MSE MicroCentaur Plus User manual

MicroCentaur Plus
User Manual
Please read this before use

Thank you for buying a MSE Micro Centaur Plus. Please read this operating
manual before using your centrifuge; it will provide you and your colleagues with
useful information on all aspects of the equipment. As our customer, we would
like to ensure that you are totally satisfied at all times. Do not hesitate to contact us.
Your views are very important to us

MSE Centrifuges Ltd
Health and Safety at Work
MSE Centrifuges Ltd is required under the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974 and other UK legislation as
designers, manufacturers, suppliers and importers of articles for use at work to ensure that, as far as is reasonably
practicable, articles which we design, produce, supply or import are safe and without risk to health.
We are required to provide information on the safety and handling precautions to be observed when installing,
operating, maintaining and servicing our products. Such advice is contained in this manual.
We are also obliged to update this information should circumstances change and to operate a system to this end.
We should also like to point out, however that you as users have an important responsibility in the provision
and maintenance of safe working practices and conditions.
Accordingly, we draw the following matters to your attention:
1. This apparatus should only be used as intended and within its design parameters and by suitably
qualified and trained personnel who have read and understood the relevant sections of this
manual.
2. This manual should be readily available to such personnel at all times.
3. In addition to that which is written in the manual, normal common-sense safety precautions must
be taken at all times to avoid the possibility of accidents. Particular care is required when working
with apparatus at high temperature or pressure.
4. This centrifuge has been supplied with a rotor already fitted and rotor nut tightened to secure it.
This rotor nut must be checked, periodically, by the user to ensure that it remains sufficiently tight
for safe operation. Damage caused to the centrifuge by running it with an insufficiently tight rotor
nut is not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
5. Installation, maintenance, repairs and servicing should only be carried out by an MSE (UK) Ltd
approved engineer, and connection to electrical supplies should only be carried out by suitably
trained personnel.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT, WARRANTY SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE
UK customers; if you are in any doubt whatsoever regarding the correct use of this apparatus, or if you require any
technical data or assistance, please contact the MSE Centrifuges Ltd Technical Support Department at:
MSE Centrifuges Ltd
Mytogen House
11 Browning Road
Heathfield
TN21 8DB
United Kingdom
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
E-Mail: [email protected]
www.msecentrifuges.com
.
ELECTRICITY SUPPLIES: Voltage and frequency
MSE Centrifuges Ltd electrical apparatus is offered and labelled for one, or for a choice of two voltage ranges and,
where necessary, different frequencies of mains supply. MSE Centrifuges Ltd does not accept any responsibility for
the operation of any such apparatus should it be connected to electricity supplies which are normally outside, or
vary outside, the stated voltage and frequency values for which it is designed, nor for any consequential loss,
damage or injury, howsoever caused.

Warranty
This model is supplied with a 24-month warranty.
The details of the warranty supplied with this unit are available at www.msecentrifuges.com. A
copy is available upon request.

ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
Before connecting this apparatus to the electricity supply, check the information given on the
rating plate and ensure that;
A) Your supply is single phase AC (alternating current) of the stated frequency with neutral
nominally at earth potential.
B) Your supply voltage is within the stated range.
C) The current rating is within the capacity of your outlet.
D) Your plug or electricity supply circuit is fitted with a 5 Amp fuse.
E) Centrifuge Fuse rating: 120V 240V (3.15A)
WARNING!
This apparatus must be earthed.

Please dispose of centrifuge carefully!
MSE adheres to the WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) directive, which
ensures that all electrical equipment is disposed of carefully with consideration to the
environment. As a responsible manufacturer of quality laboratory equipment, MSE will recycle
your equipment once its life expires and therefore reduce the amount of waste electrical
equipment that is sent to landfill.
When you would like to dispose of your equipment, please contact us on [phone]
to arrange a collection.

MSE Centrifuges Ltd
Mytogen House, 11 Browning Road, Heathfield TN21 8DB
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
www.msecentrifuges.com
Type of device: Laboratory centrifuge
Product name: Micro Centaur Plus
Model numbers: MSB010.CX3.5, MSB010.CX3.1
EC guidelines and standards:
73/23/EWG, BS EN 61010-1, BS EN 61010-2-020
89/336/EEC, 92/31/EWG, 93/68/EWG, BS EN 61326-1, BS EN 61326-2-6
98/79/EC, BS EN 61010-2-101, BS EN 13612, BS EN 1658
Declaration
I declare as the authorised representative, the above information in relation to the
supply/manufacture of this product is in conformity with the stated standards and other related
documents following the provisions of EEC Directives.
Signature of authorised representative and date:
…………………………………………………10.08.2007
P. Matharoo
EC DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
According to ISO 17050-1, ISO/IEC 17050-2

Contents
1. Description of the centrifuge
1.1 General description
2. Technical data
2.1 Accessories
2.1.1 Basic accessories
2.1.2 Optional accessories
2.2 Manufacturer’s recommendations
3. Installation
3.1 Unpacking of the centrifuge
3.2 Location
3.3 Connection to power supply
3.4 Fuses
4. Safe working conditions
4.1 General information about your centrifuge
4.2 Operating personnel
4.3 Safety devices
4.3.1 Lid lock
4.3.2 Checking the rotor has stopped
4.4 Opening the lid manually
4.5 Good operator practice
4.6 Hazards and precautions
4.7 Maximum load
4.8 Storage
5. Operating the centrifuge
5.1 Getting started
5.2 Controls
5.2.1 The control panel
5.3 Description of sounds
5.4 LCD display
5.5 Switching the centrifuge on
5.6 Switching the centrifuge off
6. Maintenance
6.1 General cleaning of the centrifuge
6.2 Cleaning of the accessories
6.3 Sterilisation and disinfection of the bowl
6.4 Tube cracking
7. Servicing your centrifuge
7.1 Fault finding
7.2 Opening the lid manually
7.3 Safety inspections
7.4 Notes for engineers
7.5 Repairing your centrifuge
8. How to obtain service on your Micro Centaur Plus.
8.1 Warranty
8.2 Information about your distributor

1. DESCRIPTION OF THE CENTRIFUGE
1.1 General Description
The MSE Micro Centaur plus is a laboratory micro centrifuge intended for in vitro diagnostic
(IVD). Its construction ensures easy and safe operation, for a wide range of applications in
laboratories engaged in routine medical analysis and biochemical research works. It is intended
for separation of mixtures, suspensions and systemic fluids into constituents of different
densities under influence of centrifugal force. This centrifuge is an air-cooled, brush-less
instrument and therefore during centrifugation the samples should be spun in sealed containers
and sealed rotors. This centrifuge is not intended to be used to centrifuge caustic, inflammable
and explosive preparations.

2. TECHNICAL DATA
Manufacturer MSE Centrifuges Ltd
Type MSB010.CX3.5 230v
MSB010.CX3.1 110/120v
Mains L1+N+PE V/Hz ±10% 230 V 50/60 Hz,
110 V 50/60 Hz
Maximum power consumption 90 W
Maximum capacity 52.8 ml
Maximum rotational speed 14500 rpm
Maximum acceleration 14573 x g
Maximum kinetic energy 2382 Nm
Time range 1 - 99 min, or  (1 min. intervals
adjustment)
Acceleration 3 linear characteristics
Deceleration 3 linear characteristics
Programs 9
PULSE – short duration operation Yes
Out-of-balance detection Yes
Interference level PN-EN-55011
Noise level 56 dB
Physical data:
Depth 270 mm
Width 220 mm
Height 180 mm
Weight 5 kg
Environmental conditions: PN-EN-61010-1 (point 1.4.1.)
Ambient temperature +5 to +40 C
Relative humidity at ambient temperature  80 %
Installation category II PN-EN 61010 - 1
Degree of pollution 2 PN-EN 61010 - 1
Protection zone 300 mm
Statement of Conformity
The following machine is in accordance with the regulations of the EU Directive 98/79/EC and with the
harmonized standards PN-EN 61010-1 and PN-EN 61010-2-020.

2.1 Accessories
2.1.1 Basic accessories (enclosed with every centrifuge).
Cat. No. Type of accessories Number
Of piece
78500.001
76600.020
87900.001
32600.063
35020.151
35020.152
71100.1219
Hexagon key for the rotor
Emergency release key for opening of the lid
Rotor Clamp
Fuses WTA-T 3.15 A 250V
Power cord 230 V or
Power cord 110 V
Operating Instructions
1
1
1
2
1
(1)
1
2.1.2. Optional accessories
Depending on customer’s needs the Micro Centaur Plus centrifuge will be provided with any one
of the rotors below, as part of the package. Any additional rotors will be supplied at a cost.
Cat. No. Type of rotor Rotor capacity Max.
rpm
RCF r =
max
r =
min
43117-615 Angle rotor with sealed lid 24x2.2/1.5 ml 14500 14573 6.5 2.5
43117-616 Angle rotor with sealed lid (2x8; 2x4)x0.2 ml 14500 13163 5.6 3.8
43117-617 Angle rotor with sealed lid 18x0.5 ml 14500 13868 5.9 3.8
43117-618 Hematocrit rotor 24 capillary tubes
1.3 x 50 mm.
14500 14573 6.2 1.2
34411-8160 TUBE: Glass capillary 50mm heparinized
34411-8162 TUBE: Glass capillary tubes 50mm non-heparinised
34411-8161 TUBE STOPPER: Capillary Micro Centaur Plus
34411-8150 HEMATOCRIT READER: Micro Centaur Plus
81780.002 Adaptor 12x0.5ml and 24x0.4ml for 43117-615, 24-place rotor
2.2 Manufacturer’s recommendations
Only the manufacturer-specified centrifuge capillaries, with the correct diameter, length and
durability are suitable and should be used for spinning in this centrifuge. The use of equipment
made by other manufacturers should be consulted with the manufacturer of the centrifuge.
Disinfectants and cleaning agents generally used in medical care should be used in this
centrifuge
MSE recommend the use of Terminex 2 (available from Arrow Chemicals Ltd)
Virkon (available from Antec International)

13
3. INSTALLATION
3.1 Unpacking the centrifuge
Open the package carefully taking care not to damage the machine inside. Take the centrifuge
out of the box and ensure that all accessories are checked and identified.
Keep packaging materials at hand for possible transport in the future.
3.2 Location
Almost all the energy supplied to the centrifuge is transformed into heat and then emitted to the
environment. Therefore, proper ventilation is essential, and ventilation ducts must be kept clear
at all times. Moreover, the centrifuge should not be located near any heat source such as
radiators and should be kept away from direct sunlight. The bench that the centrifuge sits on
should be stable and flat. Around the centrifuge, a 300mm radius safety zone must be
established. The normal laboratory operating conditions are from 15 C to 35 C. In the case of
changing machine location from extreme cold to warmer conditions, please allow the centrifuge
to stand with the lid open for a minimum of 4 hours.
This will reduce any chance of condensation taking place in side the centrifuge.
3.3 Connection to the power supply
Supply voltage has to be consistent with that given on the rating plate. MSE centrifuges come
with a 2-metre long IEC lead fitted with plugs resistant to the dynamic loadings.
MSE recommends that an emergency cut -out should be installed far away from the centrifuge,
near the exit door from the room or outside the room. Supply voltage should be either 230 V
50/60 Hz, or 110/220 V 50/60 Hz.
3.4 Fuses
The centrifuge has standard protection with the WTA-T 3.15 Amp 250 V fuse, which is situated
in the IEC socket at the back of the centrifuge. The fuse fitted in the plug of the IEC lead is 5A.

4. SAFE WORKING CONDITIONS
4.1 General information about your centrifuge
The centrifuge has a rigid self-supporting structure. The case is made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene
Styrene (ABS) plastic, the front and back is made of aluminium sheet. The rear of the lid is fixed
in place by steel hinges and the front of the lid is locked with an electromagnetic lock, which
stops the possibility of opening during centrifugation. The centrifuge is an air-cooled machine.
4.2 Operating personnel
The Micro Centaur Plus centrifuge should only be operated by trained laboratory technicians
who have read this user manual. The operating manual should be placed near the centrifuge at
all times.
4.3 Safety devices
Safety devices described below are incorporated in the design of the Micro Centaur Plus:
4.3.1 Lid lock
The centrifuge will only run when the lid is properly closed. In turn, the lid will only open after the
rotor has stopped. In the case of emergency opening of the lid during the operation, the
centrifuge is immediately switched-off and the brake is automatically applied until the rotor has
completely stopped. With the lid is open, the drive is completely disconnected from the power
that makes it impossible to start the centrifuge.
4.3.2 Checking the rotor has stopped
Opening of the centrifuge lid is only possible when the rotor has stopped. This stopped condition
is verified by the microprocessor, which sends a signal to the display where the letter “S .”
appears to show that the rotor has stopped and the lid can be opened. The display will show 
when the lid is closed and  when the lid is open.
4.4 Opening the lid manually
It is possible to open the lid manually if there is a power failure or the centrifuge develops a
fault. Please use the key provided with your centrifuge to press into the hole on the right-hand
side. The lid should now open.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to open the lid whilst the centrifuge is running.
4.5 Good operator practice
Below is a list important points that users should follow in order to get the most out of their
centrifuge.
1. Set the centrifuge in horizontal position on a rigid bench.
2. Ensure a safe position for the centrifuge.
3. Ensure free space around the centrifuge (at least 30 cm).
4. Firmly fix the rotor on the motor shaft.
5. Avoid unbalanced loads. If an imbalance has occurred, a “U” will appear next to the
acceleration rate.
6. Load the rotor holes with the same tubes as recommended.
7. Do not centrifuge the test tubes of different dimensions.

The possibility to centrifuge test tubes of different dimensions should be avoided at all
times. However, if it is absolutely necessary then opposite loads should be the same
weight.
Care should be taken to load the rotor holes asymmetrically.
8. Ensure that all holes are being used in the rotor.
9. Only use tubes made from a plastic material.
Never use glass test tubes.
11. Fill in all test tubes equally in order to protect the centrifuge against imbalance.
12. Always use tubes that are in good condition and discard any that show signs of wear.
13. Infectious materials should be processed in closed test tubes only.
14. It is prohibited to centrifuge explosive and inflammable materials.
15. It is prohibited to centrifuge substances prone to reaction in result of delivery of high
energy during centrifugation.
4.6 Hazards and precautions
1. In order to avoid damaging the centrifuge in any way, the user should read and
understand the instruction manual before operating the Micro centaur Plus.
2. Un-trained personnel should never operate the centrifuge.
3. The centrifuge must not be transported with the rotor mounted on the motor shaft.
4. The centrifuge should only be used in conjunction with original rotors and spare parts.
5. If the user discovers a fault with the centrifuge, a qualified service engineer should be
contacted through MSE (UK) Ltd.
6. Do not switch the centrifuge on if it is not installed properly or if the rotor is not fitted
correctly.
7. The centrifuge must not be operated in places where there is a risk of extreme hot or
cold temperatures.
8. Do not use flammable or highly volatile materials in the centrifuge.
9. Users are advised to take extreme care when centrifuging toxic or contaminated
substances.
10. The appropriate decontamination procedure should be adhered to when cleaning any
parts of the centrifuge that has been in contact with any toxic or hazardous material.
11. Do not open the lid manually when the rotor is still turning.
12. Do not exceed the load limit set by the manufacturer.
13. Rotors are intended for fluids of average homogeneous density equal to 1.2 g/cm3 or
smaller when centrifugation is carried out at maximum speed. When fluids of higher
density are used, then it may be necessary to reduce the speed.
14. Do not use the rotors that have signs of corrosion or other mechanical defects.
15. Do not use highly corrosive substances, which could cause material impairment and
lower the mechanical properties of rotor.
16. Do not use plastic rotors and accessories that have not been recommend by MSE
Centrifuges Ltd.
17. Only commercial plastic test tubes should be used.
18. Ensure that the test tubes are in good condition and show no signs of damage or wear.
19. Do not run the centrifuge without the rotor.
20. Do not run the centrifuge without the lid on the rotor.
21. Do not move the centrifuge whilst in use.
22. Maintain a safe distance from the centrifuge whilst in use.
23. Do not place objects on the centrifuge.

4.7 Maximum load
In order to avoid overloading of the rotor the operator shall observe the maximum permitted
load, which is specified on every rotor. Maximum permissible load is reached when all test-
tubes are filled with the fluid with 1.2 g/cm3 density.
If density of the centrifuged liquid is higher than 1.2 g/cm3, then test tubes can only be filled
partially. Alternatively, the operator can adjust the speed of the centrifuge by using the following
formula.
n perm = n max *

2,1 ;  = specific gravity 





3
cm
G; n max [maximum rotational speed – r.p.m.]
4.8 Storage
If your Micro Centaur Plus is stored away for more than 12 months, we recommend that the
centrifuge be inspected by an authorised engineer before use.
5. OPERATING THE CENTRIFUGE
5.1 Getting started
1. Connect the centrifuge to the mains socket.
2. Switch the power supply on by using the on/off switch, situated on the right-hand side of
centrifuge.
3. Open the centrifuge lid by pressing the LID key. Prior to fitting the rotor, the user should
check that the bowl is free from foreign objects and impurities such as dust and residues
of fluid.
4. Mount the rotor on the motor shaft and tighten in a clockwise direction (using the supplied
hexagon key).
5. Rotor lids must be fully tightened on the rotor in order to ensure a good seal.
6. Once in use, only use sample containers intended for the rotor.
CAUTION: This Centrifuge compensates for a small weight difference. However, it is
recommended that users load the rotor with equal loads to ensure minimal vibrations during
operation.
In order to prolong the life of your rotor, lubrication should be used on threaded parts of the rotor
and vacuum grease on the “o” rings inside of the rotor lid.
To take the rotor off, loosen the rotor nut by turning in an anti-clockwise direction. Take the
rotor off by gently pulling in an upward direction.
5.2 Controls
The microprocessor control system being used in the centrifuge ensures a wide range of
parameters and operation can be set:
1. Stepped speed control within the range from 300 to 14000 rpm with increments of 100
rpm or RCF x g.
2. Selection of the centrifuging time within the range from 1 to 99 minutes with 1-minute
interval adjustments, or continuous centrifugation.

3. Using the PULSE button to centrifuge for a short period of time.
4. Program up to 9 different operations.
5. 3 different acceleration rates () to choose from.
6. 3 different de-acceleration rates () to choose from.
5.2.1 The control panel
The control panel and display is a completely sealed unit that shows key data in a digital format
and allows the user to adjust speed, time, acceleration and braking rates. Figure 1.1 shows the
layout of the control panel:
Figure 1.1
The START key is used to start the centrifuge program with the parameters displayed on
display. The START key can only be activated when the lid is closed.
The STOP key is used for aborting the operation at any time. After pressing the key an oblique
(“”) will appear on the display, indicating that the rotor is braking. When the rotor has come
to a complete standstill, the letter “S .” will appear on the display signalling that the rotor has
stopped. Sequential pressing of the stop key will increase the brake rate to maximum even if
the brake rate is set lower.

The LID key is used to open the lid of the centrifuge once it has come to a complete standstill.
The LID key can only be used when the display reads “S .” This key cannot be used whilst the
rotor is in motion.
Once the rotor has stopped the lid can be opened by pressing the lid key, the display will show
S  and the LED in lid key will be lit up. This denoted that the rotor has stopped and that the lid
is open.
The PULSE key is used when the operator wants a short spin without having to program a
cycle. The user can hold down this key and the centrifuge will begin to spin. Once the user
has let go of the button, the centrifuge will gradually slow down and come to an eventual stop
at the brake rate previously chosen. Pressing the STOP key after releasing the PULSE key will
increase the brake rate to the maximum even if the set brake rate is lower.
The parameter keys are used to adjust speed, time, RCF, as well as, acceleration and de-
acceleration rates. Figure 1.2 shows each of their functions:
Figure 1.2
Each of the 9 programmes will allow you to set speed, time, acceleration and braking rates.
Adjust time and
from 1-99 minutes.
Setting the time as
- - m - - s will set
the centrifuge to
run continuously.
Adjust
acceleration ()
and braking ()
The user can
select three
different rates,
with 1 being the
fastest
Adjust speed and
RCF
Select up to 9
predetermined
programmes
Decrease a
parameter value
Increase a
parameter value

5.3 Description of sounds
The Micro Centaur Plus will make different ‘beep’ sounds depending on the information being
displayed. Below is a description for each type of beep:
Sound Description
One short beep Confirmation that the command has been
accepted.
Two short beeps The command has not been accepted.
(e.g. setting the speed above 14 500 rpm)
One long beep 1. Signals the start of braking after pressing
the STOP key.
2. Signals the use of the PULSE mode.
3. braking after the use of PULSE mode.
Five short beeps The rotor has stopped and the lid can be
opened
Five short beeps and one long beep Signals that the centrifuge is ready after
switching the power on.
5.4 LCD display
The centrifuge has an LCD display, which shows information regarding the time, speed and
RCF, as well as the acceleration and deceleration rates.
When the centrifuge is first switched on, the digital display shows the model name and our web
address for three seconds before reverting to the main display.
Figure 1.3
The main display shows information about the centrifuge cycle. An example is shown below in
Figure 1.4.
Figure 1.4
 1 = acceleration rate 1 (maximum acceleration)
 1 = braking rate 1 (maximum braking rate)
MSE Centrifuges
www.msecentrifu
g
es.com

S:14000 (1)
T: 99m00s 1 S. 
Program
number
The rotor has
stopped. S.
Time in minutes
and seconds
Speed in
rpm
The “S .” shows
that the rotor has
stopped and the
lid is closed.
 indicates that
the lid is open.
 indicates the lid
is closed.
Acceleration 
braking rate 

Users can switch between displaying the speed and RCF during the run by pressing the SPEED
RCF key twice (see Figure 1.5)
Figure 1.5
Note: The operator cannot change the parameters once the centrifuge is in motion.
5.5 Switching the centrifuge on
Having familiarized your self with the instruction manual, you can set the programmers that you
require load the rotor, shut the lid and press the START key.
5.6 Switching the centrifuge off
The centrifuge will automatically stop when the programme is completed. It is possible to stop
the machine before the programme is completed by pressing the stop key.
When you have completed your requirements, please remember to switch the machine off at
the mains switch located on the side of the centrifuge.

RC:14573 (1)
T = 99m00s 1 S .
The “=” sign indicates
that the parameter can
be changed.

6. MAINTENANCE
Please use safety gloves for the following work
6.1 General cleaning of the centrifuge
Before cleaning the centrifuge, users are advised to wear safety gloves to minimise the risk of
irritation. For general cleaning, water mixed with a mild detergent is sufficient. Do not use any
corrosive substances or abrasive cloths to clean the centrifuge. Do not use alkaline solutions,
flammable solvents or agents containing abrasive particles.
6.2 Cleaning of the accessories
It is recommended that rotors are regularly cleaned to ensure optimum performance and
prolong their life. This should be done with a non-corrosive cleaning agent (between 6 and 8pH)
as these can weaken the rotor. When cleaning the rotor please pay particular attention to the
holes of the rotor.
If cracks appear in the rotor, we recommended that the rotor be replaced immediately. Rotors
have to withstand high stresses of centrifugal force and therefore any slight damage would be
made worse during operation and inadvertently cause damage to the machine.
All accessories used in the centrifuge, such as sample containers, should be clean and free of
debris. The sample tubes should also be dry before use in the centrifuge.
6.3 Sterilisation and disinfection of the bowl and accessories
When sterilising the bowl and rotors, users should take into account the material of these items
and be sure that the chemicals in the cleaning agents will not react with them. Furthermore,
when autoclaving the rotors, users should consider the temperature resistance of the material
used in construction. The optimum temperature for autoclaving rotors used in this centrifuge is
between 121ºC and 124º C. When autoclaving users should also make sure not to exceed 215
kPa (2.15 bar) of pressure. The recommended time for autoclaving is 15 minutes.
The user is responsible for proper disinfections of the centrifuge, particularly if some dangerous
material is spilled inside or outside of the centrifuge. During above mentioned works you must
always wear safety gloves.
MSE appointed engineers or workshop personnel should not touch the centrifuge unless it has
been de-contaminated and a certificate is signed by some one in authority to that effect.
6.4 Tube cracking
It is recommended that users operate in a clean environment to reduce the risk of any debris
entering your centrifuge system. Debris can crack tubes and rotors and also damage the
centrifuge itself.