Category
Laboratory Equipment
Typical Use
Separate blood components or precipitate samples.
Description
A laboratory device that spins samples at high speed to separate components by density, commonly used to separate plasma or serum from whole blood, concentrate cells, or clarify specimens for diagnostic testing. Centrifugation parameters such as speed (g force), time, and temperature are selected based on sample type and desired separation, and improper use can cause hemolysis or sample degradation. Routine maintenance, rotor inspection, and adherence to load balancing procedures are essential to prevent mechanical failure and ensure accurate laboratory results. Centrifuges are integral to clinical chemistry, hematology, and microbiology workflows and require trained personnel for safe operation.