with voltage

uenc

and fre

mains switch

socket for mains
cable

For a couple of seconds the following reading appears
in the control panel:

This tells you that the in­strument carries out an in­ternal check of its software.
(see table on page 44).

After this check the display changes. The values now
shown in the display panel are the ones last used.

The following figure gives an example of possible read­ings. A detailed description of possible settings is given
below.

17

Operation

In this example, the pre­set speed is 5,000 rpm
and the preset run time
is 10 min.

Opening the lid

For normal electrical unlocking, connect the centrifuge
to the mains supply, turn the mains switch on and push
the "open lid" key

.

Emergency lid release

In case of a power failure you cannot open the lid nor­mally using the "open lid" key. To permit unloading
even in this case, the centrifuge is equipped with a
mechanical lid unlocking system. However, you may
use this system only in case of emergency.

Rotor can spin at high speed!
Touching it may cause severe inju­ries!

Always wait for several minutes until
the rotor has come to a complete
stop. Without power the brake does
not function, and braking takes
much longer than normal!

Should it be necessary to open the lid manually, pro­ceed as follows using an appropriate tool:

1. Make sure the rotor stands still. (control window).

2. Unplug the mains plug.

3. Push a 7-cm end of thin wire, e.g. a bent-up paper
clip or another suitable tool, through the hole on the

18

Operation

upper right of the front panel (see figure). Push the
lock bolt back until the lid unlocks audibly. Remove
the auxiliary tool and open the lid.

4. In case the rotor still turns, close lid immediately
and wait until it has come to a complete stop.

Never brake the rotor using your
hands or tools!

5. As soon as the rotor stands still, remove your sam­ples and close the lid.

Emergency
lid release

19

Operation

Inserting the rotor

Improper or improperly combined
accessories may cause severe dam­age to the centrifuge!

Rotors which are allowed for use in a Biofuge pico cen­trifuge are detailed in the chapter "Accessories", and
only these rotors are to be used in this centrifuge.

To insert the rotor you will need the cap nut and the
socket wrench delivered with the centrifuge (see the
chapter “The Biofuge pico – Pieces delivered”).

Possible damage to drive and rotor!
You may insert the rotor only if the

temperature of the drive, the rotor
and the cap nut is between 10 °C
and 30 °C.

Proceed as follows:

1. Open the lid and make sure that the rotor chamber
and the rotor are clean. Remove eventual dust, for­eign material or sample residues. The thread and
the O-Ring on the motor shaft must be in perfect
condition.

2. Turn the rotor so that the notch for engaging the
drive shaft points downward.

3. Place the rotor on top of the drive shaft so that the
notch of the rotor is located precisely above the re­taining pin.

4. Push the rotor gently down until the thread is com­pletely laid bare (see figure).

20

Operation

5. If you have placed the rotor correctly, you can
screw on the cap nut easily and secure it with the
tubular socket wrench delivered with the instrument.

6. Place the rotor cap onto the rotor.

Do not push the rotor down using
force. If you cannot screw on the
cap nut, you must carefully lift off
the rotor and insert it again.

Regularly check the proper positioning of
the rotor and retighten the cap nut as nee­ded.

Permissible rotor temperature

The rotors are only to be used
within the temperature range from ­4oC to +40oC. Pre-cooling in the
freezer is not permitted

Lifetime of the rotor

There is no limitation on the service life of the high per­formance rotors. However please observe the following
due to safety reasons:

Rotors and accessories made of
plastic should not be exposed to
direct sunlight and UV rays!

If the rotor shows signs of discolor­ation, deformation or wear, or is out
of balance it must be exchanged
straight away!

21

Operation

Removing the rotor

To remove the rotor, you must follow the steps de­scribed above in reverse order.

With the hermetic lid, you may in case of contamination
separate the rotor from the drive without opening the
lid! In this case you can open rotor upon removal from
the centrifuge using e.g. a safety work bench before
decontaminating it.

Danger of irreparable motor damage!
Never tilt the rotor. Always grab it in

the middle and pull out perpendicu­larly.

1. Open the lid of the centrifuge.

2. Screw the cap nut open by turning it counterclock­wise using the socket wrench delivered with the in­strument. Remove the cap nut.

3. Grab the rotor in the middle and pull gently upwards
off the drive shaft. Be careful not to jam it.

Loading the rotor

Maximum loading

Overloading may cause the rotor to
explode! Exploding parts may se­verely damage the centrifuge!

Never exceed the maximum permis­sible load of 4 g per place.

The Biofuge pico can reach high rotational speeds im­plying enormous centrifugal force. The rotors are de­signed in a way warranting sufficient residual strength
even at the highest permissible speed.

However, this safety system presupposes that the
maximum permissible load of the rotor is not ex­ceeded.

If you wish to centrifuge samples that together with the
adapters exceed the maximum permissible load, you
must either reduce the sample volume or calculate the
permissible speed n
mula:

according to the following for-

perm

22

Operation

n

perm

n= ∗

max

maximum permissible load

actual load

Filling the centrifuge tubes

Check carefully whether your sam­ple vessels are permissible for the
respective g value and reduce the
speed if necessary.

The smaller the unbalance of the centrifuge, the better
the separation since separated zones are no longer
perturbed by vibration. It is therefore important to bal­ance the centrifuge tubes as well as possible.

To minimize unbalance you should fill the tubes as
evenly as possible. You can achieve this by eye. How­ever, you must nonetheless ensure that opposite tubes
are filled to the same level.

Please note that plastic sample vessels only
have a limited service life - particularly when
used at maximum rpm or temperature - and
must be replaced as necessary!

23

Operation

Aerosol-tight application

not with open container lids!

The following steps have to be carried out:

• Lubricate the seals before inserting them (lubricant

order no. 75003500)

• Insert the seal (C profile) in the groove at the side

of the body of the rotor.

• Insert the O-ring into the inner groove on the

screw-on top.

Attention :

Please check that your sample containers are suitable
for the centrifugal application desired.

(16060 x g ; temperature in uncooled devices approx.
10 K above room temperature)

Please observe the permissible filling volumes!

Nominal volume: Permissible volume:

2.0 ml - 1.5 ml

1.5 ml - 1.0 ml
others -

2

/3 nominal volume

The sealing elements are to be checked regularly for
damage to the shape and surface!
Exchange faulty parts immediately.

Spare sealing rings 75003268

24

Operation

Checking for aerosol tightness

The checking of the rotor type and bucket was done
according to the dynamic microbiological test proce­dure with regard to EN 61010-2-020 appendix AA.

The aerosol-tight bio-containment of the rotor mainly
depends on proper handling!

Check the aerosol-tight bio-containment
of your rotor whenever necessary!

It is very important that all the seals and
seal-surfaces are carefully inspected for
wear and damages like cracks, scratches
and embrittlements!

For a quick test one can check the aerosol-tight buck­ets and fixed angle rotors according to the following
procedure:

• Slightly grease all seals.

• Fill the bucket or rotor with approx. 50 ml carbon

dioxide mineral water.

• Close the bucket or rotor according to the respec-

tive handling instructions.

• Shaking the bucket releases the carbon dioxide of

the water, and an excessive pressure is built up.

• Leaks are recognized by humidity release and au-

dible disinflation of gas mix.

• Finally buckets respectively rotor, lid and lid seal

have to be dried.

25

Operation

Placing the tubes in the rotor

The rotor must be loaded symmetrically. When loading
the rotor only partially, you must ensure that opposite
bores always receive tubes of equal weight (when cen­trifuging a single sample, place a centrifuge tube e.g.
filled with water). The following figure gives examples
for proper loading.

properly loaded rotors

Improper loading can in the worst
case lead to damage to rotor and
centrifuge. Unbalance not only
causes a noisy run, but rapidly dam­ages the motor suspension.

improperly loaded rotors

When you have loaded the tubes, fasten the rotor lid
by screwing the cap nut centrally on it.

Close the lid of the centrifuge by firmly pressing it
down. There must be a clicking sound, and the lid must
be locked so that it cannot be opened manually.

26

Operation

Selecting the speed

The centrifuge can be set to a minimum of 2000 min-1
and to a maximum of 13 000 min
processor prevents higher or lower speed settings. Be­tween these extremes, you can select the speed in
steps of 100 rpm using the following procedure:

1. Press one of the "set" keys

(for a decrease) in the "speed" section of the
control panel (see also the foldout page in the co­ver).

By pressing the selected key
briefly, you increase or de­crease the speed in steps of
100 rpm. This option is sup­posed to be used for small
changes and fine tuning.

2. If you keep the key pressed, the display changes at
first slowly and after a few seconds at an acceler­ated pace.

3. Release the key as soon as you have reached the
desired value, and fine tune if necessary by repeat­edly pressing one of the keys. The digit after the
decimal point flashes for a number of seconds, then
changes to permanent display. The speed is now
stored.

-1

. The built-in micro-

(for an increase) or

Selecting the run time

You can select a run time between 1 and 99 min or
continuous operation.

Preselected run time

To predetermine the run time, proceed as follows:

1. Press one of the "set" keys
(for a decrease) in the "time" section of the con-

trol panel (see also the foldout page in the cover).

By pressing the selected key
briefly, you increase or de­crease the preset run time in
steps of 1 min. This option is
supposed to be used for small
changes and fine tuning.

2. If you keep the key pressed, the display changes at

first slowly and after a few seconds at an acceler­ated pace.

3. Release the key as soon as you have reached the

desired value, and fine tune if necessary by repeat­edly pressing one of the keys. The minute display
flashes for a number of seconds, then changes to
permanent. The run time is now stored.

(for an increase) or

27

Operation

Continuous operation

To operate the Biofuge pico in the continuous mode,
you must press the key

until the display changes to

„hd“ (for "hold").
With this setting, the centrifuge keeps running until

stopped manually.

Please note that the lifetime of plastic tubes
in particular is limited. Extended use may
damage them.

Starting the centrifuge

Once the rotor is in place, the mains switch turned on
and the lid closed, you can start the centrifuge.

Press the "start" key

in the control panel. The centri­fuge accelerates to the preselected value. Simultane­ously, the run time display starts going backward from
the preset time, giving the remaining run time in min­utes. After reaching the last minute, the display
switches to seconds remaining. During the run, the ro­tating light in the "speed" panel signals that the centri­fuge is running. During the run you cannot open the lid.

Changing the settings during the run

You can change the settings during a run. The respec­tive altered setting flashes for a couple of seconds.
Once the display changes to the continuous mode, the
new settings become operative.

28

Operation

Stopping the centrifuge

Stopping with preset time

Normally the run time has been preselected, and all
you have to do is wait until the centrifuge terminates
the run automatically. As soon as the speed is down to
zero, the display reads "End". By pressing the "open lid
" key
samples.

You can stop the centrifuge at any time by pressing the
"stop“ key

Stopping with continuous operation

If you have chosen continuous operation, you must
stop the centrifuge manually. Press the "stop" key
the control panel. The centrifuge starts braking at once
and stops within a few seconds. The display reads
"End", the electrical lid unlocking mechanism is avail­able. You can now open the lid by pressing the "open
lid" key

, you can now open the lid and remove your

.

in

and remove your samples.

Short-time centrifugation

For short-term operation, the Biofuge pico is equipped
with a "quick run" function.

Short-term centrifugation is started by pressing the
"quick run" key
key is released.

In this mode the centrifuge accelerates with full power
up to the maximum speed of 13,000 rpm unless you
release the "quick run" key
nored.

The centrifuge accelerates to the
maximum speed of 13000 min

Check carefully whether you have to
maintain a specific speed for your
application.

During acceleration the time is counted forward in sec­onds. After 60 seconds the display changes to the min­ute mode.

continuously; it stops as soon as the

The preset speed is ig-

-1

.

29

Operation

RCF value

The relative centrifugal force (RCF) is usually given in
multiples of the earth gravity g. It is a dimensionless
number that allows one to compare the efficiency of
separation or sedimentation of diverse instruments,
since it is independent of the instrument used. The only
values entered in the equation are radius and speed of
centrifugation:

2

n

⎛

⎞

RCF

.

⎜
⎝

r = radius of centrifugation in cm
n = speed in rpm

At a speed of 13000 min-1, the cen­trifuge achieves a maximum per­formance of 16060 g!

Check carefully whether your tubes
are designed for this centrifugal
force, and reduce the speed if nec­essary.

1000

∗1118

r=∗

⎟
⎠

The figure for the maximum RCF value is based on the
maximum radius of the tube.

Please note that this value becomes lower
depending on the tubes and adapters used.

You may take this into account when calculating the
RCF value for your application.

The figure on the last page of this manual gives a
graphic representation of the relation between speed
and RCF.

Apart from the maximum RCF value RCF

(lower li-

max

ne) this graph also shows the minimum RCF value
RCF

, calculated for the meniscus of the sample (up-

min

per line).

30

Operation

Turning off the centrifuge

The centrifuge is turned off by switching the main
switch into the "0"position.

The main power switch should be turned off
after a complete centrifugation run. Without
motor deceleration, it takes much longer un­til the rotor comes to a halt.

The centrifuge lid can only be opened automatically if
the centrifuge is turned on!

WEEE Compliance:

This product is required to comply with the European
Union`s Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC. It is marked with the fol­lowing symbol:

Thermo Electron has contracted with one or more re­cycling/disposal companies in each EU Member State,
and this product should be disposed of or recycled
through them. Further information on Thermo Elec­tron`s compliance with these Directives, the recyclers
in your country, and information on Thermo Electron
products wich may assist the detection of substances
subject to the RoHS Directive are available at
www.thermo.com/WEEERoHS.

31

Operation

for your notes

32

Maintenance and care

Maintenance and care

Maintenance to be performed by the
customer

For the protection of persons, environment and mate­rial you are obliged to clean the centrifuge regularly
and to disinfect it if necessary.

Unsuitable cleaning agents or disin­fection procedures may damage the
centrifuge and its accessories!

If you intend to use cleaning agents
or disinfection procedures not rec­ommended by the manufacturer,
you have to make sure by consult­ing the manufacturer, that the pro­cedure foreseen does not cause any
damages to the instrument!

Cleaning

Pull mains plug before cleaning the

Clean the casing, the rotor chamber, the rotor and the
accessories regularly and in case of need. This is indi­cated both for reasons of hygiene and to prevent cor­rosion due to contamination sticking to the instrument
and its accessories.

Clean them with mild agents of pH values ranging from
6 to 8.

Immediately after cleaning, dry the aluminum parts or
put them into a warm-air dryer at a temperature not ex­ceeding 50°C.

instrument!

During cleaning liquids and espe­cially organic solvents should not
come into contact with the drive
shaft and the ball bearing.

Organic solvents may decompose
the lubricant of the motor bearing.
The drive shaft may block.

33

Maintenance and care

Disinfection

If a centrifuge tube containing infectious material leaks
during a run, you have to disinfect the centrifuge im­mediately.

Infectious material could enter the centri­fuge if spills or tube breakage occur

Danger of infection may occur upon con-

! Take appropriate protective meas-

tact
ures for personnel!

Mind the permissible filling volumes and
loading limits for the tubes

In case of contamination the operator has
to make sure, that no further persons are
jeopardized

Contaminated parts have to be decon­taminated immediately

If required further protective measures
have to be initiated

!

.

!

.

.

Rotor and rotor chamber must be treated with a neu­tral, universal disinfectant. Best suited for this purpose
are disinfectant sprays, ensuring that all rotor and ac­cessory surfaces are covered evenly.

Please note the safety measures
and handling hints when applying
these substances!

• You may disinfect the rotor and the accessories as

described in the following section. Be sure to follow
the pertinent safety procedures for handling infec­tious material.

1. Pull mains plug.

2. Unscrew the rotor chuck.

3. Grab the rotor with both hands and pull it perpen-

dicularly off the drive shaft.

34

Maintenance and care

4. Remove the centrifuge tubes and adapters, and dis­infect them or dispose of them as necessary.

5. Treat the rotor and the rotor lid according to the in­structions given for the disinfectant (soaking in liq­uid or spraying). You must strictly observe the
specified action times!

6. Turn the rotor head down and drain off the disinfec­tant. Thereafter thoroughly rinse rotor and lid with
water.

7. Dispose of the disinfectant according to valid regu­lations.

8. Aluminum rotors have to be treated with anticorro­sive protective oil subsequently.

Disinfection with bleaching lye

These agents contain highly aggres­sive hypochlorites and must not be
used with aluminum rotors!

The following precautionary measures are to be taken
for extensive protection of the 7500 3327 and
7500 3328 rotors:

1. Avoid high temperatures!
The bleaching solution and the rotor should not be
warmer than ca. 25 °C.

2. Do not let the bleaching solution act longer than ab­solutely necessary!

3. After disinfection, rinse the rotor thoroughly with dis­tilled water and allow to dry.

35

Maintenance and care

Decontamination

For general radioactive decontamination, use a solu­tion of equal parts of 70% ethanol, 10% SDS and wa­ter. Follow this with ethanol rinses, then de-ionized wa­ter rinses, and dry with a soft absorbent cloth.

Dispose of all washing solutions in appro­priate radioactive waste containers!

Autoclaving

Check whether autoclaving is permitted!

You may autoclave the rotor and the adapters at
121 °C.

Maximum permissible autoclaving cycle:
20 min at 121 °C.

For safety reasons, the 7500 3327 and
7500 3328 rotors must only be subjected
to a maximum of 10 autoclavings!

The rotor must be cleaned and rinsed with distilled wa­ter before being autoclaved. Remove the rotor lid, the
centrifuge tubes and the adapters. Place plastic rotors
on an even surface to avoid deformation.

Chemical additives to the steam are not
permitted.

Never exceed the maximum permis­sible values for autoclaving tem­perature and autoclaving time.

Should the rotor show signs of
wear, you must stop using it!

36

Maintenance and care

The Thermo Electron Service offer

Thermo Electron recommends annual servicing of the
centrifuge and the accessories by authorized customer
service or trained professionals. The customer service
personnel is inspecting:

• the electrical installations

• the suitability of the location

• the lid lock mechanism and the safety circuit

• the rotor

• the rotor fastening and the drive shaft

Defective material is exchanged.
Thermo Electron offers inspection and service con-

tracts covering it. Inspection costs are charged as flat­rate contracts.

Necessary repairs are carried out free of cost within
the warranty conditions, and against payment after ex­piration of the warranty period.

Warranty conditions

The warranty period starts with the day of delivery.
Within the warranty period the centrifuge is repaired or
replaced free of cost if there are provable faults in ma­terials or workmanship.

Conditions for a warranty are:

• the centrifuge is used according to the instructions

of use

• mounting, extensions, settings, alterations or re-

pairs are carried out exclusively by personnel au­thorized by Thermo Electron

• the required maintenance and care procedures are

carried out regularly.

37

Maintenance and care

for your notes

38

Troubleshooting

Problems you can handle yourself

If problems other than those described in the following tables arise, you must consult your nearest

Error Behavior of the centrifuge Possible cause(s) and measures to be taken

authorized service.

Troubleshooting

Displays remain
dark

Displays fail
briefly

The motor stops.
The rotor stops without braking.
The lid cannot be opened.

The motor stops suddenly.
The rotor stops without braking.
The display reads "br", see br.

Mains failure or not connected

1. Is the mains switch turned on?

2. Check the mains connection.

3. If the mains connection is OK, call your nearest Service.

Brief interruption of mains supply

1. Check whether the plug is plugged in properly.

2. Wait for 75 seconds.

3. Restart the centrifuge

39

Troubleshooting

Error Behavior of the centrifuge Possible cause(s) and measures to be taken
Lid cannot be

opened

Pressing the "open lid" key has
no effect

- Centrifuge is exceptionally noisy.

br Instruments stops without brak-

ing.

A) Lid not correctly engaged or lid warped.

1. Check whether the mains supply is OK and the instrument is
switched on (displays lit).

2. Press the lid down on the right-hand front end and actuate
the "open lid" key once again.

3. In case these measures have not the desired effect, you may
open the lid with the emergency lid release. (see page 18).

B) Heat monitoring relays in the lid unlocking magnets ha-

ve been actuated.

Press the key again after waiting for about 1 min.

1. Stop the centrifuge by pressing the "stop" key

, in case of

emergency pull mains plug.

2. Wait until the centrifuge stands still.

3. Check whether the rotor is properly loaded

4. Check whether a broken vessel, damage to the rotor or mo­tor malfunction was responsible for the noise.

5. If you cannot locate and solve the problem, call Service.

There was a short mains failure, or the instrument was switched
off during the run.

Wait for about 75 seconds; the instrument is then again ready for
use.

40

Error Behavior of the centrifuge Possible cause(s) and measures to be taken

Troubleshooting

E-0

E-8

Motor does not start

Overvoltage or over-current at
the U/F converter

E-10

Wrong check sum in the NV­RAM

E-11 Error in data transfer from NV-

RAM

Motor or rotor blocked.

1. Switch the instrument off and on again with the mains switch.

2. Open the lid.

3. Check whether the transport protection has been removed.
If you cannot solve the problem, call nearest Service.

Mains voltage outside tolerance. Brake resistance defective.
Switch the instrument off and on again. If the problem persists,

call Service.
Switch the instrument off and on again. If the problem persists,

call Service.

Switch the instrument off and on again. If the problem persists,
call Service.

41

Troubleshooting

Error Behavior of the centrifuge Possible cause(s) and measures to be taken
Message "Lid"

appears in the
display

Display "OP“
appears al­though lid is
closed

Motor stops.
Rotor comes to a stop without

braking.

Start impossible

A) The lid was manually opened during the run.

1. Press the lid shut. The instrument comes to a stop without
braking.

2. If you want to continue the centrifugation, you must switch
the instrument off and on again. The message "br" is dis­played and the centrifuge brakes (see br).

B) The excess temperature safety circuit of the motor has

been actuated

1. Pull mains plug.

2. Control ventilation slots underneath the instrument and clean
if necessary.

3. After 20 min you can start the instrument again.

4. If the safety circuit is again actuated, call Service.

A) The lid is not properly closed

Press the lid forcefully down on the right-hand front part.

B) The excess temperature safety circuit of the motor has

been actuated

1. Pull mains plug.

2. Control ventilation slots underneath the instrument and clean
if necessary.

3. After 20 min you can start the instrument again.

4. If the safety circuit is again actuated, call Service.

42

Troubleshooting

43

Troubleshooting

In case you must call the Service

Should you require our Service, please tell us the order
no. and serial number of the instrument. You find the
pertinent information at the back of the instrument near
the socket for the mains plug.

Moreover it is helpful for our service technician to know
the valid software version. You can determine the soft­ware version as follows:

1. Switch the instrument off.

2. Switch the instrument on.
The display reads 888 88 for a couple of seconds.

Subsequently, the display may read e.g. the follow­ing readings for 2 seconds each:

Software number
Software version
NV-RAM number
NV-RAM-version

047 8_

_01

104 1_

_01

The values shown above are just examples. Your read­ings may be different. In the example shown here the
values mean the following:

• Software 0478 version 01

• NV-Ram 1041 version 01

44

for your notes

Troubleshooting

45

Technical data

Technical data

Component parts and performance

Part / function Description
Body Sheet steel with fitted plastic chassis

Keys and display panel Keys and display panel covered with easy care protective foil
Operation "Easycontrol" system
Rotor chamber Dimensions (diameter x height): 188 mm x 63 mm
Rotor chamber Up to 48 ml of spilled liquids are retained in the rotor chamber and cannot

enter the instrument.
Lid lock Automatic locking when the lid is pressed shut
Lid opening Electromagnetic release via the "open lid" key when connected to mains
Emergency lid release Lid release in case of power failure: emergency opening with auxiliary tool.

46

Function / parameter Value
environmental conditions - indoor use

- max. elevation 2000 m above sea level

- max. relative humidity 80 % up to 31 °C; linearly decreasing down to

50 % relative humidity at 40 °C.

Permissible temperature of the environment +2 °C to +40 °C

Technical data

Maximum speed n
Maximum RCF value at n
Minimum speed n

13 000 min-1

max

16 060

max

2 000 min-1

min

Maximum kinetic energy 1,65 kNm
Permissible temperature of the rotor -4 °C to +40 °C
Maximum sample temperature after 30 min

room temperature + 15 K

run time
Noise 56 dB (A) at maximum speed
Dimensions (H x W x D) 206 mm x 233 mm x 335 mm
Weight without rotor 9,8 kg

47

Technical data

48

Technical data

The "Easycontrol" user interface

Function Performance
Start Start key ( )

Stop Stop key ( )
Short-term start and stop, respectively „Quick run“ key ( ): short-term run when pressed permanently; stop

when released

Mode of operation display Turning rotor is signalled by rotating light (LED display) in the speed pa-

nel.
End of run The speed display reads "end"
Cycle counter

Number of cycles is displayed upon pressing the two keys

below the

speed display.
Digital parameter display

• speed

• run time

Speed selection adjustable in steps of 100 min-1 in the range of 2000 min-1 to 13000 min-1
Run time selection adjustable in minutes from 1 min to 99 min; „hd“-mode: continuous opera-

tion
Time display in „quick run“ mode between 1 s and 60 s in seconds, over 1 min in minutes

49

Technical data

Function Performance
Parameter memory

• speed

• time

Function Performance
Diagnostic messages

• lid not properly closed: display „OP“

• general malfunction

(ERROR Codes, see page 39)

Testing standards
230V instruments
Manufactured and tested in accordance with

120 / 100V instruments
Manufactured and tested in accordance with

EN 61 010-1, EN 61 010-2-020
EN 61326 (+ EN 61000-3-2/A14:2000-6)
EN 55011 B

IEC 61010-1:1990 + amendment 1:1992 + amendment 2:1995
IEC 61010-2-020:1993 + amendment 1:1996
CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010-1.92
CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 1010-1.B97 amendment 2

50

Technical data

Electrical connections / fuses

Order no. Voltage Frequency Nominal current Power consumption Fuses inside instrument *
7500 3235 230 V 50/60 Hz 1,1 A 150 W 2 x 2 A slow-blow

(5 x 20 mm)

7500 3236 110/120 V 60 Hz 2 A 150 W 2 x 4 A slow-blow

(6.3 x 32 mm)

* The fuse may be replaced only by authorized servicing personnel!

51

Technical data

for your notes

52

Index

A

acceleration 8
accessories

cap nut 9
rotor 11
tubular socket wrench 9

aerosol-tightness

test 25
aluminum rotor: 35
autoclaving 36
autoclaving cycle

permissible maximum 36

Index

during run 28
cleaning 33
common glass or plastic centrifuge tubes 4
conditions of warranty 37
contamination

necessary measures 34
continuous operation 29
control panel

readings 8
corrosion 4
corrosive substances

protective tubes for corrosive substances 4
cycle counter 47

D

C

cap nut

for fixing rotor 9

centrifuge tubes

types 11
volume range 11

centrifuging cycles

display 47

changing settings

damage

symbol for potential 5
dangerous chemicals 3
decontamination 34
disinfectant 34
disinfection 4

procedure 34
disinfection with bleaching lye 35
display

during run 28
displays

53

Index

brief failure 39
not lit 39

E

EC Guidelines 5
electrical connections 49
emergency lid release 7
emergency release

lid 7

error messages

„br“ 40
„E-0“ 41
„E-10“ 41
„E-11“ 41
„E-8“ 41
„lid 42
„OP“ with lid closed 42

F

fine tuning

run time 27

speed setting 27
first steps 15
fixed-angle rotor 11
formula

maximum permissible load 22
frequency 15
fuses 49

H

handling the centrifuge 4
hazardous substances 3
hazards

symbols used for 5
hints

symbol for 5

I

icons

for denoting dangers and potential damage 5
infectious material

precautions in case of tube breakage 34
Instructions for use

delivered with instrument 9
items delivered 9

54

Index

K

key

"quick run" 8
"set" 8

keys

general operation 8

L

lid

blockage 40
lid lock mechanism 7
lid open during run

warning 7
lid opening 18
lid release

emergency 7

M

mains connection 15

fuses 49
mains switch 17
maintenance 33
manual lid release 18
manual stop 29

maximum permissible load

formula for 22
maximum sample density 3
mechanical lid release 18

O

opening the lid 18
operation

continuous 29

preselected run time 27

short-time 29
organic solvents

not allowed for cleaning 33
overloading

dangers implied 22

P

partial loading

of rotor 26
pathogenic microorganisms

protection against 4
permissible speed 22
power on 17
power supply 15
problems

55

Index

handling of 39

protective tubes

for corrosive substances 4

Q

quick run function 29
quick run key 8

R

radius of centrifugation

for calculation of RCF value 30
RCF value 30
readings

of control panel during run 8
relative centrifugal force 30
rotor

cap nut for fixing 9

loading 26

partial loading 26

removal 22
rotor cap 21
rotor insertion

temperature 20
run time

continuous operation 28

fine tuning 27
range 27
setting 27

RZB-Wert 12

S

safety instructions 3
safety measures 3
safety standards 5
safety systems

built-in 7

safety zone 3

30 cm around centrifuge 15

sample density

maximum 3
service 37
service contracts 37
set keys 8
setting

run time 27
short-time operation 29
socket wrench 9
software check

internal 17
software version

determination 43
speed

fine tuning 27

56

Index

permissible 22

speed of centrifugation

for calculation of RCF value 30
speed setting 27
stopping 29
substructure 15
symbols

for hazards and dangers 5

T

temperature of the environment

permissible 46
temperature range for rotor

permissible 46
test

aerosol-tightness 25
toxins

protection against 4
transport

precautions for 17
tube

breakage with infectious material 34

tubes

types 11
volume range 11

Turning the centrifuge off 31

U

unbalance 23

V

voltage 15

W

warning

lid open during run 7
warranty conditions 37
wear 4

57

Index

58

Autoclaving protocol

Autoclaving protocol

1 Date Remark Operator Signature
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10

59

Speed / RCF diagrams for PCR-Rotor 7500 3327

100000

13000

10000

speed [rpm]

1000

60

r
r

100

10 100 1000 10000 100000

RCF [x g]

12846

= 4,7 cm

min

= 6,8 cm

max

Speed / RCF diagrams for 24 x 2ml Rotor 7500 3328

100000

13000

10000

speed [rpm]

1000

r
r

100

10 100 1000 10000 100000

RCF [x g]

16060

= 5,9 cm

min

= 8,5 cm

max

61

62

International contacts

Europe, Middle East and Africa

Thermo Electron Corporation · Robert-Bosch-Straße 1 · D-63505 Langenselbold
Phone [phone] / 90 69 40 · Fax [phone] / 90 74 74 · E-Mail [e-mail]

Asia Pacific

Thermo Electron Corporation · 275 Aiken Road · Asheville, NC 28804 · USA
Phone [phone] · Fax [phone] · E-Mail [e-mail]

Latin America

Thermo Electron Corporation · 275 Aiken Road · Asheville, NC 28804 · USA
Phone [phone] · Fax [phone] · E-Mail [e-mail]

North America

Thermo Electron Corporation · 275 Aiken Road · Asheville, NC 28804 · USA
Phone [phone] · Fax [phone] · E-Mail [e-mail]

Internet http://www.thermo.com

Thermo Electron Corporation
Robert-Bosch-Straße 1
D-63505 Langenselbold
Phone: [phone] / 90 60 00
Fax: [phone] / 90 70 00

In the interest of continuous product
development, we reserve the right to make
changes without express notice.

20057861 Pico-NEU_uk 11/05
Printed in Germany