Beckman Coulter Allegra X-14 sERIES User manual

PN B07493AD
January 2018
Instructions For Use
Allegra X-14 Series
Centrifuges
Rx Only in the U.S.A.
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
250 S. Kraemer Blvd.
Brea, CA 92821 U.S.A.

Allegra X-14 Series Centrifuges
for In-Vitro Diagnostics
PN B07493AD (January 2018)
© 2018 Beckman Coulter, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Beckman Coulter, the stylized logo, and the Beckman
Coulter product and service marks mentioned herein are
trademarks or registered trademarks of Beckman Coulter,
Inc. in the United States and other countries.
All other trademarks, service marks, products, or services
are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, contact our Customer Support
Center.
• Worldwide, find us via our website at
www.beckmancoulter.com/customersupport/support.
• In the USA and Canada, call us at 1-800-369-0333.
• Outside of the USA and Canada, contact your local
Beckman Coulter Representative.
Beckman Coulter Eurocenter S.A.
22, rue Juste-Olivier
Case Postale 1044
CH - 1260 Nyon 1, Switzerland
Tel: [phone]
Original Instructions

PN B07493AD iii
Revision History
For labeling updates, go to techdocs.beckmancoulter.com and download the latest version of the
manual or system help for your instrument.
Issue AD, 01/18
Changes were made to: ECREP address.
Note: Changes that are part of the most recent revision are indicated in text by a bar in the margin of the
amended page.

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Revision History

PN B07493AD v
Safety Notice
Read all product manuals and consult with Beckman Coulter-trained personnel before attempting
to operate the instrument. Do not attempt to perform any procedure before carefully reading all
instructions. Always follow product labeling and manufacturer’s recommendations. If in doubt as
to how to proceed in any situation, contact your Beckman Coulter Representative.
Alerts for Danger, Warning, Caution, Important, and Note
DANGER
DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
will result in death or serious injury.
WARNING
WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
CAUTION
CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. It may also be used to alert against unsafe
practices.
IMPORTANT
IMPORTANT is used for comments that add value to the step or procedure being performed.
Following the advice in the Important adds benefit to the performance of a piece of equipment or to a
process.
NOTE NOTE is used to call attention to notable information that should be followed during installation, use,
or servicing of this equipment.
Safety During Installation and/or Maintenance
This centrifuge weighs 128 kg (283 lb). Do not attempt to lift or move it without assistance.
Any servicing of this equipment that requires removal of any covers can expose parts which involve
the risk of electric shock or personal injury. Make sure that the power switch is turned off and the
instrument is disconnected from the main power source by removing the Mains (power) plug from
the outlet receptacle, and refer such servicing to qualified personnel.
Do not replace any centrifuge components with parts not specified for use on this instrument.

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Safety Notice
Electrical Safety
Electrical Safety
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, this equipment uses a three-wire electrical cord and plug to
connect the centrifuge to earth-ground. To preserve this safety feature:
• Make sure that the matching wall outlet receptacle is properly wired and earth-grounded.
Check that the line voltage agrees with the voltage listed on the name-rating plate affixed to
the centrifuge.
• Never use a three-to-two wire plug adapter.
• Never use a two-wire extension cord or a two-wire non-grounding type of multiple-outlet
receptacle strip.
Do not place containers holding liquid on or near the chamber door. If they spill, liquid may get into
the centrifuge and damage electrical or mechanical components.
Safety Against Risk of Fire
This centrifuge is not designed for use with materials capable of developing flammable or explosive
vapors. Do not centrifuge such materials (such as chloroform or ethyl alcohol) in this centrifuge nor
handle or store them within the 30-cm (1-ft) area surrounding the centrifuge.
Mechanical Safety
For safe operation of the equipment, observe the following:
• Use only the rotors and accessories designed for use in this centrifuge.
• Do not exceed the maximum rated speed of the rotor in use.
• NEVER attempt to slow or stop the rotor by hand.
• Do not lift or move the centrifuge while the rotor is spinning.
• NEVER attempt to override the door interlock system while the rotor is spinning.
• Maintain a 7.6-cm (3-in.) clearance envelope around the centrifuge while it is running. During
operation you should come within the envelope only to adjust instrument controls, if
necessary. Never bring any flammable substances within the 30-cm (1-ft) area surrounding the
centrifuge. Never lean on the centrifuge or place items on the centrifuge while it is operating.

PN B07493AD vii
Safety Notice
Chemical and Biological Safety
Chemical and Biological Safety
Normal operation may involve the use of solutions and test samples that are pathogenic, toxic, or
radioactive. Such materials should not be used in this centrifuge, however, unless all necessary
safety precautions are taken.
• Observe all cautionary information printed on the original solution containers prior to
their use.
• Handle body fluids with care because they can transmit disease. No known test offers complete
assurance that they are free of micro-organisms. Some of the most virulent—Hepatitis (B and
C) and HIV (I–V) viruses, atypical mycobacteria, and certain systemic fungi—further emphasize
the need for aerosol protection. Handle other infectious samples according to good laboratory
procedures and methods to prevent spread of disease. Because spills may generate aerosols,
observe proper safety precautions for aerosol containment. Do not run toxic, pathogenic, or
radioactive materials in this centrifuge without taking appropriate safety precautions. Biosafe
containment should be used when Risk Group II materials (as identified in the World Health
Organization Laboratory Biosafety Manual) are handled; materials of a higher group require
more than one level of protection.
• Dispose of all waste solutions according to appropriate environmental health and safety
guidelines.
It is your responsibility to decontaminate the centrifuge and accessories before requesting service by
Beckman Coulter.

PN B07493AD
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Safety Notice
Chemical and Biological Safety

ix
Contents
Revision History,iii
Safety Notice,v
Introduction,xiii
CHAPTER 1: Description,1-1
Introduction,1-1
Centrifuge Function and Safety Features,1-1
Centrifuge Function,1-1
Safety Features,1-2
Centrifuge Chassis,1-2
Housing,1-2
Door,1-3
Rotor Chamber,1-3
Temperature Sensing and Control,1-3
Drive,1-3
Controls and Indicators,1-3
Power Switch,1-3
Control Panel,1-4
Digital Displays,1-4
Run-Parameter Keys,1-5
Name Rating Plate,1-6
Specifications,1-7
Available Rotors,1-9
CHAPTER 2: Operation,2-1
Introduction,2-1
Summary of Run Procedures,2-1
Manual Run,2-1
Programmed Run,2-2
Preparation,2-3
Installing the Rotor,2-3
Manual Operation,2-4
Selecting a Rotor,2-4
Entering Run Speed,2-4
Entering Run Time,2-5
Entering Run Temperature,2-6
Entering Acceleration and Deceleration Rates,2-6
Starting a Run,2-7
Pulse Function,2-8
Programmed Operation,2-8

x
Creating a New Program,2-9
Recalling a Program,2-9
Disabling/Enabling the Audible Tones,2-10
CHAPTER 3: Troubleshooting,3-1
Introduction,3-1
User Messages,3-1
Other Possible Problems,3-4
Retrieving Your Sample in Case of Power Failure,3-5
CHAPTER 4: Care and Maintenance,4-1
Introduction,4-1
Instrument Care,4-1
Maintenance,4-1
Cleaning,4-2
Tube Breakage,4-2
Decontamination,4-3
Sterilization and Disinfection,4-3
Circuit Breaker and Fuses,4-3
Storage and Transport,4-4
Storage,4-4
Supply List,4-4
Replacement Parts,4-4
Supplies,4-4
APPENDIX A: Installation,A-1
Introduction,A-1
Space and Location Requirements,A-1
Electrical Requirements,A-2
Securing the Centrifuge to the Bench,A-3
Test Run,A-4
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Allegra X-14 Series Centrifuge Warranty
Related Documents

xi
Illustrations
Illustrations
1.1 The Centrifuge,1-2
1.2 Control Panel,1-4
3.1 Door Latch Override,3-6
A.1 Centrifuge Dimensions,A-2

xii
Tables
Tables
2.1 Acceleration and Deceleration Rates (in Minutes:Seconds) to
and from Maximum Speed,2-6
3.1 Diagnostic Message Chart,3-2
3.2 Troubleshooting Chart,3-5

PN B07493AD xiii
Introduction
Intended Use
For In Vitro Diagnostic Use
This Allegra X-14 centrifuge is intended for the separation of components through the use of
relative centrifugal force.
It is designed to separate human samples, including blood and other body fluids, for processing,
analysis, and in vitro diagnostic testing, as well as nonhuman body samples and chemicals,
including industrial and environmental samples.
This centrifuge should be operated by qualified personnel only.
Certification
Beckman Coulter Allegra X-14 series centrifuges are manufactured in a facility that has
certifications to both ISO 9001 2008 and ISO 13485 2003. They have been designed and tested to be
compliant (when used with Beckman Coulter rotors) with the laboratory equipment requirements
of applicable regulatory agencies. Declarations of conformity and certificates of compliance are
available at www.beckmancoulter.com.
Scope of Manual
This manual is designed to familiarize you with the Beckman Coulter Allegra X-14 series
centrifuges, its functions, specifications, operation, and routine operator care and maintenance. We
recommend that you read this entire manual, especially the Safety Notice and all safety-related
information, before operating the centrifuge or performing instrument maintenance.
• CHAPTER 1, Description contains system specifications and a brief physical and functional
description of the centrifuge, including the operating controls and indicators.
• CHAPTER 2, Operation contains centrifuge operating procedures.
• CHAPTER 3, Troubleshooting lists diagnostic messages and other possible malfunctions,
together with probable causes and suggested corrective actions.
• contains procedures for routine operator care and maintenance, as well as a brief list of
supplies and replacement parts.

PN B07493AD
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Introduction
Conventions
• APPENDIX A, Installation provides requirements for preparing laboratory facilities and
installing the centrifuge.
NOTE
If the centrifuge is used in a manner other than specified in this manual, the safety and performance
of this equipment could be impaired. Further, the use of any equipment other than that recommended
by Beckman Coulter has not been evaluated for safety. Use of any equipment not specifically
recommended in this manual and/or the applicable rotor manual is the sole responsibility of the user.
Conventions
Certain symbols are used in the product labeling to call out safety-related and other important
information. These international symbols may also be displayed on the centrifuge and are
reproduced on the inside of the back cover of this manual.
Typographic Conventions
Certain typographic conventions are used throughout this manual to distinguish names of user
interface components, such as keys and displays.
• Key names (for example,
START or ROTOR ) appear in capital letters in boldface type.
CFC-Free Centrifugation
To ensure minimal environmental impact, no CFCs are used in the manufacture or operation of
Allegra X-14 series centrifuges.

PN B07493AD 1-1
CHAPTER 1
Description
Introduction
This chapter provides a brief physical and functional description of the Beckman Coulter Allegra X-14
Series centrifuges. The operating controls and indicators are also described; instructions for their use are
in CHAPTER 2, Operation. Chemical compatibilities of materials listed in this manual can be found in
Chemical Resistances (publication IN-175). Refer to the applicable rotor manuals for rotor descriptions.
Centrifuge Function and Safety Features
Centrifuge Function
The Beckman Coulter Allegra X-14R (refrigerated) or Allegra X-14 (constant controlled
temperature) centrifuge (see Figure 1.1) is a benchtop centrifuge that generates centrifugal forces
required for a wide variety of applications. Together with the Beckman Coulter rotors designed for
use in this centrifuge, the centrifuge applications include:
• Routine processing such as sample preparations, pelleting, extractions, purifications,
concentrations, phase separations, receptor binding, and column centrifugations.
• Cell isolation.
• Binding studies and separation of whole blood.
• Processing large numbers of small-volume samples in multiwell plates for concentrating tissue-
culture cells, cloning and replicate studies, in-vitro cytotoxicity studies, receptor binding, and
genetic engineering experimentation.
• Rapid sedimentation of protein precipitates, large particles, and cell debris.
The Allegra X-14R and Allegra X-14 are microprocessor-controlled, providing interactive
operation. The instrument design features a brushless asynchronous motor, automatic rotor
identification system, program memory that enables repeated run conditions, temperature control
system, and a choice of acceleration and deceleration rates. User messages alert the operator to
conditions that may need attention.

PN B07493AD
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Description
Centrifuge Chassis
Figure 1.1 The Centrifuge
Safety Features
The Allegra X-14 series centrifuges have been designed and tested to operate safely indoors at
altitudes up to 2000 m (6562 ft). Safety features include the following.
• An electromechanical door lock system prevents operator contact with spinning rotors and
prevents run initiation unless the door is shut and locked. The door is locked when a run is in
progress and can be opened only when the rotor is stopped and the LED (light-emitting diode)
next to the
DOOR key is lit. If there is a power failure, the door lock can be manually tripped for
sample recovery.
• A steel barrier surrounds the rotor chamber to provide full operator protection.
• A rotor identification system prevents the installed rotor from running above its maximum
rated speed. During acceleration the microprocessor checks the magnetic rotor identification.
Speed is limited to the maximum safe speed of the identified rotor. If the system identifies a
rotor different than the one entered by the user, the system displays an error message and
reduces the speed to the maximum allowable speed of the rotor.
• An imbalance detector monitors the rotor during the run, causing automatic shutdown if rotor
loads are severely out of balance. At low speeds, an incorrectly loaded rotor can cause
imbalance. Rotor instability can also occur if the centrifuge is moved while running, or if it is
not resting on a level and secure surface (see CHAPTER 3, Troubleshooting).
Centrifuge Chassis
Housing
The centrifuge housing is made of sheet steel and structural foam and isfinished with acrylic baking
enamel. The control panel overlay is made of coated polystyrene copolymer.

PN B07493AD 1-3
Description
Controls and Indicators
1
Door
The aluminum and structural foam door is secured to the housing by solid hinges. A window in the
center allows strobe viewing. When the door is closed, the locking system engages. The door is
locked when a run is in progress and can be opened only when the rotor is stopped and the LED next
to the
DOOR key is lit. If there is a power failure, the door lock can be manually tripped for sample
recovery (see CHAPTER 3, Troubleshooting).
Rotor Chamber
The aluminum rotor chamber is coated with epoxy enamel for corrosion resistance. The chamber
is sealed by a foam gasket.
Temperature Sensing and Control
With the power on, the temperature control system is activated when the door is closed and locked.
A sensor in the rotor chamber continuously monitors chamber temperature. The microprocessor
calculates the required chamber temperature to maintain the selected rotor temperature. Run
temperature can be set between 2 and +40°C.
NOTE
To avoid chamber icing, refrigeration is off when the door is open. The centrifuge door must be closed
and locked for the refrigeration system to begin operating.
Drive
The asynchronous direct-drive motor is brushless for clean, quiet operation. The resilient
suspension ensures that loads will not be disturbed by vibration, and prevents damage to the drive
shaft if an imbalance occurs during centrifugation. Maximum acceleration and deceleration may be
selected to allow fast processing of samples; alternately, delicate gradients may be preserved using
slower acceleration and deceleration.
Controls and Indicators
Power Switch
The power switch, located on the left side of the centrifuge, controls electrical power to the
centrifuge. It is also a circuit breaker that will trip to cut off power in the event of a power overload.
The power switch must be turned on before the chamber door can be opened.

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Description
Controls and Indicators
Control Panel
The control panel (see Figure 1.2) is mounted at an angle on the centrifuge front for easy visibility
and access. It is used to enter run parameters via function keys and a keypad, and to display run
parameters, program information, and user messages.
Figure 1.2 Control Panel
Digital Displays
The displays provide run information, user messages, and diagnostics.
• During a run, they show the actual (real-time) operating conditions.
• When the run parameters are being entered, they show the set values selected. Set values can
be recalled during operation by pressing
SHOW SET . After 5 seconds, the displays return to
actual conditions.
• Error messages (see Section 4) also appear on the displays, when applicable. The centrifuge
emits a series of audible tones to alert the user to an error condition. (Instructions for disabling
the tones are in CHAPTER 2.)
SPEED
Indicates rotor speed in revolutions per minute (RPM) or in relative centrifugal field, a
term describing the ratio of the centrifugal acceleration at a specified radius and
speed to the standard acceleration of gravity (RCF g).
TIME
• In a timed run, indicates the remaining run time in hours and minutes. The time
display begins counting down when ENTER/SAVE then START is pressed and
continues counting down to 0. The run automatically ends when the set time
reaches 0 and deceleration begins (a tone sounds when the rotor stops spinning).
If a malfunction shuts down the centrifuge during a run, when the instrument
is turned back on the time will not remain and 00:00 will be displayed in the time
window. By comparing this time with the original set time, you can determine
when the run ended.
• In a hold run, indicates the time elapsed since START was pressed. After 99 hours
and 59 minutes the timer resets to 0 and continues counting elapsed time.
• In a pulse (momentary) run, indicates the time (in minutes and seconds) elapsed
since PULSE was pressed. Time continues to count up until the PULSE key is
released. The total elapsed time is then displayed until another key is pressed.
TEMPERATURE
Indicates rotor temperature in degrees C at thermoequilibrium.
PULSE
ENTER/
SAVE

PN B07493AD 1-5
Description
Controls and Indicators
1
Run-Parameter Keys
Run-parameter keys are used to enter specific run information as follows. The centrifuge emits an
audible tone when each key is pressed. (Instructions for disabling the tone are in CHAPTER 2).
ROTOR
Displays the name of the selected rotor.
ACCEL
When the ACCEL key is pressed, one of ten available acceleration rates can be
entered. Displays the selected acceleration rate throughout the run.
DECEL
When the DECEL key is pressed, one of eleven available deceleration rates can be
entered. Displays the selected deceleration rate throughout the run.
PROGRAM
• During setup—when the PROGRAM key is pressed, a program number (one of ten
possible) can be selected and program parameters entered.
• During centrifugation—the number of the program being run is displayed.
Pressed to display scrollable list of compatible rotors. Can be pressed repeatedly to
scroll through the rotor list (or the arrow keys can be used for scrolling).
If the display shows speed in RPM, the key is pressed once to enter run speed (using
the keypad) in RPM (revolutions per minute); pressed twice to enter run speed in RCF
(relative centrifugal field). If the display shows speed in RCF, the key is pressed once
to enter speed in RCF or twice to enter speed in RPM.
Pressed to enter run time using the keypad. When TIME is pressed twice, HOLD mode
is selected. (Pressing it again reverts to time-entry mode.)
• Timed run—Run time up to 99 hours and 59 minutes can be set. If more than
59 minutes are entered in the minutes field, the system automatically converts
the entry to hours and minutes. Deceleration begins when the set time counts
down to 0.
• Continuous run (hold)—For runs of unspecified lengths, hold mode is used. When
99 hours, 59 minutes is reached, the system resets to 0 and continues counting.
A hold run continues until the STOP key is pressed.
Pressed to enter temperature (using the keypad), from 2 to +40°C. If a new
temperature is not entered, the centrifuge uses the temperature set for the
previous run.
Enables selection of one of ten preset acceleration rates (see Table 2.1 in CHAPTER 2)
available to protect specific gradient and sample-to-gradient interfaces. If
no acceleration rate is selected, the centrifuge defaults to maximum acceleration.
Enables selection of one of eleven preset deceleration rates (see Table 2.1 in
CHAPTER 2) available to maintain optimum separation. If no deceleration rate is
selected, the centrifuge defaults to maximum deceleration. (Deceleration rate 0 is
always coast to complete stop.)

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Description
Name Rating Plate
Name Rating Plate
A name rating plate is affixed to the rear of the instrument. Always mention the serial number and
model number when contacting Beckman Coulter regarding your centrifuge.
A toggle switch used to enter into and exit out of the program mode to create or recall
programs. When the key is pressed, the program number can be selected using the
keypad or arrow keys.
Up and down arrow keys, which can be pressed to increment parameter values up
or down.
The ENTER/SAVE key can be pressed to save parameter inputs to system memory
during manual run setup or to a program during a program set up, and to start the
centrifuge (ENTER/SAVE, then START must be pressed to start the centrifuge).
The keypad is used to enter numerical run parameters, to enter or recall a program
number, and to select acceleration and/or deceleration rates. In addition to keys 0
through 9, the keypad includes a plus/minus key and a CE (clear entry) key.
The CE (clear entry) key clears any parameter on the display. Pressing CE will also
clear some diagnostic messages. If a diagnostic message does not clear when CE is
pressed, see CHAPTER 3, Troubleshooting.
Pressed during a run to display set values for 5 seconds.
Causes the rotor to accelerate, at maximum rate, to set speed for short-duration runs
(as long as the key is pressed). Deceleration, at maximum rate, begins when the key
is released.
Pressing ENTER/SAVE, then START begins the run. (START must be pressed within
5 seconds of pressing ENTER/SAVE.) This key combination can also be used to abort
a deceleration process and restart the centrifuge.
Can be pressed at any time while the rotor is spinning to terminate a run. The
centrifuge decelerates to a complete stop according to the deceleration setting. The
green light next to the key flashes while the rotor decelerates. A tone sounds when
the rotor comes to a complete stop. (Instructions for disabling the tone are in
CHAPTER 2.)
Unlocks and opens the door. (The instrument will not accept the unlock command if
the rotor is spinning.)