Thermo Electron SORVALL RC3BP User manual

PN 56311-6
SORVALL
RC 3 BP


OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS

RC3 BP™ Table of Contents
PN 56311-6
Issued February 2007
OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
SORVALL RC3 BP
Lowspeed
Refrigerated
Centrifuge
Thermo Electron Corporation
Asheville, North Carolina
U.S.A.


Table of Contents SORVALLCentrifuges
ii
This manual is a guide to the use of the
SORVALL
®
RC3 BP™
Lowspeed Refrigerated Centrifuge
Information herein has been verified and is believed adequate for the intended use of the
centrifuge. Because failure to follow the recommendations set forth in this manual could produce
personal injury or property damage, always follow the recommendations set forth herein. Thermo
Electron Corporation does not guarantee results and assumes no obligation for the performance of
centrifuges or other products that are not used in accordance with the instructions provided. This
publication is not a license to operate under, nor a recommendation to infringe upon, any process
patents.
Publications prior to the Issue Date of this manual may contain data in apparent conflict with that
provided herein. Please consider all data in this manual to be the most current.
WARNING , CAUTION , and NOTE within the text of this manual are used to emphasize
important and critical instructions.
WARNING informs the operator of a hazard or an unsafe practice that could result in
personal injury, affect the operator’s health, or contaminate the environment.
CAUTION informs the operator of an unsafe practice that could result in damage of
equipment.
NOTE highlights essential information.
WARNING and CAUTION are accompanied by a hazard symbol
!
and appear in the
left sidebar near the information they correspond to.
IBM is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation; Pentium is a registered trademark of
Intel Corporation; Microsoft, MS, DOS, Windows, Windows 95, and Windows NT are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation.
©1996, 1997, 1998, 2003,by Thermo Electron Corporation

RC3 BP™ Table of Contents
iii
Important Safety Information
Certain potentially dangerous conditions are inherent to the use of all centrifuges. To ensure safe operation of
this centrifuge, anyone using it should be aware of all safe practices and take all precautions described below
and throughout this manual.
WARNING
When using radioactive, toxic, or pathogenic materials, be aware of all characteristics of the materials and the hazards
associated with them in the event leakage occurs during centrifugation. If leakage does occur, neither the centrifuge nor
the rotor can protect you from particles dispersed in the air. To protect yourself, we recommend additional precautions be
taken to prevent exposure to these materials, e.g., use of controlled ventilation or isolation areas.
Always be aware of the possibility of contamination when using radioactive, toxic, or pathogenic materials. Take all
necessary precautions and use appropriate decontamination procedures if exposure occurs.
The use of sealed rotors, buckets, and/or sample containers will offer increased protection from contamination during
routine operation. However, these items will not guarantee protection from accidents resulting from damage to the rotor
or buckets. Do not run hazardous materials in the centrifuge unless placed in a biohazard enclosure and operated using
all appropriate safety precautions.
Never use any materials capable of producing flammable or explosive vapors, or creating extreme exothermic reactions.
Use SORVALL®rotors only. Use of another manufacturer's rotor can cause rotor failure which could result in personal
injury or centrifuge damage.
Never exceed the maximum rated speed of the installed rotor; to do so can cause rotor failure.
Always reduce (derate) rotor speed as instructed in this manual whenever:
•the rotor speed/temperature combination exceeds the solubility of the gradient material and causes it to precipitate.
•the compartment load exceeds the maximum allowable compartment load specified.␣␣See Chapter 4, page 4-13.
Failure to reduce rotor speed under these conditions can cause rotor failure.
Centrifuges routinely deal with high energy levels and could move suddenly in the unlikely event of rotor failure. During
centrifuge operation, never lean on or move the centrifuge, keep the surrounding area clear of objects (including all
hazardous materials), and do not work on top of or next to the centrifuge.
Do not attempt to open the chamber door when the rotor is spinning; never override or otherwise disable any of the safety
systems of the centrifuge.
CAUTION
Do not run or precool/preheat a rotor at the critical speed, as this will have a detrimental effect on centrifuge component
life. See Chapter 4, Rotor Temperature Equilibration, page 4-11.
Do not operate the centrifuge with a rotor out of balance. To do so can cause damage to the centrifuge drive assembly.
Do not operate centrifuge without a rotor properly installed and locked to the drive, and the rotor cover (if any) must be
properly installed. See rotor instruction manual.
Locate the centrifuge on a level floor to avoid rotor imbalance during operation.
The centrifuge can be damaged if connected to the wrong voltage. Check the voltage before plugging the centrifuge into
a power source. Thermo is not responsible for incorrect installation.
Always maintain the centrifuge in the recommended manner. See Chapter 5, Maintenance.
!
!

Table of Contents SORVALLCentrifuges
iv
Table of Contents
Page
Safety Information Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . iii
Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION & DESCRIPTION
Centrifuge Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
Centrifuge Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
Optional Network Computer Interface Package . . . . . . . . . 1-5
Parts Supplied . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
Chapter 2. INSTALLATION
Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
Chapter 3. CONTROLS, INDICATORS,
and DISPLAYS
RUN Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-2
SET Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
HOME Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
Primary Function Keys and HOME Screen Fields . . . . . . . . . . 3-4
MENU Key and OPTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
Numeric Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-10
START and STOP Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
Main POWER and KEYPAD LOCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-12
SET Display Advisory Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Problem Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
Terminal Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-16
Chapter 4. OPERATION
Turning the Centrifuge ON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
Rotor Installation, Loading, and Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
Programmed Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
Using Advanced Features (Options) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
Temperature Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11

RC3 BP™ Table of Contents
v
v/vi
Page
Rotor Temperature Equilibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-11
Running Hazardous Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-12
Reducing Speed for Rotor Compartment Loads
in Excess of Design Mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
Chapter 5. MAINTENANCE
Inspection and Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
Lubrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Cleaning the Air Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
Customer Control Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
Emergency Sample Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-6
Circuit Breakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Parts Ordering Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Service Decontamination Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
APPENDIX
Warranty
Decontamination Certificates
List of Illustrations
Figure Page
1-1. Parts Location and Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
2-1. RC3BP™ Electrical Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2-2. RC3BP™ Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2-3. Front Locking Stabilizer Adjustment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
3-1. Control Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
4-1. Advanced Feature Option Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
5-1. Air Filter Assembly Removal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
5-2. Location of Mechanical Door Release Lever . . . . . . . . 5-6
5-3. Location of Circuit Breakers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
List of Tables
Table Page
4-1. Rotor Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2

Table of Contents SORVALLCentrifuges

RC3 BP™ Introduction & Description
1-1
Chapter 1: INTRODUCTION & DESCRIPTION
This manual contains information required to operate and maintain the SORVALL®RC3BP™ Lowspeed
Refrigerated Centrifuge. If you require additional information regarding operation or maintenance,
please contact Thermo for assistance. In the United States, call Thermo toll-free 1-800-522-7746; outside the
United States, contact the nearest Thermo office (see back cover) or your local representative for SORVALL®
products. SORVALL®product information is available on our internet web site at http://www.thermo.com
or http://www.thermo.de .
Centrifuge Description
The SORVALL®RC3BP™ is a large capacity, microprocessor
controlled, lowspeed refrigerated centrifuge designed for use in
regulated environments (such as blood banks). The control panel,
designed to be easy to use and easy to clean, allows simple input
through a positive-feedback keypad with visual verification of set
parameters and current run conditions. The control panel also
prompts users for correct entry and displays user messages. The
control panel introduces automation of quality control runs, and an
optional computer interface package enables automatic, on-line,
quality control run and production run data logging.
The RC3BP™ operates at speeds* up to 6000 rpm, and is capable of
producing relative centrifugal force up to 7277g. It uses a balanced,
fan-cooled, high-torque brushless dc drive motor that is designed to
deliver optimal performance with smooth, quiet operation over its
full speed range, and long bearing life. Directly connected to the
motor is a gyro-action drive with a square spindle that accepts a
variety of SORVALL®lowspeed rotors.Aviewing port in the chamber
door permits speed calibration using a stroboscope.
Temperature control is handled by a refrigeration system charged
with environmentally-friendly CFC-free refrigerant. The
microprocessor-controlled system consists of a low-temperature
evaporator, a hermetically-sealed thermally-protected compressor,
and a fan-cooled finned condenser.
The RC3BP™ has the following safety features: a protective armor
plate steel guard within the cabinet; automatic shutoff of the drive
motor for overspeed protection; circuit breakers on the main power
and the control panel circuits; and a door interlock which prevents
starting the drive while the chamber door is open, or opening the
door while the rotor is in motion. When running hazardous materials,
an added level of protection can be attained through the use of
SORVALL®biocontainment rotors.
2π
60
()
*Speed in revolutions per minute (rpm) is related to angular velocity,
ω , according to the following:
ω = (rpm) = (rpm) (0.10472)
Where ω = rad/s. All further references in this manual to speed will be designated as rpm.

Introduction & Description SORVALL®Centrifuges
1-2
Specific RC3BP™ features include:
• An optional Network Computer Interface Package, which
includes WatchLog Network™ software, allows automatic
computerized logging of centrifuge QC RUN and production
run data via RS485/RS232 communication hardware.
• QC RUN feature allows simple, automatic speed/temperature
verification (optional Computer Interface Package required).
• A user-friendly, easy to clean control panel with an interactive
LCD SET display, option selection indicators, and a large LED
RUN display for across-the-room viewing.
• STEP RUN capability allows the linking-together of up to three
sets of run parameters to automatically perform innovative step
run protocols. The step run sequences may be saved in program
memory for simple recall in future use.
• Programming capability allows saving (to a battery backed-up
memory) of up to 9 sets of run parameters plus 6 step run se-
quences, allowing simple recall and error-free run reproducibility.
The SAVE RUN sequence alerts users before overwriting
programs, to eliminate inadvertent loss. A convenient RECALL
key allows access to saved parameters for selection or reference.
• KEYPAD LOCK, a 3-position keyswitch with a removable key,
that is designed to limit control panel access. Besides allowing
full functionality, the keyswitch can be set so that run parameters
cannot be changed, or so that only parameters from program
memory may be run – in either case, greatly reducing the chance
for operator error or unauthorized changes.
• Run duration controlled by TIME (minutes:seconds), by HOLD
(for continuous runs), or by Accumulated Centrifugal Effect™
(ACE). Because rotor load differences, fluctuations in voltage,
or slight mechanical differences affect how quickly centrifuges
reach set speed, ACE calculates the effect of speed in relation to
time, and adjusts run duration to account for differences in
acceleration, thereby improving separation consistency and run
reproducibility – run after run, from centrifuge to centrifuge.
• Rotor SPEED controlled by RPM (revolutions per minute), or by
the RCF (relative centrifugal force, or g-force) of the rotor selected.
• Automatic sample temperature calculation considers the rotor,
run speed, run time, set temperature and measured chamber
temperature to estimate and maintain sample temperature.
• SLOW START chooses gentle acceleration from 0 to 250 rpm (at
250 rpm, acceleration transitions to the normal, maximum rate),
with the slow start rate defined by the selection of one of ten
different acceleration profiles.

RC3 BP™ Introduction & Description
1-3
• SLOW STOP chooses gentle deceleration from 500 to 0 rpm
(normal braking from set speed transitions to a more gradual
rate at 500 rpm), with the rate defined by selection of one of ten
different braking profiles.
NOTE Selecting BRAKE OFF will affect SLOW STOP.
• BRAKE OFF deactivates normal braking for a coasting stop
from a user-specified transition speed.
• Automatic self-test performed by the microcomputer each time
the centrifuge power is turned on, to ensure proper performance.
• Automatic diagnostics, so that if a system malfunction occurs, a
message appears in the SET display to alert you of the condition.
• Acceptance of a wide variety of SORVALL®lowspeed rotors,
identified in the set display by rotor name for simple verification.
Figure 1-1 identifies and locates parts of the RC3BP™.
Figure 1-1. Parts Location and Identification
ROTOR
CHAMBER
CONTROL
PANEL
CONTROL
CONSOLE
CABINET
POWER SWITCH
& KEYPAD LOCK
DRIVE
SPINDLE
DECK
LOCKING
STABILIZER
CASTER
BACKPACK
AIR FILTER
HANDLE
POWER
CORD
AIR
VENT
DOOR
HANDLE
CHAMBER
DOOR
ROTOR
COVER
HOLDER
CIRCUIT
BREAKERS
MECHANICAL
DOOR RE-
LEASE
VIEWING
PORT
COMPUTER
INTERFACE
CONNECTOR
RS232
PORT

Introduction & Description SORVALL®Centrifuges
1-4
Centrifuge Specifications
Speed
Maximum Selectable Speed 6000 rpm
Maximum Relative Centrifugal Force 7277 g
Speed Control Accuracy ±1% or 20 rpm,
whichever is greater
Time
Maximum Selectable Time 99 minutes, 59 seconds
(or HOLD for indefinite
length of time)
Maximum Selectable ACE
(Accumulated Centrifugal Effect™) 9.99 x 1030 (∫ω2dt, input
as 9.99e30)
Temperature
Temperature Selection Range –10°C to 40°C
Temperature Control Accuracy sample temperature
controlled within 2°C
of set temperature*
Overtemperature Alert Maximum allowable
temperature settable to
within 2°C of set temp
Maximum Noise Level ≤58 dB**
Maximum Average Heat Output 3.2 kW
Dimensions
Width 77 cm (30.3 inch)
Depth 102 cm (40 inch)
Height, top of control console 119.5 cm (47 inch)
Length, power cord (minimum) 244 cm (96 inch)
Additional
Depth, open door to back wall 34 cm (13.4 inch)
Height, top of open door 166 cm (65.3 inch)
Height, rotor installation liftover 92.5 cm (36.5 inch)
Diameter, chamber opening 56.5 cm (22.3 inch)
Height, vent, top of backpack 86.5 cm (34 inch)
Weight (uncrated, without rotor) 303.5 kg (669 lb)
* With the sample, rotor, and chamber temperatures equal to SET temperature at the start of the run, or, during a run, after those components
havereached equilibrium. Control range is reduced if variables combine to create an extreme condition beyond the temperature control system
capacity.
** The maximum noise output using an H6000A Rotor at its top speed of 5000 rpm, measured 6 feet from the front panel at a height of 3 feet.

RC3 BP™ Introduction & Description
1-5
Supply Power Requirements
Supply Configurations (AC)200 V, 50 Hz, 1Ø
200 V, 60 Hz, 1Ø
208 V, 60 Hz, 1Ø
220 V, 50 Hz, 1Ø
220 V, 60 Hz, 1Ø
230 V, 60 Hz, 1Ø
230 V, 50 Hz, 1Ø (CE)
230 V, 50 Hz, 3Ø (CE)
240 V, 50 Hz, 1Ø
Recommended Supply Current
Single Phase30 A
Polyphase20 A/phase
Supply Power Receptacle
StandardNEMA 6-30R
230 V, 50 Hz, 1ØCEE-17 (32A, 2-pole
and earth, 1Ø)
230 V, 50 Hz, 3ØCEE-17 (32A, 3-pole
neutral and earth, 3Ø)
Optional Network Computer Package
An optional Network Computer Package (Catalog No. 77400 for
100-120Vac; Catalog No. 77401 for 200-240Vac) is available for use
with the RC3BP™ Centrifuge. The Network Computer Package
creates an advanced feature extension of the RC3BP™ centrifuge's
design, and enables automatic logging of centrifuge run data. The
package includes a Thermo-installed computer system (complete
with printer) configured with WatchLog Network Plus™ Auto-
matic Quality Control and Run Logging software.Also available for
use with the Network Computer Package is the optional BarTrace™
Bar Code Reader Accessory (Catalog Number 77014).
The Network Computer Package allows for connection of up to
16 SORVALL®RC3BP™ and/or RC12BP™ centrifuges to a single
computer network for automatic logging of centrifuge QC RUN
and daily run data by the WatchLog Network Plus™ software.
The logged records are designed specifically to address the
quality control and regulatory compliance needs of our centri-
fuge users. In the dedicated system, during each run, centrifuge
data is sent directly from the centrifuge(s) to the connected
computer and logged in data file records. Records are then
automatically compiled in a log data file for later recall and
reference, greatly reducing both operator time and the possibil-
ity of error that can exist in manual run logging processes. The
addition of the BarTrace™ Bar Code Reader Accessory adds the
ability to scan and store bar codes of rotor contents such as
blood bags, as well as centrifuge user identification bar codes, in
each run record.

Introduction & Description SORVALL®Centrifuges
1-6
NOTE The optional Network Computer Package is to be ini-
tially installed by Thermo or your local representative for
SORVALL®products. If any of the network centrifuges
or the computer will not all be in the same room, the
customer is required to preinstall an appropriate length
of 4-wire RJ11 telephone line between rooms before
schedulinginstallation. Leave ample lengthatbothends;
do not install connectors on the ends.
Thecentrifuge/computer network isdesigned to beinde-
pendent from other systems, with all centrifuges wired
directly and 'daisy-chained" to the computer. Other de-
vices or systems are not to be connected to the
network; other software is not to be loaded or run.
To order, or for more information, contact Thermo or a representa-
tive for SORVALL®products (see back cover).
Parts Supplied
Parts supplied with your RC3BP™ Centrifuge include:
56311Operating Instructions Manual, RC3BP™
56312Condensed Operating Instructions, RC3BP™
56418Program Log Pad, RC3BP™
68025Wrench, Open-End, 9/16-inch
22001Preinstallation Kit (supplied separately)
Refer to Table 4-1, Rotor Information (on page 4-2) for a list of
rotors available for use with your RC3BP™ Centrifuge.
For a complete list and description of available SORVALL®
centrifuges, accessories, rotors, tubes, bottles, and adapters,
please refer to the most current SORVALL®Product Guide. To
order or for information, in the United States, call Thermo toll-
free 1-800-522-7746; outside the United States, contact the nearest
Thermo office (see back cover) or your local representative for
SORVALL®products. SORVALL®product information is avail-
able on our internet web site at
http://www.thermo.com or http://
www.thermo.de .

2-1
RC3 BP™ Installation
Chapter 2: INSTALLATION
This chapter contains instructions to prepare the SORVALL®RC3BP™ centrifuge for operation.
Inspection
1.When you receive your centrifuge, carefully inspect it for any
signs of shipping damage. If you find damage, report it imme-
diately to the transportation company and file a damage claim,
then notify Thermo.
2.Check the parts received against the shipping list; if any parts
are missing, contact Thermo (see back cover).
3.Remove all packing material, and remove any remaining items
from inside the rotor chamber (where this manual was).
Electrical Requirements
The RC3BP™ has specific power requirements and must be con-
nected to the correct supply for proper performance. The name-
plate on the back panel of the cabinet specifies one of the following
AC supplies:
200 V, 50 Hz, 30 A, single Ø200 V, 60 Hz, 30 A, single Ø
220 V, 50 Hz, 30 A, single Ø208 V, 60 Hz, 30 A, single Ø
230 V, 50 Hz, 30 A, single Ø220 V, 60 Hz, 30 A, single Ø
230 V, 50 Hz, 20 A/P, poly Ø230 V, 60 Hz, 30 A, single Ø
240 V, 50 Hz, 30 A, single Ø
The supply voltage should be checked with a voltmeter, then you
should verify that the voltage indicated on the nameplate on the
back panel is in agreement with the measured line voltage.
If the measured line voltage is not within 10% of the voltage speci-
fied on the nameplate, do not connect the power cord and operate
the centrifuge or damage to the centrifuge may result. Contact
Thermo or your local representative of SORVALL®products to see if
the centrifuge can be modified for your voltage. The centrifuge
system includes a ground wire with 30 A circuit protector on each
positive power lead.
!
C A U T I O N
The centrifuge can be
damaged if it is connected to the
wrong voltage. Check the voltage
listedonthenameplate, and measure
thevoltageat the power sourcebefore
plugging in the power cord. Thermo
is not responsible for incorrect
installation.

Installation SORVALLCentrifuges
2-2
Figure 2-1. RC3BP™ Electrical Requirements
Single phase RC3BP™ Centrifuges are equipped with a three-wire
cord with three-prong connector to fit a NEMA6-30P receptacle, or,
on 230V 50Hz centrifuges, an IEC 60309-type 3-pin receptacle (32A,
2-pole and earth). 230V 50Hz polyphase RC3BP™ Centrifuges are
equipped with a four-wire cord with five-pin connector to fit an IEC
60309-type 5-pin receptacle (32 A, 3-pole, neutral and earth). This
cord may be changed to meet local electrical code requirements; the
green and yellow wire is the ground and must be connected to the
centrifuge frame.
A dedicated circuit is required. The ON/OFF main power switch is
a 30-Amp circuit breaker; however, for emergency disconnect pur-
poses, we recommend a separate means of power interruption in a
remote location.
Location
Locate the RC3BP™ on a level floor. Ambient temperature and air
circulation are important for the centrifuge to function properly.
To ensure free air circulation, the centrifuge must be positioned so
that no air vents are blocked, allowing for its physical size (see
figure 2-2) plus an additional 15 cm (6 inches) above the opening on
top of the backpack, and on both sides of the centrifuge.
For safety, personnel should know that centrifuges routinely deal
with high energy levels and could move suddenly in the unlikely
event of a rotor failure. Laboratory management procedures should
require that no person or any hazardous materials are within a
“clearance envelope” boundary of 300 mm (12 inches) from the
centrifuge while it is operating. During centrifuge operation, per-
sonnel should be instructed not to lean on or move the centrifuge,
not to stay within the clearance envelope longer than necessary for
operational reasons, and not to deposit potentially hazardous mate-
rials within the clearance envelope.
30 AMP CIRCUIT
PROTECTOR
C A U T I O N
Locate the centrifuge on a
reasonably level floor to avoid rotor
imbalance during operation.
!
MEASURED
LINE
VOLTAGE
30 AMP CIRCUIT
PROTECTOR
WALL
OUTLET

2-3
RC3 BP™ Installation
Environment
Ambient air temperature at the centrifuge air inlets must be be-
tween 15°C to 38°C (59°F to 100°F), with relative humidity ≤90%, for
the centrifuge to operate. Ideal ambient temperature is between
20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), therefore, avoid areas near heat sources
(for example, heating pipes and radiators). Also, avoid close group-
ing of centrifuges or other heat-producing laboratory equipment.
Generally, the cooler the location, the better the operating condi-
tions will be for the centrifuge.
The centrifuge is intended for use in 1) a Pollution Degree 2 Envi-
ronment, 2) an installation category II supply circuit, and 3) at a
maximum altitude of 2000 meters.
Figure 2-2. Centrifuge Dimensions
102 cm

Installation SORVALLCentrifuges
2-4
Installation
APreinstallation Kit (Catalog No. 22001) is supplied for UL/CSA/
CE compliance. Install the Preinstallation Kit according to instruc-
tions supplied with the kit. To install the RC3BP™:
1.Position the RC3BP™ in an operating location that satisfies the
criteria specified in the previous Locationparagraph. With the
Preinstallation Kit installed, the operating location is so that the
two tabs (under the front edge of the centrifuge) are flush
against and aligned with the preinstalled hold-down brackets.
2.Secure the centrifuge to the brackets by installing a shackle and
a locking bolt (supplied with the kit) through each tab/hold-
down bracket eyelet and tightening.
3.By hand, lower the two locking stabilizers in the front of the
centrifuge until they lightly contact the floor. Use the 9/16-inch
wrench (supplied with the centrifuge) to rotate each stabilizer
an additional two revolutions. This will raise the front caster
about 3 mm (1/8 inch) off the floor. Check that the centrifuge
does not rock on its four support points, the two front stabilizers
and the two rear casters (see figure 2-3). Read the CAUTION.
4.Be sure the POWERswitch is set to "O" (OFF), then plug in the
centrifuge power cord.
5.Optional: To be certain the centrifuge is working properly, turn
to the Customer Control Inspection paragraph located in Chap-
ter 5, Maintenance, and perform the procedures listed under
Speed Control, Timer, and Temperature Control.
NOTE If the centrifuge is to be connected with the optional
NetworkComputerInterfacePackagefor automatic qual-
ity control and run logging capability, Thermo or a local
representative for SORVALL®products will install the
package components as described in the WatchLog
Network™ User's Manual (supplied in the package).
After the RC3BP™ satisfies the inspection/performance criteria, it
can be considered ready for use.
C A U T I O N
To prevent rotor imbalance
conditions: after adjusting the locking
stabilizers, make sure the centrifuge
isreasonablylevel, and does notrock
on three of the four support points.
!
Figure 2-3. Front Locking Stabilizer Adjustment
FRONT CASTER
3 mm (1/8 inch)
OFF THE FLOOR LOCKING
STABILIZER
(9/16 inch HEX
[≈14 mm])

3-1
RC3 BP™ Controls, Indicators, and Displays
STOP
MENU
CLEAR
ENTER
0
987
654
3
2
1
RECALL SPEED TIME TEMP ROTOR
ACE
OPTION
QC RUN
SLOW START
SLOW STOP
BRAKE OFF
STEP RUN
TIME
MIN / SEC
SPEED
RPM
TEMPERATURE
°C
ACE
START
RPM
HOLD
ROTOR SPEED MIN:SEC TEMP PROG
1 H6000A 3900 4:00 22 01
+/–
Chapter 3: CONTROLS, DISPLAYS
and INDICATORS
The RC3BP™ controls, displays and indicators have been designed for ease of use – the control panel
(figure 3-1) allows entry with visual verification of set parameters and current conditions, prompts action
if an entry is inappropriate (remains blinking), and communicates status with user messages. An optional
Computer Interface Package allows for automatic, on-line logging of quality control and daily run data.
PRIMARY FUNCTION KEYS
These keys allow access to the corresponding fields of the
SET display for the specification of new run parameters.
SET DISPLAY
Displays currently selected ba-
sicrun parametersinthe HOME
screen, advanced feature
screens(for selection ofoptions
or programming), and user ad-
visory messages.
NUMERIC KEYPAD
Inputs speed, time, and tem-
perature values; selects
programs and advanced
features (options, program-
ming). CLEAR removes an
input value or a message from
the SET display; +/– toggles
between positive and negative
fortemperature valueselection.
ENTER
Placesinputvalues in memory.
Bypasses advanced features
without selecting or deselect-
ing them.
TEMP
Allowschangingdesiredcal-
culatedsampletemperature.
RECALL
Allows viewing and select-
ing programmed param-
eters.
ROTOR
Allows selection of the rotor
to be used.
SPEED
Allows changing desired
speed(rpm)orRCF( g force).
TIME (MIN:SEC / ACE)
During a TIME run, displays remaining run time (min:sec);
during a HOLD run, displays elapsed run time (min:sec);
during an ACE run, displays current Accumulated Centrifu-
gal Effect™ coefficient and exponent (ACE indicator lit).
SPEED (RPM / RCF)
Displays rotor speed (rpm)
or RCF, g force, during a
run (when RCF indicator is
lit).
TEMPERATURE (°C)
Displays the current calcu-
lated sample temperature
(°C) during a run.
RUN DISPLAY
MENU
Accessestheadvancedfeature
screens(forselectionofoptions
and programming).
OPTION INDICATORS
Lights show advanced feature
selection status. If an indicator
is lit, the option is selected.
Figure 3-1. Control Panel
START
Starts centrifuge run. Indicator
is lit when a run is in progress.
STOP
Stops centrifuge run. Indicator
is lit during deceleration.
ROTOR SPEED TIMED DEG C PROG #
H6000A 3900 04:00 22 1
TIME / HOLD / ACE
Allows changing desired run duration; runs continue until
specified min:sec times out, until STOP is pressed, or until a
specified Accumulated Centrifugal Effect™ is achieved.
RCF

3-2
Controls, Indicators, and Displays SORVALLCentrifuges
RUN Display
The RUN display is the dark grey area toward the top of the control
panel, and is comprised of three fields of large red LEDs that
indicate the current measured/calculated conditions during a run:
• The run SPEED (RPM/RCF) field indicates either the current
measured rotor speed (in rpm) or, if RCF is selected (RCF
indicator is lit), the relative centrifugal force (or g-force) that is
currently being generated at the maximum radius of the selected
rotor. The rpm values are rounded to 10s above 200 rpm. At run
completion (zero speed) the display will show the word "End"
until the door is opened.
• The run TIME (MIN:SEC/ACE) field indicates:
– If controlled by TIME, the display counts down from set
time, showing the time remaining (in minutes and seconds)
until the run terminates and deceleration begins,
– If controlled by HOLD (indicated in the smaller SET display
below), the display during a run counts up, showing the
time elapsed (expressed in minutes and seconds, up to a
maximum of 99:59) since START was pressed, or
– If controlled by ACE (Accumulated Centrifugal Effect™,
ACE indicator lit), the RUN display shows the current
calculated ACE value (∫ω2dt). When the set ACE value is
reached, the run terminates and decelerates to a stop. The
displayed value continues to calculate the centrifugal effect
during deceleration to zero to show total accumulation.
Monitoring alternative parameters
If a run is in progress and an alternative run duration key is
pressed (for example, pressing TIME when an ACE run is in
progress), the RUN display will change to show an accumulating
value in terms of the newly selected method. The SET display
and ACE indicator status will not change to that method, but
will continue to show the control method and value that was in
effect when START was pressed. Run duration will continue to
be controlled by the SET display value, regardless of the duration
method showing in the RUN display. This ability to change the
RUN display value can help determine equivalent settings when
considering alternative control methods. If the same alternative
key is pressed again, the SET display will display the flashing
value (from the previous run) expressed in that control method
– entry will change duration control to that method and the
RUN display will continue counting based on the new entry.
TIME
MIN / SEC
SPEED
RPM
TEMPERATURE
°C
ACE
RPM
RCF

3-3
RC3 BP™ Controls, Indicators, and Displays
Between runs, the RUN display shows the previous run duration
value, viewable in each control mode. Pressing TIME shows the
MIN:SEC value at termination (the SET display shows the last
TIME input value). HOLD shows the total MIN:SEC value after
deceleration to zero. After an ACE controlled run, ACE shows
the total ACE value after deceleration to zero (the termination
value is in the SET display). If the previous run was not controlled
by ACE, pressing ACE shows the ACE value at termination (the
SET display shows the last ACE input value).
• The run TEMPERATURE (°C) field indicates the current
calculated sample temperature in degrees Celsius, based on
rotor selected, rotor speed, run time, set temperature, and
measured temperature (the calculation assumes that the sample
temperature, rotor temperature, and SET temperature are all
equal at the start of the run).
SET Display
The SET display is a 15 mm x 152 mm (0.6 inch x 6 inch) 2-line by 40-
character LCD array that is centrally located on the control panel
with the ROTOR, SPEED, TIME/HOLD/ACE, TEMP and RECALL
(Primary Function) keys below it.
The SET display is used to input and display basic run parameters,
to select options or other advanced features, and to display advisory
messages. The display's contents are referred to in this manual as a
screen; for example, the HOME screen (described below) displays
basic run parameters that correspond to the keys below the display.
• The HOME screen (pictured above) displays currently selected
values for the basic run parameters: ROTOR, SPEED/RCF,
TIMED/HOLD/ACE, DEG C and, if displaying a recalled
program, PROG #. The HOME screen appears in the SET display
after the centrifuge power has been set ON and the diagnostic
test has been completed. In addition, if you have pressed MENU
to access the options screens, pressing MENU again will return
the HOME screen to the display.
The SET display is the primary interactive screen on the control
panel, and has a role in all aspects of centrifuge use. Completing
this chapter is a detailed description of all HOME Screen fields as
they relate to the Primary Function Key functionality, followed by
option selection screens and advanced feature functionality. At the
end of this chapter is a listing of the SET Display advisory messages,
what they mean, and recommended action.
ROTOR SPEED MIN:SEC TEMP PROG
1 H6000A 3900 4:00 22 01
ROTOR SPEED TIMED DEG C PROG #
H6000A 3900 04:00 22 1