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Laboratory Centrifuges: When to Choose Swing Out or Fixed Angle Centrifuge Rotors

When a centrifuge works well, it serves a vitally important role within a laboratory. Unfortunately, even the highest-quality centrifuge can deliver sub-optimal results if it is not suited for your application. It is important to consider centrifuge components and features before you buy so that you can get a piece of equipment that is right for your specific needs. When it comes to centrifuge rotors, there are a couple basic types that you will need to choose between-- swing out and fixed angle. Consider the differences between these types of rotors to help you determine which one is best for your lab.

Fixed Angle Rotors

As the name indicates, a fixed angle rotor holds tubes at a fixed angle-- usually 45°. During centrifugation, the densest particles in the solution will separate towards the angle of the centripetal force. In many cases, dense particles will form a concentrated pellet at the bottom of the tube. Fixed angle rotors are useful for a variety of applications from pelleting bacteria and cells to isopycnic separation of macromolecules.

Swing Out Rotors

In a swing out rotor, tubes are placed in buckets that are not fixed to the rotor. When spinning starts, these buckets can swing out and spin at a horizontal angle out from the axis of rotation. This horizontal spinning allows samples to be resolved in density gradients and can promote more effective separation of individual particles. This type of rotor isn’t as useful in pelleting applications but it is very effective when used for the separation of solutions that contain larger particles.

Which Rotor is Best for Me?

There are several things that you should consider when you are trying to determine which type of rotor is best for you. One thing that you should consider is your lab’s throughput. A fixed angle rotor is capable of accomodating a great number of tubes at once so it might be better for high-volume applications. You should also think about the spin speed that you need from your centrifuge. Fixed angle rotors are designed to withstand much higher speeds than swing out rotors so they are the best choice for separating biological macromolecules.

Labnet International Centrifuge Rotors

Regardless of which type of centrifuge rotor you are looking for, it’s critical to find a product you can rely on. When you invest in a fixed angle or swing out centrifuge rotor from Labnet International, you can feel confident that you are going to get the best performance possible for your lab. We have an outstanding selection of rotors, like our 8 x 30 ml High Speed Angle Rotor or our 4 x 100 ml Swing-out Rotor with Buckets.

Still not sure what kind of rotor you need? No problem! Our team of experienced representatives is here to match you with the products that are perfect for your specific needs. Simply give us a call or contact Labnet online today to learn more.