Instruction manual

GOOD OPERATOR PRACTICE 14
3. GOOD OPERATOR PRACTICE
Please read the following notes before attempting to operate the centrifuge.
3.1 Spillage
In the event of a liquid spillage the affected surfaces should be cleaned
immediately. The rotor and accessories should be removed for thorough
cleaning. Regular cleaning of the centrifuge is highly recommended to avoid the
build up of contaminants.
3.2 Materials with specific gravity in excess of 1.2
The maximum speed of each rotor is calculated on the basis of samples with a
specific gravity of 1.2. If materials of a higher specific gravity are used, then the
maximum rotor speed must be reduced according to the formula below.
Where M = New maximum speed
N = Normal maximum speed
S = Specific gravity of sample
3.3 Corrosive materials
Where particularly corrosive materials are to be centrifuged, the samples
should be placed in sealed containers and all necessary precautions observed.
The following list gives examples of corrosive materials used in laboratories.
• Phenol/cresol/water
• Chloroform/isoamyl alcohol
• Salt solutions (especially ammonium sulphate)
• Solutions of ammonium hydroxide and acidic solutions e.g. hydrochloric,
trichoracetic and perchloric acids.
Other materials may be equally corrosive, the user is responsible for checking
the characteristics of substances used.
NOTE: The following materials are prohibited:
• Flammable or explosive materials
• Materials which chemically interact vigorously