Thermo Fisher Scientific Heraeus Multifuge 1 Benchtop Centrifuge

Overview

The Thermo Fisher Scientific Heraeus Multifuge 1 is a high-performance benchtop centrifuge engineered for precision, reliability, and operational flexibility across routine and research-intensive laboratory environments. Utilizing a brushless DC motor drive system, the Multifuge 1 delivers consistent rotational stability across its full speed range of 300–15,000 rpm with fine resolution—10 rpm increments for EASYset models and 100 rpm for QUIKset variants. Its rotor recognition technology automatically identifies installed rotors and enforces speed and RCF limits based on mechanical specifications, preventing inadvertent overspeed operation. The centrifuge operates on the principle of sedimentation force generation via angular acceleration, enabling efficient separation of biological, clinical, and industrial samples by density, size, and shape. With a maximum relative centrifugal force (RCF) of 24,652 × g and a total sample capacity of up to 1.6 liters per run, it supports high-throughput workflows without compromising reproducibility or user ergonomics.

Key Features

• Two configuration families: ventilated (Multifuge 1 S/L) and refrigerated (Multifuge 1 S-R/L-R), with CFC-free refrigerant and temperature control from –9 to +40 °C
• Dual control platforms: EASYset (intuitive touch-button interface with LED display) and QUIKset (robust rotary dial system), both featuring real-time parameter feedback and remote-observable LED indicators
• SMARTspin™ electronic imbalance detection system—monitors dynamic load distribution continuously during acceleration, deceleration, and steady-state rotation; enables visual balancing verification without interrupting operation
• Modular mechanical architecture: independent drive and support structures isolate vibration transmission, resulting in ultra-low acoustic emission (<54 dB[A] for refrigerated models) and enhanced rotor longevity
• Ergonomic design: compact height of 316 mm at working surface level facilitates easy tube loading/unloading; optional mobile cart enables flexible placement and height-adjustable operation
• Four programmable protocols plus one dedicated pre-cool cycle (EASYset); nine selectable acceleration and deceleration profiles—including soft-brake mode for sensitive pelleted samples
• Electroplated steel base and reinforced chamber construction ensure structural integrity under repeated high-load cycles and meet IEC 61010-2-020 mechanical safety requirements

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Multifuge 1 accommodates a broad spectrum of standard laboratory vessels via interchangeable rotors. Fixed-angle configurations support up to six 94 mL or 50 mL conical tubes (e.g., Falcon®), while swing-bucket rotors handle up to four 400 mL bottles, twelve 50 mL tubes, thirty-two 15 mL tubes, or fifty-six 7 mL blood collection tubes. All rotors and accessories are compatible with certified sealing lids—critical for biosafety containment during centrifugation of infectious or volatile samples. The instrument complies with key international safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards: EN 61010-1 (electrical safety), EN 61010-2-020 (centrifuge-specific requirements), EN 50081-1 (EMI emission), and EN 50082-1 (immunity). It has been independently verified and approved by the UK’s Centre for Applied Microbiology and Research (CAMR), confirming adherence to stringent performance and biosafety benchmarks for clinical and diagnostic applications.

Software & Data Management

While the Multifuge 1 operates as a stand-alone instrument without embedded PC connectivity, its control firmware incorporates audit-ready functionality aligned with GLP and GMP best practices. Each run logs timestamped parameters—including set RCF, actual speed, elapsed time, temperature (for refrigerated models), and imbalance status—accessible via front-panel review. The EASYset interface supports repeatable protocol recall and execution, minimizing operator-induced variability. Though not natively compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11, the system’s deterministic behavior, hardware-enforced rotor safety limits, and non-volatile parameter storage provide foundational traceability required for regulated environments. Optional integration with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) is achievable through third-party serial or analog signal interfaces for external data capture.

Applications

The Multifuge 1 serves as a core workhorse in diverse settings: clinical diagnostics laboratories performing serum/plasma separation; academic research groups isolating subcellular organelles, viruses, or nucleic acids; biopharmaceutical QA/QC units conducting filter integrity testing or buffer clarification; and industrial quality control labs processing polymer dispersions or food emulsions. Its wide RCF range and rotor versatility make it suitable for differential centrifugation protocols, density gradient separations (e.g., sucrose or Percoll®), and high-speed pelleting of bacteria, yeast, and mammalian cells. The refrigerated variant maintains thermal stability for temperature-sensitive proteins, enzymes, and RNA preparations—supporting workflows compliant with ISO 15189 and CLSI GP45-A4 guidelines.

FAQ

What is the difference between EASYset and QUIKset control systems?
EASYset uses a membrane keypad with LED display and supports 10-rpm speed resolution, four programmable methods, and pre-cool functionality. QUIKset employs an analog rotary dial with tactile feedback and 100-rpm resolution, optimized for rapid manual adjustment in high-volume routine labs.
Can the Multifuge 1 be used for biosafety-level 2 (BSL-2) applications?
Yes—when equipped with sealed rotors and biocontainment lids validated for CAMR compliance, it meets containment requirements for BSL-2 agents when operated within certified biosafety cabinets or appropriate secondary containment.
Is rotor calibration required before first use?
No—each rotor carries factory-calibrated identification tags recognized automatically by the SMARTspin™ system; however, periodic verification using NIST-traceable tachometers is recommended per institutional SOPs.
Does the refrigerated model maintain temperature during continuous operation?
Yes—the compressor-based cooling system stabilizes chamber temperature within ±2 °C of setpoint throughout runs up to 9 hours 59 minutes, even under maximum load conditions.
Are replacement parts and service documentation available globally?
Thermo Fisher Scientific provides worldwide technical support, genuine spare parts (including motors, controllers, and door assemblies), and downloadable service manuals via their authorized distributor network and online portal.