Beckman Coulter Microfuge 16 User manual

PN A49436AG
February 2014
Instructions For Use
Microfuge 16 Centrifuge
FX241.5P and FX121.5P Rotors
Beckman Coulter, Inc.
250 S. Kraemer Blvd.
Brea, CA 92821 U.S.A.

Microfuge 16 Centrifuge
FX241.5P and FX121.5P Rotors
PN A49436AG (February 2014)
© 2007–2014 Beckman Coulter, Inc.
All rights reserved.
Trademarks
Beckman Coulter, the stylized logo, Microfuge, and
Beckman Solution 555 are trademarks of
Beckman Coulter, Inc. and are registered in the USPTO.
All other trademarks, service marks, products, or services
are trademarks or registered trademarks of their
respective holders.
Find us on the World Wide Web at:
www.beckmancoulter.com
Printed in USA

PN A49436AG iii
Safety
Read all product manuals and consult with Beckman Coulter-trained personnel before attempting
to operate 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.
Centrifuge Safety Notice
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
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 off and the
centrifuge 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.

PN A49436AG
iv
Safety
Centrifuge Safety Notice
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.
• Before starting the centrifuge, make sure that the rotor tie-down screw is securely fastened.
• 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 come within the envelope only to adjust instrument controls, if necessary. Never
lean on the centrifuge or place items on the centrifuge while it is operating.
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

PN A49436AG v
Safety
Rotor Safety Notice
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.
Rotor Safety Notice
This safety notice summarizes information basic to the safe use of the rotors described in this
manual. The international symbol displayed above is a reminder to the user that all safety
instructions should be read and understood before operation or maintenance of this equipment is
attempted. When you see the symbol on other pages throughout this publication, pay special
attention to the specific safety information presented. Observance of safety precautions will also
help to avoid actions that could damage or adversely affect the performance of the rotor. These
rotors were developed, manufactured, and tested for safety and reliability as part of a Beckman
Coulter centrifuge/rotor system. Rotor safety or reliability cannot be assured if used in a centrifuge
not of Beckman Coulter’s manufacture or in a Beckman Coulter centrifuge that has been modified
without Beckman Coulter’s approval.
• Handle body fluids with care because they can transmit disease. No known test offers complete
assurance that such fluids are free of micro-organisms. Some of the most virulent—Hepatitis
(B and C) viruses, HIV (I–V), 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.
• The rotors and accessories are not designed for use with materials capable of developing
flammable or explosive vapors. Do not centrifuge such materials in nor handle or store
them near the centrifuge.
• Although rotor components and accessories made by other manufacturers may fit in the
FX241.5P and FX121.5P rotors, their safety in these rotors cannot be ascertained by Beckman
Coulter. Use of other manufacturers’ components or accessories in the FX241.5P and FX121.5P
rotors may void the rotor warranty and should be prohibited by your laboratory safety officer.
Only the components and accessories listed in this publication should be used in this rotor.
• Make sure that filled containers are loaded symmetrically into the rotor and that opposing
tubes are filled to the same level with liquid of the same density. Make sure that cavities in use
have the proper spacers inserted (if applicable) before installing the rotor lid.

PN A49436AG
vi
Safety
RoHS Notice
• If disassembly reveals evidence of leakage, you should assume that some fluid escaped the
rotor. Apply appropriate decontamination procedures to the centrifuge and accessories.
• Never exceed the maximum rated speed of the rotor and labware in use. Refer to the section on
RUN SPEEDS, and derate the run speed as appropriate.
• Do not use sharp tools on the rotor that could cause scratches in the rotor surface.
RoHS Notice
EnglishThese labels and materials declaration table (the Table of Hazardous Substance’s Name and
Concentration) are to meet People’s Republic of China Electronic Industry Standard SJ/T11364-2006
“Marking for Control of Pollution Caused by Electronic Information Products” requirements.
China RoHS Caution Label
This label indicates that the electronic information product contains certain toxic or hazardous
substances. The center number is the Environmentally Friendly Use Period (EFUP) date, and
indicates the number of calendar years the product can be in operation. Upon the expiration of the
EFUP, the product must be immediately recycled. The circling arrows indicate the product is
recyclable. The date code on the label or product indicates the date of manufacture.
China RoHS Environmental Label
This label indicates that the electronic information product does not contain any toxic or hazardous
substances. The center “e” indicates the product is environmentally safe and does not have an
Environmentally Friendly Use Period (EFUP) date. Therefore, it can safely be used indefinitely. The
circling arrows indicate the product is recyclable. The date code on the label or product indicates
the date of manufacture.

vii
Contents
Safety,iii
Centrifuge Safety Notice,iii
Alerts for Danger, Warning, Caution, Important, and Note, iii
Safety During Installation and/or Maintenance,iii
Electrical Safety,iv
Safety Against Risk of Fire,iv
Mechanical Safety,iv
Chemical and Biological Safety,iv
Rotor Safety Notice,v
RoHS Notice,vi
China RoHS Caution Label,vi
China RoHS Environmental Label,vi
CHAPTER 1: Introduction,1-1
Certification,1-1
Scope of Manual,1-1
Conventions,1-2
CFC-Free Centrifugation,1-2
Recycling Label,1-2
CHAPTER 2: Description,2-1
Centrifuge Function, Specifications, and Safety Features,2-1
Centrifuge Function,2-1
Specifications,2-2
Safety Features,2-2
Ground Wire Check,2-3
Name Rating Plate,2-3
Chassis,2-3
Housing,2-3
Door,2-3
Rotor Chamber,2-3
Drive,2-3

viii
Contents
Controls and Indicators,2-4
Power Switch,2-4
Control Panel,2-4
Display,2-5
Speed,2-6
Time,2-7
Rotor Function and Specifications,2-8
FX241.5P Rotor Specifications,2-9
FX121.5P Rotor Specifications,2-10
Tubes and Adapters,2-11
Temperature Limits,2-11
Run Speeds,2-12
CHAPTER 3: Operation,3-1
Introduction,3-1
Run Procedure,3-1
Preparation and Loading,3-2
Prerun Safety Checks,3-2
Rotor Preparation,3-2
Starting a Timed or Continuous Run,3-5
RCF Display,3-7
Starting a Short (Pulse) Run,3-7
Removal and Sample Recovery,3-8
CHAPTER 4: Troubleshooting,4-1
Troubleshooting,4-1
Error Messages,4-2
Accessing the Rotor in Case of Power Failure,4-2
CHAPTER 5: Care and Maintenance,5-1
Introduction,5-1
Maintenance,5-1
Centrifuge Preventive Maintenance,5-1
Rotor Preventive Maintenance,5-2
Cleaning,5-2
Centrifuge Cleaning,5-3
Rotor Cleaning,5-3
Decontamination,5-4
Sterilization and Disinfection,5-4
Centrifuge,5-4
Rotor,5-4

ix
Contents
Storage and Transportation,5-5
Storage,5-5
Returning a Centrifuge or Rotor,5-5
Supply List,5-6
Replacement Parts,5-6
Supplies,5-6
APPENDIX A: Installation,A-1
Installing the Centrifuge,A-1
Electrical Requirements,A-2
Test Run,A-3
Beckman Coulter, Inc.,
Microfuge 16 Centrifuge Warranty
Beckman Coulter, Inc.,
Benchtop Rotor Warranty
Related Documents

x
Illustrations
Illustrations
2.1 The Microfuge 16 Centrifuge,2-1
2.2 The Control Panel,2-4
3.1 Installing the Rotor and Tightening the Tie-Down Screw,3-3
A.1 Dimensions of the Microfuge 16 Centrifuge,A-2

xi
Tables
Tables
2.1 Available Tubes and Adapters for the FX241.5P and FX121.5P
Rotors,2-11
3.1 RCF Values at Various Speeds for the FX121.5P Rotor,3-7
4.1 Troubleshooting Chart,4-1
4.2 Error Message Chart.,4-2

xii
Tables

PN A49436AG 1-1
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
Certification
To ensure full system quality, Beckman Coulter Microfuge 16 centrifuges have been manufactured
in an ISO 9001 or 13485 facility. 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 Microfuge 16 centrifuge, its
functions, specifications, operation, and routine operator care and maintenance. We recommend
that you read this entire manual, especially , Safety and all safety-related information, before
operating the centrifuge or performing instrument maintenance.
• CHAPTER 2, Description contains system specifications and a brief physical and functional
description of the centrifuge, including the operating controls and indicators.
• CHAPTER 3, Operation contains centrifuge operating procedures.
• CHAPTER 4, Troubleshooting lists possible malfunctions, together with probable causes and
suggested corrective actions.
• CHAPTER 5, Care and Maintenance contains procedures for routine operator care and
maintenance, as well as a brief list of supplies and replacement parts.
• APPENDIX A, Installation provides instructions for installing and connecting 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 appropriate rotor manual is the sole responsibility of the user.

PN A49436AG
1-2
Introduction
Conventions
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.
CFC-Free Centrifugation
To ensure minimal environmental impact, no CFCs are used in the manufacture or operation of
Microfuge 16 centrifuges
Recycling Label
This symbol is required in accordance with the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
Directive of the European Union. The presence of this marking on the product indicates:
1. the device was put on the European market after August 13, 2005 and
2. the device is not to be disposed via the municipal waste collection system of any member state
of the European Union.
It is very important that customers understand and follow all laws regarding the proper
decontamination and safe disposal of electrical equipment. For Beckman Coulter products bearing
this label please contact your dealer or local Beckman Coulter office for details on the take back
program that will facilitate the proper collection, treatment, recovery, recycling and safe disposal
of the device.
A28219-AA

PN A49436AG 2-1
CHAPTER 2
Description
Centrifuge Function, Specifications, and Safety Features
Centrifuge Function
The Beckman Coulter Microfuge 16 (Figure 2.1) is a microprocessor-controlled compact benchtop
centrifuge that generates centrifugal forces required for a wide variety of applications. Together
with the Beckman Coulter FX241.5P and FX121.5P rotors, designed specifically for use in this
centrifuge, applications include:
• Nucleic acid plasmids and bacteriophages isolation.
• Routine processing such as sample preparations, pelleting, extractions, purifications,
concentrations, phase separations, and receptor binding.
• Virus isolation.
• Rapid sedimentation of protein precipitates, large particles, and cell debris.
• Preparation of subcellular organelles such as mitochondria, granules, and crude microsomes.
• Cell isolation.
Figure 2.1 The Microfuge 16 Centrifuge

PN A49436AG
2-2
Description
Centrifuge Function, Specifications, and Safety Features
Specifications
Only values with tolerances or limits are guaranteed data. Values without tolerances are informative data,
without guarantee.
Safety Features
The Microfuge 16 centrifuge has been designed and tested to operate safely indoors at altitudes up
to 2000 m (6562 ft). An electromechanical door-locking mechanism prevents operator contact with
spinning rotors. When the door is closed it locks automatically. The door can be unlocked and
opened only when the power is on and the rotor is at rest.
Specification Description
Set speed 200 to 14,800 rpm/16 163 ×g, in increments of 100 rpm or 10 ×g
Set time 10 sec to 99 min, 59 sec in 1-second increments, continuous run,
or short run (pulse)
Ambient temperaturea
a. The Microfuge 16 centrifuge can be used in a humidity controlled cold room.
4°C (39°F) to 40°C (104°F)
Humidity restrictions <80% (noncondensing)
Dimensions • Width
—22.6 cm (8.9 in.)
• Depth
—26.6 cm (10.5 in.)
• Height, door closed
—17.6 cm (6.9 in.)
• Height, door open
—39.5 cm (15.6 in.)
• Weight
—6.4 kg (14.0 lb)
• Ventilation clearances (sides and rear)
—7.6 cm (3.0 in.)
Electrical requirements • 220–240 VAC, 2 A, 50/60 Hz
• 100–120 VAC, 4 A, 50/60 Hz
Electrical supply Class I
Maximum heat dissipation into
room under steady-state conditions
324 Btu/hr (0.09 kW)
Noise level 0.91 m (3 ft) in front of
centrifuge
<60 dBa
Installation (overvoltage) category II
Pollution degree 2b
b. Normally only nonconductive pollution occurs; occasionally, however, a temporary conductivity caused by condensation
must be expected.

PN A49436AG 2-3
Description
Name Rating Plate 2
Ground Wire Check
A ground wire check can be performed on any metal part of the centrifuge using an appropriate
measuring instrument.
Name Rating Plate
The name rating plate is affixed to the rear of the centrifuge. Check that the line voltage agrees with
the voltage listed on this name rating plate before connecting the centrifuge. Always mention the
serial number and the model number shown when corresponding with Beckman Coulter regarding
your centrifuge.
Chassis
Housing
The housing is made of metal diecast parts. The control panel is covered by a protective overlay
made of coated polycarbonate.
Door
The diecast door has a strobe port for speed verification. The door is secured by a solid hinge at the
back of the centrifuge and by a motorized auto-lock closure system at the front. This system keeps
the door locked when a run is in progress and allows the door to be opened only when the rotor is
stopped.In the event ofa power failure, the door lock can be opened via the emergency door release
for sample recovery (see CHAPTER 4, Troubleshooting).
Rotor Chamber
The air-cooled rotor chamber is made of high-impact thermoplastic for safety and easy cleaning.
Drive
The asynchronous direct-drive motor is brushless for low maintenance. A tie-down screw secures
the rotor to the drive shaft. 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.

PN A49436AG
2-4
Description
Controls and Indicators
Controls and Indicators
Power Switch
A two-position rocker switch (I, on; O, off), located on the back of the centrifuge next to the power
cord outlet, controls electrical power to the centrifuge.
Control Panel
The control panel (Figure 2.2), including touch keys and hermetically sealed LCD display, is
mounted at an angle on the centrifuge front for easy visibility and access.
Figure 2.2 The Control Panel
MENU Key Pressing the MENU key puts the system into edit mode, in which parameters can
be entered or changed. Pressing MENU repeatedly activates the following
parameters in succession.
• Speed in rpm; speed in rcf ×g
• Time in minutes and seconds (see page 3-7 for more information on time
settings)
• Soft (slow) acceleration and/or deceleration. Slow acceleration
and deceleration settings are available to preserve the sample-to-gradient
interfaces. The following options are available:
—soft: soft acceleration and soft deceleration
—soft stop: soft deceleration only
—stop: standard acceleration and deceleration
Slow acceleration and deceleration are selected by pressing the MENU key four
times and then pressing the up arrow key to select and display soft, stop, and
soft stop.
Continuing to press the up or down arrow keys will cycle repeatedly through the
slow acceleration and deceleration settings.
Parameter settings will flash for 20 seconds, then be stored.

PN A49436AG 2-5
Description
Display 2
Display
The LCD display shows parameter settings and operating conditions.
During run setup:
• The speed setting (in rpm or rcf) is displayed in the top line
• The time setting is displayed in the bottom line
Up and Down Arrow
Keys
Pressing the up or down arrow key adjusts parameter settings as follows:
• Speed and time settings can be adjusted upwards or downwards.
• After the MENU key is pressed four times, pressing the up arrow key displays
slow acceleration and deceleration settings.
• During a run, pressing the up arrow key toggles the speed display between
rpm and rcf.
START STOP Key The START STOP key is used to:
• Start a timed run, by pressing and releasing START STOP. The rotor
accelerates to the set speed and continues until the time runs down or
START STOP is pressed.
• End a timed run before the set time has elapsed, by pressing and releasing
START STOP.
• End deceleration in process, by pressing and releasing START STOP; this will
restart the centrifuge.
• Perform a short run, by pressing and holding START STOP. The rotor
accelerates to maximum speed and spins as long as the key is pressed;
deceleration begins when the key is released. Short run is displayed under
the rotor speed.
OPEN Key When pressed, this key releases the latch mechanism and allows the door to be
opened (the rotor must be stopped and centrifuge power must be on).

PN A49436AG
2-6
Description
Display
• The middle line displays the optional settings soft (slow acceleration and deceleration),
soft stop (slow deceleration), or stop (standard acceleration and deceleration) if selected. If the
stop setting is selected, stop will flash for 20 seconds and then no longer be displayed.
During operation:
• The actual run speed in rpm or rcf is displayed in the top line
• The run time is shown in time elapsed (continuous and short run settings) or time remaining
(timed run setting)
• The optional slow acceleration and deceleration settings soft or soft stop are displayed, if
selected. Short run is displayed during a short (pulse) run.
Speed
Speed settings are accessed by pressing the MENU key. Pressing MENU once activates rpm
(revolutions per minute) edit mode; rpm flashes in the display. Adjust the rpm setting, in
increments of 100, using the up and down arrow keys.
Pressing MENU twice activates the rcf (relative centrifugal force) edit mode; xg flashes in the
display. Adjust the rcf setting, in increments of 10 ×g, using the up and down arrow keys.
During a run, the actual speed (in rpm or rcf) is displayed.
ms
xg
9019001L.AI