Labnet Spectrafuge 16M User Manual

C0160

Spectrafuge 16M Microcentrifuge

User Manual

C0160-100V
C0160-230V

Lit Code: M00001 Rev 2 August 2016

About This Manual

This manual is designed to as sist you in the optimal usage of your Labnet 16M
Microcentrifuge. The manual is available in English, French, German, Italian,
Portuguese, and Spanish on our website at:

www.labnetinternational.com/document-center

Safety Precautions
NEVER use the centrifuge in any manner not specified in these instruct ions.
NEVER operate the centrifuge without a rotor properly attached to the shaft.
NEVER fill tubes while they are in the rotor. L iquid spillage may harm unit.
NEVER put hands in the rotor area unless the rotor is completely stopped.
NEVER move the centrifuge while the rotor is spinning.
NEVER use solvents or flammables near this or other electrical equipment.
NEVER centrifuge flammable, explosive or corrosive materials
NEVER centrifuge hazardous materials outside of a hood or proper containment

facility
ALWAYS load the rotor symmetrically. Each tube should be counterba lanced by

another tube of the same type and weight

ALWAYS locate the centrifuge within easy access to an electrical outlet.
ALWAYS use only microcentrifuge tubes made from plastic and designed to

withstand centrifugal forces of at least 16,000 x g.

Table of Contents

General Information 1
Description

Safety Precautions
Technical Data
Accessories supplied with unit

Installation 2
Unpacking the centrifuge

Required space
Installing the centrifuge

Rotor and Rotor Maintenance 2
Rotors and accessories

Rotor maintenance
Mounting and securing the angle rotors
Removing the rotor
Overloading rotors

Operation 5
Closing the lid

Lid release
Lid lock
Speed selection
Selection of operating time and momentary operation

Service and Maintenance 7
Service

Cleaning
Disinfection
Replacing fuses

Troubleshooting 8
Where to call

Determination of g-values

Relative Centrifugal Force 9
Symbols and Conventions 10
Warranty 11

General Information:

This manual provides important safety information for the Spectrafuge 16M
laboratory microcentrifuge. It should be kept near the centrifuge for quick and
easy reference.

Description

The Spectrafuge 16M is a small benchtop centrifuge designed for separati on of
various research samples. The motor is brushless and requires no routine
maintenance. The Spectrafuge 16M is supplied with an 18 x 1.5ml rotor for
micro samples. Adapters are available for tubes smaller than 1.5ml. The
Spectrafuge 16M reaches speeds of up to 14,000rpm/16,000 x g.

Safety precautions

Note: All users of the centrifuge must read the Safety Precautions section of this
manual before attempting to operate the unit!

If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the
manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be
impaired.

Do not operate the centrifuge if any of the following conditions exist:

-The centrifuge has not been installed properly

-The centrifuge is partially dismantled

-Service has been attempted by unauthorized or unqualified personnel

-The rotor has not been insta lled securely on the motor shaft

-Rotors and accessor ies no t belonging to the standard range are being used
without permission being obtained from the manufacturer to use such rotors
and/or accessories in the centrifuge
Exception: Microcentr ifuge tubes made of plastic, normally available in the
laboratory.

-The centrifuge is located in an explosive atmosphere

-Materials to be centrifuged are combustible and/or explosive

-Materials to be centrifuged are chemically reactive

-The rotor load is not properly balanced

Technical data

Dimensions

Width 8.25 inches
Depth 8.9 inches

Height 7.6 inches
Maximum speed 14,000rpm
Maximum RCF 16,000 x g
Maximum volume 18 x 1.5/2.0ml
Admiss. density 1.2kg/dm3
Electrical/fuse rating 120V~, 50-60Hz, 1.0A/2.5AT

230V~, 50-60Hz, 0.6A/1.25AT

1

Accessories supplied with centrifuge

Each unit is supplied with 1 instruction manual and 1 power cord. Some models
are supplied with a rotor screw wrench.

Installation

Unpacking the centrifuge

Before unpacking the centrifuge, inspect the outside of the carton for any
shipping damage. The centrifuge is delivered in a carton with protective
cushions. Remove the centrifuge from the carton. Retain the carton and cushions
until it has been established that the centrifuge is working properly. Inspect the
centrifuge for any v isible signs of shipping damage. Shipping damage is the
responsibility of the transportation carrier. Any claims for damage must be filed
within 48 hours. The accessories supplied with the centrifuge should be kept with
the instruction manual near the centrifuge’s place of installation.

Required space

The centrifuge should be installed on a rigid, even surface such as a stable
laboratory bench, cabinet, etc. To guarantee sufficient ventilation, ensure that the
centrifuge has at least 15cm (6 inches) of free space on all sides, including the
rear. The centrifuge should not be located in areas subject to excessive heat
such as in direct sunlight or near radiators or the exhaust of a compressor, as a
buildup of heat may occur within the chamber.

Installation

Make certain that the timer is set to the off position. Before operating the
centrifuge, check that the power source corresponds to that on the
manufacturer’s rating label, then connect the power cord to the centrifuge and
the power source.

ATTENTION: The timer must be in the OFF position before connecting
the power cord. Failing to place the timer in the off position may result in
damage to the centrifuge and injury to personnel.

Rotors and rotor maintena nce

Rotors and accessories

The following accessories are available for the Spectrafuge 16M :

Angle rotor for 18 x 1.5ml tubes

Order no. Included with unit
Tube measurem ent 1.5ml (10 x 40mm)
Max. speed 14,000rpm
Centrifuging radius 7.3cm
RCF (g-value) 16,000 x g

2

Adapter for 0.5ml tubes

Order no. C1205
Tube measurem ent 8 x 30mm
Max. speed 14,000rpm
Centrifuging radius 6.6cm
RCF (g-value) 14,462 x g

Adapter for 0.4ml tubes

Order no. C1206
Tube measurem ent 6 x 47mm
Max. speed 14,000rpm
Centrifuging radius 7.3cm
RCF (g-value) 16,000 x g

Adapter for 0.2ml tubes

Order no. C1222
Tube measurem ent 6 x 21mm
Max. speed 14,000rpm
Centrifuging radius 6.1cm
RCF (g-value) 13,366 x g

Rotor maintenance

The rotor should be cleaned thoroughly after each use. Thorough cleaning must
be performed when spinning samples containing phenol or phenol chloroform.
Periodically inspect the rotor for dents, dings, scratches, discoloration and cracks.
If any damage to the rotor is found, discontinue use of the rotor immediately and
replace.

Mounting and securing the angle rotor

Remove the rotor screw from the motor shaft by turning the screw
counterclockwise. Clean the motor shaft and the rotor mounting hole (see figures
1&2). Place the rotor on the motor shaft ensuring that the cross-pin (figure 1)
aligns correctly with the rotor slot (see figure 2). Note: Figures 1 and 2 are
located on the following page. Reinstall the rotor screw on the motor shaft by
turning it clockwise. Hold the rotor with one hand and hand-tighten the rotor
screw. Use an adjustable or 1/4 inch wrench (some units are supplied with a
wrench) to tighten the screw When loading the rotor, refer to figure 3 (located on
page 5). Loading in the pattern ind icated will ensure a balanced load. Tubes to
be loaded should be filled equally by eye. The difference in the weight between
the tubes should not exceed 0.1 gram. A partially loaded rotor may be
centrifuged if the loading scheme for balancin g a rotor given in figure 3 is
followed.

3

Figure 1. Chamber and motor shaft

Figure 2. Bottom of angle rotor

Figure 3. Loading the rotor

4

Removing the rotor

Using an adjustable or 1/4 inch wrench (some units are supplied with a wrench)
loosen the screw and remove the rotor retaining screw/washer assembly by
turning it counterc lockwise. Lift the rotor directly upward in a straight vertical
motion.
Caution: Be sure to secure the rotor screw and tighten with a wrench before
further operation.

Overloading rotors

The maximum load of the r otor and the maximum speed have been established
by the manufacturer. Do not attempt to exceed these values. The maximum
speed of the rotor has been measured for liquids having a hom ogeneous density
of 1.2g/ml or less. In order to centrifuge liquids with a higher density it is
necessary to reduce the speed. Failure to reduce the speed may result in
damage to the rotor and centrifuge. The revised maximum speed can be
calculated with the following formula:

Reduced speed (n

) x max speed (n

red

max

)

Example:
Where the density of the liquid is 1.7, the new maximum speed would be
calculated as follows:

n

= x 14,000 = 9,882 rpm

red

If in doubt concerning maximum speeds, please contact the manufacturer for
assistance.

Operation

ATTENTION: Never attempt to operate the centrifuge with rotor s or
adapters that show signs of corrosion or mech anical damage.
Never centrifuge strongly corrosive materials that may damage the

rotors or accessories.
Closing the lid

After the rotor has been proper ly secured and loaded, close the ce ntrifuge lid,
making sure that the interlock has been engaged.

Figure 4. Spectrafuge 16M Control panel layout

5

Lid release

Once the run has been completed and the rotor come to a stop, the lid will open
automatically. If the lid does not open automatically, press the lid button. Note
that the lid button will not operate while the rotor is spinning.

WARNING: Do not attempt to open the lid of any centrifuge until the rotor
has come to a compl ete stop.

In the event of a power failure or malfunction, it may be necessary to open the lid
manually.

1. Disconnect the power cord from the wall socket.

2. Remove the plastic plug, located on the left side of the unit, below the quick
button.

3. Pull the cord (attached to the plug) to open the lid lock manually.

Lid lock

The centrifuge can be started only with the lid securely closed. When the rotor
begins to accelerate, the lid l ock indicator light turns on and the lid button
becomes inoperable. Do not attempt to open the lid until the lid lock indicator
turns off. At the end of the run, the lid will automatically open.

Speed selection

The speed (rpm) can be selected to 14,000rpm with the knob labeled “speed”.
The scale is directly proportional to the speed - a setting of 9 corresponds to
9,000rpm, a setting of 13 corresponds to a speed of 13,000rpm, etc.

Selection of operating time and momentary operation

Operation of the centrifuge begins when the timer knob is turned clockwise to set
a run time. For run times less than 5 minutes, turn the knob clockwise past the
halfway point and then coun terclockwise to the desired time. For run times longer
than 5 minutes, turn the knob clockwise to the desired time.

When the preselected time expires, the centrifuge will stop automatically. To stop
the centrifuge prior to the expiration of set time, turn the timer knob to the zero
position.

The centrifuge may be operated manually by pressing and holding the quick
button. The centrifuge will continue to run as long as the button is depressed.

Some models are equipped with a timer that includes a hold position. Continuous
operation of these models may be achieved by turning the timer knob firmly to
the left. The centrifuge will continue to operate until the knob is turned to the zero
position.

Note: The timer knob may be turned in either direction during operation of the
centrifuge without damage to the timer mechanism.

6

Serv ice and Maintenance

Centrifuge service

The brushless motor in the Spectrafuge 16M requires no routine maintenance.
Any required service should be performed by authorized, qualified personnel only.
Repairs performed by unauthorized personnel may void the warranty.

Cleaning the centrifuge

Always keep the centrifuge housing, rotor chamber, rotor and rotor accessories
clean. All parts should be wiped down periodically with a soft cloth. For more
thorough cleaning, use a neutral cleaning agent (pH between 6 and 8) applied
with a soft cloth. Excessive amounts of liquid should be avoided. Liquid should
not come into contact with the motor. After cleaning, ensure that all parts are
dried thoroughly by hand or in a warm air cabinet (maximum temperature 50ºC).

Cleaning the rotor

The rotor should be cleaned after each use. When spinning 8 samples containing
phenol or phenol chloroform, the rotor should be cleaned immediately after use.

Disinfection

Should a spill of infectious materials occur within the rotor or chamber, the unit
should be disinfected. This should be performed by qualified personnel with
proper protective equipment.

Replacing fuses

Check the fuse when it is recom mended in the Troubleshooting Guide located in
this manual. The fuse holder is located in the power inlet on the rear of the unit.
Disconnect the power cord from the power inlet. Open the fuse holder drawer by
inserting a small screwdriver under the tab and prying it open. Remove the
innermost (operative) fuse from its retaining tabs and replace the fuse if
necessary. A spare fuse is located in the outermost chamber of the fuse drawer.
Replace only with a fuse of exactly the same value as the original. (Fuse type
may be found in the Technical data section of this manual.)

7

Troubl eshooting Guid e

Please refer to this gu ide before calling for service.

Centrifuge will not start

Possible reason: No power supply
Solution: Check that power is being supplied to the outlet

Check that the power cord is plugged into both the
wall outlet and the back of the centrifuge
Check that power cord is not damaged

Possible reason: Blown fuse
Solution: Check fuse and replace if necessary

Lid lock will not release

Possible reason: Defective lid lock
Solution: Open manually and have unit serviced

Possible reason: No power from PC board
Solution: Call for service

Possible reason: Lid lock is jammed
Solution: Call for service

Possible reason: Centrifuge is not receiving power
Solution: See “Centrifuge will not start”

Centrifuge cannot be started, although power is on

Possible reason: Lid not closed correctly
Solution: Close lid correctly
Possible reason: No speed or time has been selected
Solution: Set speed and/or time

Where to call

Should you have any questions about the Spectrafuge 16M or its accessories,
please call Labnet’s Customer Service Department at 732 417- 0700. Customer
Service is staffed from 8:30am to 5:30pm, EST, Monday through Friday. Our 24
hour fax number is 732 417-1750. Inquiries may also be sent via our electronic
mailbox at [e-mail].

Should your Spectrafuge 16M require service, please call Labnet’s Technical
Services Department at 732 417-0700. Our Service Department is staffed from
8:30am to 5:00pm, EST, Monday through Friday. Our 24 hour fax number is 732
417-1750. Electronic mail may be sent to [e-mail].

Please have the unit’s serial number (located on the back panel of the
instrument) available when calling. Should an item require return to Labnet for
service, a repair return authorization (RA) number must first be received from
Labnet. Items sent without an RA number will not be accepted.

8

Determination of g-values

The centrifuging radius of the 1.5ml rotor is 7.3cm. See the “Rotor and
accessories” section for the correct radius when using adapters and smaller
tubes. The “Relative Centrifugal Force” chart can be used to determine g-values.

To use this chart, find the radius value on the radius scale. Place the edge of a ruler on
the value. Place the right side edge of the ruler on the speed scale at the desired speed.
The estimated RCF can then be read from the RCF scale where the ruler edge passes
through it. This chart can also be used to determine the proper speed for th e desired
RCF value.

9

Symbols and Conventions:

The following chart is an illustrated glossary of the symbols that may be used in
this manual or on the product.

The electrical warning indicates the presence of a potential hazard which could
result in electric al shock.

CAUTION This symbol ref ers you to important operating and maint enance
(servicing) instructions within the product Instruction Manual. Failure to heed this
informati on may present a risk of damage or injury to persons or equipment.

This symbol identifies a Protective Earth (PE) terminal, which is provided for
connection of the supply system’s protective earth (gr een or green/yellow)
conductor.

EQUIPMENT DISPOS AL-EUROPEAN REGULATIONS

According to Directive 2012/19/EU of the European
Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on waste
electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), Labnet
Spectrafuge 16M Centrifuge is marked with the crossed-out
wheeled bin and must not be disposed of with domestic
waste.

Consequently, the buyer shall follow the instructions for reuse
and recycling of waste electronic and electrical equipment
(WEEE) provided with the products and available at the
following link: www.corning.com/weee

10

LIMITED WARRANTY

Labnet International Inc. warrants that this product will be free from defects in material
and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from date of purchase. This warranty is
valid only if the product is used for its intended purpose and within the guidelines
specified in the supplied instruction manual.

Should this product require service, contact Labnet’s Service department at 732-417­0700 to receive a return authorization number and shipping instructions. Products
received without proper authorization will be returned. All items returned for service
should be sent postage prepaid in the original packaging or other suitable carton,
padded to avoid damage. Labnet International Inc. will not be responsible for damage
incurred by improper packaging. Labnet may elect for onsite service for larger
equipment.

This warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, neglect, misuse, improper
service, natural forces or other causes not arising from defects in original material or
workmanship. This warranty does not cover motor brushes, fuses, light bulbs, batteries
or damage to paint or finish. Claims for transit damage should be filed with the
transportation carrier.

ALL WARRANTIES INCLUDING THE IMPLIED W ARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A P ARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE LIMITED IN DURATION O F 12
MONTHS FROM THE ORIGINAL DATE OF PURCHASE.

LABNET’S SOLE OBLIGATION UNDER THIS WARRANTY IS LIMITED TO THE
REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT, AT LABNET INTERNATIONAL INC.’S. DISCRETION,
OF A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT. LABNET INTERNATIONAL, INC. IS NOT LIABLE FOR
INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE, COMMERCIAL LOSS OR ANY
OTHER DAMAGES RESULTING FROM THE USE OF THIS PRODUCT.

Some states do not allow limitation on the length of implied warranties or the exclusion
or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific
legal rights. You may have other rights which vary from state to state.

No individual may accept for, or on behalf of Labnet International Inc., any other
obligation of liability, or extend the period of this warranty.

Please register your product online at:

www.labnetinternational.com

Warranty/Disclaimer: Unless otherwise specified, all products are for research use only . Not
intended for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Labnet International makes no claims
regarding the performance of these products for clinical or diagnostic applications.

11

NOTES

31 Mayfield Ave. Edison, NJ 08837
P: [phone] F: [phone]
Toll Free: 888-522-6381

[e-mail]

www.labnetinternational.com

9299560000