MKN TGL-12B Microhematocrit Centrifuge

Overview

The MKN TGL-12B Microhematocrit Centrifuge is a compact, high-speed benchtop centrifuge engineered specifically for rapid separation and quantification of blood components in capillary-format samples. It operates on the principle of sedimentation under controlled relative centrifugal force (RCF), enabling precise hematocrit determination, plasma isolation, and micro-volume blood fractionation. Designed for clinical laboratories, point-of-care testing environments, and small-scale research settings, the instrument delivers reproducible results using minimally invasive sample collection methods—such as earlobe or fingertip capillary blood—without requiring venipuncture or large-volume draws. Its rotor geometry ensures balanced loading of 24 capillary tubes (1.5 mm diameter × 75 mm length), minimizing vibration and maximizing operational stability at speeds up to 12,000 rpm. The device complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and incorporates thermal protection and automatic imbalance detection to ensure safe, unattended operation within defined time limits.

Key Features

• Touchscreen interface with continuous speed control (0–12,000 rpm), allowing precise optimization for different hematocrit protocols and sample viscosities.
• Dual-voltage compatibility (110 V / 220 V, 60 Hz) supports global deployment without external transformers.
• High-efficiency brushless motor delivering 13,500 × g RCF at maximum speed, ensuring complete sedimentation of erythrocytes within clinically relevant timeframes (≤5 min typical).
• Integrated timer (0–30 min) with audible end-of-run alert; non-continuous duty cycle design prevents thermal overload during extended use.
• Compact footprint (280 × 310 × 265 mm) and lightweight construction (10 kg net) facilitate placement on crowded lab benches or mobile diagnostic carts.
• Low-noise operation (<65 dB(A)) and vibration-damped rotor housing enhance user comfort and reduce ambient interference in shared laboratory spaces.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The TGL-12B accepts standard glass or plastic capillary tubes conforming to ISO 8637-1 (capillary tubes for hematocrit determination) and ASTM D7098 (standard practice for hematocrit measurement). It supports heparinized, EDTA-treated, or serum-separator capillaries. The centrifuge meets essential requirements of ISO/IEC 17025 for method validation in accredited clinical labs when used with traceable calibration procedures. While not FDA 510(k)-cleared as an IVD device, its performance aligns with CLSI EP15-A3 guidelines for precision evaluation of hematocrit analyzers. All electrical and mechanical safety certifications comply with CE marking directives (2014/35/EU Low Voltage Directive and 2014/30/EU EMC Directive).

Software & Data Management

As a standalone benchtop instrument, the TGL-12B does not include embedded software or data export functionality. However, its repeatable mechanical timing and speed control enable integration into GLP-compliant workflows through external documentation systems. Users may record run parameters (speed, time, date) manually or via LIMS-compatible barcode scanners linked to electronic lab notebooks (ELNs). For regulated environments requiring audit trails, the device supports manual entry into 21 CFR Part 11–compliant systems when paired with validated SOPs and operator training records. Calibration verification can be performed quarterly using NIST-traceable tachometers and timer calibrators per ISO/IEC 17025 clause 6.5.

Applications

• Routine hematocrit measurement in primary care clinics and field-deployable diagnostic units.
• Plasma separation from micro-volume whole blood for subsequent ELISA, PCR, or metabolite analysis.
• Quality control of anticoagulant efficacy in capillary blood collection devices.
• Education and training in clinical hematology techniques where sample conservation is critical.
• Pre-analytical processing for microfluidic assays requiring cell-free supernatant fractions.

FAQ

What capillary tube dimensions are supported?
The TGL-12B accommodates 24 capillary tubes with outer diameter 1.5 mm and length 75 mm, consistent with standard microhematocrit tubes used in clinical reference methods.
Is continuous operation permitted?
No. The instrument is rated for intermittent use only; maximum recommended run duration is 30 minutes, followed by a minimum 15-minute cooling period before subsequent runs.
Does the centrifuge include rotor calibration documentation?
Yes—each unit ships with a factory-verified rotor balance certificate and RCF verification report referenced to ISO 21501-4 Annex B.
Can the TGL-12B be used for non-blood samples?
While optimized for blood, it may separate other low-viscosity suspensions (e.g., yeast cultures, colloidal nanoparticles) provided they fit the capillary geometry and do not exceed 13,500 × g tolerance limits.
What maintenance is required?
Monthly visual inspection of rotor integrity, biannual cleaning of air vents and chamber interior with isopropyl alcohol, and annual verification of speed accuracy using a certified optical tachometer.