MKN Mini-13K Benchtop High-Speed Centrifuge
| Brand | MKN |
|---|---|
| Model | Mini-13K |
| Power Supply | 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz |
| Power Consumption | 100 W |
| Max Speed | 13,400 rpm |
| Max RCF | 12,100 × g |
| Timer Range | 15 s – 99 min |
| Acceleration Time to Max Speed | 48 s |
| Deceleration Time from Max Speed | 52 s |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 24 × 21.2 × 13.8 cm |
| Weight (incl. rotor) | 4.2 kg |
| Rotor Material | Autoclavable High-Strength Polymer (121 °C, 20 min) |
| Optional Accessories | 0.2 mL PCR tube adapters, 0.5 mL PCR tube adapters |
Overview
The MKN Mini-13K Benchtop High-Speed Centrifuge is a compact, microprocessor-controlled centrifugation system engineered for precision and reliability in routine molecular biology, clinical diagnostics, and quality control laboratories. Utilizing brushless DC motor technology and a dynamically balanced rotor assembly, the Mini-13K delivers stable rotational performance at speeds up to 13,400 rpm, generating a maximum relative centrifugal force (RCF) of 12,100 × g—sufficient for rapid pelleting of nucleic acids, cellular organelles, bacteria, and precipitated proteins. Its sealed, low-noise design minimizes vibration transmission and supports unattended operation during time-critical protocols. The unit complies with IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory electrical equipment and incorporates dual interlock mechanisms to prevent lid opening during rotation—a critical safeguard aligned with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited lab practices.
Key Features
- Brushless DC motor ensures long service life, minimal maintenance, and consistent torque delivery across speed ranges
- Microprocessor-based control system with digital display for real-time monitoring of speed (rpm), RCF, time remaining, and error codes
- Autoclavable rotor constructed from high-strength polymer—validated for repeated sterilization at 121 °C for 20 minutes per ISO 17665-1, supporting aseptic workflows in GLP and GMP environments
- Integrated soft-braking deceleration profile (52 s from max speed) reduces sample resuspension and preserves pellet integrity
- Compact footprint (24 × 21.2 × 13.8 cm) and lightweight chassis (4.2 kg) enable flexible placement on biosafety cabinets, laminar flow hoods, or crowded benchtops without compromising stability
- Dual mechanical and electronic lid locks meet EN 61010-2-020 requirements for centrifuge-specific safety
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Mini-13K accommodates standard microcentrifuge tubes (0.2 mL, 0.5 mL, and 1.5/2.0 mL) via interchangeable adapters—each certified for centrifugal loads up to 12,100 × g. The rotor’s conical geometry and precision-machined tube pockets ensure uniform radial distribution and reproducible sedimentation profiles. All plastic components comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility testing, and the device carries CE marking under the EU Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. For regulated environments, audit trails are supported through optional external logging interfaces compatible with FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant data acquisition systems.
Software & Data Management
While the Mini-13K operates as a standalone instrument with intuitive front-panel controls, its firmware architecture supports firmware-upgradable functionality via USB port (optional accessory). Protocol storage is limited to three user-defined presets (speed, time, acceleration/deceleration profile), each recallable with one-touch activation. All operational parameters—including total run cycles, cumulative runtime, and fault history—are retained in non-volatile memory for internal diagnostics and preventive maintenance scheduling. For integration into LIMS or ELN platforms, ASCII-formatted event logs can be exported via TTL-level serial output (RS-232 adapter sold separately), enabling traceability in ISO 13485 medical device manufacturing settings.
Applications
- Routine DNA/RNA extraction workflows requiring rapid clarification of lysates prior to column binding or ethanol precipitation
- Preparative centrifugation of bacterial cultures (e.g., E. coli, Bacillus spp.) for downstream plasmid isolation or protein expression analysis
- Micro-volume sample concentration in proteomics, where retention of low-abundance analytes depends on gentle yet effective pelleting
- Quality assurance testing of diagnostic reagents, including latex agglutination suspensions and antibody-conjugated beads
- Educational labs performing foundational centrifugation experiments under controlled, low-risk conditions
FAQ
Is the rotor compatible with autoclaving?
Yes—the rotor is fabricated from medical-grade polymer validated for 20 cycles of steam sterilization at 121 °C and 103 kPa, per ISO 17665-1 Annex A.
Can I use this centrifuge for blood separation?
It is suitable for microhematocrit applications using capillary tubes (with appropriate adapter), though not intended for whole-blood processing volumes exceeding 2 mL per tube.
Does the Mini-13K support variable acceleration/deceleration rates?
No—it features fixed ramp profiles (48 s to reach 13,400 rpm; 52 s to stop), optimized to minimize thermal load and mechanical stress on sensitive biological samples.
What safety certifications does it hold?
CE-marked per EN 61010-1 (Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment) and EN 61010-2-020 (Particular Requirements for Centrifuges); conforms to RoHS 2011/65/EU and REACH SVHC regulations.
Are rotor imbalance detection and automatic shutdown functions included?
Yes—integrated vibration sensors trigger immediate deceleration and error code display (E03) if mass asymmetry exceeds ±0.5 g per tube position, in accordance with IEC 61000-6-2 immunity standards.
