Frequently asked questions

Tell us your separation goal, sample type, vessel format and dimensions, working volume and number of samples per run.

Include the required RCF, run time, temperature and daily throughput, if known. If you do not yet have a protocol, explain whether you need a pellet, a clear supernatant or separated fractions, for example.

This information helps define the instrument requirements. Process parameters and results must then be checked using representative samples.

Consider acceleration and braking behaviour and subsequent sample removal, as well as RCF and temperature.

These factors can affect the integrity of sensitive cells, the stability of separation layers or remixing. Use an appropriate method protocol and check that the required settings are available in the specific configuration.

For diagnostic applications, the documented intended purpose must also be checked.

Speed describes revolutions per minute (min⁻¹); relative centrifugal force (RCF) expresses acceleration relative to gravity (× g).

RCF depends on speed and rotor radius. Two rotors can therefore produce different RCF values at the same speed.

When using values from method protocols, also check which radius reference was used.

Do not transfer the speed setting alone. Compare RCF using the same radius reference, rotor type, vessels, fill volume, temperature, acceleration and braking.

Also check whether the run time is counted from the start or only after the target speed is reached. For critical methods, verify the separation or analytical result after transferring the method.

When the method requires a controlled temperature range or the sample is temperature-sensitive.

Tell us the required temperature and planned run conditions. The temperature setting on the instrument is not automatically the temperature inside the sample; the rotor, speed, run duration and pre-cooling can affect the result.

In a fixed-angle rotor, the vessel axis remains at a fixed angle to the axis of rotation; in a swing-out rotor, the buckets swing outwards during the run.

This geometry affects the sedimentation path, pellet location and separation layers. Choose the rotor type according to the method, vessel, required RCF and number of samples.

Neither type is inherently better for every application.

Compare the number of vessels per run and their permitted working volume in the specific rotor and adapter combination.

The nominal vessel volume is not necessarily the permitted fill volume for every centrifugation process. When planning sample throughput, also consider run time, loading and unloading, and any pre-cooling time.

Provide the manufacturer, instrument model, serial number if applicable, rotor designation and the vessels you want to use.

The instrument, rotor, buckets, adapters and vessels must be suitable and approved for use together; mechanical fit alone is not sufficient. Requirements involving other manufacturers’ instruments can be reviewed technically.

Any confirmation applies only to the specific combination and its operating limits.

No. The limits of the entire combination of instrument, rotor, buckets, adapters, vessels and load apply.

In addition to speed, total mass, sample density and temperature can impose further limits. Follow the relevant documentation; the maximum instrument speed does not authorise every application.

Relevant factors include dimensions, working volume, material and closure, sample or solvent composition, temperature and required RCF.

For microplates, also consider format, total height and sealing method. Check the vessel, closure and adapter together with the rotor; nominal capacity or external dimensions alone do not establish suitability.

No. Reusability, autoclavability and chemical resistance are different properties.

Check the information for the specific item, including its closure, temperature limits, exposure time and cleaning procedure. A general material description alone is not sufficient to confirm suitability.

On request, the SmartCen software system and associated hardware are installed and configured for the selected centrifuge model.

The instrument carries the SmartCen designation together with its model name; functions and interfaces depend on the agreed equipment. Robotic loading and unloading is an additional integration task with its own mechanical, control and safety requirements.

Describe the process, vessels, loading patterns, desired throughput, space available, existing control systems and required interfaces.

Also clarify status signals, fault handling and responsibilities for integration, safety assessment and acceptance. Technical feasibility and the scope of functions are agreed for the specific project.

No. An inert gas configuration and an explosion-protected version are different requirements.

Specify the gas, medium, process goal and operating environment. Suitability for flammable substances or potentially explosive atmospheres must be explicitly established for the specific version.

Distinguish between the base instrument, selected rotor, adapters, vessels and configuration options.

The specific quotation and confirmed product documentation determine the scope of supply; product images may show optional equipment. For example, the 7-inch touchscreen and separate STANDBY button on the UniCen MR are options available on request.

Ask for the combination required for your application to be stated explicitly in the quotation.

Specify solvents and mixtures, vessels, sample count, starting volume, desired final state, temperature limits and process time.

Auto R3 already has an integrated vacuum pump; an additional pump is not a general requirement. The need for a cold trap or other accessories depends on the solvent and process.

Check material compatibility and safe vapour handling for the entire system.

Start with the task: visualising gel bands, exciting fluorescence or carrying out a germicidal application.

For gels, select a UV, blue-light or white-light version according to the stain, gel size and subsequent use of the sample. For UV-C applications, irradiation conditions, distance and shadowing are among the relevant factors.

Power and wavelength alone do not establish a particular result; UV-C does not automatically replace cleaning or other hygiene measures.

Avoid direct UV exposure of the eyes and skin, and use the shielding and protective equipment specified for the instrument and wavelength.

During open UV-C irradiation, no people may be present in the irradiation area. Filter glasses for blue light are not automatically suitable for UV protection.

Follow the operating instructions and do not bypass protective devices.

Check the operating instructions for requirements concerning the installation surface, space and ventilation, ambient conditions and power supply.

These requirements can differ between instruments. Clarify them before ordering or installation, particularly for floor-standing instruments or integration into a system.

Load the rotor and buckets symmetrically and according to the mass requirements in the operating instructions.

Include vessels, contents, closures and adapters. Equal fill volumes do not automatically mean equal masses when different liquids are used.

Also follow the requirements for unused positions and buckets.

Use the risk assessment and product documentation to check whether the instrument, rotor, vessels and closures are suitable for the intended use.

A closed lid alone does not establish aerosol-tightness. Use the relevant protective systems only within their expressly intended and documented scope of use.

Stop operation safely in accordance with the operating instructions and wait until the rotor has come to a complete standstill.

Do not force the instrument open or bypass safety functions. If there is unusual noise, strong vibration, suspected damage or a safety-related fault, do not restart the instrument until the issue has been clarified.

Record the error code, instrument model, rotor and run conditions.

Instructed users can carry out the visual checks, cleaning and routine care described in the operating instructions.

Work on electrical components, the drive, refrigeration system or safety functions must be carried out by appropriately qualified and authorised specialists. A cleaned instrument is not automatically technically serviced or inspected.

Before starting, wait for the rotor to stop and follow the operating instructions for safely switching off or disconnecting the power supply.

Use material-compatible procedures and the specified cleaning agents; remove residues and dry parts as instructed. Liquid must not enter electrical areas.

Cleaning, disinfection and autoclaving are different procedures and must not be treated as interchangeable.

Carry out the checks specified before use, particularly for visible damage, corrosion, contamination and the condition of closures and seals.

For swing-out rotors, also check that the buckets move as required. Damaged or suspect components must not be used again until their condition has been assessed by a competent specialist.

Lubrication, replacement and service limits are governed by the relevant accessory documentation.

Observe the specified service limits and replacement requirements for the particular component.

Age, number of runs, loading, corrosion and damage may be relevant depending on the version; an apparently undamaged surface alone does not establish remaining service life. For used components with an unknown history, establish their suitability with a competent specialist before use.

Document component identification and use where required by the applicable instructions.

Plan maintenance and required inspections according to the operating instructions, frequency of use, operating conditions and the requirements applicable to your organisation.

Heavy use or aggressive media can create additional care and inspection needs. Document use, checks, abnormalities and work performed so that the requirements can be traced.

Agree the maintenance scope and schedule with Herolab; one general interval does not apply to all models.

Check condensation, moisture and any ice formation as described in the operating instructions.

Keep the specified ventilation areas clear; clean accessible filters or condensate containers only where this is designated as user work. Requirements for drying, defrosting and leaving the instrument out of use are model-specific.

Work on the refrigeration circuit is not routine user care.

Take the instrument out of service until the situation has been clarified.

For hazardous or biological samples, opening, cleaning and decontamination must follow the risk assessment and established procedures. Check the rotor, vessels and affected components for damage.

Resume operation only once contamination and technical suitability have been addressed.

Include the concentrator, rotor and integrated pump, as well as any cold traps, tubing and seals.

Residues, condensates, leaks and a cold trap that has reached its collection capacity can affect the process. Cleaning, emptying and pump service must follow the relevant manufacturer documentation and take account of the media used.

Do not apply maintenance procedures for external pumps to the integrated pump of the Auto R3 without checking their suitability.

Keep accessible optical surfaces and protective covers clean as instructed, and check them for damage.

Lamp replacement and function checks depend on the instrument and lamp type; follow the instructions for switching off and, where necessary, cooling down before work. Visible light alone does not confirm adequate UV output.

For critical applications, demonstrate the required output using an appropriate test.

First compare the sample, fill volume, vessels and process parameters with a previously satisfactory run.

For centrifugation, also consider the rotor, RCF, temperature, time and braking behaviour; for concentration, consider solvents, leak-tightness and the condition of any cold trap. Check only the points permitted in the operating instructions; contact service if you notice technical abnormalities.

After repairs or changes, the method may also need to be checked again.

Specify the application, required configuration, quantity, destination country and required documentation.

In addition to the base instrument, check rotors, adapters, vessels, necessary accessories and any installation or training. Cost comparisons should also include consumables, routine care, service and expected downtime; these depend on use and equipment.

Scope of supply, availability and delivery time are clarified in the specific quotation.

Available documents can be found on the relevant product pages.

For technical questions, maintenance, repairs or spare parts, provide the model, serial number, instrument location and request; for faults, also include the error code, run conditions and measures already taken. If the serial number is unknown, the model name and, where it can be taken safely, a photo of the nameplate are helpful.

For older instruments, availability of documents, parts and service is checked individually.

Describe the problem and provide the item or instrument model, serial number and order or delivery reference, where available.

Contact Herolab before shipping. Packaging, the return route and any required information on cleaning, decontamination or remaining hazards are agreed for the specific case.

Yes. Specify the instrument model, installed equipment, participants’ experience and topics you would like to cover.

Content, delivery format, duration and costs are agreed in advance.