Automated laboratory centrifuge guide

In this month’s blog post, we will examine the laboratory automated centrifuge in greater detail, focusing on their uses and benefits. Additionally, we will highlight several examples of automated laboratory centrifuges that users can incorporate into their robotic systems.

What is an automated laboratory centrifuge?

An automated laboratory centrifuge, also known as a robotic centrifuge is a specialised type of centrifuge that integrates with robotic systems to automate the entire process of sample handling, centrifugation, and post-centrifugation procedures. This advanced automation allows for high-throughput processing, precision and minimal human intervention.

What are these centrifuges used for?

This type of laboratory centrifuge can be used for a wide variety of reasons including maximising throughput and ensuring proper refrigerate conditions during sample processing.

• High-Throughput Laboratories: In research and clinical labs, robotic centrifuges are used to process large volumes of samples efficiently. They can be part of a fully automated workflow where robots handle sample loading, unloading, and subsequent analysis.
• Drug Discovery and Development: In pharmaceutical research, robotic centrifuges with high throughput capabilities are used for screening and processing large numbers of samples, such as during the testing of drug compounds or in pharmacokinetics studies.
• Genomics and Proteomics: These systems are crucial for DNA, RNA, and protein extraction processes where high volumes of samples need to be processed simultaneously with high accuracy and reproducibility.
• Clinical Diagnostics: Automated systems with robotic centrifuges are employed in clinical labs for tasks like blood sample preparation, where samples are processed rapidly and accurately, reducing the time to diagnosis.
• Biomanufacturing: In the production of biological products like vaccines and biopharmaceuticals, robotic centrifuges are used for scaling up the separation processes under strict sterile conditions.
• Environmental Testing and Food Safety: Robotic centrifuges help in the automated analysis of samples for contaminants or pollutants, streamlining the testing process and improving accuracy.

What are the advantages of using an automated laboratory centrifuge?

There are three main advantages of using an automated laboratory centrifuge. These are:

• Reduced Human Error: The main reason for utilising an automated laboratory centrifuge is its ability to streamline sample handling and processing, significantly increasing throughput. Robotic centrifuges minimise the risk of human error and contamination through automation.
• High Precision and Reproducibility: Using a robotic centrifuge ensures consistent results across large batches of samples.
• Time Efficiency: Robotic centrifuges significantly speed up processes, especially in high-throughput settings, allowing for faster data collection and decision-making while minimising manual handling of tasks.

In conclusion, robotic centrifuges are essential in environments where large-scale, precise, and efficient sample processing is required, particularly in modern research, clinical, and industrial applications. These advanced devices offer a range of benefits that significantly enhance laboratory workflows.

Moreover, robotic centrifuges are often equipped with sophisticated automation systems, enabling them to integrate seamlessly into existing laboratory setups. This automation reduces the potential for human error, enhances reproducibility, and frees up personnel to focus on more complex tasks, thereby increasing overall productivity.

As the demand for high-throughput processing continues to grow, the role of robotic centrifuges is expected to expand, driving innovation and enhancing the capabilities of laboratories across various fields. Their integration into automated laboratory systems is paving the way for the future of sample processing, where speed, accuracy, and efficiency are paramount.

Examples of automated laboratory centrifuges

There are several different manufacturers of centrifuges which can be integrated into robotic systems including those made by Sigma, Herolab, BioNex and Hettich.

The Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic is an automated laboratory centrifuge perfect for liquid handling within an automated laboratory process. This centrifuge has been used for many years in the field of laboratory automation, demonstrating extreme reliability and consistent performance at any speed. The Hettich Rotanta 460 Robotic can reach a maximum RCF of 6,446 xg and has a maximum capacity of 24 x 50ml.

How Henderson Biomedical can help

Henderson Biomedical is the exclusive UK distributor for Hettich robotic centrifuges. Our knowledgeable team can provide you with expert sales advice. Furthermore, our nationwide team of field service engineers can provide you with first-class after-sales support. Only Henderson Biomedical engineers are factory-trained by Hettich in Germany, meaning we can offer a superior level of technical support when compared with other service providers.

To discuss your automated laboratory centrifuge requirements, please call us on 020 8663 4610 or you can complete our online form. We would be happy to arrange an online meeting to discuss your user requirements.