Instruction Manual
Labnet
Spectrafuge 24D Microcentrifuge
Labnet International
PO Box 841
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Phone: 732 417-0700
Fax: 732 417-1750
email: labnet@labnetlink.com
Copyright September 2002, Labnet International.
All rights reserved.
Reproduction without prior written permission is prohibited.
Information contained herein is subject to change without notice.
Safety Precautions
NEVER use the centrifuge in any manner not specified in these instruc-
tions.
NEVER operate the centrifuge without a rotor properly attached to the
shaft.
NEVER fill tubes while they are in the rotor. Liquid 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 equip-
ment.
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 counterbal-
anced 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 16,500 xg.
Table of Contents
1. General Information 1
Description
Safety precautions
Technical data
Accessories supplied with unit
Warranty
2. Installation 2
Unpacking the centrifuge
Required space
Installing the centrifuge
3. Installing the Rotor 3
Rotors and accessories
Rotor maintenance
Removing and installing the angle rotor
Loading the rotor
Overloading rotors
4. Operation 6
Attaching rotor lid
Closing the lid
Lid release
Lid lock
Speed selection (RPM / g force)
Selection of operating time, momentary operation, Start/Stop
5. Service and Maintenance 8
Service
Cleaning
Disinfection
Replacing fuses
6. Troubleshooting 9
7. Where to Call 11
8. Determination of g-values 12
1. General Information
This manual provides important safety information for the Spectrafuge 24D
laboratory microcentrifuge. It should be kept near the centrifuge for quick
and easy reference.
1.1 Description
The Spectrafuge 24D is a small benchtop centrifuge designed for
separation of various research samples. The motor is brushless and
requires no routine maintenance. The Spectrafuge 24D is supplied
with a 24 x 1.5/2.0ml rotor for micro samples. Adapters are avail-
able for tubes smaller than 1.5ml. The Spectrafuge 24D reaches
speeds of up to 13,300rpm/16,300 x g.
1.2 Safety precautions
Note: All users of the centrifuge must read the Safety Pre-
cautions 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 person-
nel
-The rotor has not been installed securely on the motor shaft
-Rotors and accessories not belonging to the standard range are
being used without permission being obtained from the manufac-
turer to use such rotors and/or accessories in the centrifuge
Exception: Microcentrifuge tubes made of plastic, normally avail-
able 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
!
1
Notes
1.3 Technical data
Dimensions
Width 9.25 inches
Depth 11.5 inches
Height 8.5 inches
Maximum speed 13,300rpm
Maximum RCF 16,300 x g
Maximum volume 24 x 1.5/2.0ml
Admissible sample density 1.2kg/dm
3
Electrical/fuse rating 120V~, 50-60Hz, 1.3A, 2.5 AT
230V~, 50-60Hz, 0.7A, 1.25 AT
Operating temp./humidity +4ºC to 35ºC - 80%RH
1.4 Accessories supplied with centrifuge
Each unit is supplied with 1 instruction manual, 1 warranty card
1 power cord, a standard rotor and a rotor removal tool.
1.5 Warranty
This centrifuge has been subjected to thorough testing and quality
control. In the unlikely event of a manufacturing fault, our one
year warranty (from the date of delivery) covers the centrifuge
and the rotor. This warranty becomes invalid in the case of
incorrect operation, use of nonstandard spare parts or accesso-
ries and unauthorized modification of the rotor or centrifuge.
Labnet reserves the right to make technical modifications.
Please see the complete limited warranty statement supplied
separately.
2. Installation
2.1 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 foam
cushioning. Remove the centrifuge from the carton. Retain the
carton and cushioning until it has been established that the
centrifuge is working properly.
2
13
Inspect the centrifuge for any visible signs of shipping damage.
Shipping damage is the responsibility of the transportation carrier.
Any claims for damage must be filed within 48 hours with the
carrier that delivered the centrifuge.
The accessories supplied with the centrifuge should be kept with
the instruction manual near the centrifuges place of installation.
2.2 Required space
The centrifuge should be installed on a rigid, even surface such
as a stable laboratory bench, countertop, 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.
2.3 Installation
Before operating the centrifuge, check that the power source
(electrical outlet on the wall) corresponds to that on the
manufacturers rating label, then connect the power cord to the
centrifuge and the power source.
3. Installation of rotors and rotor maintenance
3.1 Rotors and accessories
The following accessories are included or available for the
Spectrafuge:
Angle rotor for 24 x 1.5ml tubes (Included)
Tube measurement 1.5ml / 2.0ml (10 x 40mm)
Max. speed 13,300rpm
Centrifuging radius 8.23cm
Max. RCF (g-value) 16,276 x g
Rotor Wrench (Included)
Order no. C0240-RT
Rotor Lid (Included)
Order no. C0240-RC
Rotor Securing Screw (Included)
Order no. C0240-RSS
3
12
8. Determination of g-values
The centrifuging radius of the 1.5/2.0ml rotor is 8.23cm. The
Spectrafuge 24D has an automatic g-force conversion program, so g-
values are automatically calculated and can be displayed on the
control panel, for this centrifuging radius. If adapters or smaller tubes
are used, the centrifuging radius changes as does the g force. The
chart on the next page can be used to manually determine g-values
for any centrifuging radius.
Strip Spin Adapter
Order no. C0240-SS
Tubes accepted 0.2ml tubes or 8 x 0.2ml strips
Max Speed 13,300 rpm
Range Centrifuge radius 4.32cm to 5.33cm
Range RCF (g value) 8,549 x g to 10,539 x g
Adapter for 0.5ml tubes (pk./6)
Order no. C-1205
Tube measurement 8 x 30mm
Max. speed 13,300rpm
Centrifuging radius 7.53cm
RCF (g-value) 14,892 x g
Adapter for 0.4ml tubes (pk./6)
Order no. C-1206
Tube measurement 6 x 47mm
Max. speed 13,300rpm
Centrifuging radius 8.23cm
RCF (g-value) 16,276 x g
Adapter for 0.2ml tubes (pk./6)
Order no. C-1222
Tube measurement 6 x 21mm
Max. speed 13,300rpm
Centrifuging radius 7.03cm
RCF (g-value) 13,903 x g
3.2 Rotor maintenance
The rotor should be cleaned thoroughly after each use. Thor-
ough 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.
3.3 Removing and installing the angle rotor
The Spectrafuge 24D comes complete with a standard 24 place
rotor installed. To remove the rotor for cleaning, remove the
rotor securing screw from the motor shaft by turning the screw
counterclockwise, using the rotor wrench. Lift the rotor directly
upward in a straight vertical motion.
4
11
Possible reason: Sample liquid in tubes not balanced
Solution: M ake sure the same volume of liquid is
in each tube
Possible reason: Defective or improperly adjusted
balance sensor
Solution: Call service
Er L
II
II
Id: Lid not closed
Possible reason: Lid not closed completely
Solution: Close lid
Possible reason: Lid lock or sensor defective
Solution: Call service
7. Where to call
Should you have any questions about the Spectrafuge or its accesso-
ries, please call Labnets 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
labnet@labnetlink.com.
Should your Spectrafuge require service, please call Labnets Techni-
cal 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
labnet@labnetlink.com.
Please have the units serial number (located on the back panel of the
instrument) available when calling. Should an item require return to
Labnet for service, a repair authorization (RA) number must first be
received from Labnet and a decontamination form completed by the
user. Items sent without an RA number or decontamination form will
not be accepted.
Figure 1. Loading the rotor to achieve balance
5
10
6. Troubleshooting Guide
Please refer to this guide 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
Error Messages (press timer or speed knob to clear error
messages)
Er BAL: Indicates imbalance
Possible reason: Tubes not inserted symetically in rotor
holes
Solution: Load tubes symetically
(see Section 3.4 on Loading the rotor)
To replace rotor, first make sure the motor shaft and rotor
mounting hole are clean. Place the rotor on the motor shaft.
Reinstall the rotor securing screw on the motor shaft by turning it
clockwise. Hold the rotor with one hand and tighten the rotor
securing screw, using the rotor wrench.
3.4 Loading the rotor
Tubes to be loaded should be filled equally by eye. The differ-
ence in the weight between the tubes should not exceed 0.1
gram. Tubes should always be loaded so that there is equal
spacing between all tubes. One or two additional loaded tubes
may need to be added to achieve this. Refer to Figure 1. to see
one typical balancing scheme.
3.5 Overloading rotors
The maximum load of the rotor 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 estab-
lished for liquids having a homogeneous 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
red
) = x max speed (n
max
)
Example:
Where the density of the liquid is 1.7, the new maximum speed
would be calculated as follows:
n
red
= x 13,300 = 9,882 rpm
If in doubt concerning maximum speeds, please contact the
manufacturer for assistance.
6
1.2
higher density value
1.2
1.7
9
5. Service and Maintenance
5.1 Centrifuge service
The brushless motor in the Spectrafuge 24D requires no routine
maintenance. Any required service should be performed by
authorized, qualified personnel only. Repairs performed by
unauthorized personnel may void the warranty.
5.2 Cleaning the centrifuge
Always keep the centrifuge housing, rotor chamber, rotor and
rotor accessories clean. All parts should be wiped down periodi-
cally 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)
5.3 Cleaning the rotor
The rotor should be cleaned after each use. When spinning
samples containing phenol or phenol chloroform, the rotor should
be cleaned immediately after use.
5.4 Disinfection
Should a spill of infectious materials occur within the rotor or
chamber, the unit should be disinfected. This should be per-
formed by qualified personnel with proper protective equipment.
5.5 Replacing fuses
Check the fuse when it is recommended 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
4. Operation
ATTENTION: Never attempt to operate the centrifuge with
rotors or adapters that show signs of corrosion or mechanical
damage. Never centrifuge strongly corrosive materials that
may damage the rotors, accessories, or bowl of the unit.
4.1 Attaching rotor lid
After the rotor has been properly secured and loaded, attach the
rotor lid to the rotor. Always use the rotor lid for safety and to
allow the rotor to reach proper speed. Make sure that the rotor
lid snaps securely into place, by pressing down on center catch.
4.2 Closing the lid
Close the centrifuge lid. The Spectrafuge 24D has a lid lock that
activates only when a run is started.
4.3 Lid release
The lid will remain locked during a centrifuge run. Once the run
has been completed and the rotor has come to a stop, a beep will
indicate the end of a run, and the lid will unlock automatically.
WARNING: Do not attempt to open the lid of any centri-
fuge until the rotor has come to a complete stop.
In the event of a power failure or malfunction, it may be neces-
sary 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.
3. Pull the wire (attached to the plug) to open the lid lock
manually.
4.4 Lid lock
The centrifuge can be started only with the lid securely closed.
When a run is started, the lid lock automatically activates. Do
not attempt to open the lid during a centrifuge run. At the end of
the run, the lid will automatically unlock.
Never attempt to override the lid lock mechanism. Doing so is
dangerous and could damage the centrifuge.
8
4.5 Speed selection (see Figure 2.)
The speed (rpm or g-force) can be selected from 500 to 13,300
rpm or from 100 to 16,300 x g with the knob on the right. Select
g-force or rpm to be displayed by pressing the knob. Turn the
knob to increase or decrease the value.
4.6 Selection of operating time, momentary operation,
Start/Stop
Operating time can be selected from 0.5 min to 30 min by turning
the timer knob on the left. After 30 minutes, the display shows --
which indicates continuous run. In this mode, the centriufge will
run until manually stopped. To start a run, press the timer
knob.
When the preselected time expires, the centrifuge will stop auto-
matically. To stop the centrifuge prior to the expiration of set
time, press the timer knob.
The centrifuge may be operated for a short run by pressing and
holding the timer knob. The centrifuge will continue to run as long
as the timer knob is depressed and the time, in seconds will count
up on the time display.
Pressing either knob will clear error messages.
Figure 2. Spectrafuge control panel layout
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