MKN 80-1 Benchtop Electric Centrifuge
| Brand | MKN |
|---|---|
| Model | 80-1 |
| Max Speed | 4000 rpm |
| Relative Centrifugal Force (RCF) | 1430 × g |
| Capacity | 6 × 20 mL |
| Timer Range | 0–60 min |
| Noise Level | ≤60 dB(A) |
| Power Supply | AC 220 V, 50 Hz, 2 A |
| Construction | Die-cast aluminum rotor chamber and precision-machined aluminum rotor |
Overview
The MKN 80-1 Benchtop Electric Centrifuge is a compact, general-purpose centrifuge engineered for routine separation tasks in clinical, biochemical, and research laboratory environments. It operates on the principle of sedimentation under controlled centrifugal force—generating radial acceleration proportional to rotational speed and rotor radius—to separate suspended particles, cells, or immiscible liquid phases based on density differentials. Designed for reliability in high-frequency use, the unit features stepless speed control and an integrated mechanical auto-balancing system that compensates for minor sample mass asymmetry without requiring manual counterweight adjustment. Its thermally optimized motor housing and low-friction bearing assembly ensure minimal temperature rise during extended operation—critical for preserving heat-sensitive biological specimens such as serum, plasma, and immunological reagents.
Key Features
- Stepless electronic speed regulation (0–4000 rpm), enabling precise optimization of separation conditions across diverse sample types
- Integrated mechanical auto-balancing mechanism reduces vibration and extends bearing service life, even with minor load imbalances
- Die-cast aluminum rotor chamber and precision-machined aluminum rotor provide structural rigidity, thermal stability, and corrosion resistance
- Digital timer with 1-minute resolution (0–60 minutes), supporting repeatable, unattended operation with automatic shutdown
- Low-noise design (≤60 dB[A] at 1 m distance) suitable for shared laboratory spaces and ISO 14644-compliant cleanroom-adjacent workflows
- Compact footprint (W × D × H: 260 × 320 × 280 mm) and lightweight construction (≈12.5 kg) facilitate placement on standard lab benches or mobile carts
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MKN 80-1 accommodates standard conical-bottom polypropylene or glass centrifuge tubes (up to 20 mL capacity), with rotor compatibility verified for common tube formats including 15 mL and 20 mL Falcon-style tubes. It supports protocols aligned with CLSI GP42-A5 (Centrifugation Procedures in Clinical Laboratories) and ASTM D1796 (Standard Practice for Centrifuging Fuel Samples). While not certified for biosafety level (BSL)-2 containment or refrigerated operation, the device meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for electrical equipment used in laboratory settings. Its non-refrigerated architecture complies with ambient-temperature centrifugation standards referenced in USP and EP 2.2.22 for pharmaceutical quality control assays involving serum separation prior to ELISA or electrophoresis.
Software & Data Management
As a manually operated analog-digital hybrid instrument, the MKN 80-1 does not incorporate embedded software, network connectivity, or data logging capabilities. All operational parameters—including speed, time, and run status—are set and monitored via front-panel controls and LED indicators. This design prioritizes operational simplicity, electromagnetic interference (EMI) resilience, and compliance with GLP environments where audit trails are maintained externally via laboratory notebooks or LIMS-integrated procedural documentation. For facilities requiring 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, parameter settings and run records must be documented contemporaneously by authorized personnel using validated paper-based or electronic batch record systems.
Applications
- Routine separation of serum and plasma from whole blood in clinical diagnostics and point-of-care testing
- Precipitation of immune complexes and antigen–antibody aggregates in serological assays
- Clarification of bacterial lysates and crude enzyme extracts in upstream bioprocessing
- Phase separation in solvent extraction workflows for organic analyte recovery (e.g., phenol–chloroform DNA isolation)
- Preparative pelleting of microorganisms (e.g., E. coli, yeast) prior to cell lysis or metabolite profiling
- Quality control centrifugation in raw material verification per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories
FAQ
Is the MKN 80-1 suitable for use with infectious or hazardous samples?
No. The unit lacks sealed rotor containment, aerosol-tight lid interlocks, or biosafety certification. It is intended only for non-pathogenic, non-volatile, and non-toxic samples under BSL-1 conditions.
Can this centrifuge accommodate swing-bucket rotors or fixed-angle variants beyond the standard 6-place rotor?
No. The MKN 80-1 is supplied exclusively with a fixed-angle aluminum rotor configured for six 20 mL tubes. No alternative rotor options are available or supported by the manufacturer.
Does the device support programmable multi-step runs or acceleration/deceleration ramp control?
No. It provides single-stage operation with immediate acceleration to set speed and passive deceleration upon timer completion. No ramp profiles or pause functions are implemented.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term operational integrity?
Visual inspection of rotor integrity and chamber cleanliness before each use; lubrication-free operation eliminates routine greasing; annual verification of speed accuracy and timer calibration against NIST-traceable reference instruments is advised.
Is the power supply compatible with international voltage standards (e.g., 110 V / 60 Hz)?
No. The unit is factory-configured for AC 220 V, 50 Hz input only. Use with alternate mains specifications requires an externally rated isolation transformer meeting IEC 61558-2-6 requirements.
