Centrifuge FAQ: Essential Information for Users

1. What RPM should I use with my Beckman rotor to achieve the desired "g" force?

The RPM/RCF information is included in each rotor operator's manual. Additionally, Beckman Coulter offers a G-Calculations program on their website to help you determine the correct RPM. Many Beckman Coulter centrifuge models, such as the Avanti J series, can be programmed using either RCF ("g") or RPM, eliminating the need for manual calculations.

2. What should I do if there is a power outage and I can’t open the centrifuge to retrieve my samples?

Refer to the emergency access instructions in your centrifuge operator's manual. Always remember to unplug the centrifuge before attempting to retrieve your samples.

3. How do I remove a stuck tube from my rotor?

For fixed-angle rotors, uncap and empty the tube, then invert the rotor and autoclave it at 121°C for 15 minutes. For swinging bucket rotors, remove any tube cap and contents, invert the buckets, and follow the same autoclave procedure. Avoid using sharp objects to remove tubes. If a spacer or cap is stuck, apply dry ice to facilitate removal.

4. What is the minimum/maximum fill volume for my tubes?

For fixed-angle rotors, open-top thinwall tubes should be filled as much as possible and sealed. Thickwall tubes and bottle assemblies should be filled to at least half of their capacity. Swinging bucket rotors require thinwall tubes to be filled 2-3 mm from the top. Specific instructions for each tube and rotor can be found in the rotor operator's manual.

5. How do I sterilize my tubes?

Sterilization instructions are provided in the Use and Care of Centrifuge Tubes and Bottles (publication IN-192), which is included with each purchase. Autoclaving can reduce the lifespan of some materials, so cold sterilization methods are recommended when possible.

6. Can I autoclave my rotor, adapters, or tools?

Most metal rotors can be autoclaved at 121°C for up to an hour. Specific sterilization and decontamination instructions are available in the rotor's operator manual.

7. What materials are Beckman rotors, tubes, and adapters made of?

Rotors: Typically made of titanium or aluminum, with some components made of epoxy resin or stainless steel.

Tubes: Available in a variety of materials, including polyallomer, polypropylene, polycarbonate, and more. Detailed material information can be found in the rotor operator's manual.

8. I am getting a "DISK" error message on my ultracentrifuge. What does it mean?

The "DISK" error indicates that your rotor has a missing or damaged overspeed disk. Replace the disk using a new one provided with the rotor and allow the adhesive to cure for 2 to 24 hours before using the rotor again. Detailed replacement instructions are in the Rotors and Tubes manual.

9. Are Beckman bottles and tubes reusable?

Most bottles are reusable but require inspection between runs. However, OptiSeal™, Quick-Seal™, and open-top tubes are designed for single use only. Refer to the Use and Care of Centrifuge Tubes and Bottles manual for more information.

10. Can I purchase sterile tubes from Beckman?

Beckman does not sell pre-sterilized tubes, but they can be sterilized using autoclaving or cold sterilization methods. Be aware that autoclaving may reduce the life of the tubes. Refer to Use and Care of Centrifuge Tubes and Bottles (publication IN-192)

11. How can I remove a stripped plug from my vertical tube rotor?

Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the middle of the plug and use pliers or vise grips to turn the screwdriver. Replace the damaged plug with a new one, ensuring that Spinkote is applied to the threads.

12. Why do my centrifuge tubes leak?

Leaks often result from improper handling or sealing. Ensure that the tubes are correctly filled, sealed, and that all O-rings are dry and in good condition. Specific guidelines for different tube types can be found in the Rotors and Tubes manuals.

13. Can I spin hazardous solutions in my centrifuge?

Flammable materials like explosives, ethyl alcohol, chloroform, or toluene should not be run in a Beckman centrifuge. Always refer to the Centrifuge Safety booklet (publication IN-194) and the specific centrifuge instruction manual for safe handling practices.

14. Where can I find the serial number on my Beckman centrifuge and rotor?

Centrifuges: The serial number tag is located near the power cord on the back of the centrifuge.

Rotors: The serial number is typically engraved on the top, on the rotor lids, or sometimes on the bottom of the rotor.

This FAQ provides critical information to ensure safe and effective centrifuge operation. For further details, always refer to the specific rotor and centrifuge operator manuals.

Maximize Laboratory Efficiency with the Beckman Coulter Avanti JXN-30 Centrifuge and JA-14.50 Rotor

Equip your lab with the Beckman Coulter Avanti JXN-30 Centrifuge, featuring the JA-14.50 Fixed-Angle Rotor, and unlock a new level of performance and reliability. This combination is engineered for diverse scientific applications, delivering precision and efficiency. Here's how this setup can transform your laboratory operations:

• High-Throughput Sample Processing: Ideal for labs with heavy workloads, this centrifuge can handle numerous samples simultaneously, significantly reducing processing times.

• Enhanced Separation Capabilities: The JA-14.50 rotor is designed for optimal separation of components in complex mixtures, making it perfect for biochemical, clinical, and environmental samples.

• Robust Cell Pelleting: This configuration excels in pelleting cells from various media, essential for cell culture and molecular biology experiments.

• Streamlined Protein and Nucleic Acid Extraction: Achieve clean and concentrated extractions of proteins and nucleic acids, which are crucial for high-quality research outputs.

• Effective Clarification of Liquids: Quickly and efficiently remove particulates from suspensions and solutions, ensuring sample purity for analytical procedures.

• Blood Fractionation: Facilitate the processing of blood components for diagnostic and research purposes, enhancing the throughput and quality of your blood analyses.

• Particle Sedimentation: Utilize the high-speed capabilities to sediment particles based on density, which is indispensable in particle physics and nanotechnology research.

The JA-14.50 Fixed-Angle Rotor ensures consistent sample alignment, crucial for achieving precise centrifugal results. This rotor setup is particularly beneficial for applications that require high speeds and those where clear delineation between different phases or densities is necessary.

The Avanti JXN-30 itself is equipped with cutting-edge features that include advanced programmability, real-time performance monitoring, and comprehensive safety mechanisms, making it a powerhouse in any high-demand laboratory.

Transform your research capabilities and operational efficiency with the Beckman Coulter Avanti JXN-30 Centrifuge and JA-14.50 Rotor — a dynamic duo that promises reliability and precision in every run.

Elevate Your Research with the Beckman Coulter Optima XPN-80 and SW 41 Ti Rotor

In the fast-paced world of scientific research, the precision and reliability of your equipment can make or break the success of your experiments. The Beckman Coulter Optima XPN-80 Ultracentrifuge, paired with the SW 41 Ti rotor, offers an unmatched combination of speed, precision, and versatility, making it a must-have in any serious research laboratory.

Advanced Separation Capabilities: The Optima XPN-80 Ultracentrifuge is engineered for ultra-high-speed operations, reaching up to 80,000 rpm. This capability allows for the efficient separation of biological macromolecules, including nucleic acids, proteins, and viruses. When paired with the SW 41 Ti swinging-bucket rotor, this ultracentrifuge excels in running density gradient centrifugation—a critical process in isolating and purifying delicate biomolecules.

Key Applications:

• Virology Research: Rapidly pellet virus particles for further analysis.

• Cell Biology: Isolate cellular organelles like mitochondria and ribosomes with high yield and purity.

• Biochemistry: Perform complex biochemical analyses involving proteins, lipoproteins, and other macromolecules.

• Genetic Studies: Extract high-quality nucleic acids which are pivotal for genetic research and diagnostics.

The Optima XPN-80’s advanced software interface provides unprecedented control over centrifugation parameters, allowing researchers to fine-tune their processes with ease. Customizable run profiles, detailed temperature control, and real-time performance monitoring ensure that even the most sensitive samples are handled with care.

Designed with the user's safety in mind, the Optima XPN-80 features comprehensive safety locks, imbalance detection, and over-speed protection. This attention to detail guarantees not only the safety of the laboratory personnel but also the integrity of the samples being processed.

Why Choose the Optima XPN-80 with SW 41 Ti Rotor?

• Enhanced Productivity: Process multiple samples simultaneously with confidence, knowing each run delivers consistent and reproducible results.

• Reliability: Beckman Coulter’s commitment to quality means you can rely on this ultracentrifuge to perform day in and day out without fail.

• Investment in Future: Equip your lab with technology that stays relevant through years of research developments and laboratory demands.

The Beckman Coulter Optima XPN-80 Ultracentrifuge and SW 41 Ti rotor combination is not just an investment in a piece of equipment—it's an investment in the future of your research. Whether you're at the forefront of vaccine development, pioneering new genetic research, or exploring the complexities of cellular structures, this ultracentrifuge will be a pivotal part of your success.

Discover how the Optima XPN-80 can transform your research capabilities. Visit us at ServiceAI.US to learn more and arrange a demo today. Let us help you advance the boundaries of what's possible in your laboratory.

Service AI is pleased to announce that we currently have the Beckman Optima XPN-80 available for sale in our inventory. To inquire about the system, please do not hesitate to contact us via phone at 510-899-1340 or email us at support@serviceai.us.

Explore the Versatility of the Beckman Coulter Avanti JXN-30 Centrifuge with JLA-10.500 Rotor

The Beckman Coulter Avanti JXN-30 Centrifuge, when equipped with the JLA-10.500 Fixed-Angle Rotor, stands out as a high-performance laboratory tool designed to meet a wide range of scientific needs. Here's how this advanced centrifuge can enhance your lab's capabilities: 

• Efficient Cell Pelleting: Quickly spin down cells from culture media to form a concentrated pellet, streamlining downstream analysis and processing.

•  Protein and Nucleic Acid Isolation: Achieve high-quality protein precipitation and nucleic acid preparation. This centrifuge setup ensures tight pelleting and easy supernatant removal, essential for precise biomolecular studies.

•  Particle Separation: Perfect for materials science and bioengineering, this centrifuge excels in separating micro-particles or nano-particles based on size and density, ensuring uniform particle distribution.

•  Clarification of Solutions: Rapidly clarify solutions and suspensions to prepare for chemical analysis or further processing, enhancing the clarity and quality of your results.

•  Blood Processing: In both clinical and research environments, efficiently separate plasma, serum, buffy coat, and other components for comprehensive blood analysis.

•  Biochemical Assays: Purify and concentrate enzymes and other biomolecules for detailed biochemical assays, supporting intricate research projects.

 The JLA-10.500 Rotor, with its fixed-angle design, is ideally suited for applications requiring clear layer separation and quick sedimentation. This allows for more efficient processing and better separation efficiency.

With features like high throughput, advanced programmability, real-time monitoring, and robust safety measures, the Beckman Coulter Avanti JXN-30 Centrifuge is an indispensable tool in any advanced research setting. Elevate your laboratory's productivity and precision with this state-of-the-art centrifuge system.

Troubleshooting Vacuum Issues in Beckman Coulter Ultracentrifuges: A Comprehensive Guide

In an ultracentrifuge, it is crucial to remove air molecules from the 'leak-tight' chamber. To achieve this, Beckman uses a mechanical vacuum pump and diffusion pump in combination. However, in high-performance and high-speed model centrifuges, only a vacuum pump is necessary.

Mechanical vacuum pumps, also known as roughing pumps or forepumps, are the only types that can operate against atmospheric backpressure. The most commonly used mechanical pump is the vane type.

The actual removal of air molecules occurs during four stages of the pumping cycle: intake, transfer, compression, and exhaust.

Vacuum system in an ultracentrifuge

Beckman Coulter ultracentrifuges use vacuum pumps that are characterized by the following features:

 • Two-stage, oil-sealed, rotary vane type

• Maximum vacuum of 20 microns at the inlet

• Pump speed of around 7 cubic feet per minute (cfm)

• Direct drive design with motor in-line with the pump

• Anti-suckback system included

• Mechanical oil stirrer system

• Gas ballast to allow pumping of condensable vapors

• Inlet, outlet, and muffler connections

• Sight glass to indicate oil level

• Easy disassembly into major parts for cleaning and repair

• Motors that can be wired for different voltage requirements

Beckman Coulter ultracentrifuge systems utilize a combination of a diffusion pump and a vacuum pump in series to achieve high levels of vacuum. However, the diffusion pump alone is not capable of exhausting to the atmosphere. As a result, it is exclusively employed in the ultracentrifuge models.

As shown in the diagram below, the Diffusion Pump Assembly consists of the following parts:

• Pump body: a steel cylinder with an oil reservoir at the base of the pump

• External cooling jacket or fan assembly attached to the pump body

• Jet assembly: a hollow assembly with nozzle(s)

• Cold Cap assembly attached to the inlet

• Inlet and exhaust outlet

• Electrical heater assembly

• Low vapor pressure oil (Use only the Beckman Coulter recommended silicone diffusion pump oil.)

Schematic of a diffusion pump

During normal operation of a Beckman Coulter ultracentrifuge, the vacuum pump runs first. The diffusion pump fan assembly operates. The oil reservoir heater is activated depending on the vacuum level, heating the oil until it boils. The hot oil vapor is then released through the jet nozzles, expanding as it moves from high to low pressure. As gas molecules (air and water) enter the diffusion pump inlet, they collide with the heavy oil vapor stream and are directed towards the pump's exhaust outlet by the vacuum pump. The supersonic vapor jet of diffusion pump oil then strikes the cooled diffusion pump wall, causing the oil vapor to condense and flow back into the oil reservoir to begin the cycle anew.

To achieve the necessary vacuum conditions in ultracentrifuges, the diffusion pump must be used in series with a vacuum pump. The diffusion pump cannot be exposed to the atmosphere while the oil is hot due to potential oil degradation and vacuum system contamination.

The lowest pressure achievable in the ultracentrifuge vacuum systems is partly limited by the presence of oil vapor from the diffusion pump. This occurs due to "backstreaming" of oil vapor molecules from the diffusion pump nozzle towards the inlet, as well as "back migration" caused by re-evaporation of oil at the top of the pump body.

The amount of backstreaming can be reduced by optimizing the pump nozzle design and using cold caps, traps, or baffles above the pump body. Controlling the temperature of the pump housing and the baffle system can also reduce back migration.

While this backstreaming and back migration is not a significant issue for typical preparative ultracentrifuges, the oil vapor can be problematic for the optical systems of analytical ultracentrifuges.

The diffusion pump is a low-maintenance component, with no mechanical moving parts. However, it is important to perform regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Here are the recommended maintenance tasks:

Check the diffusion pump oil regularly and change it if it appears light to dark brown in color.

1. Remove the jet assembly once a year for inspection and cleaning.

2. Inspect the oil heater and check its resistance.

3. Inspect and clean the cooling fan and verify its operation.

Here are some troubleshooting tips for the diffusion pump: 

• Oil Heater Assembly - If the heater is burned out, the system will only achieve a normal mechanical pump vacuum level (less than 100 microns). The reason for heater failure may be due to loss of oil, hours of operation, or loss of cooling.

• Loss of Fluid - Normally, loss of fluid is due to a leak in the vacuum system.

• Cooling Fan Malfunction - This causes a loss of diffusion pump cylinder cooling.

• Loss of Vacuum - The system will initially achieve the correct vacuum. As the pump cylinder heats up, the vapor no longer condenses, and loss of vacuum occurs.

• Diffusion Pump Fluid Contamination - If the drive oil or liquid from the rotor spills into the diffusion pump, it may cause the pump to lose effectiveness.

• PMC Check - Check for the correct oil level, heater function, and air flow.

• Normal Loss of Vacuum - With a chamber vacuum of 150 microns or better, it is normal to see a slight loss of vacuum immediately after turning on the diffusion pump heater.

Vacuum System Troubleshooting: Finding and Fixing Leaks:

1. Check for obvious issues such as cracked hoses, tubing, and foreign material on "o" rings.

2. Confirm the mechanical pump is working properly by measuring the vacuum level at the pump inlet, which should be less than 20 microns. Replace vacuum pump oil on a regular basis.

3. Be aware that removing moisture from a vacuum system can take time, and during this period the vacuum level will remain at approximately 500 microns.

4. For larger leaks, turn off power and listen for a hissing sound to detect the source of the leak.

5. Try to isolate sections of the vacuum system to narrow down potential leak locations.

6. Use acetone to identify leaks: if you're able to obtain a vacuum of 300 microns or less, squirt acetone on possible leak areas. The vacuum indicator will exhibit a loss of vacuum at the area where the leak is present.

7. Ensure the diffusion pump is functional by following proper maintenance and troubleshooting procedures.

How to Change Vacuum Pump Oil in Beckman Optima and Avanti J30I Centrifuges

Prior to draining the oil, it is always best to operate the vacuum pump until it is at its normal operating temperature of approximately 65ºC.

•  Always take a test run in the ultracentrifuge with the vacuum pump running to warm up the existing oil. When the pump oil is warm it is less viscous and contaminants will mix with the oil.

•  Stop the test run. Release vacuum by depressing the "VACUUM" key on the ultracentrifuge keypad, which will stop the vacuum pump and release the vacuum. Turn off power to the instrument and unplug the instrument power cable from the AC Mains.

•  Disconnect the vacuum pump power cord. Disconnect the vacuum hose from the inlet port. Remove the vacuum pump from the centrifuge. Place the vacuum pump on the flat surface to perform the work.

• Remove the exhaust filter. Locate the vacuum pump drain plug. Place the waste oil container under the drain plug. Remove the drain plug. Drain the oil. Always consider and treat the waste oil as hazardous. Hand over the waste oil container to the laboratory safety official at the site for disposal.

•  Replace the drain plug.

•  Remove the oil fill plug (normally on top of the pump housing) Add Vacuum pump oil until the correct level is reached in the sight-glass. Replace the oil fill plug.

•  Replace the exhaust filter. It is good practice to always install a new exhaust filter after oil replacement as a part of the preventive maintenance procedure.

•  Replace the vacuum pump into the centrifuge. Inspect the vacuum pump hose carefully before reconnecting it to the vacuum pump. Replace hose if you observe faults or fine cracks in it.

•  Reconnect the power cord. Make a test run to verify proper operation of the vacuum pump and centrifuge.

 Important tips:

•  Do not mix hydrocarbon based oils with synthetic oil in vacuum pumps.

•  Use only “Beckman” Direct Drive Vacuum Pump Oil (Beckman PN. 341661 and Beckman PN. 392760) or oil that is recommended by vacuum pump manufacturer.

Optima ultracentrifuge flags persistent Diagnostic d63 Drive error

If your Beckman Coulter Optima ultracentrifuge flags d63; it is an indication that the drive thermostat mounted on the drive has overheated (causing an open circuit) during normal run, or that it did not cool down and get deactivated after a 5 minute waiting period on power up. When a power fail diagnostic occurs during a normal run, the ultracentrifuge will shut down with brake.

If this fault occurs, a Beckman trained and experienced expert will make it a point to check the drive, drive oil, drive fans,  and the drive control system of the ultracentrifuge.

website: www.serviceai.us ; email: support@serviceai.us; Technical Support: +1-510-899-1340

How to Install a Beckman Coulter Optima Ultracentrifuge

Important Note: To ensure proper electrical installation and checkup as outlined below, it is imperative to engage a certified electrician for power requirements. Furthermore, we highly recommend that a qualified engineer handles the installation and thorough inspection of your Beckman Coulter Optima L ultracentrifuge, while also providing training to your staff on its correct usage and handling of the ultracentrifuge and rotors before operation.

Power:

a. Check for correct wall receptacle and voltage at the outlet. Power required is 180 to 264 Volts AC measured as shown. It is advisable to test the line voltage at the plug while the instrument is accelerating and cooling; therefore, we would strictly recommend that the ultracentrifuge always be installed by a Beckman trained engineer. Service AI has Beckman Coulter trained service experts. You can email us at support@serviceai.us, or call us at our technical support line at +1-510-899-1340 for more information.

b. Remove console cover, front panel and top cover.

c. Make sure jumper connector on the power supply boards plugged into the correct voltage range socket J52 A, B, or C. (Select the jumper for the lowest voltage reading during maximum power consumption.)

J52 VOLTAGE RANGE

A 180 - 206

B 207 - 233

C 234- 264

---

Physical installation procedure:

a. Position ultracentrifuge in desired location. Maintain 6" minimum clearance at rear and 3" minimum clearance at each side.

b. Position the four pads provided under the leveling legs. Mark the position of each pad on the floor.

c. Roll out instrument away from pads.

d. Glue (epoxy) pads to floor.

e. Roll instrument back into position and screw the four leveling legs down into the pads until they have bottomed out.

f. Now screw each leveling leg down five additional turns. Make sure all four casters are off the floor.

NOTE: A solenoid inter-lock prevents the chamber door from being opened during operation and/or with the power off. The chamber door can be opened with the door handle only when the power to the ultracentrifuge is on and the vacuum is off.

g. Open the chamber door (see note above). Level the ultracentrifuge as if it had only three legs. Adjust level by placing the spirit level on the drive shaft (crown) and adjust the leveling legs so the air bubble is centered. First level it front- to- rear by adjusting the left front and left rear legs. Then level it left to right by adjusting the right front leg only. (Make sure you do not tilt the instrument). Screw in the right rear leg until it just touches the pad. Now screw it down 1/4 turn more. This does not affect the level of the instrument.

h. After instrument is leveled, make sure all four casters are off the floor and all four leveling legs are still bottomed out.

---

website: www.serviceai.us; email: support@serviceai.us; technical support: +1-510-899-1340

Why do centrifuge tubes leak?

Most leaks are due to improper handling or sealing. Always refer to the Rotors and Tubes manuals before attempting to use the rotor.

 1.     OptiSeal™ : Make sure the neck area is dry and tubes are correctly filled.

 2.     Quick-Seal™ : Fill to the base of the neck leaving a small (approx. ¼" diameter) air bubble and seal with the proper Beckman Coulter heat sealer and seal former. For best results, follow the Quick-Seal™ user's booklet directions.

 3.     Open top tubes: Thinwall tubes must be capped and filled for use in fixed angled rotors (torque the cap to 120 inch-pounds). In swinging bucket rotors the fill level is 2 - 3mm from the top. Thickwall tubes (without caps) in fixed angled rotors need to be filled between half to three-quarters full. In swinging bucket rotors fill to within 2 - 3mm from top.

4.     Bottles: Always ensure all sealing surfaces and O-rings are dry. Wet O-rings can act as a pathway for fluids, causing a leak. Be sure all O-rings are present, in good condition, and are dry.

website: www.serviceai.us ; email: support@serviceai.us

Determining RPM for Desired 'g' Force with a Beckman Coulter Rotor

The RPM/RCF information is included in each rotor operator's manual. You can also use the G-Calculations program found at this Beckman Coulter website link to obtain this information. Also, many Beckman Coulter centrifuge models can be programmed using RCF ("g") or RPM so that this calculation is not necessary when using these models.

website: www.serviceai.us ; email: support@serviceai.us

Minimum and Maximum Fill Volumes for Beckman Tubes

Fixed angle rotors: all open-top, thinwall tubes, requiring multi-piece metallic caps, are to be filled as far as possible and sealed. For thickwall tubes and bottle assemblies, the minimum fill volume is half of its maximum fill volume.

Swinging bucket rotors: all thinwall tubes should be filled to 2 - 3mm from the top. 

All OptiSeal TM and Quick-Seal TM tubes are to be filled per instructions in the Rotors and Tubes manuals (LR-IM-, TLR-IM-, and JR-IM-). 

It will be important to note that there are exceptions to these guidelines. More detailed information and fill volumes for each tube and bottle type used in a given rotor is found in each rotor operator's manual and in the Beckman Coulter Rotors and Tubes manuals , which are available from Beckman Coulter.

website: www.serviceai.us ; email: support@serviceai.us

---