 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Scope of this Product Comparison

This Product Comparison covers benchtop centrifuges that have automatic wash cycles for red blood cells
(RBCs). This report also covers dedicated cytological centrifuges and optional cytological assemblies used to
concentrate cells onto microscope slides for diagnostic evaluation. Excluded from this report are basic centrifuges
that are used with manual cell washing.
These devices are also called: cytocentrifuges, blood cell separators.
For information on other types of centrifuges, see the following Product Comparisons:
 Centrifuges, Floor; Blood Bank
 Centrifuges, Microhematocrit
 Centrifuges, Tabletop

Purpose
Centrifuges apply centrifugal force to separate suspended particles, such as
cells, from a liquid or to separate liquids of different densities, often as
preparation for further diagnostic tests. These liquids can be body fluids (e.g.,
blood, serum, urine), commercial reagents, or mixtures of the two. By creating
forces many times greater than gravity, centrifuges can greatly accelerate separations that occur naturally as a
result of density differences. In its simplest form, a centrifuge is a metal rotor with holes to accommodate vessels
of liquids, spun at selected speeds.
The three general centrifuge types are the low-speed centrifuge, the high-speed centrifuge, and the
ultracentrifuge. Variations of the high- and low-speed centrifuges found in the clinical laboratory include tabletop
units, floor-standing models, and special-purpose instruments such as blood bank centrifuges, microcentrifuges,
microhematocrit centrifuges, cytocentrifuges, and continuous-flow systems.
Low-speed centrifuges generally operate at up to 10,000 revolutions per minute (rpm). Available in
nonrefrigerated or refrigerated versions, low-speed units are used primarily to centrifuge RBCs or bulky
precipitates; they cannot reach sufficient speed to adequately separate
ultrasmall particles (e.g., viruses, DNA molecules) or macromolecules
or to perform density-gradient centrifugation. UMDNS Information
Cell-washing centrifuges are used to automatically wash, decant,
This Product Comparison covers the following
mix, and rewash RBCs before antiglobulin (Coombs) testing. Because device terms and product codes as listed in
of the number of steps involved, performing this procedure manually ECRI Institute’s Universal Medical Device
Nomenclature System™ (UMDNS™):
can be time-consuming; cell-washing centrifuges carry it out Centrifuges, Tabletop, Low-Speed,
expeditiously and require little or no sample preparation. Nonrefrigerated, Cell Washing [16-815]
Centrifuges, Tabletop, Low-Speed,
The antiglobulin test is a commonly performed blood-bank assay Nonrefrigerated, Cytological [16-765]
for detecting most antibodies that are implicated in transfusion

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Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

problems. It can be used to detect the sensitization of RBCs, either in vivo (direct antiglobulin test) or in vitro by
humoral components contained in a patient’s serum (indirect antiglobulin test).
The direct antiglobulin test helps clinicians diagnose hemolytic disease
in newborns, detect autoimmune hemolytic anemia, evaluate RBC
sensitization caused by drugs, and investigate transfusion reactions.
The indirect antiglobulin test detects and identifies unexpected
antibodies and measures the titer of a known antibody contained in a
patient’s serum. This measurement is commonly used during the
administration of Rh immune globulin to Rh-negative women of
childbearing age who have been sensitized to Rh antigens.
Cytological centrifuges concentrate cells and other components of
biological fluids from a fluid matrix onto a glass microscope slide. They
are particularly useful for slide preparations from specimens that have
high fluid-to-cell ratios. Many conventional centrifuges can be converted
into cytological centrifuges through the addition of components such as
trunnion carriers and rotors.
Cytology laboratories use several techniques for concentrating cells from a fluid environment, but most have
notable drawbacks compared with cytological centrifugation. Membrane filtration, which traps cells when cell-
containing fluid is passed through a filter, requires expensive filters and special handling. This technique requires
large amounts of background staining, and the size of the filter makes it difficult for the cytologist to locate all
significant cells. Multistage centrifugal techniques require several specimen transfers and the eventual manual
application of the specimens to the microscope slide. Cytological centrifuges can also replace smear (manual)
preparation of specimens.

Principles of operation
Centrifugation
Centrifugation is based on the principle that an object moving in a circular path at a steady angular velocity is
subjected to an outwardly directed force. The magnitude of this force depends on both the rotor radius and the
speed at which the rotor spins. This force is called the relative centrifugal force or relative centrifugal field (RCF).
It is expressed as a multiple of g, where g is the standard acceleration of gravity (e.g., 13,000 g). RCF is used to
compare forces attained by different centrifuges. Centrifuge comparisons can be made in terms of RCF because
the RCF describes the true separation efficiency of a centrifuge. In general, the RCF values of a standard cell-
washing centrifuge range from 1,200 to 3,200 g, while those of a standard tabletop centrifuge range from 1,200 to
6,240 g.
Calculating the RCF exerted on a sample requires that the sample be located at a fixed distance from the center
of rotation. Due to rotor design, this distance varies from the top to the bottom of the sample holder, and the RCF
exerted on the top of the sample may be significantly different from that exerted on the bottom. The average of
the values exerted on the top and bottom of the same chamber, called average RCF, can be used to compensate for
this difference.
RCF is either manually or automatically calculated and depends on the radius of the rotor head. For manual
models, manufacturers typically supply tables that permit easy determination of RCF for a rotor at a particular
speed; microprocessor-controlled models automatically calculate the required rotational speed and drive the
motor.

2 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Centrifuge components
Basic centrifuge components include an electric motor, a shaft, and a rotor head. The rotor, which holds the
vessels of liquids, is spun at selected speeds by the motor. The rotor is housed within a chamber; a safety shield in
the chamber surrounds the rotor as a precaution against a broken head or similar failure, which could hurl
fragments at dangerously high velocities.
In traditional motor centrifuges, brushes conduct electricity to the rotating armature. Due to high operational
speeds, the brushes wear out very quickly and must be replaced more frequently than any other component.
Some centrifuges feature longer-wearing brushes, while other models use no brushes at all. The advantage of
brushless induction systems is that this method has no physical contact with the motor; the system uses a
magnetic field to induce the electrical current.
Centrifuges come equipped with mechanical brakes, which press on the rotor itself, or electrical brakes, which
reverse the polarity of the current to the motor.

Rotor
Samples to be centrifuged are typically loaded into tubes, cups,
bottles, flasks, microplates, or racks, which are placed in slots on the
rotor head. Rotors are constructed from aluminum alloys for low to
moderate speeds or titanium for high speeds and are available in a
variety of designs.
The fixed-angle rotor (see Figure 1) is designed with 4 to 40 holes
at an angle between 20° and 45° relative to the vertical axis of the
rotor. These high-capacity rotors are most often used for
applications requiring total sedimentation of a specimen
component.

Other features Figure 1. Fixed-angle rotor

Other basic components include a power switch, braking device, speed control (potentiometer), timer, and
tachometer. Some units have a switch that allows continuous operation or operation by a timer, and many models
have a timer connected to the motor for timed or continuous use. Some models have a momentary or short-spin
button that provides rapid acceleration and high-speed centrifugation as long as the button is pressed.
A potentiometer controls the speed by raising or lowering the voltage supplied to the motor. Some models are
equipped with a light-emitting diode (LED) display and keyboard, enabling the user to program a specific speed.
A tachometer indicates the speed in rpm. The tachometer indicator is triggered by a cable or shaft attached to
the motor spindle. Some units may have an electric tachometer, which contains a magnet that rotates around a
coil and produces a measurable current that is converted into an rpm reading on either a digital display or an
analog meter.

Centrifuge use
Operator access is provided by a lid, which usually features a safety interlock to prevent the centrifuge from
operating while it is open, or a power disconnect, which automatically turns off the power to the rotor when the
lid is opened. Operator controls are located on the outside of the chamber or on a control panel. Monitors
commonly display the critical parameters at which the unit is operating, such as rotational speed (in rpm),
temperature, and elapsed time.
Some centrifuge microprocessors permit the user to program several sets of operating parameters that are
frequently used in laboratory procedures, such as acceleration rate, rotational speed, temperature, total time, and

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 3

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

braking rate. After the operator loads a rotor head with patient samples, the operator selects a coded program
number so that all steps in the procedure occur automatically.
When hazardous materials are being centrifuged, personnel safety should be considered. In addition to the
centrifuge’s external lids, inner safety lids that fit over the rotor and bucket or tube covers that contain the sample
material are available. Both safety lids and bucket/tube covers help prevent exposure to aerosolized pathogens.
Gaskets provide a tight seal between the unit lid and body to prevent expulsion of hazardous materials and
aerosols. Bowl drains have been added to many models to effectively and safely remove specimen spills and
container debris. Procedures and personal protective equipment, such as goggles and face shields, should also be
used to minimize user exposure to aerosolized bloodborne pathogens. Centrifuge components that come in
contact with both the operator and hazardous materials should be properly disinfected (follow manufacturer
recommendations for proper cleaning). Safety issues have been addressed by several international agencies.

Cell-washing centrifuges and direct antiglobulin testing

To perform the direct antiglobulin test, the operator prepares
a 2% to 5% saline suspension of the patient’s RBCs and places it
in test tubes that fit into the openings in the racks of the
centrifuge rotor. The centrifuge spins down the cells, decants the
supernatant saline, and washes the cells three or four times with
a 0.85% to 0.9% saline solution.
At this stage, the operator again decants the saline and then
adds antiglobulin in accordance with the reagent manufacturer’s
directions. Some centrifuges perform these steps automatically.
The cells and antiglobulin serum are mixed and recentrifuged,
and the tubes are examined for agglutination of RBCs. If no
agglutination is apparent, and if maximum complement detection sensitivity is desired, the operator leaves the
test at room temperature for 5 to 10 minutes and then recentrifuges and rereads it. Positive tests show varying
degrees of RBC agglutination.
To control the quality of this procedure, the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) requires analysts to
add commercially available immunoglobulin G-sensitized RBCs (Coombs control cells) to any tube without
agglutination. After centrifugation, agglutination of the Coombs cells indicates that the antiglobulin serum used
has sufficient potency for adequate cell agglutination. If no agglutination occurs, the test must be repeated.

Indirect antiglobulin testing

In the indirect antiglobulin test, serum containing (or suspected of containing) any antibodies directed against
specific RBC surface antigens is incubated with suspensions of two or three commercially available reagent RBCs,
each having different concentrations of known antigens on their membranes. The cells are automatically washed
according to the same procedures used in the direct antiglobulin assay and, after the addition of the antiglobulin
serum, recentrifuged. If there is no agglutination, the serum does not contain antibodies to the specific antigens
contained on the test cells. If agglutination occurs, the specific antibody causing agglutination can be identified by
further testing the serum with a panel of reagent RBCs.
During centrifugation, RBCs pass through a 0.85% to 0.9% saline solution, which removes any extraneous
serum proteins from the surface of the cells. Some automatic cell-washing centrifuges have internal reservoirs to
contain the saline used in the washing cycle. The mechanisms for decanting the fluid vary among the models: one
method uses a ring that is mechanically placed over the base of the rotor to entrap the test-tube cradles during the
decant cycle; another uses electromagnets that activate during the decant cycle and hold the cradles at a 0° angle
so that the decanted fluid can be trapped in a trough in the lid or collected in the bowl of the centrifuge.

4 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Cytological centrifuges and slide preparation

Cytological centrifuges use centrifugal force to place cells from a fluid matrix onto microscope slides. When
using a dedicated instrument, the operator clips together a reusable specimen container, a disposable filter card,
and a slide; places them in the rotor; places the fluids into the specimen container; and loads the sealed rotor into
the centrifuge. At least one device uses an absorption pad instead of a filter card. Before the centrifuge starts, the
fluid container is held at an angle away from the filter card. When the system is activated, the container tips,
forcing the fluid to come in contact with the filter card/glass slide complex and through one of the two circular
holes in the filter card. The cells are concentrated in a monolayer on the glass area bounded by the hole, and the
surrounding fluid is absorbed by the filter card. Disposable chambers have a filter card already attached, and the
entire chamber is discarded after one use.
The specimen slides are removed from the instrument and handled according to routine technical procedures.
Most microbiology, immunology, hematology, oncology, and virology laboratories air-dry the slides before
staining; cytology laboratories protect cells against air-drying by wet-fixing the specimen slides in 95% ethanol.
An alternative cell-protection method is to pre- or posttreat the specimen with fixative containing a material that
coats the cell when the slide is air-dried.
Dedicated instruments can operate at speeds ranging from 200 to 4,000 rpm with centrifugation times of 1 to 99
minutes; most procedures require only a 5- to 10-minute centrifugation. The operator can select low, medium, or
high acceleration speeds; low acceleration is useful when the specimen contains fragile cells.
Trunnion carriers and rotors are optional accessories that can fit on the shafts of many existing centrifuges to
convert them into cytological centrifuges. To perform a procedure using these systems, the analyst places a
microscope slide onto the upper surface of a foam pad on the base of the bucket, then places the cell-suspension
block over the slide and clamps it into place. With the bucket in the centrifuge, the analyst selects running times
and centrifuge speeds. During operation, a monolayer of cells is placed evenly on the microscope slide. However,
the fluid matrix is not absorbed by a filter card, and the monolayer is not air-dried.
When centrifugation is complete, the analyst can remove supernatant through the round outlet ports
connected to each of the sample chambers. (Approximately 0.5 mm of supernatant will remain over the cell
monolayer on the slide.) Fixative can be added through the oval inlet ports while the cell-suspension block is in
place on the carrier.

Reported problems
As with any centrifuge, it is important to calibrate the speed and monitor the duration of the centrifugation
cycles. In cell-washing centrifuges, automatic braking should be checked to ensure that it occurs within the
specified time so that subsequent washing, decanting, and reagent addition do not occur out of sequence. The
decant cycle should also be checked for maximum fluid removal without loss of cells. A phototachometer can be
used externally to calibrate rotational speed by flashing light at a known rate through a window in the centrifuge
lid at the moving rotor.
Because centrifuges are in constant use, and because of their inherent operating hazards, most manufacturers
recommend frequent preventive maintenance. Leakage current, grounding resistance, brushes, bearing
lubrication, and safety-interlock systems on lids should be checked frequently. For safe operation and longer life,
brushes should be replaced before excessive wear occurs, and loose carbon deposits should be cleaned regularly.
Centrifuges draw a large amount of current, resulting in power-line transients and electrical noise. Under these
conditions, analytical instruments such as spectrophotometers, clinical chemistry analyzers, or hematology
analyzers can be particularly prone to unreliable operation; therefore, centrifuges should be connected only to
circuits reserved for nonanalytical equipment.
ECRI Institute is aware of at least two incidents involving tabletop centrifuges in which the power cord
insulation was damaged due to poor design and improper maintenance. In both cases, the power cords were

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 5

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

coiled and retractable. ECRI Institute recommends periodic inspection of all power cords and outlets, particularly
for models with coiled or retractable cords.
Centrifuge rotors are especially vulnerable to deterioration caused by foreign-matter buildup and should be
regularly inspected and cleaned to prevent imbalance. An imbalanced rotor can cause excessive vibration and
destroy the centrifuge. Rotors should also be replaced periodically; otherwise, they could fail. Rotors must fit
properly on the centrifuge because wobbles will cause excessive wear of the drive elements; if the rotor is not
securely fastened, it may fly off at extraordinary speed. Rotors should not be interchanged among different
models unless they are specifically designed to be interchangeable. Corrosive chemicals found in certain cleaning
fluids can cause pitting or etching of the rotor surface. Therefore, only manufacturer-specified materials should be
used for rotor cleaning and maintenance. The frequency of preventive maintenance varies among system
components. Many manufacturers recommend daily bowl cleaning.
Centrifuges should never be operated with lids open because of the hazards posed by a flying rotor or the
dispersal of biologically hazardous material. ECRI Institute has received a report of a case in which a centrifuge
tube broke during use, and blood products and glass sprayed from beneath the lid onto the chest of a medical
technologist, exposing the worker to the risk of infection and injuries. Tube breakage can occur in centrifuges
because of rotor misalignment, old or defective tubes, or incorrect use. ECRI Institute recommends using
centrifuges with safety lid latches and/or interlocks, which shut off the motor when the lid is opened or keep the
lid latched until the rotor has stopped.
Broken tubes can also clog the overflow drain tubing, causing a backup of saline and glass, which is forced into
the motor. Short circuits can result, which may necessitate motor replacement. ECRI Institute recommends that
facilities consider a larger overflow drain size and a drain screen. Should tubes shatter, ECRI Institute
recommends promptly servicing and cleaning the drain, as described in the unit’s instructions.
Operators should be aware that excessive vibrations (often called “criticals”) occur at certain rotational speeds
particular to each instrument. This dynamic condition, known as resonance, is induced by the combination of the
mechanical vibrations of the moving parts. Centrifuges should be operated at speeds slightly above or below
resonant speeds to avoid excessive wear.
Operators should always use universal precautions when performing centrifugation and other functions that
may cause exposure to splashed blood or body fluids. These precautions include wearing disposable gloves,
facial protection (e.g., shields), gowns or laboratory coats, and plastic aprons.

Cell-washing centrifuges
Immunoglobulins and other proteins normally found in serum can inactivate antiglobulin serum; wash cycles
must be sufficient to remove these. Automatic cell-washing centrifuges must also properly sediment cells,
adequately resuspend cells during repeated washes, and decant the saline to leave a dry button of packed cells.
To control the quality of test performance, AABB recommends placing centrifuges on a level surface at a suitable
height so the operator can examine the bowl interior for spillage, plugged drain lines, splashed reagent, and
debris.
The instrument should accommodate either 10 × 75 mm or 12 × 75 mm test tubes. However, correct and
consistent volumes of saline must be delivered; once the saline volume has been calibrated for the specific tube
size, different tube sizes cannot be substituted without readjusting the volume of fluid.
In systems that automatically add the antiglobulin serum, the tubes are agitated to resuspend the cell button;
this process must be monitored. The antiglobulin serum should be delivered in specified volumes, and care
should be taken that the reagent does not run down the sides of the tubes but is delivered directly to the cell
button. If this does not occur, the delivery tube should be adjusted to the appropriate location. After the
antiglobulin serum is added, the tubes should be inspected to ensure that the correct volume of reagent has been
added to each tube.

6 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

The spin cycle that follows the addition of the serum is usually shorter and slower than the normal wash-spin
cycles and must operate within tolerances for accurate assay results. The addition of Coombs control cells to tubes
not exhibiting agglutination is essential in the quality control of antiglobulin tests performed in systems that
automatically add antiglobulin serum.

Cytological centrifuges
During cytocentrifugation, cell loss and poor cell distribution may occur from the combined effects of low
sample volume and capillary action of the absorption pad before developing centrifugal force. Other factors, such
as cell type, precipitates, clotting, and staining, can also contribute to cell loss. Grover, Blee, and Stokes (see
Bibliography) recommend that a minimum volume of 200 µL be used routinely to obtain optimal cell yield and
distribution.
One study compared the accuracy and cost-efficiency of cytocentrifugation with liquid-based cytology for
processing urine samples. Although liquid-based cytology methods can reduce cell loss, the study concluded
that “cytocentrifugation with disposable sample chambers remains the quality standard for current treatment of
urinary samples” (Piaton et al. 2004).
Optional cytological assemblies are sold in balanced pairs with the carrier weight stamped on each unit. To
ensure proper rotor balance, the units must be used in the correct pair sequence as received by the laboratory.

Purchase considerations
ECRI Institute recommendations
Included in the accompanying comparison charts are ECRI Institute’s recommendations for minimum
performance requirements for cell-washing and cytological centrifuges (charts A and B, respectively). The charts
differ slightly in the listed specifications; however, ECRI Institute’s recommendations are fairly similar for each of
these devices.
Most centrifuge specifications should be determined by the specific needs of the user. Rotational speed, display
type, and capacity are characteristics that are user-specific. Other parameters such as biohazard containment
capabilities, and programmability are preferred because they help ensure safety and ease of use. Safety features
are a prime consideration when purchasing a centrifuge. Additional safety features would include an inner
protective cover over the rotor assembly, as well as a display warning that the centrifuge should not be opened
while the rotor is spinning. A centrifuge should have clear, easily read visual indicators or displays; audible
signals or alarms for device malfunction, rotor imbalance, and an open lid are also helpful.
ECRI Institute requires that centrifuges have a securely interlocking lid that shuts off the unit’s motor when
the lid is opened; ECRI Institute prefers that the lid remain latched until the rotor has stopped. Brushless motors
are recommended because they do not experience the wear and tear that traditional centrifuge motors undergo
and therefore require less maintenance.
Alert indicators that sound audible alarms are preferred over visual indicators. It is recommended that alerts
sound at the end of a run or cycle and for events such as imbalance, leakage current, and open lid.

Other considerations
Buyers should try to correlate cell-washing centrifuge features with their current and projected laboratory
needs to avoid overspending on a unit with unnecessary capabilities or purchasing a less expensive model that
cannot handle the laboratory workload or that is inadequate for certain procedures. For example, larger facilities
that centrifuge many cell-suspension samples daily may require a centrifuge with programmable functions.
However, smaller laboratories that process a low or moderate number of daily samples may not need a
programmable unit.

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 7

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Buyers can choose from dedicated cytological centrifuges, which can cost several thousand dollars each, or
cytological adapter accessories, which can fit many kinds of centrifuges and are only a fraction of the cost of
dedicated instruments. However, more operator intervention is usually required to set up trunnion carriers and
other types of optional equipment in nondedicated units; moreover, cytological adapter accessories may not
perform as many processing functions (e.g., supernatant absorption) as assemblies designed for dedicated
centrifuges.
Using disposable sample chambers rather than reusable ones can save operator time and labor because
reusable chambers require cleaning and disinfection between sample runs. Disposable chambers also reduce the
risk of sample contamination. However, replacement costs for disposable chambers can be substantial. Prices for
disposables (which include other items such as reagents and filter pads) and the terms and costs of service
contracts should be negotiated with the supplier at the time of purchase.

Stage of development
In addition to brushless induction systems, newer centrifuges may have permanently lubricated bearings,
microprocessors that allow the operator to display additional parameters using a keyboard, and LED displays of
operational parameters. Some microprocessor-controlled centrifuges can identify their rotors by reading a bar
code imprinted on the rotor surface; the microprocessor can then set operational parameters on centrifuge
operation by using the bar-code information to access data stored in memory (e.g., maximum speed).
Cell-washing centrifuges represent an intermediate stage in the instrumentation used for antiglobulin testing.
They possess a degree of sophistication above that of the standard tabletop blood-bank centrifuge to which all
reagents (saline and antiglobulin) must be added manually. At the other end of the spectrum are instruments that
completely automate and read the antiglobulin test and print test results. It is unlikely that automatic cell-
washing centrifuges will evolve significantly beyond their current capabilities.

Bibliography
Barnes BA. Maintaining and testing serologic cellwashers. Clin Lab Sci 1990 Mar-Apr;3(2):94-5.
Brown BA. Hematology: principles and procedures. 6th ed. Philadelphia: Lea & Febiger; 1993.
Grover ML, Blee E, Stokes BO. Effect of sample volume on cell recovery in cytocentrifugation. Acta Cytol 1995
May-Jun;39(3):387-90.
Henry JB. Clinical diagnosis and management by laboratory methods. 20th ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders; 2001.
Piaton E, Hutin K, Faynel J, et al. Cost efficiency analysis of modern cytocentrifugation methods versus liquid
based (Cytyc Thinprep) processing of urinary samples. J Clin Pathol 2004 Nov;57(11):1208-12.
Southern PM Jr, Colvin DD. Pseudomeningitis again. Association with cytocentrifuge funnel and Gram-stain
reagent contamination. Arch Pathol Lab Med 1996 May;120(5):456-8.
Stokes BO, Blee E, Grover ML. Influence of fluid absorption time on cell recovery in cytocentrifugation. Anal
Quant Cytol Histol 1996 Oct;18(5):389-99.
Uldall A, Trier Damgaard P, Drachmann O, et al. IFCC guidelines (1990) for selection of safe laboratory
centrifuges and for their safe use with general purpose appendices concerning centrifuge nomenclature,
quantities and units, and calculation of centrifugal acceleration. Clin Chem Acta 1991 Oct 14; 202(1-2):523-40.

8 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Supplier information
Chart A: Cell-Washing Centrifuges
CENTURION
Centurion Scientific Ltd [232368]
Unit A2 Ford Airfield Industrial Estate Ford
Arundel BN18 0HY
England
Phone: 44 (1903) 721020 Fax: 44 (1903) 725496
Internet: http://www.centurionscientific.co.uk
E-mail: info@centurionscientific.co.uk

HELMER
HELMER [107717]
14060 Bergen Blvd
Noblesville, IN 46060
Phone: (317) 773-9073, (800) 743-5637 Fax: (317) 773-9082
Internet: http://www.helmerinc.com
E-mail: sales@helmerinc.com

HETTICH
Hettich AG [334299]
Seestrasse 204a
Baech CH-8806
Switzerland
Phone: 41 (44) 7868020 Fax: 41 (44) 7868021
Internet: http://www.hettich-ag.ch
E-mail: mail@hettich-ag.ch

Hettich Instruments LP [452492]

100 Cummings Center 136L
Beverly, MA 01915
Phone: (978) 232-3957, (866) 370-4388 Fax: (978) 232-3958
Internet: http://www.hettweb.com
E-mail: info@hettweb.com

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC

Thermo Scientific Controlled Environment Div Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc [451907]
PO Box 649 401 Millcreek Rd
Marietta, OH 45750-0649
Phone: (740) 373-4763, (866) 984-3766 Fax: (740) 373-6770
Internet: http://www.thermofisher.com
E-mail: info.controlenv@thermofisher.com

Thermo Scientific Laboratory Products Div Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc [451916]
308 Ridgefield Ct
Asheville, NC 28806
Phone: (828) 658-2711, (800) 522-7746 Fax: (828) 645-3368
Internet: http://www.thermo.com
E-mail: info.labequipment@thermofisher.com

Thermo Scientific Deutschland Div Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc [451917]

Robert-Bosch-Strasse 1

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 9

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Langenselbold D-63505
Germany
Phone: 49 (800) 1536376
Internet: http://www.thermofisher.com
E-mail: info.labequipment.de@thermofisher.com

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

BECKMAN COULTER
Beckman Coulter Inc [340083]
4300 N Harbor Blvd PO Box 3100
Fullerton, CA 92834-3100
Phone: (714) 871-4848, (800) 232-3828 Fax: (714) 773-8283, (800) 643-4366
Internet: http://www.beckmancoulter.com
E-mail: askpcd@beckman.com

Beckman Coulter (UK) Ltd [431491]

Oakley Court Kingsmead Business Park London Road
High Wycombe HP11 1JU
England
Phone: 44 (1491) 441181 Fax: 44(1494)429291
Internet: http://www.beckman.com
E-mail: infouk@beckman.com

Beckman Coulter Hong Kong Ltd [185066]

12/Fl Oxford House 979 Kings Road
TaiKoo Place
People's Republic of China
Phone: 852 22406252 Fax: 852 28731270
Internet: http://www.beckman.com
E-mail: antony_kwok@beckman.com

CENTURION
Centurion Scientific Ltd [232368]
Unit A2 Ford Airfield Industrial Estate Ford
Arundel BN18 0HY
England
Phone: 44 (1903) 721020 Fax: 44 (1903) 725496
Internet: http://www.centurionscientific.co.uk
E-mail: info@centurionscientific.co.uk

HETTICH
Hettich AG [334299]
Seestrasse 204a
Baech CH-8806
Switzerland
Phone: 41 (44) 7868020 Fax: 41 (44) 7868021
Internet: http://www.hettich-ag.ch
E-mail: mail@hettich-ag.ch

Hettich Instruments LP [452492]

100 Cummings Center 136L
Beverly, MA 01915

10 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Phone: (978) 232-3957, (866) 370-4388 Fax: (978) 232-3958

Internet: http://www.hettweb.com
E-mail: info@hettweb.com

ROLCO
Rolco Srl [161309]
San Luis 3117
Buenos Aires 1186
Argentina
Phone: 54 (11) 49617283 Fax: 54 (11) 49625736
Internet: http://www.rolco.com.ar
E-mail: info@rolco.com.ar

SAKURA
Sakura Finetek USA Inc [156404]
1750 W 214th St
Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: (310) 972-7800, (800) 725-8723 Fax: (310) 972-7888
Internet: http://www.sakuraus.com
E-mail: mail@corp.sakuraus.com

Sakura Finetek Japan Co Ltd [157040]

Shin-ohashi Riverside Building 101
Tokyo 135-0007
Japan
Phone: 81 (3) 56381360 Fax: 81 (3) 56387615
Internet: http://www.sakura-finetek.com
E-mail: intl@sakurajp.co.jp

Sakura Finetek Europe bv [172160]

Postbus 40 Hoge Rijndijk 48a
Zoeterwoude NL-2382 AT
The Netherlands
Phone: 31 (71) 5898300 Fax: 31 (71) 5898488
Internet: http://www.sakuraeu.com
E-mail: sakura@sakuraeu.com

SARTORIUS
Sartorius Stedim Biotech GmbH [452359]
August-Spindler-Strasse 11
Goettingen D-37079
Germany
Phone: 49 (551) 3080 Fax: 49 (551) 3083289
Internet: http://www.sartorius-stedim.com
E-mail: info@sartorius-stedim.com

Sartorius Stedim SUS USA [452357]

1910 Mark Ct
Concord, CA 94520
Phone: (925) 689-6650, (800) 914-6644 Fax: (625) 689-6988
Internet: http://www.sartorius-stedim.com
E-mail: info@sartorius-stedim.com

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 11

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

SIGMA
Sigma Laborzentrifugen GmbH [160990]
Postfach 1713 An der Unteren Soese 50
Osterode am Harz D-37520
Germany
Phone: 49 (5522) 50070 Fax: 49 (5522) 500712
Internet: http://www.sigma-zentrifugen.de
E-mail: info@sigma-zentrifugen.de

STATSPIN
IRIS Sample Processing [312346]
60 Glacier Dr
Westwood, MA 02090-1825
Phone: (781) 551-0100, (800) 782-8774 Fax: (781) 551-0036
Internet: http://www.statspin.com
E-mail: sales1@proiris.com

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC

Thermo Scientific Controlled Environment Div Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc [451907]
PO Box 649 401 Millcreek Rd
Marietta, OH 45750-0649
Phone: (740) 373-4763, (866) 984-3766 Fax: (740) 373-6770
Internet: http://www.thermofisher.com
E-mail: info.controlenv@thermofisher.com

Thermo Scientific Laboratory Products Div Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc [451916]
308 Ridgefield Ct
Asheville, NC 28806
Phone: (828) 658-2711, (800) 522-7746 Fax: (828) 645-3368
Internet: http://www.thermo.com
E-mail: info.labequipment@thermofisher.com

Thermo Scientific Deutschland Div Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc [451917]

Robert-Bosch-Strasse 1
Langenselbold D-63505
Germany
Phone: 49 (800) 1536376
Internet: http://www.thermofisher.com
E-mail: info.labequipment.de@thermofisher.com

WESCOR
Wescor Inc [102333]
370 West 1700 South
Logan, UT 84321
Phone: (435) 752-6011, (800) 453-2725 Fax: (435) 752-4127
Internet: http://www.wescor.com/biomedical
E-mail: sales@wescor.com

Note: The data in the charts derive from suppliers’ specifications and have not been verified through
independent testing by ECRI Institute or any other agency. Because test methods vary, different products’
specifications are not always comparable. Moreover, products and specifications are subject to frequent changes.
ECRI Institute is not responsible for the quality or validity of the information presented or for any adverse
consequences of acting on such information.

12 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

When reading the charts, keep in mind that, unless otherwise noted, the list price does not reflect supplier
discounts. And although we try to indicate which features and characteristics are standard and which are not,
some may be optional, at additional cost.
For those models whose prices were supplied to us in currencies other than U.S. dollars, we have also listed the
conversion to U.S. dollars to facilitate comparison among models. However, keep in mind that exchange rates change
often.

Need to know more?

For further information about the contents of this Product Comparison, contact the HPCS Hotline at +1 (610)
825-6000, ext. 5265; +1 (610) 834-1275 (fax); or hpcs@ecri.org (e-mail).

Last updated September 2009

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 13

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Policy Statement
The Healthcare Product Comparison System (HPCS) is published by ECRI Institute, a nonprofit organization. HPCS
provides comprehensive information to help healthcare professionals select and purchase diagnostic and
therapeutic capital equipment more effectively in support of improved patient care.
The information in Product Comparisons comes from a number of sources: medical and biomedical
engineering literature, correspondence and discussion with manufacturers and distributors, specifications from
product literature, and ECRI Institute’s Problem Reporting System. While these data are reviewed by qualified
health professionals, they have not been tested by ECRI Institute’s clinical and engineering personnel and are
largely unconfirmed. The Healthcare Product Comparison System and ECRI Institute are not responsible for the
quality or validity of information derived from outside sources or for any adverse consequences of acting on such
information.
The appearance or listing of any item, or the use of a photograph thereof, in the Healthcare Product Comparison
System does not constitute the endorsement or approval of the product’s quality, performance, or value, or of
claims made for it by the manufacturer. The information and photographs published in Product Comparisons
appear at no charge to manufacturers.
Many of the words or model descriptions appearing in the Healthcare Product Comparison System are
proprietary names (e.g., trademarks), even though no reference to this fact may be made. The appearance of any
name without designation as proprietary should not be regarded as a representation that is not the subject of
proprietary rights.
ECRI Institute respects and is impartial to all ethical medical device companies and practices. The Healthcare
Product Comparison System accepts no advertising and has no obligations to any commercial interests. ECRI
Institute and its employees accept no royalties, gifts, finder’s fees, or commissions from the medical device
industry, nor do they own stock in medical device companies. Employees engage in no private consulting work
for the medical device industry.

About ECRI Institute

ECRI Institute, a nonprofit organization, dedicates itself to bringing the discipline of applied scientific research
in healthcare to uncover the best approaches to improving patient care. As pioneers in this science for over 40
years, ECRI Institute marries experience and independence with the objectivity of evidence-based research.
More than 5,000 healthcare organizations worldwide rely on ECRI Institute’s expertise in patient safety
improvement, risk and quality management, healthcare processes, devices, procedures, and drug technology.
ECRI Institute is one of only a handful of organizations designated as both a Collaborating Center of the World
Health Organization and an Evidence-based Practice Center by the U.S. Agency for Healthcare Research and
Quality. For more information, visit http://www.ecri.org.

14 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Product Comparison Charts

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 15

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart A: Cell-Washing Centrifuges

MODEL ECRI INSTITUTE'S CENTURION HELMER HETTICH

RECOMMENDED
SPECIFICATIONS1
Cell-Washing Centrifuges 2030 UltraCW Cell Washer ROTOLAVIT
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide, except Canada
and North America
CE MARK (MDD) Yes Yes Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Wash, max rpm User preference 3,500 3,500 3,500
Decant, rpm 500 100-1,500, programmable 1,500
Maximum RCF, g 1,300 1,438 1,438
Manual/automatic Manual Manual (can save Manual
calculation programs)
MAXIMUM CAPACITY, mL User preference; higher 12 tubes (5 or 10 mL) or 12 12 or 24 tubes 24 tubes
capacity preferred blood tubes (15 mL)
RESERVOIR Manual model External External
TIMER Programmable preferred
Settings 0-90 min Programmable spin times Automatic cycle
and number of cycles
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brushless preferred Brushless Brushless Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES
Lid interlock Required Yes Yes Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Recommended; audible Not specified Yes Yes
alarm prefered
End of run Recommended; audible Yes Yes Yes
alarm prefered
Overspeed Not specified Not specified No
Other Recommended for current None specified Audible and visual alarms Lid open, low saline, service
leakage, lid open; audible for lid ready to open and low code
alarm prefered saline
DISPLAY, type Digital Digital Digital, LED
Parameters displayed Speed, time Yes Yes
CALIBRATION Not specified Not specified As required
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Not specified Not specified Maintenance-free drive;
FREQUENCY should be inspected every 6
months
NOISE LEVEL, dB ≤70 <60 <44 ≤44
H x W x D, cm (in) 26 x 33 x 41 (10.2 x 12.9 x 28 x 33 x 42 (11 x 13 x 27.8 x 33.3 x 42 (10.9 x
16.1) 15.5) 13.1 x 16.5)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 20.5 (45.1) 23.5 (52) 24 (52.9)
LINE POWER, VAC 110, 220-240 115 V, 60 Hz; 230 V, 50/60 100-120 V, 50/60 Hz; 200-
Hz 240 V, 50/60 Hz
POWER CONSUMPTION 230 2.5 A 180 VA

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

16 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart A: Cell-Washing Centrifuges

MODEL ECRI INSTITUTE'S CENTURION HELMER HETTICH

RECOMMENDED
SPECIFICATIONS1
Cell-Washing Centrifuges 2030 UltraCW Cell Washer ROTOLAVIT
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit $1,996 Not specified Not specified
Warranty Required 2 years 2 years parts, 1 year labor 1 year
Delivery time, ARO 2 weeks Not specified Not specified
Year first sold 2002 2003 2003
Fiscal year July to June January to December January to December
GREEN FEATURES None specified None specified Registration under WEEE
Reg. No. DE 92954423 in
conformity with the
European regulation on the
disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS 10 accel/decel rates; 10 Saline calibration and check Meets requirements of IC
memory programs; function. Uses a flowmeter 61010-1, IEC 61010-2-020,
imbalance detector. Meets versus a flow timer to DIN EN ISO 9001:2000 and
requirements of IEC 1010-2, ensure a more accurate fill. 13485:2003.
ISO 9001, and UL. Meets requirements of IEC
61010-2, ISO 13485:2003,
ISO 9001:2000, IVD
98/79/EC, UL, and CSA.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16815 16815 16815
LAST UPDATED September 2007 September 2009 September 2009
Supplier Footnotes 1These recommendations
are the opinions of ECRI
Institute's technology
experts. ECRI Institute
assumes no liability for
decisions made based on
this data.
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 17

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart A: Cell-Washing Centrifuges

MODEL THERMO FISHER THERMO FISHER

SCIENTIFIC SCIENTIFIC
IEC Centra-W Sorvall CW-2
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide Worldwide
CE MARK (MDD) Not specified Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Wash, max rpm 3,550 3,550
Decant, rpm 700 700
Maximum RCF, g 1,200 1,200
Manual/automatic Automatic Not specified
calculation
MAXIMUM CAPACITY, mL 12 tubes 12 tubes
RESERVOIR External External (saline)
TIMER
Settings Automatic cycle (80 sec) or Automatic cycle (85 sec) or
manual selection (1-999 manual selection
sec)
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brushless Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES
Lid interlock Yes Yes, and check function
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Not specified Yes
End of run Yes Yes
Overspeed Not specified Not specified
Other Empty wash reservoir Low saline
DISPLAY, type LED Digital
Parameters displayed Not specified Not specified
CALIBRATION Not specified Not specified
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Not specified Not specified
FREQUENCY
NOISE LEVEL, dB <50 Not specified
H x W x D, cm (in) 38.6 x 32.1 x 43.5 (15.2 x 36.8 x 31.8 x 35.6 (15.2 x
12.6 x 17.1) 12.6 x 17.1)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 20.4 (45) 15.4 (34)
LINE POWER, VAC 120 115/220
POWER CONSUMPTION 60 Hz 60 Hz

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

18 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart A: Cell-Washing Centrifuges

MODEL THERMO FISHER THERMO FISHER

SCIENTIFIC SCIENTIFIC
IEC Centra-W Sorvall CW-2
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit $7,934 Not specified
Warranty 1 year 1 year
Delivery time, ARO Not specified 30 days
Year first sold Not specified 1990
Fiscal year January to December Not specified
GREEN FEATURES None specified None specified
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Agitation function for Agitation function for
Coombs addition; saline Coombs addition. Meets
adjustment; built-in self- requirements of CSA, ISO
testing. Meets requirements 9001, and UL.
of CSA, ISO 9001, and UL.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16815 16815
LAST UPDATED September 2009 September 2009
Supplier Footnotes
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 19

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL ECRI INSTITUTE'S BECKMAN COULTER BECKMAN COULTER BECKMAN COULTER

RECOMMENDED
SPECIFICATIONS1
Cytological Centrifuges Allegra X-15R Allegra X-22 Allegra X-22R
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide
CE MARK (MDD) Yes Yes Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Max rpm ≥4,000 preferred 10,200 14,500 15,500
Speed adjustment Touchpad preferred Yes; microprocessor Yes; microprocessor Yes; microprocessor
controlled, manual in 10 controlled, manual in 100 controlled, manual in 100
RPM increments RPM increments RPM increments
SAMPLE VOLUME, mL 3,000 1,000 1,000
SAMPLES/RUN User preference; higher Variable Variable Variable
capacity preferred
REAGENTS FROM
MANUFACTURER
CYCLE TIME, min 1-99 preferred Timed, continuous, pulsed; Timed, continuous, pulsed; Timed, continuous, pulsed;
up to 99 hr 59 min up to 9 hr 59 min up to 9 hr 59 min
Adjustable Required Yes Yes Yes
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brushless preferred Brushless Brushless Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES Sealed sample chamber
preferred
Lid interlock Required Yes Yes Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Recommended; audible Yes Yes Yes
alarm preferred
End of run Recommended; audible Yes Yes Yes
alarm preferred
Overspeed Yes Yes Yes
Other Recommended for current Lid open, error codes, rotor Lid open, error codes, rotor Lid open, error codes, rotor
leakage, lid open; audible recognition, advanced recognition recognition
alarm preferred imbalance correction with
ARIES rotor
DISPLAY, type Digital Digital Digital
Parameters displayed Speed, RCF, time, Speed, RCF, time, Speed, RCF, time,
temperature, user message, temperature, user message, temperature, user message,
diagnostics diagnostics diagnostics
CALIBRATION As required As required As required
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE As required As required As required
FREQUENCY
NOISE LEVEL, dB ≤70 ≤68 <68 <64
H x W x D, cm (in) 34.3 x 76.2 x 62.2 (13.5 x 35.5 x 46 x 55 (14 x 18.1 x 37 x 46 x 70.7 (14.6 x 18.1
30 x 24.5) 21.7) x 27. 8)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 128 (283) 48 (106) 128 (283)
LINE POWER, VAC 200/208/230 100/120/230 100/120/230
POWER CONSUMPTION 6,800 BTU/hr (steady state) 1,638 BTU/hr (steady state) 3,311 BTU/hr (steady state)

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

20 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL ECRI INSTITUTE'S BECKMAN COULTER BECKMAN COULTER BECKMAN COULTER

RECOMMENDED
SPECIFICATIONS1
Cytological Centrifuges Allegra X-15R Allegra X-22 Allegra X-22R
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit $10,516 $5,700 $9,000
Warranty Required 1 year, centrifuge 1 year, centrifuge 1 year, centrifuge
Delivery time, ARO From stock From stock From stock
Year first sold Not specified Not specified Not specified
Fiscal year January to December January to December January to December
GREEN FEATURES None specified None specified None specified
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Refrigerated model; meets Ambient model; meets Refrigerated model; meets
requirements of CSA, ISO requirements of CSA, ISO requirements of CSA, ISO
9001, and UL. 9001, and UL. 9001, and UL.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16765 16765 16765
LAST UPDATED September 2009 September 2009 September 2009
Supplier Footnotes 1These recommendations
are the opinions of ECRI
Institute's technology
experts. ECRI Institute
assumes no liability for
decisions made based on
this data.
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 21

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL CENTURION CENTURION HETTICH HETTICH

1030 2050 ROTANTA 460 : ROTANTA ROTANTA 460 S :
460 R ROTANTA 460 RS
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide
CE MARK (MDD) Yes Yes Yes Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Max rpm 4,000 2,000 15,000 15,000
Speed adjustment Yes, digital control Yes, digital control Yes Yes
SAMPLE VOLUME, mL 0.1-2 0.1-2 1, 2, 4, 8, 3 x 2, 4 x 1, 2 x 8 1, 2, 4, 8, 3 x 2, 4 x 1, 2 x 8
SAMPLES/RUN 12 x double samples 12 x double samples 8-16, rotor dependent 8-16, rotor dependent
REAGENTS FROM Not specified Not specified No No
MANUFACTURER
CYCLE TIME, min 0-30 min timer, 1-90 sec 0-90 min timer, 1-90 sec 1-99, continuous 1-999, continuous
quick spin quick spin
Adjustable Not specified Not specified Yes Yes
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brush Brushless Brushless Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES Not specified Not specified Lid interlocking and holding Lid interlocking and holding
device, rotor imbalance device, imbalance switch-
switch-off, powered lid off, , powered lid locking
locking
Lid interlock Yes Yes Yes Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Yes Yes Yes Yes
End of run Yes Yes No No
Overspeed Yes Yes No No
Other Lid open Lid open Lid, rotation indicator, 99 different diagnoses
service code
DISPLAY, type LED LED Digital, LEDs Digital, LEDs
Parameters displayed Speed, time Speed, time Yes Yes
CALIBRATION Not specified Not specified As required As required
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Not specified Not specified Daily cleaning Daily cleaning
FREQUENCY
NOISE LEVEL, dB <60 <60 ≤67 : ≤64, rotor dependent ≤67 : ≤64, rotor dependent
H x W x D, cm (in) 23 x 26 x 39 (9 x 10.2 x 26 x 33 x 41 (10.2 x 12.9 x 45.3 x 55.4 x 70.7 (17.8 x 45.3 x 55.4 x 70.7 (17.8 x
15.3) 16.1) 21.8 x 27.8) : 45.3 x 77 x 21.8 x 27.8) : 45.3 x 77 x
70.7 (17.8 x 30.3 x 27.8) 70.7 (17.8 x 30.3 x 27.8)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 13.7 (30.2) 20.5 (45.1) 106 or 115 (233.6 or 253.5) 106 or 115 (233.6 or 253.5)
: 147 or 156 (324 or 343.9) : 147 or 156 (324 or 343.9)
LINE POWER, VAC 110, 220-240 110, 220-240 110-127, 208-240 : 110- 110-127, 208-240 : 110-
127, 208-240 127, 208-240
POWER CONSUMPTION Not specified Not specified 1,500 VA : 2,400 VA 1,300 VA : 2,000 VA

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

22 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL CENTURION CENTURION HETTICH HETTICH

1030 2050 ROTANTA 460 : ROTANTA ROTANTA 460 S :
460 R ROTANTA 460 RS
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit ₤989 (US$1,998) ₤2,298 (US$4,998) Not specified Not specified
Warranty 2 years 2 years 1 year 1 year
Delivery time, ARO 2 weeks 2 weeks Not specified Not specified
Year first sold 2002 1998 2002 2002
Fiscal year July to June July to June January to December January to December
GREEN FEATURES None specified None specified Registration under WEEE in Registration under WEEE in
conformity with the conformity with the
European regulation on European regulation on
disposal of electrical and disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment electronic equipment
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Automatic soft start; 10 Automatic soft start; 10 Induction drive; rotor Induction drive;
decel rates; memory accel/decel rates; 10 identification; stainless steel microprocessor controlled;
program; imbalance memory programs. Meets chamber; microprocessor rotor recognition; stainless
detector. Meets requirements of IEC 1010-2, controlled; pulse button; steel chamber; pulse button;
requirements of IEC 1010-2, ISO 9001, and UL. accel/decel ramps; accel/deccel in ramps or
ISO 9001, and UL. automatic g-force time-controlled; automatic g-
calculation; memory for 3 force calculation; 89 user-
programs; model 460 R is defined programs; powered
refrigerated -20 to +40°C. lid locking; RCF integrator;
Meets requirements of IEC model 460 RS is
61010-1 and 61010-2-020. refrigerated -20 to +40°C.
Meets requirements of IEC
61010-1 and 61010-2-020.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16765 16765 16765 16765
LAST UPDATED September 2007 September 2007 September 2009 September 2009
Supplier Footnotes
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 23

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL HETTICH HETTICH HETTICH HETTICH

ROTINA 380 : ROTINA 380 ROTINA 420 : ROTINA 420 ROTOFIX 32 A UNIVERSAL 320 :
R R UNIVERSAL 320 R
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide
CE MARK (MDD) Yes Yes Yes Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Max rpm 15,000 15,000 6,000 15,000
Speed adjustment Yes Yes Yes Yes
SAMPLE VOLUME, mL 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 3 x 2, 4 x 1, 2 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 3 x 2, 4 x 1, 2 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 3 x 2, 4 x 1, 2 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 8, 3 x 2, 4 x 1, 2
x8 x8 x8 x8
SAMPLES/RUN 4-8, rotor dependent 4-8, rotor dependent 4-8, dependent on rotor 4-8, rotor dependent
REAGENTS FROM No No No None
MANUFACTURER
CYCLE TIME, min 1-59 (1-99 hr), continuous 1-59 (1-99 hr), continuous 1-99, continuous 1-99, continuous
Adjustable Yes Yes Yes Yes
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brushless Brushless Brushless Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES Lid interlocking and holding Lid interlocking and holding Lid interlocking and holding Lid interlocking and holding
device, imbalance switch- device, imbalance switch- device, imbalance switch- device, imbalance switch-
off, powered lid-locking off, powered lid locking off, stainless steel chamber, off, powered lid-locking
1-hand open/close lid
Lid interlock Yes Yes Yes Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Yes Yes Yes Yes
End of run No No No No
Overspeed No No No No
Other Lid, rotation indicator, Lid, rotation indicator, Lid, rotation indicator, Lid, rotation indicator,
service code service code service code service code
DISPLAY, type Digital, LEDs Digital, LEDs Digital, LEDs Digital, LEDs
Parameters displayed Yes Yes Yes Yes
CALIBRATION As required As required As required As required
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Daily cleaning Daily cleaning Daily cleaning Daily cleaning
FREQUENCY
NOISE LEVEL, dB ≤65 : ≤64, rotor dependent ≤63 : ≤56, rotor dependent ≤57, rotor dependent ≤66 : ≤58, rotor dependent
H x W x D, cm (in) 41.8 x 45.7 x 60 (16.5 x 18 42.3 x 50.6 x 65 (16.6 x 25.7 x 36.6 x 43 (10.1 x 34.6 x 39.5 x 52 (13.6 x
x 23.6) : 41.8 x 45.7 x 75 19.9 x 25.5) : 42.3 x 71.3 x 14.4 x 16.9) 15.5 x 20.4) : 34.6 x 40.1 x
(16.5 x 18 x 29.5) ) 65 (16.6 x 28 x 25.5) 69.5 (13.6 x 15.7 x 27.3)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 51, 58.5 (112, 128) : 81, 75 (165.3) or 84 (185.1) : 23 (50.7) 29 (63.9) : 52 (114.6)
88.5 (178, 195) 107 (235.8) or 117 (257.9)
LINE POWER, VAC 100-127, 200-240 : 110- 100-127, 200-240 : 100- 110-127, 208-240 100-127, 200-240 : 115-
127, 200-240 127, 100, 200-240 127, 200-240, 240
POWER CONSUMPTION 700 VA, 650 VA : 1.400 VA, 800 VA, 750 VA : 1.750 VA, 300 VA 400 VA : 950 VA, 800 VA
1,300 VA 1,500 VA

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

24 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.


Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges
MODEL HETTICH
ROTINA 380 : ROTINA 380
R R
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit Not specified
Warranty 1 year
Delivery time, ARO Not specified
Year first sold 2008
Fiscal year January to December
GREEN FEATURES Registration under WEEE in
conformity with the
European regulation on
disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Induction drive;
microprocessor controlled;
rotor recognition; pulse
button; accel/decel ramps;
automatic g-force
calculation; memory for 98
programs; stainless steel
chamber; model 380 R is
refrigerated -20 to +40°C.
Meets requirements of IEC
61010-1 and 61010-2-020.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16765
LAST UPDATED September 2009
Supplier Footnotes
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes
©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved
HETTICH
ROTINA 420 : ROTINA 420
Not specified
1 year
Not specified
2006
January to December
Registration under WEEE in
conformity with the
European regulation on
disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment
Induction drive; rotor
identification; stainless steel
chamber; microprocessor
controlled; pulse button;
accel/decel ramps;
automatic g-force
calculation; memory for 98
programs; model 420 R is
refrigerated -20 to +40°C.
Meets requirements of IEC
61010-1 and 61010-2-020.
16765
September 2009
Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological
HETTICH
ROTOFIX 32 A
Varies with distributor
1 year
Not specified
2006
January to December
Registration under WEEE in
conformity with the
European regulation on
disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment
Induction drive;
microprocessor controlled;
rotor recognition; stainless
steel chamber; pulse button;
automatic g-force
calculation. Meets
requirements of IEC 61010-
1 and IEC 61010-2-020.
16765
September 2009
HETTICH
UNIVERSAL 320 :
UNIVERSAL 320 R
Not specified
1 year
Not specified
2005
January to December
Registration under WEEE in
conformity with the
European regulation on
disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment
Induction drive;
microprocessor controlled;
rotor recognition; stainless
steel chamber; pulse button;
accel/decel ramps;
automatic g-force
calculation; memory for 9
programs; model 320 R is
refrigerated -20 to +40°C.
Meets requirements of IEC
61010-1 and 61010-2-020.
16765
September 2009
25
Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL ROLCO SAKURA SARTORIUS SIGMA

CM 4080 Milenium Cito Cyto-Tek 3-16P 2-16PK
WHERE MARKETED Latin America Worldwide Worldwide, except Canada, Worldwide
France, Italy, Japan, UK,
and USA
CE MARK (MDD) Not specified Yes Yes Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Max rpm 200-2,000 500-2,500 14,500 15,300
Speed adjustment 10 rpm increments 100-rpm increments Yes Yes
SAMPLE VOLUME, mL 0.003 0.1-12 0-0.5 0-0.5
SAMPLES/RUN 12 12 4 4
REAGENTS FROM Not specified None None None
MANUFACTURER
CYCLE TIME, min 0-99, hold 1-60 10 sec to 11 hr 59 min, hold, 0-11 hr, 59 min, hold, short
short run run
Adjustable 1 min increments 1 min increments Yes Yes
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brushless Brush Brushless Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES Sealed rotor Aerosol containment by Imbalance switch Imbalance switch
positive airflow into
disinfectant
Lid interlock Yes Yes Yes Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Not specified No Yes Yes
End of run Not specified Yes Not specified Yes
Overspeed Not specified Yes Not specified Yes
Other None specified Lid locked Error codes Error codes
DISPLAY, type Digital Digital LCD LCD
Parameters displayed Yes Yes Speed, g-force, time Time, temperature, speed,
g-force, preselected and
current values, rotor type,
accel/decel curve
CALIBRATION Not specified Not specified Not specified Annual
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Not specified Daily cleaning, monthly Not specified Annual
FREQUENCY lubricating
NOISE LEVEL, dB <65 <50 60 @ 5,000 rpm 60 @ 5,000 rpm
H x W x D, cm (in) 46 x 44 x 34 (18 x 17.3 x 23.1 x 36.1 x 38.1 (9.1 x 36.5 x 46 x 60 (14.4 x 18.1 31 x 55 x 57 (12.2 x 21.7 x
13.4) 14.2 x 15) x 23.6) 22.4)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 30 (66.2) 14.5 (32) 48 (105.8) 60 (132.3)
LINE POWER, VAC 220/230 115/220/240 100, 120, 230 100, 120, 230
POWER CONSUMPTION Not specified Not specified Not specified Not specified

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

26 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL ROLCO SAKURA SARTORIUS SIGMA

CM 4080 Milenium Cito Cyto-Tek 3-16P 2-16PK
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit $4,834 $6,999 Not specified €6,070 (US$8,422)
Warranty 1 year 1 year 18 months 2 years
Delivery time, ARO Not specified 30 days 4 weeks 4 weeks
Year first sold 1994 1987 2007 2002
Fiscal year January to December October to September January to December January to December
GREEN FEATURES None specified None specified None specified None specified
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Maintenance-free induction Disposable chambers; Additional rotors for 4 x 250 Rotor for 4 slides included
drive; steel chamber. quick-release clips; mL tubes, deep well plates, with all accessories.
Argentine government stainless steel, removable microplates. MDD does not
approval certificate ANMAT head; 2-button operation; apply. Meets requirements
No. 02625. uniform cell dispersion; of ISO 9001.
square recovery area;
gentle acceleration
preserves delicate cell
morphology; program
memory. Meets
requirements of CSA
LR53912.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16765 16765 16765 16765
LAST UPDATED September 2007 September 2009 September 2007 September 2009
Supplier Footnotes
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 27

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL SIGMA SIGMA STATSPIN THERMO FISHER

SCIENTIFIC
3-16P 4-16 CytoFuge 2 Shandon Cytospin 4
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide Worldwide
CE MARK (MDD) Yes Yes Yes Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Max rpm 14,500 13,500 600-4,400 200-2,000
Speed adjustment Yes Yes Yes Yes
SAMPLE VOLUME, mL 0-0.5 0-0.5 0.05-1.8 0.04-6, depending on
cytofunnel used
SAMPLES/RUN 4 4 4 Up to 96, depending on
cytofunnel used
REAGENTS FROM None No None Yes
MANUFACTURER
CYCLE TIME, min 0-11 hr, 59 min, hold, short 0-9 hr 59 min, hold, short 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 30 1-99
run run
Adjustable Yes Yes Yes Yes
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brushless Brushless Brush Brushless
SAFETY FEATURES Imbalance switch Imbalance switch Autoclavable rotor, aerosol- Removable sealed head,
containing rotor, disposable sample chamber capped,
or autoclavable sample nonaerosol, autoclavable
chambers rotor head, disposable
sample chambers
Lid interlock Yes Yes Yes Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Yes Yes No Yes
End of run Yes Yes Yes Yes
Overspeed Yes Yes Yes Yes
Other Error codes Error codes Temperature increase, None specified
underspeed, lid open
DISPLAY, type LCD TFT NA Not specified
Parameters displayed Time, speed, g-force, Time, temperature, speed, NA Time, speed, program
preselected and current g-force, preselected and number
values, rotor type, current values, rotor type,
accel/decel curve accel/decel curve, program
name
CALIBRATION Annual Annual Not specified Not specified
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Annual Annual Cleaning and speed Daily cleaning, replace
FREQUENCY verification with a seals annually
stroboscope or photoelectric
tachometer
NOISE LEVEL, dB 60 @ 5,000 rpm 62 @ 5,000 rpm <55 ≤65
H x W x D, cm (in) 36.5 x 46 x 60 (14.4 x 18.1 49 x 50 x 65 (19.3 x 19.7 x 15.2 x 16.8 x 21.8 (6 x 6.6 x 24 x 40.6 x 62.2 (9.5 x 16 x
x 23.6) 25.6) 8.6) 24.5)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 48 (105.8) 82 (180.8) 2.5 (5.5) 12 (26.5) with sealed head
LINE POWER, VAC 100, 120, 230 100, 120, 230 100-240 100-240
POWER CONSUMPTION Not specified Not specified 40 W Not specified

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

28 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL SIGMA SIGMA STATSPIN THERMO FISHER

SCIENTIFIC
3-16P 4-16 CytoFuge 2 Shandon Cytospin 4
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit €5,100 (US$7,076) €6,050 (US$8,393) $3,557 $8,678, includes rotor
Warranty 2 years 2 years 1 year 1 year, parts and labor
Delivery time, ARO 4 weeks 5 weeks 2 weeks Not specified
Year first sold 2002 2009 2001 2002
Fiscal year January to December January to December January to December January to December
GREEN FEATURES None specified None specified None specified None specified
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Rotor for 4 slides included Rotor for 4 slides included Filter concentrations provide Can store up to 23 program
with all accessories. with all accessories. fluid removal during cell routines. Meets
preparations; small size requirements of CSA, UL,
allows unit to fit entirely and IEC 61010.
inside a fume hood; cell
concentrators available.
Meets requirements of IEC
1010-2-020; power supply
meets requirements of CSA
and UL.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16765 16765 16765 16765
LAST UPDATED September 2009 September 2009 September 2009 September 2009
Supplier Footnotes
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 29

Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL WESCOR
7620 Cytopro
WHERE MARKETED Worldwide
CE MARK (MDD) Yes
ROTATIONAL SPEED
Max rpm 2,000
Speed adjustment Yes
SAMPLE VOLUME, mL 0-0.5
SAMPLES/RUN 8
REAGENTS FROM Yes
MANUFACTURER
CYCLE TIME, min 1-99
Adjustable Yes
BRUSH/BRUSHLESS Brush
SAFETY FEATURES Disposable or reusable
sample chambers, sealed
and autoclavable rotor
Lid interlock Yes
ALERT INDICATORS
Imbalance Yes
End of run Yes
Overspeed Not specified
Other None specified
DISPLAY, type 4 x 16 character
alphanumeric
Parameters displayed Not specified
CALIBRATION Not specified
FREQUENCY
MAINTENANCE Replace seals annually
FREQUENCY
NOISE LEVEL, dB Not specified
H x W x D, cm (in) 24 x 43.9 x 53 (9.5 x 17.3 x
21)
WEIGHT, kg (lb) 12.2 (27)
LINE POWER, VAC 100/120/220/240
POWER CONSUMPTION Not specified

This is the first of two pages

covering the above
model(s). These
specifications continue onto
the next page.

30 ©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved.

 Centrifuges, Cell Washing; Cytological

Chart B: Cytological Centrifuges

MODEL WESCOR
7620 Cytopro
PURCHASE
INFORMATION
List price, unit $6,575
Warranty 1 year
Delivery time, ARO 30 days
Year first sold 1993
Fiscal year April to March
GREEN FEATURES None specified
OTHER SPECIFICATIONS Automatic pad alignment;
dual fluid-addition ports
allow in situ fixation or
prewetting; visible slide
label; 9-program, protected
memory; 2 pads for different
sample-absorption rates;
chamber-lever release;
shallow-profile rotor; dual
sample chambers; patented
flow-control ring for high cell
yields. Meets requirements
of EMC/LVD (CE mark) and
UL.
UMDNS CODE(S) 16765
LAST UPDATED September 2009
Supplier Footnotes
Model Footnotes
Data Footnotes

©2009 ECRI Institute. All Rights Reserved 31