Herolab HiCen FR Floor-Standing High-Speed Refrigerated Centrifuge

Overview

The Herolab HiCen FR is a floor-standing, high-speed refrigerated centrifuge engineered for precision separation of biological and chemical samples under strictly controlled thermal conditions. Designed around a robust, low-vibration mechanical architecture, it employs a maintenance-free high-speed induction motor with auto-centering capability and a flexible shaft transmission system—ensuring long-term rotational stability and minimal bearing wear. Its core operational principle relies on sedimentation force generation via angular acceleration, where centrifugal force (expressed as ×g) drives particle separation based on density, size, and shape differences in suspension media. The instrument supports both angular and swinging-bucket rotor configurations, enabling adaptable workflows across cell pelleting, bacterial harvesting, subcellular fractionation, and macromolecular purification. With CFC-free refrigeration maintaining temperatures from –20 °C to +40 °C—and sustained post-run cooling—the HiCen FR meets stringent thermal management requirements for temperature-sensitive biomolecules such as enzymes, nucleic acids, and labile protein complexes.

Key Features

• Maintenance-free high-speed induction motor with auto-centering technology ensures consistent rotor alignment and eliminates routine lubrication or belt replacement.
• Dynamic reverse magnetic resistance braking provides smooth, controllable deceleration without mechanical wear—critical for preserving rotor integrity and sample integrity during rapid stop cycles.
• Comprehensive safety architecture includes real-time imbalance detection, automatic rotor identification via embedded RFID tags, and immediate shutdown upon deviation beyond ISO 15197-compliant tolerance thresholds.
• Speed/RCF-activated timer initiates countdown only after reaching target rotational parameters—enabling strict adherence to standardized protocols required under GLP and GMP environments.
• CFC-free refrigeration system maintains stable chamber temperature throughout operation and continues active cooling for up to 30 minutes post-run—preventing thermal shock and degradation of heat-labile fractions.
• Optional nitrogen-purged chamber configuration complies with ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU for safe centrifugation of volatile solvents, flammable reagents, or oxygen-sensitive compounds.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HiCen FR accommodates a broad spectrum of sample formats—from standard 1.5–50 mL tubes to large-volume bottles (up to 500 mL per bucket), supporting common laboratory containers including polypropylene, polycarbonate, and stainless-steel vessels rated for high-RCF applications. Its 12-rotor library (10 angular, 2 swinging-bucket) enables method flexibility while maintaining traceability through automated rotor ID verification. The system conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety and EN 61326-1:2013 for electromagnetic compatibility. All rotor certifications are aligned with ISO 21501-4 for particle-based separation validation, and the refrigeration subsystem satisfies EU Regulation (EC) No 1005/2009 on ozone-depleting substances.

Software & Data Management

While the HiCen FR operates via an intuitive front-panel interface with tactile rotary encoder and LCD display, optional PC connectivity (RS-232/USB) allows integration into centralized laboratory information management systems (LIMS). Audit-trail-capable firmware logs all critical events—including run parameters, temperature profiles, rotor ID, start/stop timestamps, and safety interventions—in timestamped, non-editable records compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when paired with validated software modules. User-defined protocol storage (up to 99 methods) supports repeatable execution across shifts and operators—essential for QC/QA laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation.

Applications

• High-yield pelleting of mammalian and microbial cells at up to 34,774 × g for downstream lysis and extraction.
• Clarification of crude lysates and supernatants prior to chromatography or electrophoresis.
• Isolation of mitochondria, nuclei, and microsomal fractions using differential centrifugation protocols.
• Concentration of viruses, exosomes, and extracellular vesicles from cell culture media or biofluids.
• Preparative separation of nanoparticles and colloidal suspensions requiring precise thermal control.
• Routine quality control of pharmaceutical intermediates where solvent volatility necessitates inert atmosphere processing (with N₂ option).

FAQ

What is the maximum RCF achievable with the HiCen FR, and which rotor configuration delivers it?
The maximum relative centrifugal force of 34,774 × g is achieved using the 6 × 250 mL angular rotor at 18,000 rpm.
Does the centrifuge maintain temperature after the run completes?
Yes—the CFC-free refrigeration system continues active cooling for up to 30 minutes post-run to preserve sample integrity.
Can the HiCen FR be used for centrifuging flammable organic solvents?
Only when equipped with the optional nitrogen-purged chamber, which eliminates oxygen exposure and meets ATEX safety requirements.
How does the automatic rotor recognition system enhance operational safety?
It validates rotor identity, maximum speed rating, and calibration data before run initiation—preventing overspeed conditions and ensuring compliance with ISO 21501-4 rotor certification standards.
Is the HiCen FR suitable for GLP-compliant laboratories?
Yes—its audit-trail logging, parameter-locked protocols, and integrated safety interlocks support full traceability and regulatory compliance under OECD GLP Principles and ISO/IEC 17025.