11
CLEMENTS
Operation
1.
Balance the weight of the samples
For every sample in the centrifuge there must be a balancing
sample of equal weight. The samples may be balanced 'by eye' i.e.
two samples appear to contain the same volume and are therefore
approximately the same weight.
Where delicate samples are involved, it is recommended that the
samples be placed in Tube Carriers and balanced by weighing
them. This will ensure that vibration during the centrifugation
process will be kept to a minimum.
2.
Balance the location of the samples
The samples must be placed on the Rotor so that the weight of the
samples is equally distributed. To do this the equally weighted
samples must be placed in diametrically opposite positions on the
rotor.
Note:
Even though the Orbital 360 is designed to absorb
considerable out-of-balance forces, running the centrifuge with
out-of-balance samples will cause excessive vibration. This will
disturb the samples, affect the overall performance of the unit and
may lead to mechanical damage.
Cushion Fitting
To ensure that the cushions are correctly fitted it is recommended
that the cushion be fitted to the tube while it is inverted. The
carrier (or carrier plus hanger) is placed over the tube and cushion
– still inverted. The assembly is fitted to the rotor. Confirm that all
tubes are at the same height by observing the graduation marks
at the open end of the carrier
Note that this should be done every time that
a tube is placed in a carrier. A cushion that
was previously correctly placed in the carrier
can momentarily adhere to the tube as it is
withdrawn and then sit at an angle.
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