Drucker Diagnostics Model 755 Centrifuge - Manual (Page 15)

15
Care and Preventative Service:
With proper care and maintenance, your Horizon centrifuge will provide years of
laboratory service. For proper care, the following steps should be taken:
1. Provide Adequate Ventilation: For cooling purposes, the Horizon draws in
ambient air through the rear of the lid and exhausts this air out the rear of the
base. Do not block the rear of the centrifuge as this will not allow the machine
to properly ventilate itself.
2. Always Spin Balanced Loads: Make certain that opposing tube holders are
filled with an equal volume sample or an equivalent weight water-filled tube.
The Horizon has a cushioned motor mounting design which, along with it’s
rubber feet, produces excellent vibration dampening. However, out-of-balance
loads may break glass test tubes and may produce unsatisfactory separation
results. Proper load balancing will improve sample separation and extend the
life of the centrifuge. Refer to page 8 on balanced loads for additional
information on balancing the load.
3. Keep the Tube Holders Clean: Small glass fragments left in the tube holder
after a tube breakage may adhere to the next test tube inserted in that holder.
When this tube is handled, these fragments may puncture protective gloves
and lacerate the operator's fingers or hand. Remaining fragments may provide
stress points on subsequent tubes and result in additional breakage. If a tube
breakage occurs, carefully remove the tube holder. Properly dispose of the sample
and tube fragments and thoroughly clean both the inside and outside of the tube
holder. Insert a new tube cushion (if necessary) and replace the tube holder in the rotor.
Note: Always follow the safety guidelines of your laboratory to properly clean up
and/or dispose of materials in the event that a substance known to be potentially
toxic, radioactive or contaminated with a pathogenic microorganism is spilt in
or on the centrifuge.
4. Motor and Electrical Maintenance: The Horizon uses a brushless DC motor.
It should not need servicing for the life of the centrifuge. The electrical
components are selected for high reliability and should not need service.
5. Keep the Rotor Chamber Clean: Every six months, or whenever there is a
tube breakage, (refer to the note in #3), it may be necessary to remove the
rotor and clean the rotor chamber. Follow the instructions on page 9 to remove
and re-install the rotor.
CAUTION DURING CLEANING: Once the lid has been opened, unplug the
line cord from the electrical outlet to eliminate the risk of electric shock during
cleaning.
The rotor chamber, rotor and accessories shall be thoroughly cleaned using
either isopropyl alcohol, soap and water or bleach. The use of Fully/Partially
Halogenated Hydrocarbons, Ketones, Esters and all other chemicals not
prescribed by the manufacturer may cause damage to the rotor and tube
holders and should not be used.
Apply cleaning solutions with a towel or cloth. Do not submerge the
centrifuge in water or other cleaning solutions as this will cause damage
and void your warranty!
6. Rotor and Tube Holders: It is recommended that the tube holders be replaced
after 24 months of use. Inspect tube holders regularly for cracks. If cracks are
discovered, replace immediately. Periodically check the thumb screw in the center
of the rotor to ensure that it remains tight.
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