MKN SH120 Microhematocrit Centrifuge

Overview

The MKN SH120 Microhematocrit Centrifuge is a compact, high-speed benchtop centrifuge engineered specifically for rapid and reproducible separation of whole blood in capillary tube format. It operates on the principle of sedimentation under controlled relative centrifugal force (RCF), enabling precise hematocrit determination, plasma isolation, and micro-volume blood component analysis. Designed for clinical laboratories, point-of-care testing environments, and small-scale research settings, the SH120 delivers consistent RCF performance across its full speed range—critical for standardized hematocrit measurements per CLSI H26-A3 and ISO 15189 requirements. Its rotor geometry ensures balanced load distribution and minimal vibration at maximum speed, supporting reliable data generation without operator intervention beyond timer setting.

Key Features

• Stepless speed control (0–12000 rpm) with digital display for precise RCF adjustment—essential for method transfer between instruments and compliance with SOP-defined protocols.
• Dedicated fixed-angle rotor accommodating 24 capillary tubes (1.5 mm diameter × 75 mm length), optimized for uniform radial acceleration and minimal meniscus distortion during spin-down.
• Thermally stable brushless DC motor delivering consistent torque output and low acoustic emission (<55 dB(A)), suitable for shared laboratory spaces.
• Integrated safety interlock system preventing lid opening during operation and automatic rotor deceleration upon lid lift or power interruption.
• Timer-controlled operation (0–30 minutes) with audible end-of-run signal; non-continuous duty cycle design aligns with IEC 61010-1 safety classification for Class II equipment.
• Compact footprint (280 × 310 × 265 mm) and lightweight chassis (10 kg) facilitate placement on laminar flow hoods, biosafety cabinets, or mobile diagnostic carts.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SH120 is validated for use with standard heparinized or EDTA-coated glass or plastic capillary tubes conforming to ASTM E2296 and ISO 8637-1 specifications. It supports both venous and capillary blood samples—including earlobe or fingertip collections—enabling rapid hematocrit assessment in resource-limited or field-deployable settings. The instrument meets electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) requirements per IEC 61326-1 and electrical safety standards per IEC 61010-1:2010. While not certified for GMP or FDA 21 CFR Part 11 environments out-of-the-box, its mechanical consistency and traceable timer functionality support GLP-aligned documentation when paired with external audit logs.

Software & Data Management

The SH120 operates via an embedded microcontroller interface with no external software dependency—ensuring deterministic timing behavior and eliminating cybersecurity vulnerabilities associated with network-connected instruments. All operational parameters (speed, time, RCF) are retained in non-volatile memory across power cycles. For laboratories requiring electronic recordkeeping, the device can be integrated into LIMS workflows via optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial adapters (sold separately), enabling timestamped export of run metadata including start/stop times, final speed, and elapsed duration. Audit trail generation requires third-party middleware compliant with ALCOA+ principles.

Applications

• Routine hematocrit measurement in veterinary clinics, rural health centers, and blood donation screening units.
• Plasma isolation from micro-volume blood samples for subsequent ELISA, PCR, or metabolite analysis.
• Sedimentation rate estimation in pediatric or geriatric populations where venipuncture volume is restricted.
• Quality control of anticoagulant efficacy in capillary collection devices prior to shipment.
• Teaching laboratories demonstrating sedimentation kinetics and Stokes’ law applications in physiology curricula.

FAQ

What capillary tube dimensions are supported?
The SH120 accepts standard microhematocrit tubes measuring Φ1.5 mm × 75 mm—compatible with most commercially available heparinized, EDTA, or plain glass capillaries.
Is continuous operation permitted?
No. The instrument is rated for non-continuous duty only; maximum recommended run time is 30 minutes, followed by a minimum 10-minute cooldown period before subsequent use.
Can the centrifuge be used with non-capillary sample formats?
No. The rotor is mechanically constrained to capillary tube geometry; adaptation to microtubes or PCR strips is not supported and would compromise safety certification.
Does the SH120 include calibration documentation?
Yes—each unit ships with a factory-verified speed calibration certificate traceable to national metrology standards, valid for one year from date of manufacture.
What maintenance is required?
Routine cleaning of the rotor chamber with 70% ethanol and visual inspection of capillary tube integrity before each use; annual verification of speed accuracy by authorized service personnel is recommended.