Standard Operating Procedure for Touchscreen Low-Speed Centrifuges

With its simple operating logic and stable separation performance, the touchscreen low-speed centrifuge has become a commonly used instrument for laboratory sample pretreatment. Mastering its operating procedures and key details both safeguards experimental efficiency and extends the equipment's service life. The following sections explain its standardized use in terms of preparation, touchscreen operation, run monitoring, wrap-up and maintenance, and safety essentials.

Preparation Before Operation

Thorough preparation is the foundation of smooth operation and experimental safety, and must be carried out in three areas — environment, equipment, and samples.

1. Placement: set the machine on a sturdy, level surface with enough clearance around it for heat dissipation, away from heat sources, water sources, and strong electromagnetic interference; make sure all four feet bear weight evenly to avoid resonance during operation.

1. Power connection: use a dedicated grounded outlet, confirm the grounding is reliable and the voltage stable, to prevent voltage fluctuations from damaging the control system.

1. Accessory inspection: open the lid and check the rotor, tubes, and sleeves for cracks, deformation, or corrosion; the rotor fixing nut must be tightened, and the door lock mechanism must move freely and be intact — damaged parts are strictly forbidden from use.

1. Sample filling: fill tubes to no more than two-thirds of their capacity to prevent overflow during the run; symmetrically placed tubes must be equal in mass — if there is an odd number of tubes, balance them with a tube filled with an equal amount of clean water to avoid imbalance-induced vibration.

Touchscreen Setup and Start-Up

Once preparation is complete, parameters can be set and the machine started via the touchscreen, whose interface is intuitive and whose steps are clear and coherent. Connect the power and press the power switch on the back of the unit; the touchscreen lights up automatically and enters the standby interface. Tap the screen to enter setting mode and configure the core parameters according to experimental needs, including speed or RCF and run time; for refrigerated models, also set the precooling temperature. Values can be adjusted with the on-screen keys; once the parameters are confirmed correct, tap the confirm key to save. Some models support storing commonly used programs for direct recall later, reducing repetitive operations. After setting, gently close the lid and confirm that the door lock engages automatically and the indicator shows normal locking; if the lid is not properly closed, the machine triggers an alarm and cannot start. When everything is ready, tap the start key on the screen, and the machine accelerates smoothly to the target parameters according to the set acceleration/deceleration profile.

Monitoring During the Run

During operation, monitor the machine in real time and respond promptly to abnormalities to keep the run stable. The touchscreen displays current speed, remaining time, RCF, and other information in real time, so the status can be checked at any moment. In the early stage after start-up, pay attention to vibration and noise: if severe vibration, abnormal noise, or unusual odor occurs, press the stop key immediately to end the run and investigate problems such as imbalance or loose fittings; do not restart until the fault is resolved. While running, never touch the body, force the lid open, or move the machine, to avoid safety accidents. If parameters need adjustment mid-run, they can be modified directly on the touchscreen without stopping, and the machine will automatically adapt its running state after the update.

Wrap-Up After the Run

After the program ends, complete the wrap-up according to protocol, handling sample removal and equipment maintenance properly. When the set time counts down to zero, the machine decelerates automatically to a stop and the buzzer sounds. Wait patiently for the rotor to come to rest, then open the lid and gently remove the tubes, avoiding shaking that could remix the samples. After removing the samples, promptly clean residual liquid or stains from the chamber walls with a clean soft cloth; for refrigerated models, wipe away condensation to keep the chamber dry. Check the rotor holes and sleeves for residual impurities; after cleaning, gently return the rotor to its position, avoiding collision with the shaft. Finally, switch off the power, unplug the cord, tidy the bench, and the operation is complete.

Safety and Maintenance Essentials

In daily use, keep the following safety and maintenance points in mind to reduce failures and extend the machine's service life.

1. Never run beyond the rotor's rated speed limit; different rotors have different applicable parameters and must be set strictly according to the equipment instructions.

1. Never use deformed or cracked tubes, which may rupture during the run and cause sample leakage or equipment damage.

1. Regularly check the condition of the rotor fixing nut, door lock mechanism, and power cord, and deal with any looseness or aging promptly.

1. Corrosive and volatile samples must be properly sealed to prevent leakage from corroding internal components.

1. When the machine will not be used for a long time, clean it thoroughly, store it in a dry, ventilated place, and power it on for a trial run periodically to prevent internal components from moisture damage.