Centrifuge Buying Guide for Pharma & Biotech Labs
Posted by HTT Magazine on 17th Feb 2026
Centrifuge Buying Guide for Pharma & Biotech: Rotors, G-Force, and Vacuum Seals
Why centrifuge selection matters in regulated labs
Centrifuges are used across:
- cell harvesting
- protein purification
- viral workflows
- API crystallization
In pharma and biotech, centrifuge selection affects:
- sample integrity
- reproducibility
- contamination risk
This guide helps labs evaluate used centrifuges with reliability and compliance in mind.
Step 1: Understanding G-force vs RPM
Relative centrifugal force (RCF) matters more than RPM because:
- different rotor sizes produce different forces
- protocols specify RCF, not just speed
Ensure the centrifuge can:
- reach required RCF
- maintain stability under load
Step 2: Rotor compatibility and condition
Rotors define application flexibility.
Evaluate:
- fixed-angle vs swinging bucket
- corrosion resistance
- compatibility with tubes/bottles
- rotor lifespan guidance
Rotor condition is a major safety factor, especially in shared lab environments.
Step 3: Vacuum seals and chamber integrity
Some centrifuges use vacuum-assisted chambers for:
- reduced air resistance
- improved temperature control
Inspect:
- vacuum seal condition
- chamber cleanliness
- door gasket integrity
- pump functionality (if applicable)
Seal failure can impact:
- performance
- contamination control
- maintenance costs
Step 4: Temperature control (critical for biologics)
Temperature stability affects:
- protein stability
- cell viability
- enzymatic activity
Check:
- cooling performance
- temperature uniformity
- compressor condition
Step 5: Serviceability and documentation
Pharma labs value:
- service manuals
- known maintenance history
- accessible parts
Documentation helps support:
- qualification workflows
- internal equipment lifecycle tracking
Buying used centrifuges for pharma workflows
Prioritize:
- rotor condition over cosmetic appearance
- known models with service ecosystems
- compatibility with your sample formats
FAQ
Can used centrifuges be used in regulated labs?
Often yes in development and some QC environments, depending on validation and documentation practices.
Are rotors interchangeable across brands?
Generally no, rotor compatibility is highly model specific.
Need Assistance?
Tell us your applications (cells, proteins, viral work), required RCF, and tube formats. We can help identify centrifuge configurations suitable for pharma and biotech labs. Contact us today.