1. My centrifuge has no power, won't spin.
- Check power (plugged in, cord intact, outlet works)
- Check lid. Completely closed?
- Does the unit have a safety switch? (You would have power but it will not start). Request repair or parts information.
- Check fuses, if applicable. Replace if blown.
- Check brushes, if applicable. Refer to Operator's Manual for appropriate length of brushes. Replace if needed.
2. My centrifuge is causing tubes to break
- Check g force (RCF) for the tube/protocol being used, then check the actual speed at which they spin. Excessive g force may cause tube breakage.
- Check tubes. Are they chipped, cracked?
- Using appropriate adapters or cushions/gaskets? (At least one cushion is required in shields.) Are they worn? Replace if necessary.
- Has a tube broken previously? Centrifuge must be completely cleaned after tube breakage.
- Check balance.
3. My centrifuge shuts off/ loses power before cycle is complete.
- Check that power cord is intact/ connected.
- Check that brushes are okay and replace if needed.
- Is there vibration? An unbalanced load could cause a disconnect of the safety switch (if it exists in the model) which then shuts off motor.
- Could be caused by problems with internal components (electrical motor noise, pc board, etc.)
- Check for proper programming, if applicable.
- If stop was caused by an imbalance error (CA6000), the buckets may require lubrication.
4. My centrifuge is vibrating excessively or noisy.
- Check balance (also check for missing cushions).
- Check rotor for proper installation.
- Check lid to see if it closes correctly.
- Check feet. Are all in place? Are they worn? Replace if needed.
- Centrifuge must be on a flat, level, and hard surface. Do not use mats, cushions, carts, or external covers of any kind (due to heat build up).
5. How can I calculate the g-force (RCF) on my centrifuge?
You need to determine tip radius (distance between center of rotor and end of tube when in shield) in inches. With that measurement, and the RPMs (rotations per minute) of the unit, use the following calculation:
- RCF= 0.0000284 x r(tip radius) x n (n=RPMs)
6. There is a smell of smoke or burning smell coming from unit.
Disconnect unit. DO NOT USE.
7. Blood is not separating in collection tubes, i.e. Vacutainer® Brand SST Blood Collection Tubes.
Check the time and appropriate RPMs and g force (RCF) for the tube type. If BD Vacutainer® Tubes are being used you would need to verify with BD Vacutainer Division, (800) 631-0174.
