AnTing TDL-5-Z Automatic Cap-Removal Benchtop Centrifuge

Overview

The AnTing TDL-5-Z Automatic Cap-Removal Benchtop Centrifuge is a purpose-engineered solution for high-throughput clinical and diagnostic laboratories requiring reliable, automated separation of whole blood in vacuum collection tubes. Designed around the principles of horizontal (swinging-bucket) centrifugation, the TDL-5-Z delivers consistent sedimentation forces up to 2602 × g at 3500 rpm—sufficient to separate serum or plasma from cellular components in standard 2 mL and 5 mL evacuated tubes without hemolysis or tube deformation. Unlike conventional benchtop centrifuges, the TDL-5-Z integrates a synchronized mechanical cap-removal mechanism that operates concurrently with rotor deceleration, eliminating manual handling post-centrifugation and significantly reducing biosafety risks associated with aerosol generation or needlestick exposure during cap removal. Its lightweight yet rigid engineering plastic chassis ensures structural stability under repeated load cycling while minimizing floor-space footprint—a critical consideration in space-constrained clinical labs.

Key Features

• Integrated automatic cap-removal system: Actuates immediately after rotor stop; achieves 100% cap detachment across all compatible vacuum tube formats (including BD Vacutainer®, Greiner Bio-One, and Sarstedt tubes).
• Horizontal swinging-bucket rotor: Accommodates up to 56 tubes (2 mL or 5 mL) in balanced configuration; optimized for uniform sedimentation and minimal cross-contamination risk.
• Microprocessor-controlled variable-speed drive: Precision speed regulation (±10 rpm) with ramp-up/ramp-down profiles programmable via front-panel interface.
• Electronic safety interlock: Motor inhibition until lid is fully closed and locked; automatic emergency stop triggered by lid opening or severe imbalance detection.
• Low-noise operation (<70 dB[A]): Achieved through vibration-damping mount design and balanced rotor assembly—compliant with ISO 15195:2018 requirements for laboratory environment acoustics.
• Energy-efficient AC inverter motor: Delivers stable torque across operational range with thermal overload protection and extended service life.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TDL-5-Z is validated for use with standard vacuum blood collection tubes meeting CLSI H20-A3 and ISO 6710 specifications. It supports all common anticoagulant types (EDTA, heparin, citrate) and serum separator tubes (SST). The cap-removal mechanism is calibrated for tube diameters ranging from 12.5–16 mm and cap heights of 10–18 mm—covering >98% of globally distributed clinical tube brands. The device conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and carries CE marking under the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR 2017/745) Annex II Class I non-sterile equipment classification. While not a refrigerated unit, its ambient-temperature operation aligns with CLSI GP44-A6 guidelines for routine serum/plasma preparation prior to downstream immunoassay or clinical chemistry analysis.

Software & Data Management

The TDL-5-Z operates via an embedded 4-button membrane keypad with LED display—designed for glove-compatible interaction in clinical settings. No external software or PC connection is required; all parameters (speed, time, acceleration/deceleration profile) are stored in non-volatile memory and recalled per user-defined program (up to 10 presets). Audit trail functionality includes timestamped run logs (date/time, rpm, duration, rotor ID), accessible via USB export port (optional firmware upgrade). Though not FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliant out-of-the-box, the device supports GLP/GMP-aligned documentation when integrated into lab information systems (LIS) via RS-232 serial output (available as accessory module). All firmware updates are delivered via encrypted USB key to ensure integrity and traceability.

Applications

• Routine serum and plasma separation in hospital core labs, reference laboratories, and point-of-care testing centers.
• Pre-analytical processing for coagulation assays (PT, aPTT), electrolyte panels, and therapeutic drug monitoring where cap integrity and sample sterility must be preserved pre-transfer.
• Blood bank workflows involving leukocyte reduction or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) preparation—where manual cap removal poses contamination or activation risks.
• Research applications requiring high-volume, standardized blood fractionation prior to ELISA, flow cytometry, or nucleic acid extraction.
• Quality control environments adhering to ISO 15189:2022 Clause 5.3.2 (pre-examination processes) and CAP checklist ANP.42500 (specimen processing automation).

FAQ

Does the TDL-5-Z support refrigerated operation?
No. The TDL-5-Z is an ambient-temperature benchtop centrifuge. For temperature-sensitive separations, users should pre-chill samples or integrate the unit into climate-controlled lab zones.
Can the rotor accommodate tubes other than vacuum blood collection tubes?
It is specifically engineered for conical-bottom vacuum tubes with standard crimp caps. Non-standard or non-evacuated tubes (e.g., microcentrifuge tubes, glass vials) are not supported due to mechanical interference with the cap-removal arm.
Is rotor balancing required before each run?
Yes. While the electronic imbalance detection system prevents unsafe operation, strict adherence to symmetrical tube loading per CLSI GP44-A6 Section 5.2.3 remains mandatory to ensure reproducible RCF distribution and rotor longevity.
What maintenance is recommended for long-term reliability?
Monthly visual inspection of cap-removal actuators and rotor locking lugs; biannual lubrication of swing-arm pivot points using silicone-based grease (ISO 22866-compliant); annual calibration of speed and timer accuracy per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Clause 6.5.2.
Is the device compatible with LIS integration?
Yes—via optional RS-232 interface module (part no. TDL-5-Z-LIS-01), enabling bidirectional communication with major laboratory information systems including SunQuest, Cerner CoPath, and Orchard Harvest.