What is a microcentrifuge?
A microcentrifuge is a small, fast centrifuge designed to process microtubes with small volumes. The high rotational speed generates a strong g-force that separates components of different densities. In almost every molecular biology, biochemistry and clinical laboratory, the microcentrifuge forms the basis for daily sample preparation. Its compact dimensions ensure that the instrument takes up little bench space, while its performance is sufficient for demanding protocols.
Our range of microcentrifuges
Poly Temp Scientific offers a carefully selected range of Thermo Scientific microcentrifuges:
- Thermo Scientific M17 microcentrifuge: a reliable, ventilated microcentrifuge for routine use. Compact and user-friendly, ideal for standard separations in the daily lab.
- Thermo Scientific M21 microcentrifuge: a high-performance, refrigerated microcentrifuge for intensive use and high g-forces. Delivers reproducible results and protects temperature-sensitive samples.
- Thermo Scientific MicroCL 17 and 21: the MicroCL 17 is ventilated and the MicroCL 21 is refrigerated. Both offer a capacity of 24 x 1.5/2 ml, speeds up to 10,000-20,000 rpm and g-forces up to 25,000 x g.
Choosing ventilated or refrigerated
When selecting a microcentrifuge, temperature management is decisive. A ventilated microcentrifuge dissipates the heat generated during spinning and is excellent for routine work at room temperature. A refrigerated microcentrifuge keeps the sample at a constant low temperature during longer or intensive runs, protecting labile components such as RNA, enzymes and proteins against degradation. If you work with heat-sensitive preparations or run long protocols, a refrigerated model is preferable.
Applications and buying advice
Microcentrifuges are used for DNA and RNA isolation, protein precipitation, PCR preparation, pelleting cells and clarifying lysates. When making your choice, consider the required maximum g-force, the rotor capacity, the tube format and the need for cooling. Our specialists are happy to help you select the right model and the appropriate rotors and adapters, so the instrument integrates seamlessly into your workflow. All microcentrifuges are available on a quotation basis. Request a no-obligation quotation today for tailored advice.
Frequently asked questions about microcentrifuges
What is a microcentrifuge?
A microcentrifuge is a compact benchtop centrifuge for separating microvolumes in microtubes of typically 1.5 and 2 ml. The instrument is widely used for DNA/RNA, proteins, PCR and pelleting cells in research and clinical laboratories.
What is the difference between a ventilated and a refrigerated microcentrifuge?
A ventilated microcentrifuge dissipates the heat generated during spinning and is intended for routine work at room temperature. A refrigerated microcentrifuge keeps the sample at a constant low temperature and protects temperature-sensitive components such as RNA and proteins during intensive or longer runs.
What do you use a microcentrifuge for?
You use a microcentrifuge to isolate DNA and RNA, purify proteins, prepare PCR reactions and pellet cells and particles. It is a basic instrument in molecular biology, biochemistry and clinical labs.
Which tube sizes fit in a microcentrifuge?
Microcentrifuges are designed for microtubes, typically 1.5 and 2 ml. Models such as the MicroCL 17 and 21 offer a capacity of 24 x 1.5/2 ml, for example. With the right adapters, smaller tube formats can often be processed as well.
What is the difference between a microcentrifuge, a benchtop centrifuge and a mini centrifuge?
A microcentrifuge specialises in small microtubes and high g-forces. A regular benchtop centrifuge handles larger tubes and volumes and can be found in our Benchtop centrifuges category. A mini centrifuge is a very compact spin-down unit for quick short spins; see our Mini centrifuges category for that.