MKN TGL-16 Benchtop High-Speed Centrifuge
| Brand | MKN |
|---|---|
| Model | TGL-16 |
| Max Speed | 16,000 rpm |
| RCF | 17,000 × g |
| Capacity | 12 × 1.5 mL / 12 × 0.5 mL / 8 × 5 mL |
| Timer Range | 0–30 min |
| Noise Level | ≤60 dB(A) |
| Power Supply | AC 220 V, 50 Hz, 5 A |
Overview
The MKN TGL-16 Benchtop High-Speed Centrifuge is a precision-engineered laboratory instrument designed for rapid, reliable separation of biological and chemical samples via centrifugal force. Operating on the principle of sedimentation under controlled rotational acceleration, it enables efficient pelleting of cellular components, subcellular organelles, macromolecules, and particulates from liquid suspensions. Its compact footprint and robust mechanical architecture make it ideal for routine use in clinical diagnostics, molecular biology, immunology, and analytical chemistry laboratories—particularly where space-constrained benchtop operation and consistent rotor balance are critical. The unit features stepless (infinite) speed control, enabling precise optimization of centrifugal force (RCF) across diverse sample viscosities and densities without mechanical gear shifts or discrete speed steps.
Key Features
- Stepless speed regulation from 0 to 16,000 rpm, allowing fine-tuned RCF adjustment up to 17,000 × g for reproducible pellet formation and phase separation.
- Automatic rotor balancing system minimizes vibration and ensures stable operation even with minor tube mass asymmetries—critical for long-duration runs and operator safety.
- Die-cast aluminum rotor assembly engineered for thermal stability and mechanical integrity; resistant to corrosion and compatible with common centrifuge tubes (0.5 mL, 1.5 mL, and 5 mL microcentrifuge formats).
- Low-noise design (<60 dB[A]) achieved through optimized motor isolation, aerodynamic rotor shrouding, and vibration-damping chassis—suitable for shared lab environments and laminar flow hoods.
- Digital timer with 1-minute resolution (0–30 min range) and automatic rotor deceleration with brake-free coast-down option to preserve delicate pellet integrity.
- Thermally insulated chamber housing reduces ambient temperature rise during extended operation, maintaining sample integrity and extending motor service life.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TGL-16 supports standard conical-bottom microcentrifuge tubes (polypropylene and polycarbonate), including those used for serum/plasma separation, antibody purification, nucleic acid precipitation, and enzyme assay preparation. It complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and meets EN 61326-1:2013 electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements. While not certified for biosafety containment (e.g., BSL-2), its sealed rotor chamber and drip-resistant base facilitate decontamination per CDC/NIH biosafety guidelines. Routine maintenance and calibration align with GLP documentation practices, supporting audit readiness in regulated environments such as clinical pathology labs operating under CAP or CLIA frameworks.
Software & Data Management
This analog-digital hybrid centrifuge operates via front-panel push-button controls with LED display—no embedded software or data logging capability. All operational parameters (speed, time, RCF) are manually set and visually confirmed in real time. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, integration with external lab information management systems (LIMS) is achievable via optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters (sold separately). Protocol storage, audit trails, and 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures are not natively supported; however, manual logbook entries—including date, operator ID, rotor type, speed, duration, and sample identification—meet minimum traceability standards for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing facilities.
Applications
- Clinical specimen processing: rapid separation of serum from whole blood (within 5–10 min at 12,000 rpm), plasma fractionation, and urinalysis sediment concentration.
- Molecular biology workflows: recovery of plasmid DNA pellets post-alkaline lysis, RNA precipitation with isopropanol, and protein pellet collection following ammonium sulfate fractionation.
- Immunology assays: isolation of immune complexes, antigen-antibody precipitates, and washed cell pellets prior to ELISA or flow cytometry analysis.
- Quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing: clarification of filtration supernatants, removal of insoluble excipients, and batch consistency verification of suspension formulations.
- Environmental and food testing labs: concentration of microbial cells from water or homogenized food extracts prior to culture or PCR-based detection.
FAQ
What is the maximum relative centrifugal force (RCF) achievable with the TGL-16?
The TGL-16 delivers up to 17,000 × g when operated at its rated maximum speed of 16,000 rpm with the standard 12-place microcentrifuge rotor.
Is rotor imbalance protection built into the unit?
Yes—the instrument incorporates an automatic dynamic balancing mechanism that detects and compensates for minor mass asymmetries during acceleration, preventing excessive vibration and extending bearing life.
Can this centrifuge be used for sterilization or heat-sensitive applications?
No—it is not equipped with refrigeration or heating capabilities. Ambient temperature rise is limited during operation, but it is unsuitable for temperature-controlled protocols requiring precise thermal regulation.
Does the TGL-16 support rotor autoclaving?
The aluminum rotor is compatible with standard autoclaving cycles (121 °C, 15 psi, 20 min); however, repeated sterilization may affect surface finish and require periodic visual inspection for microcracks or pitting.
What regulatory documentation is provided with the instrument?
Each unit ships with a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) referencing IEC 61010-1 and EN 61326-1, factory calibration certificate, user manual, and maintenance log template compliant with ISO/IEC 17025 Clause 6.4.2.
