Hettich ROTINA 420 bench centrifuge
The Hettich ROTINA 420 bench centrifuge is a sophisticated laboratory centrifuge from Andreas Hettich, specially developed for use in medical, biological and clinical diagnostic laboratories. Thanks to its high capacity, flexible rotor selection and state-of-the-art microprocessor control, it is ideal for separating and processing a wide variety of sample volumes, right up to the production of separated blood components. Its versatility, robust construction and high safety and performance standards make it the first choice for users who require precision, reliability and adaptability.
Performance features and technical highlights
With its combination of efficiency, capacity and control, the ROTINA 420 forms the heart of demanding laboratory processes. The centrifuge is available in two versions: classic air-cooled and refrigerated with continuously adjustable temperature (from -20 to +40 °C), so that even temperature-sensitive samples can be processed safely and in a controlled manner.
The key technical data at a glance:
- Maximum capacity: up to 4 × 600 ml in a swing-out rotor or 4 × 250 ml in an angle rotor
- Maximum speed: 15,000 min-¹ (rpm)
- Maximum centrifugal acceleration: 24,400 × g (RCF)
- Dimensions (H × W × D): classic: 423 × 506 × 650 mm; refrigerated: 423 × 713 × 654 mm
- Weight: classic approx. 75 kg; refrigerated approx. 108 kg
- Running time: 1 s to 99 h 59 min 59 s; continuous and short-term operation possible
- Voltage range: 200-240 V, frequency 50-60 Hz, connected load classic 870 VA / cooled 1600 VA
Other specific features include: air cooling for the standard version, precise microprocessor control, clear control unit with digital display, comprehensive safety system (including immediate error messages and multiple adjustment options) and energy-efficient ventilation to protect against overload. Particularly noteworthy is the flexibility in the choice of rotors: with just a few simple steps, users can switch between swing-out and multiple angle rotors to efficiently centrifuge samples of various types and sizes.
Certifications and compliance
To meet the requirements of modern laboratories and regulatory standards, the Hettich ROTINA 420 is certified according to the following guidelines:
- EN / IEC 61326-1 Class B (interference emission, interference immunity)
- IVD-compliant according to 98/79/EC (in vitro diagnostic medical devices)
This means that it is fully approved for diagnostic and clinical applications and meets the highest quality and safety requirements.
Typical areas of application and examples of use
Thanks to its versatility and high performance, this laboratory centrifuge is indispensable in various sectors of healthcare and research. Proven areas of application include:
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Medical diagnostics: Efficient separation of blood samples for the preparation of plasma, serum or for the isolation of buffy coats.
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Clinical laboratories: Processing of microbial cultures, urine and cell samples for further diagnostics or research.
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Molecular biology/genetics: Isolation and purification of nucleic acids (DNA, RNA) and proteins from body fluids or cell lysates.
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Blood banks: Separation of whole blood into its components (erythrocytes, thrombocytes, plasma).
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Chemical analysis: Separation of suspensions and emulsions as part of analytical or preparative procedures (e.g. for the analysis of proteins, enzymes or cell organelles).
Standard containers processed with the ROTINA 420 include, for example, 1.5 ml and 2.0 ml microcentrifuge tubes, blood bags, cell culture vessels and standard laboratory tubes up to 600 ml. Frequently used substances include blood, urine, cell suspensions, DNA/RNA extraction buffers and various buffer solutions for molecular biology applications.
FAQs
Which rotors can be used?
- Both swing-out rotors (e.g. 4 × 600 ml, 90°, max. RCF 4,740) and various angle rotors:
- 30 × 1.5/2.0 ml (max. RCF 24,400)
- 4 × 250 ml (max. RCF 12,007)
- 6 × 94 ml (max. RCF 16,504)
- The rotors are easily interchangeable and offer enormous flexibility in routine and research applications.
How does the temperature control work?
- The refrigerated version allows for continuous temperature control between -20 °C and +40 °C. The temperature is monitored electronically and can be adjusted precisely to sample-specific requirements.
What safety features are integrated?
- The comprehensive safety system features immediate error indication, imbalance control, lid locking and monitoring of relevant machine parameters to provide optimum protection for operating personnel and samples.
Which standards and certificates are met?
- EN / IEC 61326-1 Class B for electromagnetic compatibility
- IVD compliance according to 98/79/EC for use in the field of in vitro diagnostics
Can different sample sizes be centrifuged?
- Yes, thanks to adaptable rotors and adapters, vessels of different sizes (1.5 ml to 600 ml) can be processed safely and effectively.
Conclusion
The ROTINA 420 is the ideal centrifuge for laboratories that demand high sample diversity, precise performance, user-friendly operation and uncompromising safety. It combines capacity, flexibility and technological precision - an investment that ensures reliability and quality in clinical and research laboratory environments.
