A “centrifuge” refers to a device that is commonly used in the medical world. It is a fast-spinning machine that separates its contents based on density. Centrifuges can be used to separate gasses, but their main job is to separate certain components from the fluid sample. And now, the veterinary clinic centrifuge is a very important device used all across the globe. If you want to know more about how it works and why it is needed, then this article is for you.
What Is A Centrifuge?
Centrifuges separate particles from solutions, by size, shape, density, as well as viscosity. Separation is done effectively by spinning the rotors. Centrifuges these days are very popular laboratory equipment, even at veterinary clinics. They are used in research most often in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, and now in veterinary laboratories.
Understanding How A Centrifuge Works
‘Centrifuge’ is the term used for spinning things that are pushed outward by centrifugal force. And in a centrifuge, a bucket holding the sample tubes spins at a quick speed. Centrifuges can separate liquids from liquids, solids from liquids, and even liquids from gasses. The efficacy will depend on how dense they are compared to each other. The way a centrifuge works is based on the idea of sedimentation. The centrifuge spins at high speeds to separate particles in the solution.
Uses Of Centrifuges
Different types of centrifuges use the same technique but have different uses. The major difference is all about the speed of rotation and how the rotor functions. Here are some of the most important uses of centrifugation in various settings.
- Separate Certain Components. High-speed centrifuges and ultracentrifuges can separate molecules of various masses or atom isotopes. Isotope separation is used for research, as well as in making nuclear fuel and certain weapons. Gas centrifuges can be used to enrich uranium by pulling the heavier isotope outward.
- Medical Laboratory Testing. Centrifuges that are used in laboratories should have the capacity for ultra fast spinning. The laboratory centrifuge may be floor-sized or can fit on a counter. Most laboratory centrifuges have a rotor that spins at an angle with holes designed for sample tubes.
- Industrial Uses. The centrifugation process is also used in the industrial setting. It can separate colloidal parts as you would in cream and butter from milk, manufacture chemicals, dry certain materials, as well as clean drilling fluid and get sludge out of water. Some more advanced industrial centrifuges use sedimentation while the traditional ones use a screen or filter.
- High Gravity Stimulation. Centrifugation is also used to replicate high-gravity conditions. Most of these machines are life-like. For example, a human centrifuge is used to train and test pilots as well as people who study gravity. Using the same kind of technology, gravity to replicate what it’s like to be in outer space is also possible.
As you can see, centrifugation is not only used in the medical setting. There are also various uses making it a versatile process. And if you are looking for a centrifuge for medical purposes, like in a clinic or veterinary laboratory, then only purchase from trusted sources, like Hettich Labs online. Here, you can ensure that everything is tested and proven to abide with international standards.