MKN 80-3 Benchtop Centrifuge
| Brand | MKN |
|---|---|
| Model | 80-3 |
| 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 |
Overview
The MKN 80-3 Benchtop Centrifuge is a compact, general-purpose centrifugal separation instrument engineered for routine sedimentation and phase separation tasks in clinical, biochemical, and chemical laboratories. It operates on the principle of centrifugal force generation through high-speed rotor rotation, enabling density-based stratification of heterogeneous liquid samples. Designed for reliability under continuous daily use, the unit features analog-to-digital speed control with digital RPM readout, mechanical timer-based operation, and passive thermal management to maintain low operational temperature rise during extended runs. Its robust cast-aluminum rotor assembly ensures dimensional stability and rotational balance across variable load conditions, minimizing vibration and extending bearing service life.
Key Features
- Digital speed display calibrated to ±2% accuracy at full scale (0–4000 rpm), supporting reproducible protocol execution
- Mechanically actuated 0–60 minute countdown timer with audible end-of-run alert
- Aluminum alloy rotor with six fixed-angle positions accommodating standard 20 mL conical centrifuge tubes (e.g., polypropylene or glass)
- Self-balancing rotor design minimizes manual tube pairing requirements while maintaining run stability at maximum rated speed
- Low-noise enclosure engineered to meet ISO 3744 acoustic emission standards for laboratory environments (≤60 dB[A] at 1 m distance)
- Thermally optimized motor housing and airflow path limiting surface temperature rise to <15 °C above ambient after 30-minute continuous operation
- Compliance-ready mechanical interlock system preventing lid opening during active rotation
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The MKN 80-3 supports common diagnostic and research sample formats including whole blood, serum, plasma, cell suspensions, and precipitated protein solutions. Rotor geometry is compatible with standard 15–20 mL conical centrifuge tubes conforming to ISO 8573-1 and ASTM D3924 specifications for dimensional tolerance. The instrument meets IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for electrical laboratory equipment and incorporates grounding continuity verification per EN 61326-1 for electromagnetic compatibility. While not certified for biosafety containment (e.g., BSL-2), it is routinely deployed in GLP-aligned clinical chemistry workflows where centrifugation serves as a pre-analytical step prior to spectrophotometric, immunoassay, or electrophoretic analysis.
Software & Data Management
As a manually operated, non-networked benchtop device, the MKN 80-3 does not include embedded software or data logging functionality. All operational parameters—including speed, time, and run status—are set via front-panel controls and visually confirmed via LED indicators. For laboratories requiring audit-trail compliance under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or ISO/IEC 17025, external documentation of centrifugation protocols (e.g., in electronic lab notebooks or SOP-controlled logbooks) is recommended. No firmware updates or driver installation are required; device operation remains fully functional without connectivity or third-party software dependencies.
Applications
- Routine serum/plasma separation from whole blood specimens in hospital core labs and point-of-care testing environments
- Precipitation and pelleting of cellular components (e.g., erythrocytes, leukocytes, platelets) for downstream hematology assays
- Clarification of reagent solutions and buffer preparations in quality control laboratories
- Phase separation in organic-aqueous extraction protocols used in analytical chemistry sample preparation
- Initial concentration of low-abundance analytes prior to HPLC or ELISA analysis
- Supporting CLIA-waived and moderate-complexity testing procedures under CAP-accredited laboratory systems
FAQ
What is the maximum relative centrifugal force (RCF) achievable with this centrifuge?
The MKN 80-3 delivers a maximum RCF of 1430 × g at its top speed of 4000 rpm when using the standard 6-position rotor with 20 mL tubes.
Is the rotor autoclavable?
No—the aluminum rotor is not designed for steam sterilization. Cleaning is limited to wiping with ethanol or isopropanol; immersion or ultrasonic cleaning is not recommended.
Does this model support refrigerated operation?
No—this is a non-refrigerated unit. Ambient temperature operation between 10–30 °C is specified for optimal performance and motor longevity.
Can I use microcentrifuge tubes (1.5–2.0 mL) in this centrifuge?
No—the rotor accepts only 15–20 mL conical tubes. Adapters for smaller formats are not available or validated for this model.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Visual inspection of rotor integrity and bearing smoothness every 6 months is advised; lubrication is factory-sealed and non-serviceable by end users.
