Hettich Rotina 380 Robotic Centrifuge Review

The Hettich ROTINA 380 Robotic is a compact yet powerful refrigerated automated centrifuge designed for laboratories that demand speed, precision and seamless automation. As sample volumes increase and turnaround times shrink, automated centrifugation has become essential rather than optional.

In this month’s blog, we review the ROTINA 380 Robotic and explore why it has become a trusted solution for automated and high-throughput laboratory environments.

Key Features of the Hettich ROTINA 380 Robotic Centrifuge

The ROTINA 380 Robotic range is available in both non-refrigerated and refrigerated variants. The ROTINA 380 R Robotic is the fully refrigerated model, making it particularly well suited for clinical diagnostics and applications involving temperature-sensitive samples.

High-Performance Centrifugation

The centrifuge delivers speeds of up to 5,100 rpm, producing a maximum 4,696 × g RCF. Crucially, as a refrigerated automated centrifuge, it maintains controlled low temperatures even during intensive, high-speed operation. This ensures sample integrity is preserved, particularly when processing blood, plasma, or other sensitive biological materials.

Refrigerated Automated Centrifuge for Routine and STAT Samples

One of the standout advantages of this centrifuge is its ability to handle routine workflows alongside urgent STAT samples without interruption. The integrated refrigeration allows samples to remain temperature-stable throughout the process, even during peak workloads, a critical requirement in modern clinical laboratories.

Automation and Robotic Integration

Designed specifically for automation, the centrifuge integrates seamlessly into robotic workstations. The rapid hatch opening time (under six seconds), combined with precise rotor positioning, ensures fast and reliable loading and unloading by robotic arms. This makes it an excellent choice for laboratories transitioning towards fully automated pre-analytical workflows.

Programming and Workflow Flexibility

The centrifuge features an intuitive digital control interface that allows users to store multiple centrifugation programmes. Speed, time, and temperature parameters can be customised to suit a wide range of protocols. Whether operating as part of a fully automated line or in semi-automated configurations, the system adapts easily to changing laboratory demands.

Robust Construction and Long-Term Reliability

Built with a metal housing, stainless-steel chamber, and reinforced lid mechanism, the centrifuge is engineered for durability. It is designed to withstand continuous daily use in demanding environments, making it a dependable refrigerated automatic centrifuge for laboratories with sustained high throughput.

Safety and Compliance

Safety is built in as standard. The centrifuge includes imbalance detection, powered lid locking, and emergency lid-release mechanisms. It conforms to In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR) requirements and can be fitted with biocontainment buckets, providing additional protection when handling potentially hazardous samples.

Refrigerated and Non-Refrigerated Options

The automated ROTINA 380 series offers flexibility depending on laboratory needs:

• ROTINA 380 Robotic – non-refrigerated, suitable for applications where temperature control is not critical.
• ROTINA 380 R Robotic – refrigerated benchtop model.
• ROTINA 380 RC Robotic – fully refrigerated and optimised for automated clinical diagnostics.

For laboratories processing temperature-sensitive samples or working under regulatory pressure, the ROTINA 380 Robotic refrigerated automatic centrifuge is the clear choice.

Summary

The Hettich ROTINA 380 Robotic is a highly capable refrigerated automatic centrifuge designed for laboratories that prioritise automation, consistency, and sample protection. Its combination of refrigeration, robotic compatibility, and robust engineering makes it particularly well suited to clinical diagnostics and high-throughput environments.

Overall score: 9/10

How Henderson Biomedical Can Help

Henderson Biomedical is Hettich’s exclusive UK partner for automated centrifuges. We provide expert sales advice, installation, and comprehensive after-sales support. Our engineers are factory-trained by Hettich in Germany, ensuring a level of technical expertise that goes beyond standard service provision.

To discuss your refrigerated automated centrifuge requirements, call us on 020 8663 4610 or complete our online enquiry form. We would be pleased to arrange an online meeting tailored to your laboratory workflow.