MKN SH120-II Smart Microhematocrit Centrifuge

Overview

The MKN SH120-II Smart Microhematocrit Centrifuge is a precision-engineered benchtop instrument designed for rapid, reproducible separation of minute blood volumes—particularly capillary whole blood samples—into cellular and plasma fractions. It operates on the principle of sedimentation under controlled centrifugal force, leveraging high-speed rotational dynamics to accelerate phase separation in low-volume biological specimens. Engineered for clinical laboratories, point-of-care testing environments, and small-scale research settings, this centrifuge delivers consistent hematocrit (HCT) determination, plasma harvesting, and microvolume sample preparation without requiring venipuncture. Its compact footprint and optimized rotor geometry ensure uniform force distribution across all 24 capillary positions, minimizing run-to-run variability and supporting GLP-aligned workflows.

Key Features

• Brushless DC motor providing stable rotational performance, extended service life, and reduced electromagnetic interference—critical for sensitive lab environments.
• Intuitive touchscreen interface enabling precise speed and time programming, real-time parameter monitoring, and user-defined protocol storage.
• Optimized fixed-angle rotor accommodating 24 standardized capillary tubes (1.5 mm ID × 75 mm length), ensuring balanced loading and mechanical safety at maximum rated speed.
• Stepless speed regulation from standstill to 12,000 rpm, allowing fine-tuned optimization for diverse sample viscosities and sedimentation requirements.
• Rapid acceleration (<60 s) and deceleration (<120 s) cycles reduce total assay turnaround time while maintaining sample integrity through controlled braking.
• Integrated safety mechanisms including automatic lid lock, imbalance detection, and over-speed protection compliant with IEC 61010-2-20 standard for laboratory centrifuges.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SH120-II is validated for use with heparinized or EDTA-coated capillary tubes containing 10–75 µL of whole blood—ideal for pediatric, geriatric, or resource-limited sampling where venous draw is impractical. It supports hematocrit measurement per CLSI EP15-A3 and ISO 15189:2022 requirements for quantitative clinical testing. The device meets essential electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards (IEC 61010-1, IEC 61326-1), and its operational parameters align with ASTM D6988-17 guidelines for microcentrifuge validation. While not FDA-cleared as an IVD device, it is suitable for research-use-only (RUO) applications and pre-analytical sample processing under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited quality systems.

Software & Data Management

As a standalone hardware platform, the SH120-II does not incorporate networked data export or electronic record capabilities. However, its touchscreen interface logs last-used parameters (speed, time, date stamp) for operator traceability—a foundational element for audit readiness. For laboratories implementing 21 CFR Part 11 compliance, external documentation (e.g., paper-based logbooks or LIMS-integrated run records) is recommended to satisfy ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate). Firmware updates are delivered via secure USB interface upon request from MKN technical support.

Applications

• Routine hematocrit determination in veterinary clinics and field-deployable diagnostic units.
• Plasma isolation from micro-blood draws for subsequent ELISA, PCR, or metabolite analysis.
• Separation of erythrocytes from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) in preliminary immunology assays.
• Preparative centrifugation of low-viscosity biological fluids such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or synovial fluid in rheumatology studies.
• Quality control testing of capillary tube coatings and anticoagulant efficacy under standardized g-force exposure.

FAQ

What capillary tube dimensions are supported?
The SH120-II accepts only standardized capillary tubes measuring 1.5 mm internal diameter × 75 mm length. Non-standard diameters may cause imbalance or rotor damage.
Is the centrifuge compatible with international voltage standards?
Yes—it supports dual-voltage input (110 V and 220 V), both at 60 Hz frequency. No external transformer is required for operation in North America or most Asian markets.
Does the unit include rotor calibration certification?
Each SH120-II ships with a factory-verified rotor balance certificate. Full metrological calibration (e.g., speed accuracy, timer deviation) is available upon request through MKN’s authorized service centers.
Can the centrifuge be used for non-blood applications?
While primarily engineered for microhematocrit, it may be applied to other low-volume, low-density suspensions (e.g., yeast cultures, colloidal nanoparticles) provided RCF and dwell time are validated for target sedimentation kinetics.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
Routine cleaning of the chamber and rotor every 50 operating hours is advised. Annual inspection of motor brushes (though brushless, bearing integrity remains critical) and lid interlock function is required for sustained compliance with ISO 13485-aligned quality management systems.