Principle of: PCR Cabinet Hood

 

A PCR cabinet, also known as a PCR hood, is a specialized laboratory workstation designed to maintain a sterile environment essential for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) processes. It prevents cross-contamination by filtering air particles and providing a UV decontamination system, ensuring accurate DNA amplification without interference from contaminants. Ideal for sensitive molecular biology procedures, the PCR cabinet safeguards samples and enhances result reliability, making it indispensable in research and diagnostic labs.

A Comprehensive Guide to High-Speed Centrifuge Safety

 

If you are a researcher working in the laboratory, you are sure to spot a high speed cooling centrifuge. Now, the device is extensively used for spinning samples and separating the components. With different models of centrifuges comprising highly functional rotors, spinning has been made easier and the turnaround time of sample preparation has reached at an all time high.

However, incorrect use of centrifuges poses safety risks and leads to ghastly accidents. Often, the rotor breaks apart the sample container and cause injuries to the operator. Apart from this, the leakage of liquids from the container may cause skin irritation or lead to buns when it comes into contact with the user. Research reveals that most of centrifuge accidents happen due to erroneous usage of the equipment.

Listed below are safety considerations one needs to follow within the laboratory settings when using the high speed cooling centrifuge device.

1. Examining the equipment before use

The buckets and rotor of the device may corrode when they are constantly exposed to aggressive chemicals, moisture, and salts. If you overlook the corroded state of components, it may eventually lead to small holes on areas of cracks and scratches. Precisely, corrosion in any part of the device must be seriously dealt with or it may make the device unsafe for operation in the laboratory.

You need to check the entire unit before operation, especially the rotor and a trained technician needs to be deployed for this purpose. The rotors need to undergo proper inspection and checking due to repeated use.

2. Use the centrifuge on a level surface

Experts recommend that a majority of lab devices need to be placed on a level surface. However, when it comes to a lab centrifuge, it is essential to place it on a flat surface. The reason is that an uneven surface may cause imbalance in the rotor. Centrifuge devices are designed on the principle that the direction of the gravity aligns with the rotor axis. Therefore, if you don’t place it on an even surface, it will fail to attain the balance even before the tubes are properly loaded. So, if you don’t want to throw the device out of balance, it may be potentially harmful for the device itself as well as the operators.

3. Checking the speed and load tolerance

No matter which model of the high speed cooling centrifuge is being used, the manufacturer mentions the maximum load tolerance and the speed in the manual. If you disregard the capacity of the device and use higher load than what is recommended for the device, it may cause malfunction in the rotor. Even if the load is increased, the speed needs to remain intact or adjusted based on the instructions mentioned in the manual. In case, the material inside the container precipitates, one needs to consider the density gradient of the precipitate.

4. Examine the tubes

The tubes used within the centrifuge device are rated based on chemical resistance, temperature, and speed. You need to find out whether they are compatible with the settings and application. They need to fit the settings of the high speed cooling centrifuge. Furthermore, the tubes need to undergo thorough checking as the slightest breakage error may cause them to break during operation. Make sure to check the O-rings, adapters, and caps to ensure that they are in proper condition. If you notice any imperfection in any part of the tube or the entire unit, consider it unsafe for operation.

Tips to follow before, during and after operation of the centrifuge

 

The high speed at which the centrifuge device operates increases the chances of injuries when it does not operate in the right manner. Moreover, it may also cause heat to build up in the sample and the system. Here is what you need to keep in mind before and during operation.

Before operation:

• Make sure the tubes and bowls are dry and the spindle is cleaned
• Use buckets and safety cups to stop the chances of spills and aerosol leakage
• The container and tubes must be balanced on the rotor
• Check the O-rings present on the rotor if you have proper training
• Follow the guidelines of the manufacturer for operation and maintenance

During operation:

• Check the maximum run speed of the rotor
• Examine the centrifuge to figure out if it operates properly
• Make sure the lid of the centrifuge device operates normally
• Open the lid of the device only when the rotor stops completely

A high speed cooling centrifuge used in the laboratory may lead to accidents when its components are not properly maintained or remain unchecked. To buy this device from a reputed manufacturer, connect with https://www.igenels.com/ known for manufacturing equipment in India.

Is The Gel Documentation System the Right Fit For Your Laboratory? Key Factors to Consider

Scientific and medical research has improved dramatically in recent times. Thanks to the advent of laboratory equipment like gel documentation system. The equipment is a must-have in genetics and biotechnology laboratories as it assists in viewing and documenting the outcome of gel electrophoresis. Typically, gel electrophoresis helps separate RNA, DNA, and various protein fragments based on their size. However, to visualise and document the result, laboratory workers need to store it as a digital image, which in turn aids in the study of genetics and extensively used for genetic diseases along with drug and cancer research. 

Key factors to consider when buying gel documentation system

You are out there looking for a gel documentation system. However, to consolidate the purchase, you need to consider key factors. Here is how to choose the right one:

• Analyse the features 

First, you need to consider the quality of imaging when finding a system that meets your needs. It is measured by the resolution degree and usually mentioned in the form of megapixels. So, the higher the resolution more improved are the clarity and the appearance of gel bands. Next, you need to go into checking the sensitivity of the system. Accordingly, equipment with high resolution is sensitive and can easily determine and analyse faint bands, which is a major aspect when working with low-abundance targets. 

Apart from this, you need to consider the way of capturing the image. A majority of these systems have built-in cameras placed over transilluminator but the quality of the camera used may impact how granular the image is. Besides, scanner types of imagers are also used to capture digital images appropriately and can even be stored for later use.

• Determining the laboratory requirements 

Buying a gel documentation system becomes less fussy when you what your laboratory requirements are. What is the purpose of having a gel documentation system in the laboratory? Is it just for analysing protein gels using ethidium bromide? Do you need multi-channel imaging facilities? What size of gels are you planning to document? Once the basic requirements are set, you can move ahead with the buying decision. That way, you can make a more realistic decision as well. 

• Lighting options to consider 

What is the nature of dyes you are to use in this process? Accordingly, you may consider various lighting options for capturing the bands. Although most systems would come fitted with UV lamps as the base but also offer white light alongside; it is largely used for RNA/DNA gels that are stained with ethidium bromide. On the other hand, white light is suitable for protein stained with silver or coomasie blue. Wondering if the UV light is the right choice? 

Well, it is mercury light, which is suitable as well as affordable but may require replacement more often. Moreover, it also generates heat. That is why an LED lighting option is more appropriate due to longer lifespan and does not emit a lot of heat. Therefore, sample degradation can also be reduced to a great extent. Apart from this, there are different lighting options for more advanced systems like fluorescence imaging while working with GFP or SBYR Green; similarly, western blot systems feature RGB and UV. 

• Price 

Most research laboratories need to adhere to a budget. Therefore, one of the most discussed options would be the price. Analyse the prices of basic gel documentation systems and those with additional features like analysis software, high-resolution cameras, chemiluminescence and fluorescence, and multi-channel imaging. That way, it will be easier for you to determine the prices. When it comes to features, you can choose a particular set based on the requirements of the laboratory.

• Software 

Do you want the gel documentation system just to take images or analyse them? Do you want the system to conduct a good deal of analysis? Are you keen to get a system and software that runs on the computer as well as the device? When each laboratory member needs a copy of analysis software? 

You need to ask how many software licenses are available with the gel doc system and the cost of adding them. Besides, you need to know the frequency in which the software is updated and the number of free updates available. 

When getting a gel documentation system for your laboratory, analyse the features and determine how well they align with the research requirements as well as budget constraints. Furthermore, the type of output, the size, and the ability of the system to upgrade can help you find a system that matches your needs for now and the future. At IGene Labserve, we have top-grade documentation systems for laboratories and happy to assist clients and answer their queries. Click here https://www.igenels.com/ for more information.