Laboratory Centrifuge

Centrifuge is a mechanical device/equipment using centrifugal or rotational force to separate substances of different densities. It is widely used to separate solids from liquids or liquids from other liquids. The size and speed of the centrifuges also depends on how they are used. These equipment have variable speed settings for different applications.

This lab equipment rotates a substance around a fixed axis, so that the centrifugal force separates substances of different molecular weights. A motor is responsible for the rotary motion.

Different kinds of centrifuges are used for specialized purposes and they may vary from very simple centrifuges used in the educational laboratories to highly advanced centrifuges used in the nuclear power laboratories.

Types of Laboratory Centrifuge

• Simple Centrifuge : Used in biochemistry and biology for separating bio compounds.
• Standalone Centrifuge : Used for drying clothes and also having a water outlet.
• Zippe-type Centrifuge : Used to separate isotopes.
• Ultracentrifuge : Used for determining molecular weights of different compounds and macromolecules.
• Industrial Centrifuge : These large machines are used for water treatment plants and systems, for generating artificial gravity in a spacecraft.

Use of Centrifuge
Various kinds of centrifuges are used in different industries depending on their functions and technological advancement. These equipment find applications in industries including :

• Pharmaceuticals
• Chemicals
• Nuclear Power and Weapons
• Waste Water Treatment
• Aeronautics
• Neutraceuticals
• Hospitals
• Industrial Chemicals