Hettich Benchtop centrifuge UNIVERSAL 320

Hettich UNIVERSAL 320 benchtop centrifuge

The Hettich UNIVERSAL 320 bench-top centrifuge is a versatile centrifuge system for demanding laboratory applications in medical, biological and analytical fields. Its design as a universal centrifuge makes it the first choice for institutions that value maximum flexibility, high capacity and reliable separation performance combined with user-friendliness. With state-of-the-art technology, an extensive range of rotors and innovative safety features, it sets standards in the tabletop centrifuge segment and is therefore a sought-after tool in clinical laboratories, research facilities and diagnostic laboratories. Its high speed, large vessel volume and excellent temperature control offer decisive advantages over many competing products on the market.

Performance profile, features and technical characteristics

Thanks to a wide range of rotor types and an intuitive operating concept, the UNIVERSAL 320 can be flexibly equipped for numerous centrifugation tasks in everyday operation and in specialised applications. The powerful microprocessor control system, together with a multi-line display, enables precise parameterisation and control of each run. With maximum speeds of 15,000 min-¹ and an RCF value of up to 21,382 xg, analytical and semi-preparative separation processes are just as efficient as the safe handling of large sample volumes.

Main technical data at a glance:

• Speed range: 400 - 15,000 min-¹ (rpm)
• Max. RCF: 21,382 xg
• Filling volume: 0.2 to 200 ml (tubes)
• Max. capacity per rotor: Free-swinging rotor 4 x 200 ml / Angle rotor 6 x 85 ml / Haematocrit rotor 24 capillaries
• Temperature control for UNIVERSAL 320 R: -20 °C to +40 °C (continuously adjustable)
• Running time: 1 second to 99 minutes 59 seconds, continuous operation and pulse mode
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 346 x 395 x 520 mm (standard); 346 x 401 x 695 mm (cooled)
• Weight: approx. 31 kg (standard), approx. 53 kg (cooled)
• Connection and power requirements: 200-240 V, 400 VA (standard) / 800 VA (cooled)

In addition, both versions of the UNIVERSAL 320 offer the following impressive features:

• Comprehensive safety technology including lid lock and error display
• EN / IEC 61326-1, Class B (electrical interference emission and immunity)
• IVD conformity in accordance with 98/79/EC, ideal for in vitro diagnostics
• Versatile rotor options for a wide range of applications, e.g. swing-out, angle and cytology rotors

The sustainable ventilation system provides effective protection against overheating and ensures uniformly tempered processes, which is essential for temperature-sensitive samples. The optional continuously adjustable cooling function is an essential feature, particularly in the field of clinical analysis. Typical applications and practical examples Due to its special design, the UNIVERSAL 320 is primarily used in medical and biological laboratories, but is also ideal for industrial and research facilities.

Specific applications:

• Blood processing and PRP extraction: Fractionation of blood components for platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and for transfusion purposes in blood banks.
• Nucleic acid and protein preparation: Centrifugation of samples for DNA/RNA isolation, e.g. with phenol-chloroform, or for protein extraction.
• Routine diagnostic tests: Serum and plasma separation in clinical chemistry, e.g. for the analysis of serum, plasma or cerebrospinal fluid.
• Substance separation and suspensions: Precise separation of emulsions, cell cultures or bacterial suspensions, e.g. for microbiological diagnostics.
• Cytological sample transfer: Preparation and screening of cytological samples using specialised cytorotors for microscope slide preparations.

Thanks to its flexible rotor configuration, the system is suitable not only for serum tubes and blood samples, but also for urine, cell cultures, PCR vessels, microtubes and a wide range of standard laboratory vessels.

Certifications and standards

The UNIVERSAL 320 meets all essential requirements for laboratory and diagnostic equipment:

• EN / IEC 61326-1, Class B: Safety and electromagnetic compatibility
• IVD-compliant according to Directive 98/79/EC: Approval for in vitro diagnostics

These certifications confirm its suitability for research, clinical analysis and medical diagnostic routines.

FAQs

Which rotors are available and how do I choose the right rotor?

• Swing-out rotor for max. 4 x 200 ml - ideal for large sample volumes.
• Angle rotors (e.g. 30 x 1.5/2.0 ml or 6 x 85 ml) - suitable for small and medium-sized laboratory vessels.
• Haematocrit rotor for 24 capillaries.
• Cytology rotors for up to 6 microscope slides. The selection of the appropriate rotor depends on the sample type, volume and desired RCF.

How is the temperature controlled for temperature-sensitive samples?

• The UNIVERSAL 320 R features infinitely variable temperature control from -20 °C to +40 °C with precise cooling management.
• The standard version operates with optimised air cooling without active temperature control.
• Temperature control is particularly important for enzyme, cell or protein analyses.

What safety features are integrated?

• Automatic lid locking and emergency release.
• Immediate stop function in case of imbalance or errors.
• Real-time error reporting and monitoring of all operating parameters.
• Protection against overheating through intelligent ventilation and temperature regulation.

For which substances is the device approved?

• Blood, plasma, serum, cell cultures, bacterial and yeast suspensions, urine.
• Compatible with standard analytical reagents such as EDTA, citrate and heparin tubes, microtubes, PCR vessels, capillary blood vessels and much more.

Conclusion

With its modern control system, flexible equipment options and exceptional performance data, the UNIVERSAL 320 from Hettich sets standards for universal centrifuge solutions in clinics, research and routine analysis. Certifications in accordance with IVD and EN/IEC standards, a sophisticated safety system and a wide range of rotors make it an indispensable tool in modern laboratory operations. Its adaptability to a wide variety of sample formats and precise temperature control offer both diagnostic and research users maximum efficiency and safety.