Can I use a Refurbished Centrifuge in a Lab?

Yes, you can generally use a refurbished centrifuge in a lab, as long as it meets the necessary requirements and specifications for your specific lab applications. A refurbished centrifuge refers to a previously used or owned centrifuge that has been repaired, restored, or reconditioned to a functional and operational state.

Here are a few considerations when using a refurbished eppendorf centrifuge in a lab:

  1. Functionality: Ensure that the refurbished centrifuge is in good working condition and meets the functional requirements of your lab. Verify that it operates at the desired speeds, has the necessary rotor options, and can handle the volumes and types of samples you intend to process.
  2. Quality and reliability: Purchase the refurbished centrifuge from a reputable vendor or supplier who has a track record of providing reliable and quality equipment. This will help ensure that the centrifuge has undergone proper inspection, repairs, and testing before being resold.
  3. Calibration and maintenance: It’s important to check if the refurbished centrifuge has been calibrated and serviced appropriately. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure accurate and consistent performance. Confirm if the vendor has conducted any necessary maintenance tasks and whether they offer warranties or service agreements.
  4. Compatibility: Consider whether the refurbished centrifuge is compatible with any existing equipment or accessories you have in your lab. Check if the rotor types, tube sizes, and other specifications match your requirements.
  5. Safety considerations: Verify that the refurbished centrifuge complies with relevant safety standards and regulations. Ensure it has appropriate safety features, such as lid-locking mechanisms, imbalance detection, and emergency stop functions.
  6. Documentation and support: Request any available documentation, such as user manuals or operating instructions, from the vendor.

Eppendorf Centrifuge – Which Model to Use

There are several Eppendorf Centrifuges. Each centrifuge are slightly different and help your lab in different ways.

Below are the different models and how they assist your laboratory needs:

Eppendorf 5424 Centrifuge

The Eppendorf 5424 Centrifuge is a fast, accurate, and durable. Their 24-place rotor with a maximum speed up to 21,130 × g in a compact footprint is a great centrifuge for laboratories. They are perfect for molecular biology applications in microcentrifuge tubes, spin columns, and PCR tubes.

Eppendorf 5425 Centrifuge

Eppendorf Centrifuge 5425 is an improvement on the lab standard Centrifuge 5424. To ensure optimal separation, the Centrifuge 5425 features a Max RC of 21330 x g (15060 rpm) with a base capacity of 24 tubes (2.0 mL).Eppendorf 24-place centrifuge has been engineered to be extremely quiet. The Eppendorf 5425 speeds are designed for centrifugation steps of most routinely used DNA/RNA purification kits. During longer runs the cooling fan works at full capacity to dissipate the heat for the remainder of the run. Centrifuge 5425 is the successor of the legendary Eppendorf Centrifuge 5424. It has everything you loved before plus great new features to make everyday work more enjoyable.

Designed to increase efficiency, the Eppendorf Centrifuge 5425 has improved acceleration and deceleration. There are now 10 acceleration and braking ramps to minimize the time spent in between spins. Furthermore, the Centrifuge 5425 also comes equipped with Eppendorf QuickLock technology for ergonomic and rapid rotor lid locking. The rotor lid can now quickly be securely locked with only a quarter turn. This reduces the time spent preparing the Eppendorf Centrifuge 5425 before a spin and then the time spent removing samples after a spin, all while relieving the repetitive stress on the wrist.

Eppendorf 5427 Centrifuge

The Eppendorf Centrifuge 5427 is the ideal centrifuge for labs looking to meet their high sample throughput demand. It is well suited for high-end research applications because of its safe, reliable, and multiple rotor availability. This high-quality centrifuge delivers quiet operation and new double-row 48-place rotor that will increase productivity in your lab.

  • Keeps your samples safe. All rotors are aerosol-tight, reducing contamination and ensuring your samples are safe and secure.
  • Multiple rotors for a variety of applications. Eppendorf 5427 R has 9 different rotors available, each designed to cater to specific speed and tube requirements.
  • Intuitive interface. Completely user-friendly interface which allows you to easily navigate through the features.
  • Rapid precooling time. The Eppendorf 5427 R is able to precool in approximately 11 minutes.
  • Dependable speed and temperature range. Capable of speeding up to 25,000 x g (16,220 rpm) and has a temperature range of -10 °C to 40 °C.
  • Solid warranty. Eppendorf 5427 R comes with a 2-year warranty
Eppendorf 5430 Centrifuge

Eppendorf Centrifuge 5430 and 5430 R bring multi-purpose versatility to every lab bench! With a maximum speed of 30,130 × g (17,500?rpm) and the refrigerated model with a temperature range of -11 °C to +40 °C, and a wdie range fo rotor options, the centrifuge is adapabtible to many protocols

The unique cross-over Eppendorf 5430 and Eppendorf 5430 R centrifuges combine the best features of a microcentrifuge (small footprint) and multipurpose centrifuge (versatility) in one instrument. With a maximum speed of 30,130 × g (17,500?rpm), these centrifuges spin rotors for Eppendorf tubes, microtubes, PCR strips, or microtiter plates.

With its compact size, the Eppendorf 5430 and Eppendorf 5430 R centrifuges also accommodate rotors for microplates and 15/50 mL conical tubes. Now, the rotor program has been expanded to include additional Eppendorf QuickLock® rotors. This includes 48-place rotors (1.5/2.0 mL), a 16-place rotor for Eppendorf Tubes® 5.0 mL and a swing-bucket rotor (24 × 1.5/2.0 mL). The Eppendorf 5430 R refrigerated unit has a temperature range of -11 °C to +40 °C. Both the Eppendorf 5430 and Eppendorf 5430 R are available in either a keypad or knob interface format. With their unmatched versatility, the Eppendorf 5430 and Eppendorf 5430 R centrifuges are the flagship products among the Eppendorf microcentrifuge portfolio.

Eppendorf 5804 Centrifuge

Eppendorf Centrifuge 5804/5804 R with its renowned quality and reliability offers you the most cost efficient solution for your medium throughput applications–now and in the future. It allows for molecular applications in tubes up to 250 mL and offers additional swing-bucket and fixed-angle rotors as well as deepwell plate capacity for increased versatility.

The Eppendorf 5804 Centrifuge and Eppendorf 5804 R are high-speed centrifuges for medium capacity needs. Eppendorf Centrifuge 5804 / 5804 R allows for molecular applications in tubes up to 250 mL and offers additional swing-bucket and fixed-angle rotors as well as deepwell plate capacity for increased versatility.

Centrifuge 5804 / 5804 R is a high-speed centrifuge ideal for medium capacity applications. It is incredibly versatile as it allows for molecular applications in tubes up to 250 mL as well as deepwell plates to centrifuge quickly and efficiently. Both models are designed to operate at low noise levels, designed with a soft touch lid and low profile for greater comfort and security in your results. Eppendorf Centrifuge 5804 / 5804 R are the benchmark in ergonomic operation.

Eppendorf 5810 Centrifuge

The Eppendorf 5810 Centrifuge and the Eppendorf 5810 R (Refrigerated) Centrifuge with their renowned quality and reliability offers you a cost-efficient solution for your medium to high-throughput applications – now and in the future. They combine extraordinary versatility and capacity for both tubes and plates with an extraordinary compact footprint. With the new rotor generation, the capacity of the Eppendorf 5810 and Eppendorf 5810 R Centrifuges increase to max. 4 × 750 mL (or max. 28 × 50 mL/56 × 15 mL). They are the most compact 3-liter centrifuge currently available – designed to fit in every lab. They have a low lid opening height for use under shelves and a low access height for easy loading/ unloading of tubes and bottles. The Eppendorf 5810 and 5810 R run quietly to benefit your work environment, and the centrifuge lid features a soft-touch lid closure mechanism.

Eppendorf Centrifuge 5810 and 5810 R feature powerful and maintenance-free motors, while also accommodating a variety of rotors to meet your application needs. They are three centrifuges in one: a high-capacity, general-purpose centrifuge for cell harvesting; a high-speed centrifuge for separating cell lysates; and a microcentrifuge for DNA precipitations.

Eppendorf 5814 Centrifuge

Eppendorf Centrifuge 5418 is ultra-compact 18-place centrifuges that fits on even the smallest lab bench. About the size of a standard sheet of paper.

The refrigerated Eppendorf 5418 R Centrifuge with its 18-place capacity rotor is specifically designed for low to medium capacity in 1.5/2.0 mL tubes and Microtainer®. It can reach speeds of up to 16,873 × g allows for standard molecular biology applications. Moreover, this compact refrigerated centrifuge has an especially low access height and is characterized by a remarkably quiet operation. Temperature range from 0 °C to +40 °C.

Eppendorf 5418 R are ultra-compact 18-place centrifuges that will fit on even the smallest lab benches. They have the same size as a standard sheet of paper, they provide up to 16,873 x g (14,000 rpm) and offers a broad range of features that make your lab work easier. The Eppendorf 5418 centrifuge is extremely quiet—even when running without the rotor lid that will improve your work environment. Each centrifuge is equipped with the Eppendorf QuickLock lid for ergonomic operation.

 

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Clinical Centrifuge vs. Microcentrifuge: Understanding the Differences

Centrifuges are indispensable tools in clinical and research laboratories, enabling the separation of substances based on their density. They come in various types, including clinical centrifuges and microcentrifuges. While both serve similar purposes, there are distinct differences between them. In this blog post, we will explore the characteristics, applications, and advantages of clinical centrifuges and microcentrifuges, shedding light on their respective roles in laboratory settings.

Clinical Centrifuge: A clinical centrifuge is a larger, more powerful centrifuge designed to handle larger sample volumes and accommodate a broader range of tubes. These centrifuges are commonly found in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and blood banks. They are used for various applications, including blood sample processing, urine sedimentation, and separation of body fluids. Clinical centrifuges operate at higher speeds and are capable of generating greater centrifugal forces than microcentrifuges, making them suitable for processing large volumes of samples efficiently.

Key Features and Applications of Clinical Centrifuges:

  1. Capacity: Clinical centrifuges are typically capable of accommodating larger volumes, ranging from 50 ml to several liters. They can handle multiple tubes simultaneously, enabling high-throughput processing.
  2. Speed and Force: These centrifuges operate at higher speeds, reaching up to 10,000-20,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). The higher rotational speeds generate significant centrifugal forces, allowing rapid separation of substances.
  3. Versatility: Clinical centrifuges often offer a wide range of rotors and adapters, making them compatible with various tube sizes and types. They are suitable for processing blood samples, biological fluids, and other large-volume specimens.

Advantages of Clinical Centrifuges:

  1. High Capacity: The ability to process large sample volumes efficiently makes clinical centrifuges ideal for busy laboratory settings with a high sample throughput.
  2. Versatility: The availability of different rotor options and adaptability to multiple tube sizes enhances the versatility of clinical centrifuges, accommodating diverse laboratory needs.
  3. Speed and Efficiency: Clinical centrifuges operate at higher speeds, reducing processing time and enabling faster turnaround of results.

Microcentrifuge: A microcentrifuge, as the name suggests, is a smaller, compact centrifuge designed for processing smaller sample volumes. It is commonly used in molecular biology, biochemistry, and research laboratories. Microcentrifuges are perfect for applications that require quick and precise separation of samples in smaller tubes.

Key Features and Applications of Microcentrifuges:

  1. Sample Volume: Microcentrifuges are designed to accommodate smaller volumes, typically ranging from 0.2 ml to 2 ml. They are compatible with microcentrifuge tubes or PCR tubes.
  2. Speed and Force: While microcentrifuges operate at lower speeds compared to clinical centrifuges (up to 20,000-25,000 rpm), they still generate sufficient centrifugal force for effective separation of samples in smaller volumes.
  3. Precise Control: Microcentrifuges offer precise control over speed, acceleration, and deceleration rates, allowing researchers to optimize protocols for specific applications.

Advantages of Microcentrifuges:

  1. Compact Size: Microcentrifuges occupy less space in the laboratory and are portable, making them suitable for smaller workstations or on-the-go research.
  2. Precise and Efficient: Microcentrifuges provide excellent control over speed, ensuring precise separation of samples. They are particularly useful for applications involving DNA, RNA, or protein isolation, where purity and integrity are crucial.
  3. Cost-Effective: Microcentrifuges are generally more affordable compared to clinical centrifuges, making them an economical choice for labs with limited budgets or specific research needs.

Best Eppendorf Refurbished Centrifuges

Pipette.com carries Eppendorf refurbished centrifuges. Refurbished centrifuges are previously used centrifuges that have been restored to their original manufacturer’s specifications through cleaning, inspection, and replacement of any worn or damaged parts. They are then tested to ensure that they are in proper working order before being sold. Refurbished centrifuges are sold at a lower cost than new ones. 

Refurbished centrifuges are typically used in laboratory settings, such as research labs, medical labs, and industrial labs. They can be used for a variety of applications, such as separating blood components, purifying proteins, and isolating DNA

The Eppendorf models we have available are: Eppendorf 5424, Eppendorf 5804, Eppendorf 5810, Eppendorf 5430, Eppendorf 5430R and Eppendorf 5418

Refurbished centrifuges are a cost-effective option for labs and research facilities that are operating on a budget, or for those who need an extra centrifuge but do not want to invest in a new one. It is important to keep in mind that buying a refurbished centrifuge can come with certain risks, such as not knowing the previous usage of the machine and not having the full warranty as a new one. 

It is recommended to buy refurbished centrifuges from reputable companies, like Pipette.com, that have a good reputation and experience in this field. We can provide certifications and test results that can assure the buyer of the quality of the refurbished centrifuges

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Difference Between Vortex Mixers vs Centrifuges

Centrifuges and vortex mixers are both commonly used in laboratory settings, but they serve very different purposes.

A centrifuge is a laboratory instrument that uses centrifugal force to separate particles in a liquid mixture based on density. This is done by spinning the mixture at high speeds, causing the heavier particles to be forced to the bottom of the container and the lighter particles to rise to the top. Centrifuges use centrifuge tubes can be used for a variety of tasks, such as separating blood into its various components, purifying proteins, and isolating DNA.

On the other hand, a vortex mixer is a laboratory instrument that uses a rotating motion to quickly and efficiently mix liquid samples. It works by creating a vortex motion in the liquid, which causes all the particles to be thoroughly mixed together. Vortex mixers are often used for tasks such as homogenizing biological samples, mixing small volumes of liquid, and dissolving powders.

One of the main differences between these two instruments is the speed of rotation. Centrifuges typically spin at much higher speeds than vortex mixers, which generates large g-forces. These g-forces can be used to separate particles based on density. Vortex mixers, on the other hand, typically have lower speed rotation and generate less g-forces, which is sufficient to mix the liquid samples.

Another difference between these two instruments is the size of the samples they can handle. Centrifuges can typically handle larger sample volumes than vortex mixers, which are more suitable for small samples.

In summary, centrifuges and vortex mixers are both valuable tools in a laboratory setting, but they serve very different purposes. Centrifuges are used to separate particles in a liquid mixture based on density, while vortex mixers are used to quickly and efficiently mix liquid samples. Understanding the differences between these two instruments can help you make informed decisions about which one is best suited for your particular task.

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