CARE AND PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
With proper care and maintenance your centrifuge will provide years of
laboratory service. For proper care, the following steps should be taken:
1. Provide Adequate Ventilation: For cooling purposes, the Model
642B draws in ambient air through the air intake cover on the
top of the lid and exhausts this air in the rear of the base. The
centrifuge should be placed on a hard smooth surface for good
air circulation.
2. Always Spin Balanced Loads: Make certain that you are always
spinning a balanced load. The Model 642B has a unique counter
balanced motor mounting design which, along with its rubber
suction feet, produces excellent vibration dampening. However,
out–of–balance loads may break glass test tubes and may
produce unsatisfactory separation results. Proper load balancing
will improve sample separation and extend the life of the
centrifuge. Refer to page 7 on balanced loads for additional
information on balancing the load.
3. Keep the Tube Holders Clean: NOTE: Always follow the safety
guidelines of your laboratory to properly clean up and/or dispose
of materials in the event that a substance known to be
potentially toxic, radioactive or contaminated with a pathogenic
microorganism is spilt in or on the centrifuge. Small glass
fragments left in the tube holder after a tube breakage may
adhere to the next test tube inserted in that holder. When this
tube is handled, these fragments may puncture protective gloves
and lacerate the operator’s fingers or hand. Remaining fragments
may provide stress points on subsequent tubes and result in
additional breakage. If a tube breakage occurs, carefully remove
the tube holder. Properly dispose of the sample and tube
fragments and thoroughly clean both the inside and outside of
the tube holder. Insert a new tube cushion (if necessary) and
replace the tube holder in the rotor.
4. Motor and Electrical Maintenance: The Model 642B uses a
brushless permanent split capacitor AC motor. It should not need
routine servicing for the life of the centrifuge. The electrical
components are selected for high reliability and should not need
routine service.
5. Tube Holder Replacement: It is recommended that the tube
holders be replaced after 24 months of use. Inspect tube holders
regularly for cracks. If cracks are discovered, replace
immediately.
