Hesix TL8R Vertical Low-Speed Refrigerated Centrifuge

Overview

The Hesix TL8R is a vertically oriented, floor-standing low-speed refrigerated centrifuge engineered for routine and high-throughput separation of biological samples in clinical diagnostics, biopharmaceutical QC, blood banking, and academic research laboratories. It operates on the principle of sedimentation under controlled gravitational force (RCF), enabling efficient pelleting of cells, organelles, macromolecular complexes, and particulates without denaturation or structural disruption. Designed specifically for applications requiring temperature stability—such as plasma separation, PBMC isolation, serum preparation, and large-volume cell harvesting—the TL8R integrates a high-efficiency, non-ozone-depleting refrigeration system with precise microprocessor-based speed and temperature regulation. Its vertical architecture optimizes footprint efficiency while maintaining mechanical rigidity and thermal uniformity across the entire rotor chamber. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control, and Laboratory Use) and meets essential requirements for in vitro diagnostic medical devices under China’s CFDA regulatory framework.

Key Features

• Brushless AC frequency-controlled motor with direct drive architecture ensures long service life, minimal maintenance, and stable rotational performance at speeds up to 8,000 rpm—with speed accuracy maintained within ±50 rpm.
• Environmentally compliant refrigeration system utilizing R404a refrigerant and a hermetically sealed compressor delivers rapid pre-cooling, continuous temperature maintenance during standby, and programmable defrost functionality—all within a certified −20 °C to +40 °C operating range.
• Triple-stage damping system combined with proprietary composite shock absorption mounts minimizes vibration transmission, reduces sample resuspension risk, and maintains rotor balance integrity even under partial-load or asymmetric loading conditions.
• TFT-LCD full-color touchscreen interface supports dual-input operation (touch + physical keys), real-time display of both setpoints and actual values (speed, RCF, time, temperature), and on-the-fly parameter modification without interrupting active runs.
• Biocontainment-compliant angular rotors feature seamless silicone O-rings conforming to EU RoHS Directive 2015/863, preventing aerosol escape during high-speed operation and supporting biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) laboratory workflows.
• Reinforced 304 stainless steel centrifuge chamber, powder-coated steel housing, integrated three-layer safety shield, and electromagnetic door interlock with soft-closing mechanism collectively satisfy mechanical and electrical safety standards for Class II equipment.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TL8R accommodates a broad spectrum of sample formats through interchangeable rotor configurations—including fixed-angle, horizontal, and microplate carriers—supporting volumes from 2 mL vacuum tubes to 750 mL bottles. Its validated rotor library includes options for blood collection tubes (e.g., 148 × 5/2 mL vacutainers), standard conical tubes (12 × 10 mL, 36 × 15 mL), and 96-well microplates (2× or 4× plate carriers). All rotors are auto-recognized by the control system to prevent overspeeding and enforce safe operational limits per ISO 21501-4 and CLSI EP15-A3 guidelines. The device is registered under China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA, formerly CFDA) and conforms to ISO 13485:2016 for quality management systems applicable to medical device manufacturers. While not FDA 510(k)-cleared, its design aligns with foundational principles referenced in USP , ASTM E2919, and GLP-compliant documentation practices.

Software & Data Management

The embedded firmware supports 20 customizable protocols with editable ramp/deceleration profiles, multi-step programs, and automatic rotor-specific parameter locking. Audit-trail functionality logs operator ID (via optional RFID badge integration), timestamped run records, error events, and environmental deviations—enabling traceability required under ISO 17025 and internal QA/QC procedures. Data export is available via USB port in CSV format compatible with LIMS integration. Firmware updates are performed locally using encrypted update packages, ensuring version control and cybersecurity compliance per IEC 62443-3-3 recommendations.

Applications

• Clinical hematology: Separation of whole blood into plasma, buffy coat, and packed red cells; preparation of platelet-rich plasma (PRP).
• Virology & immunology: Clarification of cell culture supernatants prior to ELISA or neutralization assays.
• Bioprocessing: Harvesting mammalian or microbial cells at pilot scale using 750 mL bottles.
• Quality control labs: Routine sedimentation tests for vaccine suspensions, protein formulations, and colloidal dispersions.
• Academic research: Isolation of mitochondria, nuclei, and ribosomal subunits under cold conditions.

FAQ

Does the TL8R support remote monitoring or network connectivity?

No—this model operates as a standalone instrument with local control only. Network interfaces are not included to maintain electromagnetic compatibility and reduce cybersecurity exposure surfaces.

Is rotor calibration required before first use?

Yes. Each rotor must be calibrated for mass and moment-of-inertia using the built-in calibration routine prior to initial operation to ensure accurate RCF calculation and regulatory compliance.

Can the TL8R be used for radioactive sample processing?

It is not certified for radiological containment. Users requiring such capability must implement additional shielding and decontamination protocols outside the manufacturer’s scope of validation.

What is the warranty coverage and service support structure?

Hesix provides a 24-month limited warranty covering parts and labor for defects in materials and workmanship. Field service engineers are available across major Chinese metropolitan areas, with spare parts inventory maintained for ≥5 years post-product discontinuation.

Are consumables like rotor seals and gaskets supplied with the unit?

One set of replacement silicone O-rings for angular rotors is included. Additional sealing components are available as catalogued accessories (part numbers listed in the technical manual).