RC-6 High Speed Centrifuge
Location: 3100B MRB3 Corridor
Free to Use
Reservation Calendar Available Online Through VU iLab website
*Note: We have a 2nd floor model Superspeed centrifuge. The Sorvall RC-5B is located in 4100B MRB3.
We have three rotors which can be used in these centrifuges. They are located in the coldroom nearby (3143 MRB3).
The most important thing to remember while using this model of centrifuge is to attach the lid to the rotor OUTSIDE of the centrifuge and then tighten the rotor to the drive shaft. Not doing this can lead to catastrophic failure.
Rotor Cleanliness
REGULAR CLEANING OF SPILLED LIQUIDS
Metal corrosion can be avoided by following a routine maintenance program after each rotor use:
– Clean rotors, lids, adapters and any associated parts with a 1% solution of a mild non-alkaline detergent such as dish washing liquid, rinse with distilled water and dry thoroughly with a soft cloth
– Do not use strong alkaline laboratory detergent on aluminum rotors; if encrusted material is present, remove it with a soft, twisted-bristle brush and the 1% non-alkaline soap solution
DECONTAMINATION OF BIOHAZARD-CONTAINING LIQUID
Given the nature of samples processed in a rotor, biological or radioactive contamination is possible. For biological contamination of rotors, a 2% glutaraldehyde solution, ethylene oxide or ultraviolet radiation are the recommended methods of sterilization, while for a rotor that may be contaminated by a radioactive sample, use a solution of equal parts of 70%ethanol, 10% SDS and water. In addition:
– Do not use chlorine bleach on aluminum rotors
– When autoclaving, rotor components should be separated
– If sterilization is not necessary, a 70% solution of ethanol can be used
– Most commercially available detergents for radioisotopic contamination are not compatible with aluminum or anodized coatings and should not be used
– Rinse with ethanol, followed by water and dry with a soft cloth
– Do not immerse Thermo Scientific Fiberlite rotors; spin rotor to remove liquid
– Fiberlite® composite rotors are not compatible with ethylene oxide