Spotlight On: MSE centrifuges

In what will be the first in a series of ‘Spotlight On’ blogs, we will be taking a closer look at one of the numerous manufacturers that Henderson Biomedical works closely with. This time we take a look at the leading British centrifuge manufacturer, MSE.

A short history of MSE centrifuges

MSE (Measuring and Scientific Equipment) was first formed in 1936 as an importer of machine tools into the UK. It wasn’t until after World War Two that the company started manufacturing laboratory equipment, particularly centrifuges.

One of the earliest centrifuges was the Minor, also known as the ‘mushroom’ which became a huge success. It was very compact, competitively priced and could spin a variety of tubes. As the years went on, MSE added more and more models to their range. Refrigerated, non-refrigerated, small or large capacity, MSE had it covered.

MSE reached its peak in the late 1960s when the company had a market share of around 65%. At this time, the company was based in Crawley and it employed over 700 people, making it the largest centrifuge manufacturer in the world. The company even won the very first Queens Award in 1966.

Unfortunately, this market dominance did not last. Change of ownership, the introduction of overseas competition and the failure to react quickly to the recommendations of the 1978 Howie Report all contributed to MSE losing its grip on the market.

Nevertheless, MSE is still one of the best-known brands of centrifuges in the world. The company has introduced a series of new models that are both cutting edge and easy to use.

Current range

MSE is the first manufacturer to utilise ground breaking Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) for their centrifuges. Their Blue Force range of centrifuges use this PLC technology which is infinitely more flexible than traditional PCBs.

Firstly, thanks to the software based PLC, the user no longer has to worry about electronic components becoming obsolete. Changes in technology means that the manufacturer simply has to write a new piece of code and provide the user with a software update. It’s future proof technology and ensures that you will still be able to use your MSE centrifuge for many years to come.

Future

The PLC technology that MSE is using allows greater flexibility for the user. Apps can be created to monitor use, data can be exported in a variety of different ways, centrifuges can be controlled remotely by either the user or the manufacturer. The possibilities are seemingly endless. Furthermore, MSE has a very flexible approach when it comes to customer service. They have frequently supplied centrifuges that have been customised depending on the specific need of the customer.

Some older models such as the Falcon 6/300 and the Harrier 18/80 are due for upgrades and are likely to be converted to the new ‘Blue Force’ standard. Despite this, MSE has given assurances that any model that is replaced, will still have spare parts available for at least 10 years.

How we can help

Henderson Biomedical is the official service agent for MSE. We can offer service, repair and calibration of their equipment. We have exclusive access to their spare parts and can often get them within a 24 hours time frame. We can also offer sales advice on their models. If you have a specific need, we can help. Just let us know your requirements and we will be happy to see if we can assist.

For more information on MSE’s products, take a look at our page to see the complete range. If you would like to discuss your requirements, please contact our team on 020 8663 4610.