MKN SH120-1 Microhematocrit Centrifuge
| Brand | MKN |
|---|---|
| Origin | Jiangsu, China |
| Model | SH120-1 |
| Maximum Speed | 12,000 rpm |
| Relative Centrifugal Force (RCF) | 13,500 × g |
| Capacity | 24 × capillary tubes (Φ1.5 mm × 75 mm) |
| Power Input | 230 VA |
| Power Output | 100 W |
| Voltage/Frequency | 110 V / 60 Hz & 220 V / 60 Hz |
| Acceleration Time | <1 min |
| Deceleration Time | <2 min |
| Timer Range | 0–30 min (non-continuous operation only) |
| Speed Selection | Push-button dual setting (11,000 rpm / 12,000 rpm) |
| Net Weight | 10 kg |
Overview
The MKN SH120-1 Microhematocrit Centrifuge is a compact, high-speed benchtop centrifuge engineered specifically for rapid separation of capillary blood samples in clinical and point-of-care laboratory settings. It operates on the principle of sedimentation under controlled relative centrifugal force (RCF), enabling precise hematocrit determination and plasma isolation from microvolumes (typically 10–75 µL) of whole blood collected via fingerstick or earlobe puncture. Designed to meet the operational demands of hematology screening, quality control in blood banking, and veterinary diagnostics, the SH120-1 delivers reproducible RCF-based separation without requiring refrigeration or complex rotor balancing—making it ideal for resource-constrained environments, mobile labs, and small-scale clinical facilities.
Key Features
- Optimized capillary tube configuration: Accommodates 24 standardized hematocrit capillaries (1.5 mm diameter × 75 mm length) in a symmetrical rotor layout, ensuring mechanical balance and consistent sedimentation profiles.
- Dual-speed push-button interface: Provides two fixed rotational speeds—11,000 rpm and 12,000 rpm—corresponding to RCF values calibrated for standardized hematocrit measurement per CLSI H26-A3 and ISO 15189-aligned workflows.
- Short-cycle performance: Achieves full operational speed in under 60 seconds and decelerates to stop within 120 seconds, minimizing turnaround time for batched microsample processing.
- Non-continuous duty cycle design: Incorporates thermal protection and automatic shutdown after 30-minute timer expiration, complying with IEC 61010-1 safety requirements for Class II laboratory equipment.
- Robust cast-aluminum housing with integrated vibration-damping base: Ensures stable operation at maximum speed while reducing acoustic noise to ≤65 dB(A) at 1 m distance.
- Low-power architecture: Draws ≤230 VA input power with 100 W mechanical output, supporting deployment in off-grid or UPS-backed environments without compromising torque delivery.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The SH120-1 is validated for use with heparinized, EDTA-coated, or plain glass/polyethylene capillary tubes conforming to ASTM E2022-20 specifications for hematocrit tube dimensions and wall thickness uniformity. It supports both sealed and clay-sealed capillary formats. The device complies with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per EN 61326-1:2013 and meets essential safety criteria under GB 4793.1–2007 (equivalent to IEC 61010-1). While not certified for GLP/GMP production environments, its repeatable RCF delivery and timer accuracy (±1% over full range) support data integrity in ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing laboratories performing routine hematocrit verification.
Software & Data Management
As a dedicated analog-operated microcentrifuge, the SH120-1 does not incorporate digital control software or data logging capabilities. All operational parameters—including speed selection, timer activation, and run initiation—are managed via tactile push-button controls with LED status indicators. This minimalist interface eliminates firmware dependencies, reduces cybersecurity exposure, and ensures long-term operational reliability without software updates or license renewals. For laboratories requiring audit trails, external documentation of run conditions (e.g., speed, duration, sample ID) must be maintained manually in accordance with internal SOPs or FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned recordkeeping practices where applicable.
Applications
- Routine hematocrit (Hct) determination in outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and field-deployed diagnostic units.
- Plasma separation for subsequent analysis by immunoassay, electrolyte panels, or coagulation testing using microvolume specimens.
- Veterinary hematology screening where minimal blood draw volume is critical for small-animal patients.
- QC verification of capillary tube manufacturing consistency and anticoagulant coating uniformity.
- Educational laboratories demonstrating sedimentation kinetics and RCF-dependent phase separation principles.
FAQ
What capillary tube dimensions are supported?
The SH120-1 accepts standard microhematocrit tubes measuring 1.5 mm outer diameter and 75 mm total length, including both plain and anticoagulant-coated variants.
Is continuous operation permitted?
No. The device is rated for non-continuous use only; maximum run time is 30 minutes, followed by mandatory cooling before subsequent cycles.
Does the centrifuge require calibration certification?
While factory-calibrated for speed and timer accuracy, users should perform periodic verification using an NIST-traceable tachometer and stopwatch per CLSI EP13-A3 guidelines.
Can the rotor be autoclaved?
The aluminum rotor is not autoclavable; cleaning must be performed with 70% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol and lint-free wipes—avoid immersion or ultrasonic treatment.
What electrical standards does the unit meet?
It conforms to IEC 61010-1 for laboratory equipment safety and EN 61326-1 for electromagnetic emissions and immunity in industrial and laboratory environments.
