Centrifugal concentrators employ a combination of centrifugal force, vacuum and heat to accelerate the evaporation process of multiple small samples within a wide range of laboratory environments. Concentration is achieved through the evaporation of liquid and the subsequent concentration of DNA, RNA, nucleotides, proteins and other substances of interest.
When selecting a centrifugal vacuum concentrator, factors such as heating, capacity, speed and time settings, noise level, footprint, budget, and the prevention of cross-contamination should be considered to ensure the right choice for specific laboratory applications.
Concentrators are essential tools for various scientific industries, especially biotechnology, analytical chemistry and pharmaceutical laboratories. From traditional drying down of DNA preparations in water and methanol to the more complex and aggressive applications presented by combinatorial chemistry and drug discovery, concentrators and evaporators have long been workhorses in the laboratory.
Workhorses are renowned for their ability to operate consistently and accurately over long periods of time. While worthy, this longevity can have a downside. Given the pace of technological advancements over recent decades, older workhorse instruments can lack the look, feel and technology we have become accustomed to.
Next-generation technology
That’s why Labconco Corporation has debuted its newly redesigned CentriVap Pro Vacuum Concentrator, engineered to tackle the growing demands of modern laboratories.
The CentriVap portfolio uses next-generation technology to power a suite of innovative smart features that make sample processing faster and easier than ever before.
With VaporWorks OS, laboratories can optimize every step of the concentration process with customizable run parameters and method storage. The 5" touchscreen display provides control over run settings, real-time data monitoring and diagnostics without any extra equipment. Researchers can easily program vacuum pressure, rotor speed and temperature to optimize workflow. Additionally, users can receive automated software updates and alerts for sample run data, method parameters and maintenance. Advanced data logging features enable researchers to easily view, plot and export sample run data for analysis and publication.
For researchers needing high throughput, the new stackable rotor designs double sample capacity without taking up additional bench space. Researchers can now process up to 312 samples at once, streamlining workflows and reducing turnaround times. The optional CentriZap built-in strobe light allows for in-run sample monitoring without stopping the instrument.
Every lab has unique sample challenges, and the CentriVap Pro portfolio includes multiple models to address these. For example, the Refrigerated CentriVap Pro offers cooling to -10°C and heating to +100°C, making it ideal for protecting heat-sensitive samples like RNA and proteins. The Acid-Resistant CentriVap Pro is built to handle harsh chemicals with a PTFE-coated chamber, Hastelloy drive shaft and chemical-resistant components. For nucleic acid research, the DNA CentriVap Pro comes fully equipped with a built-in diaphragm vacuum pump, dual vapor traps and a stainless-steel DNA rotor that’s ready to use right out of the box.