What Are Centrifuge Tubes?
Centrifuge Tubes are containers meant for use in a centrifuge machine in laboratories. These tubes hold the prepared samples for any type of separation, mixing or homogenization. Generally made from polypropylene, centrifuge tubes are available in a range of sizes and designs, including conical bottoms, self-standing options, as well as clear and amber variations.
What are Centrifuge Tubes Used For?
The name – Centrifuge Tube is given based on its primary intended use which is for a centrifuge machine. But these are also used for preparing samples in vortex mixers, laboratory rollers, dry baths, laboratory shakers and so on.
Think of it as a versatile storage solution suitable for various uses in the laboratory.
How to Use a Centrifuge Tube?
Here’s a basic step-by-step guide to use a centrifuge tube in any centrifuge machine.
Step 1: Prepare the Samples
Fill the centrifuge tube using a pipette or any other liquid handling instrument of your choice with the sample to the desired volume, ensuring not to overfill it. Leave some space to avoid spillage.
Step 2: Balance the Tubes
Place the centrifuge tube in the centrifuge and balance it with a tube of the same weight on the opposite side. If needed, use a balance tube filled with water or another similar liquid to match the weight.
Step 3: Secure the Caps
Make sure the cap is tightly secured on the centrifuge tube to prevent leakage. Double-checking the seal before you begin is always a good idea.
Step 4 : Set the Centrifuge Parameters
Close the centrifuge lid and set the appropriate speed (RPM), time and other parameters according to your requirements.
Step 5: Start the Centrifuge
Turn on the centrifuge and let it run for the set duration. Do not open the centrifuge while it is spinning.
Step 6: Retrieve the Tubes Once Done
In more advanced centrifuges, the lid will automatically open once the centrifugation is done. Retrieve your tubes which now have separated components of the sample. Some applications require a second or third spin too.
Step 7: Handle the Separated Sample
Carefully decant or pipette the separated components from the centrifuge tube. If applicable, be mindful of the different layers formed, such as supernatant and pellet.
Finally, Clean and Store the Centrifuge Tubes
Clean the centrifuge tube if it is reusable, or dispose of it properly if it is intended for single use. Ensure the centrifuge and its accessories are clean and ready for the next use.
Proper care and handling of the centrifuge tube is key in keeping them in best condition for a long time. Refer to these Dos and Don’ts for Centrifuge Tube Care.
Types of Centrifuge Tubes
Conical Bottoms Vs Self-Standing Centrifuge Tubes
Conical bottoms are more convenient when it comes to sample recovery using a pipette whereas self-standing centrifuge tubes have a flat bottom which makes it stable to place on benchtops.
Regular Vs. Heavy-Metal Free Centrifuge Tubes
While regular centrifuge tubes work perfectly fine if they are manufactured under the right conditions, using low leachable and extractable materials, heavy-metal free tubes are better if your samples are particularly sensitive to metals like Nickel, Copper etc.
They are designed to maintain trace metal levels below one part per billion (1ppb)
Transparent vs Amber Centrifuge Tubes
Transparent tubes give you a clear view of the sample stored inside whereas amber tubes protect light-sensitive samples from UV and visible light.
Microcentrifuge Tubes Vs Centrifuge Bottles
Microcentrifuge tubes are smaller in size, used for minute sample volumes ranging from 0.5 ml to 2 ml. You have options to choose from clear, amber and coloured tubes based on your requirements. Coloured tubes aid in identification and organisation, amber tubes are ideal for light-sensitive samples and clear tubes aid in visually inspecting the sample.
On the other hand, Centrifuge Bottles are large capacity containers, generally available in the range of 250 and 500 ml.
Printed Vs. Moulded Graduations
Printed graduations are known for their ease of reading, making them a convenient choice for quick and accurate measurements. Moulded graduations, on the other hand, offer exceptional durability and chemical resistance, ensuring that the markings remain clear and legible over time.
How to Choose the Right Centrifuge Tube
Here are some key factors that you must consider if you want to purchase the best centrifuge tube for your application.
Raw Materials
High-quality plastic materials, such as US FDA-approved polypropylene are preferred for their durability and resistance to chemicals. Check that the tubes are made from materials that won’t react with your samples or compromise their integrity.
Manufacturing Conditions
Tubes produced in Clean Rooms and controlled environments are less likely to be contaminated. Look for tubes manufactured under stringent quality control measures to ensure reliability.
Chemical Compatibility
Verify that the tube material is compatible with the chemicals and solvents used in your experiments. This prevents undesirable reactions that could affect the accuracy of your results or compromise the integrity of your samples.
Leak-Proof Design
Opt for centrifuge tubes with secure and leak-proof caps to prevent sample loss or contamination. Screw caps, snap caps, or plug seals are common closure types that provide a tight seal and minimise the risk of leaks during centrifugation and sample storage.
Labelling Options
Consider tubes with writable surfaces or designated areas for labels to facilitate easy sample identification and tracking. Clear and legible labelling helps ensure accurate sample handling and prevents errors in experimental workflows. Even microcentrifuges should come with an option of labelling.
Temperature Stability
Opt for centrifuge tubes capable of enduring a broad temperature range, spanning from -80°C to 121°C. This resilience ensures suitability for a multitude of conditions and sample storage needs, including autoclaving.
Optical Clarity and Durability
Transparent or clear tubes allow for easy visualisation of sample contents, facilitating observation and monitoring during centrifugation and subsequent procedures. Additionally, opt for tubes made from durable materials that can withstand repeated use and handling without compromising structural integrity.
Applications of Centrifuge Tubes
Centrifuge Tubes are used across different streams of research and diagnostic applications. For example, in medical and clinical settings, they are used to hold blood samples for centrifugation and separation of RBCs, WBCs, platelets and plasma. Other applications include:
- Molecular Biology: Isolating DNA and RNA for genetic analysis and research.
- Biochemistry: Purifying proteins from complex mixtures based on size, shape, and density.
- Microbiology: Pelleting bacteria or microorganisms from liquid cultures for analysis.
- Environmental Testing: Separating solid particles from liquids in soil, water, and other samples for analysis.
Sustainability in Laboratory Plastic Consumables
Plastic is one of the main conundrums of modern day. It looks almost impossible to get rid of it completely. But small steps make a huge difference. In laboratories, plastic is indispensable. The durability, sterility, convenience it provides is like no other. This begs the question; How can we do our part in reducing plastic waste.
While plastic itself does not have a close alternative, removing it from packaging, tip racks, tube racks etc will minimise as much as 60% of the plastic burden.
For example: Accumax centrifuge tubes come in a variety of packaging options including eco-friendly, biodegradable paper-racks. Our GreenMAX line of products provide sustainable options for labs that want to make a better and conscious choice.
Why Choose Accumax Centrifuge Tubes?
Manufactured in a fully automatic, human touch-free plant, Accumax centrifuge tubes are made from US FDA-approved virgin polypropylene. Each batch is tested to be free from DNase, RNase, human DNA, and endotoxins, guaranteeing the highest level of sample integrity.
The advanced design and high-quality materials allow these tubes to withstand higher G-forces, providing unmatched performance in demanding applications.
Accumax Centrifuge Tubes are leakproof, provide a large writing surface, tamper-proof graduations, and can withstand temperatures from -80° to 121°C, making them fully autoclavable.
Aanak Goswami
12+ Years of experience in generating growth for organisations. Having customer management skills with experience of Research, Institutional, clinical diagnostics, Healthcare and Biopharma customers.
