Working in a laboratory is no joke. Equipment, instruments, and other machinery are installed in a lab and must be used while exercising the required precaution. One such piece of equipment called centrifuge laboratory equipment is very commonly used. It is used for separating various particles mixed in a liquid. The machine rotates at a great speed, which achieves the desired result.
But using a centrifuge laboratory equipment isn’t easy. While experienced scientists have the rules engraved on their minds, novices find it hard to follow the precautions and rules, which results in mistakes. The 8 common mistakes which people commonly make while using centrifuge laboratory equipment are discussed here, which everyone should keep in mind.
Not Checking the Unit Before Using It
Whenever you use a centrifuge, it is better to check whether it is working alright. If it has not been used for quite some time, there is a possibility that its machinery is jammed and it needs cleaning. Also, if equipment is used regularly, exposure to salts, chemicals, and moisture can make the machine prone to corrosion. Thus, one must check the equipment before using it. If you see any existing cracks or scratches, do not ignore them, as they will only result in small holes and it can lead to an accident. The rotor blade may fail, and the machine can damage the bystanders and users.
Another possible way to keep the centrifuge up to date and working is to make it a mandatory practice to clean it after every use. It will ensure that the instrument last longer.
The centrifuge has a rotor that rotates at a great speed. It is dangerous equipment and, thus, requires extra care and precautions. So, always check before using it. In addition, it is advised to hire a centrifuge calibration lab in San Diego to keep your equipment up to date.
Not Keeping It on A Level Surface
A basic requirement of using a centrifuge is that its rotor should be in line with gravity to offer accurate results. So, it goes for every lab equipment. They should be placed on a flat, non-moving surface. But this is a common mistake that most novice users make. They don’t check the centrifuge surface. The rot blades rotate speedily and might cause the centrifuge to move in the opposite direction if it is placed on an uneven surface.
Using the Centrifuge Above Maximum Load
Beginners should always be advised to read the user manuals before using lab equipment. The manuals clearly state the maximum load and speed permissible for the underlying centrifuge lab equipment. Using a greater load and operating the machine at a speed higher than permissible can render it useless and result in mechanical failure. It is also risky for the user, and this behavior should be avoided.
Some lab equipment allows a higher load but you must reduce the speed. Also, consider the nature of the material before placing an extra load.
Trying to Open the Lid During Operation
While using a mixer grinder, you must keep the cap closed. Similarly, you should not try to open the centrifuge lid during operation. It is imperative to keep you and others safe. In case of any misfunction, the mess will occur within the lid, but if it is open, it can injure you. Therefore, when buying centrifuge lab equipment for your lab, buy one with a safety lock.
Using Damaged Tubes
Every centrifuge comes equipped with a matching set of tubes. These tubes are like small vials in which the liquid solutions are filled and rotated. These must always be checked before use because even the tiniest fracture in the tube can break the tube when the centrifuge starts working. Check for cracks, caps, O-rings, etc., and don’t use a tube even if you are remotely doubtful about it.
Not Balancing the Tubes Correctly
Placing the tubes in centrifuge equipment might sound easy, but certain technical specifications must be kept in mind.
Read the manufacturer’s instructions about balancing the tubes. They should be adjacently balanced and symmetrically placed.
If there are insufficient tubes, use dummy tubes filled with water or another liquid that matches the liquid density, mass, and volume of the real tubes.
Only fill the tubes up to the specified limit by the manufacturer.
Operating the Centrifuge in the Event of Abnormal Operation
One must be aware of the normal operational behavior of the machine, only to put the finger on its abnormal behavior. For example, scientists using a centrifuge know the extent of noise the machine makes, the extent of normal vibration, etc. In such a case, identifying the signs of abnormality is easier.
But beginners find it hard, and thus they make a common mistake, operating the centrifuge in the event of abnormal behavior. If it makes too much noise or vibrates excessively, shut it down immediately.
Opening the Centrifuge Immediately
It is important to remember that working in a laboratory is not easy and taking required precautions is necessary. One should not rush the processes.
One mistake beginners make while using centrifuge laboratory equipment is opening the lid right after the rotation stops. It is wrong. The chemicals and substances aerosolize and can be harmful when inhaled. A ten-minute waiting period is advised before opening the centrifuge lid.
How To Avoid These Common Mistakes?
Precaution is always better; thus, you must take precautionary measures to avoid any mistakes in the lab. The best way to avoid these centrifuge-related mistakes is to train your laboratory staff. The above-stated mistakes are common because they can be easily avoided only if one knows the basic instructions. Therefore, these instructions should be made mandatory to follow and if possible, must be posted around the lab to avoid problems.
Another way is to not allow new staff to undertake risky tasks. They must only be allowed to do the tests in the presence of an experienced colleague. Again, practice will help in achieving the goal.
In busy labs, checking the centrifuge before every use is impossible. Thus, you must ensure that there is a common policy in the lab to test, use, and clean the equipment.
Other common mistakes are caused by missing out on timely calibrations. Every lab equipment needs timely calibration to keep the instruments working properly. You can avoid unwanted incidents and injuries by hiring an expert for centrifuge calibration in San Diego.
Facilitating a supportive atmosphere in the laboratory is vital. New staff members might feel the need to prove themselves and seek no guidance. A good working environment is everyone’s responsibility.
How Often Should Centrifuges Be Calibrated?
It is a general procedure to calibrate centrifuges every six months. However, you can also get it calibrated if the lab equipment is not working properly. The most important part is to hire a competent calibration laboratory for centrifuge calibration in San Diego.
Endnote
Safety should be the first and foremost priority in every laboratory. Even an insignificant error can take lives. In addition, a laboratory houses chemicals and other toxic substances, and thus, safety precautions are necessary.
Not only beginners but even experienced scientists make these mistakes. Thus, it is imperative to read this blog again and save yourself and your staff. Discuss it with your lab team and help each other to avoid these mistakes.
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