Behind the scenes in many laboratories, the laboratory centrifuge is a discreet but essential tool. Whether you're a student, technician, or researcher, you've probably seen this device spinning at high speed, without always knowing its exact purpose. However, its function goes far beyond simply "spinning tubes."
In this article, we will explain to you concretely what a laboratory centrifuge is used for , through real use cases, concrete benefits, and examples of applications in different scientific sectors. You will finally know why it is considered an essential pillar of most modern experimental protocols.
The principle of separation at the basis of its usefulness
The core of a centrifuge's role is based on a simple idea: harnessing centrifugal force to accelerate the separation of a mixture's components. When a liquid sample is placed in a centrifuge, it undergoes an acceleration that pushes the densest elements toward the bottom of the tube, forming a pellet. This ability to rapidly break down a liquid's constituents makes the device indispensable.
A visual example: blood
In medical analysis, the laboratory centrifuge is used to separate plasma from red blood cells and other blood components. Without centrifugation, this separation would take hours by simple natural decantation. With it, a few minutes are enough to obtain a clear supernatant that can be used for biochemical analysis.
Medical and biological applications
The centrifuge is ubiquitous in hospitals, biomedical research laboratories, and molecular biology centers. Here are some concrete examples of its use:
- Blood analysis: separation of plasma or serum for biochemical tests (creatinine, hormones, electrolytes, etc.).
- DNA/RNA extraction: essential step for isolating nucleic acids in micro-volume tubes.
- Cell preparation: harvesting of cell pellets before microscopy or flow cytometry.
Why is this use crucial?
These applications provide rapid, reliable, and clinically usable results. For sensitive samples, a refrigerated centrifuge is even used to prevent thermal degradation of biomolecules during separation.
Added value in research laboratories
Beyond the medical field, the laboratory centrifuge is found in many scientific disciplines:
- Chemistry: purification of precipitates or separation of phases in reaction mixtures.
- Pharmacy: analysis of formulations, extraction of active ingredients, clarification of complex samples.
- Food industry: analysis of fats, quality control of dairy products or oils, separation of ingredients.
Optimization of time and resources
Rather than waiting for a slow settling process, the centrifuge produces a usable and reproducible supernatant in just a few minutes. This speed not only improves productivity but also the reproducibility of results, which is essential in any rigorous scientific protocol.
Why choose your laboratory centrifuge from Rewake?
At Rewake, we are committed to providing reliable, affordable, and immediately operational equipment. This is why we have developed unique expertise in the reconditioning of professional laboratory equipment, including laboratory centrifuges .
All our centrifuges are tested, verified, and calibrated by qualified technicians. They meet the strict quality standards required in scientific environments, while offering a more economical and durable solution than purchasing new.
Choosing a reconditioned juicer from Rewake is making an informed choice on two counts:
- Financially : benefit from up to 50% off new prices.
- On an ecological level : you actively contribute to the reduction of electronic waste by extending the lifespan of already efficient equipment.
Personalized support
We don't just sell equipment. We advise our clients—public laboratories, private companies, research centers, and schools—so they can find the equipment best suited to their technical needs and budget. Not sure which model to choose? Our team is here to help.
An offer designed for performance
Our range of laboratory centrifuges includes standard, refrigerated, benchtop, and micro-volume models, depending on your specific requirements. We work with brands renowned for their robustness (Eppendorf, Heraeus, Thermo, Sigma, etc.), which guarantees perfect long-term reliability.
Each product has its own complete online sheet, with photos, technical specifications and real-time availability. And if you're looking to learn more about how they work, don't hesitate to consult our guide: how a laboratory centrifuge works .
