Centrifuge service: The importance of servicing your centrifuge

A regular centrifuge service is important for many reasons. That’s why we recommend you should service your instrument at least once a year, possibly twice if it is being used heavily. But what exactly are the benefits of servicing your centrifuge? Let’s take a look…

Safety

The number one reason why you should regularly service your centrifuge is because of safety. Many users do not appreciate the forces involved in centrifugation. For example, a regular 250ml bucket complete with adaptor and a full complement of 10ml blood tubes may only weigh a couple of hundred grams. However, under heavy centrifugation of around 5,000 xg, this same bucket can be the equivalent weight of a small car.

Now, imagine if there are hairline stresses in the rotor pins or the rotor itself. The rotor could easily shear off and this would mean the centrifuge bucket will travel in a horizontal direction towards the end user.

Of course, most centrifuges are designed in such a way that they can contain a disruption. However, what if this same centrifuge also has an intermittent lid lock fault? The lid could theoretically detach itself under the force of the disruption, causing serious, if not fatal injuries to the end user.

By undertaking a regular centrifuge service, you are eliminating this potentially lethal possibility. A good service engineer will be able to spot wear and tear on your rotor and advise when it should be replaced. Furthermore, a regular annual service would minimise the chances of intermittent faults creeping in.

Minimise repairs and save money

Missing a service or not servicing your centrifuge at all, may save you money in the short term. However, it is a false economy. A service on your centrifuge can identify potential faults with your instrument before they become expensive to rectify. Furthermore, a disruption can lead to a complete write off of the centrifuge.

We advise end users to try and see the overall picture. When they do this, it becomes clear that regularly servicing their device actually saves them money in the long term.

Longevity

A regular annual service of your centrifuge will increase the overall life-span of your instrument. Whilst there are no guarantees that your centrifuge will never break down, you vastly decrease the likelihood of equipment repairs. Simply-put, a regular service is crucial to enjoying years of trouble free use.

The purchase of a new centrifuge represents a considerable financial investment for your department. It is only right that you get the maximum use out of it. Over the years, we have seen many centrifuges in many laboratories. It is not uncommon for a well-maintained centrifuge to still be in peak condition, even when it’s 10 years old.

Centrifuge service and ensuring compliance

Many laboratories now have to comply with strict ISO requirements such as ISO 15189. In these cases, your auditor will expect your centrifuges to be regularly serviced by a reputable service provider. Of course, in some industries, this is not the case. However, even if your industry does not make centrifuge servicing a legal requirement, you should still regularly service your equipment to ensure it is safe to use.

Using Henderson Biomedical to service your centrifuge

Henderson Biomedical have over 30 years’ experience in centrifuge service. We service all makes and models of centrifuges and can offer impartial advice on replacements.

We have a range of Service Maintenance Agreements which can meet your needs. Whether you want a fully comprehensive agreement which includes all labour, travel and parts or you just want a basic service with minimal cover, we have something for you.

The type of cover you choose will depend on your requirements. Please contact our team to discuss which type of Service Maintenance Agreement will best suit your needs.