Sigma 4-15 Centrifuge - User Manual PDF
Sigma 4-15 Centrifuge - User Manual PDF
Sigma 4-15 Centrifuge - User Manual PDF
Centrifuge
4-15C
Operating Manual
Dear customer,
Congratulations for purchasing a SIGMA laboratory centrifuge. You have selected a device
which combines many advantages.
A wide spectrum of programming options and an electronic operation control allow a trouble-
free use of the centrifuge. With its 3-phase drive, maintenance-free, quiet operation without
any carbon dust pollution is guaranteed.
Your device is equipped with user-friendly options which make the operation and standard
settings easier for you. Built-in error-detecting functions keep the user from entering incorrect
values and check the complete operation.
A special advantage is the storage capacity the centrifuge offers. The instrument has a
program memory which can store up to 50 data sets and is capable of keeping the last run
program in its memory for an unlimited amount of time allowing the program to be restarted
at any time - even if the centrifuge was turned off in between. All important operation
parameters can be seen at a glance.
The settings are executed via the knob in the control panel which has a coated surface
protecting the device against moisture and dust. In addition, the interior of the centrifuge is
also easy to clean. We are able to offer you a device that combines functional variety with
practical applications.
We thank you for your confidence and wish you a successful application of the centrifuge.
Maschinentyp : 4 - 15
Type:
Type de la machine:
Normen: EN 61010-2-020
Standards: EN 61000-3-2 ; EN 61000-3-3
Normes : EN 61326
Sigma Laborzentrifugen
An der Unteren Sö se 50
D-37520 Osterode
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Fabr. Nr. Serial No. Numé ro de fabrique
Operation
5.1 Selection, display and alteration of program parameters
5.1.1 Selection and alteration of the parameters and activation of the start
delay and the automatic lid opening after end of run
5.1.2 Selection and alteration of the rotor part number
5.1.3 Alteration of the parameter values during the centrifuge run
5.1.4 Alteration of the configuration
5.1.4.1 Curves
5.1.4.2 Creation of curves for variable accelerations and decelerations
5.1.4.3 Alteration of existing curves
5.1.5 Alteration of the contrast
5.1.6 Imbalance monitoring
5.1.7 Shortrun and faststop
Programming
6.1 Load, save and delete programs
6.1.1 Load a program
6.1.2 Save a program
6.1.3 Delete a program
Appendix
9.1 Slope of the specified curves, linear curves
9.2 Quadratic curves
9.3 Entry limitations
9.4 Mathematical relations
9.4.1 Relative Centrifugal Force (RCF)
9.4.2 Density
9.5 Error correction
9.5.1 Centrifuge cannot be started
9.5.2 Centrifuge decelerates during operation
9.5.3 Lid cannot be opened/closed
9.5.4 Emergency lid release
9.5.5 Problems with the centrifuge?
9.6 Error codes
9.7 Speed-RCF-diagram
9.8 Declaration of decontamination/Return declaration
9.9 Form program data
9.10 Leaflet
Notes of user:
The figures are valid for an ambient temperature of 23 °C +/- 2 °C and nominal voltage +/- 5 %.
(Allowable ambient temperature +4 °C - +40 °C; max. humidity 80 %.)
Subject to technical alterations.
Glass tubes
Further accessories
Documentation:
Accessories according to your order, our order confirmation and our delivery
note.
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regarding operation of centrifuges with rotors of different max. speed, e.g. angle
rotors and swing-out rotors.
2. For safety reasons these operating instructions must clearly state that the
max. speed engraved on the rotor and/or the bucket and the max. allowable
filling quantity must not be exceeded.
3. If the density of the material exceeds 1.2 g/cm3, the max. speed of the centri-
fuge must be reduced.
5. During operation the centrifuge must not be moved. Leaning against or resting
on the centrifuge is not allowed.
7. Substances which could damage the material of the centrifuge, the rotors or
the buckets anyhow must not be centrifuged or only under consideration of
special safety measures. Infectious, toxic, pathogene or radioactive substan-
ces must be centrifuged in certified rotors only.
9. Attention!
Keep your hand away from the danger zone when closing the centrifuge lid.
Risk of bruising!
10.Attention!
Defective lid relieving devices could cause the centrifuge lid to fall down
(contact Service). Risk of bruising!
Symbol Title
Gefä hrliche elektrische Spannung
Dangerous voltage
Courant haute tension
Ein (Netzverbindung)
I On (Power)
Marche (mise sous tension)
Aus (Netzverbindung)
O Off (Power)
Arrê t (mise hors tension)
Schutzleiteranschluß
Protective earth (ground)
Liaison à la terre
Erde
Earth (ground)
Terre
Netzstecker ziehen
Unplug mains plug
Tirer la fiche de prise
Vorsicht Quetschgefahr
Caution! Risk of bruising
Attention! Danger de blessure
Drehrichtungspfeil
2.3 Drive
The drive motor is a well dimensioned asynchronous motor.
Option:
A connection for a serial interface is possible so that an external personal com-
puter with printer can be connected for control or recording.
Attention: Please take care to enter the correct bucket part no. as the max.
allowable speed could be exceeded by entering an incorrect bucket. This is
not allowed.
If the rotor doesn`t correspond to the programmed rotor no., STOP is carried out
and an error message is displayed. Restarting the centrifuge is only possible
after reset and when the correct rotor number has been selected.
The transport safety device screws are accessible from the outer underside.
Lift the left or front side of the centrifuge to put a suitable object – for example a
block of wood- between the table and the bottom of the centrifuge.
Attention: Danger of injuries!
The star grip transport safety device screws become apparent. Unscrew by hand
and totally remove.
The transport safety device screws should be stored for possible despatch
(service, repairs).
3.2.1 Site
All energy consumed by the centrifuge is converted into heat and emitted into the
ambient air. Therefore, sufficient ventilation is important. The air-ducts in the unit
must be open. Also, the centrifuge shouldn`t be positioned near radiators and
should not be directly exposed to sunshine.
For normal operation the ambient temperature should not fall below 10 °C and
not exceed 35 °C. The max. humidity of air is 80 %. During transport from cold to
warmer places water will condensate inside the centrifuge. It is important that
there is enough time for drying before the centrifuge can be started again.
3.2.2 Connection/Fuse
The operating voltage on the name plate must correspond to the local supply
voltage!
SIGMA laboratory centrifuges are units of safety class I, DIN VDE 0700, and in-
clude a three wire power cord 2,5 m long with shockproof right angle plug. The
instrument has thermal fuses. In case of a disconnection through the thermal
fuses, allow a cool-down phase of two minutes, after which they could be
reactivated by a switch.
An emergency circuit breaker to cut the power to the centrifuge in the event of a
malfunction is required on site. This switch should be located away from the
centrifuge, preferably outside the room where the centrifuge is used or at the exit
of this room.
4. Tighten the tie-down screw (clockwise) with the rotor wrench so that the disc
spring is pressed together.
In the event of frequent use the tie-down screw must be loosened by some
turns and fastened again. This should be done once a day or after approx.
20 cycles (please refer to chapter 5.1.4 “Alteration of the Configuration“
– Cycles). This ensures a proper connection between rotor and shaft (please
refer to chapter 8.2 "Care and cleaning of accessories" as well).
9. Opposite places of the rotors must always be loaded with same accessories
and same filling.
10. Attention when using microtiter rotors: It is important not to run the plate
holders without plates inserted.
11. In angle rotors the plastic vessels must always be totally filled to avoid cracks
of vessels and leakages or loosening of the caps in case of partial filling.
13. Rotors with lid should always be run with their lid. The rotor lid is tightened by
hand. Correct fastening must be ensured. Attention: The lid screw serves
for fastening of the lid onto the rotor only, not for fastening of the rotor
onto the drive! Before installation of the lid, the correct fastening of the rotor
fixing screw must always be checked using a wrench.
3. Put rotor tie-down screw (1) onto motor shaft and tighten using the wrench.
5. The rotor and lid seals (3) must be greased after cleaning.
All rotors can be installed or removed with closed lid after loosening the rotor
tie-down screw. All rotors are autoclavable (refer to chapter 8.6 "Sterilization
and disinfection of rotor chamber and accessories").
To increase life of rotors and seals the rotors must be cleaned with slushing
oil and the seals and thread areas with vaseline or grease after cleaning.
Attention!
Please follow the special comments of chapter 1.5.
Attention!
Before initial start-up please take care that your centrifuge is orderly installed
(refer to chapter 3.2 "Installation").
Operating panel
The centrifuge can be operated via the operating panel. Keys can be pressed
when their LED is on.
4.1.2 Stop-key
• to early terminate a run: The centrifuge decelerates with the preset curve to a
complete stop. Deceleration can be terminated by pressing the Start-key
again.
• to carry out a faststop: Push Start-key for longer than one second. The
centrifuge decelerates with the maximum deceleration curve.
4.1.3 Lid-key
This key is used to open the lid. This can only be executed if
4.1.4 Knob
This knob can be used for selecting and alterating parameters and figures/
numbers.
Default values
4.2.1 Set
If this area is illuminated, you are in the change mode which you can exit by
pressing the knob (here in combination with the speed).
4.2.2 Speed
Speed
In the upper section of the area the set speed of the centrifuge is displayed.
Underneath is the actual speed. The maximum speed values are rotor
dependent.
RCF
The relative centrifugal force is the acceleration which the sample is exposed to.
The set value of this parameter is in the upper section of this area, underneath is
the actual value. The maximal RCF-values are rotor dependent.
(Refer to chapter 9.4 "Mathematical relations")
Time
The set run time is displayed in the upper section of this area, underneath the
remaining run time is displayed. Time is defined as the period from the start of
the centrifuge to the beginning of deceleration, maximum value is 9 h 59 min.
The set time is underlined (here: 2 minutes).
The set value is indicated in hours, minutes, and seconds. The actual value has
the same units as the set value and is displayed in hours : minutes or in minutes :
seconds if the set value is below 10 minutes.
h:m
m:s
Continuous run
Program
In this area the number of the actual program is displayed. If the program is not
saved yet, "--" is displayed.
By activating this area you are able to load stored programs without calling the
selection list.
The program used last is automatically loaded after restarting.
The area marked with arrows for the program selection list presents the view of
the programs already saved. Storage space for fifty programs - No. 1 – 50 - from
which you can select and load a program is at your disposal. The actual loaded
program is indicated by "--".
Rotor
The area marked with arrows for the rotor selection list offers all available rotors
which can be selected via the knob.
Parameters
If this area has been selected, parameters can be changed and the start delay
and the automatic lid opening after end of run can be activated or deactivated.
Acceleration
The acceleration number selects an acceleration curve which the centrifuge will
follow. Two different versions are available:
0-9 linear
10 - 19 quadratic up to 1000 rpm, then linear
Their shape is further explained in chapter 9.1 "Slope of the specified curves,
linear curves" and 9.2 "Quadratic curves".
4.2.7.2 Deceleration
Deceleration
4.2.7.3 Radius
Radius
The set radius will determine the displayed RCF-value. If the radius is not
changed, the max. RCF-value will be displayed.
Density
If the density of a sample exceeds 1.2 g/cm3, the maximum final speed will
reduce (refer to chapter 9.4.2 “Density”). A value between 1.2 and 9.9 g/cm3 is
possible.
If this parameter has been set the lid will automatically open after standstill of the
rotor.
Configuration
Default values
• One area can be activated by pressing the knob once. It is then inverted.
Being in the selection mode now, you can select other areas by turning the
knob.
• Activate a selected area by pressing the knob. You are now in the alteration
mode, "SET" and the selected area are inverted.
• Select the new value of the selected area by turning the knob.
• Confirm the entry by pressing the knob. You then leave the alteration mode.
"SET" and the selected area are deactivated. The alteration mode is left
automatically after 20 seconds. The areas are no longer inverted, the actual
values are taken over.
• Now, you can select other areas by turning the knob or you can operate the
start key. Then, the centrifuge starts with the selected values.
Notice:
All entry limits are automatically checked. When reaching a limit, the counting
operation is stopped (refer to chapter 9.3 "Entry limitations").
• Select the area "Parameters" (PARA) by turning the knob (selection mode)
and confirm by pressing the knob.
• Confirm the selected parameter by pressing the knob (here: acceleration). The
parameter is activated. Select the desired acceleration curve by turning the
knob.
• Select time delay (here: 10 seconds) by turning and confirm by pressing the
knob.
• Change the set time by turning the knob and deactivate the start delay by
pressing the knob.
The automatic lid opening after end of run is activated or deactivated in the same
way.
• Select the area of the rotor selection list ( ) by turning the knob.
• After pressing the knob, you get a view over all available rotor types.
• Select the number of the actual rotor/bucket combination by turning the knob
and confirm the entry by pressing the knob.
• Speed
• RCF
• Run time
• Switching into the continuous run mode/time mode
• Acceleration curve
• Deceleration curve
• Start delay
Alter the Set values as usual by activating the Alteration mode (refer to chapter
5.1 "Selection, Display and Alteration of Program Parameters").
• Rotor
• Program
• Radius
• Density
• Start delay
• Automatic lid opening after end of run
• Select by turning the knob the desired area and activate the function by
pressing the knob.
• CYCLES: For each bucket/rotor combination cycles and run time are stored. The data
of the used rotors are displayed.
• BUZZER: An acoustic signal can be activated for a preselected time after termination
of a run or in the event of an imbalance or an error message. In the event
of "IMBALANCE" or "ERROR" the acoustic signal is already activated.
• SENSOR: The sensor menu displays different signals. In case of a failure of the
instrument this makes the diagnosis of errors and their fast repair through
the service easier. Values can neither be entered nor altered.
• Select "EXIT" by turning the knob. Confirm it by pressing the knob. You get
into the configuration menu again.
With the “curve function” user defined accelerations and decelerations can be
created. Curve numbers 20 – 29 are available. The intervals no. 1 – 10 of each
curve consist of fix points which are defined by time and speed. In the event that
the speed of one interval is higher than the set speed for the run, the curve speed
can be limited or allowed or starting can be prohibited.
CUT ⇒ Speed in one interval is automatically limited to the set speed for
the run.
ADMIT ⇒ Chosen speed in one interval is allowed.
CANCEL ⇒ A stop occurs. Starting is not possible without to a change of the
curve speed in one interval.
For interval no. 1 a linear (LIN) or quadratic (QUAD) acceleration can be chosen.
All further accelerations are linear.
- The max. preset final speed of one interval corresponds to the set speed of
the run.
• Change the speed value by turning the knob. The created curve with the max.
curve speed appears.
• After pressing and turning the knob the time value of interval no. 2 appears.
• Set the time by turning the knob. The extended curve appears.
• After pressing and turning the knob the time value of interval no. 3 appears.
• Set the time by turning the knob. The extended curve appears.
• Change the speed value by turning the knob. The curve appears and can be
programmed as acceleration or deceleration curve under no. 20.
• Select “EXIT” by pressing and turning the knob and leave the curve mode by
pressing the knob again.
• The created curve no. 20 is saved and can be recalled when programming
the parameters.
If you press the knob for longer than a second, a dialogue window appears. Now
you can select the contrast by turning the knob. By pressing the knob again, you
confirm the entry, the new contrast remains.
Run cannot be continued (imbalance > cut-off limit). Run is terminated with max.
deceleration.
Reason:
Improper loading or malfunction during operation (e.g. glass breakage) resulting
in an uneven run.
Note!
• Shortrun
• Faststop
Pressing the Stop-key during operation for longer than a second leads to
maximum deceleration until standstill.
The advantage is that special sedimentation results can be repeated under equal
conditions without a change of data caused by entry errors.
• By turning the knob, all programs saved and the actual program ("--") appear
one after the other.
Changed program
• Select the program you want to load by turning the knob. After pressing the
knob a dialogue window appears. Select the instruction "LOAD" and confirm it
by pressing the knob.
Dialogue window
• Select the program selection ( ) list by turning the knob and activate it by
pressing the knob to get a view over all programs in the memory and the free
positions in the list.
• Select the desired program position in the list by turning the knob.
• After pressing the knob a dialogue window appears. Select "SAVE" and
confirm it by pressing the knob.
Dialogue window
• Select the program selection list ( ) by turning the knob and activate this area
by pressing the knob to see the list of programs.
• A dialogue window appears after pressing the knob. Select "DELETE" and
confirm it by pressing the knob.
Dialogue window
6. Avoid imbalance.
12. Fill vessels carefully to same weight. Imbalances would result in increased
wear of bearings.
18. Record all program data, refer to forms of appendix chapter 9.8.
19. When centrifuging substances with a density > 1,2 g/cm3 the allowable max.
speed must be reduced (refer to chapter 9.4.2 "Density").
5. Operation with incompletely loaded drum rotor, swing-out rotor or angle rotor
with interchangeable buckets.
A rotor must always be loaded completely, empty places are not allowed!
Opposite buckets or carriers may nevertheless be empty. Mixed loading is
allowed, if opposite places are loaded with same buckets and carriers of
same weight.
he load for a rotor is limited by its design and the max. speed (see
rotor/bucket engraving) and must not be exceeded. The rotors are intended
for liquids of max. homogeneous density of 1.2 g/cm3 if centrifuged at max.
speed. If liquids of higher density are used, the speed must be reduced
accordingly (refer to chapter 9.4 "Mathematical relations").
13. Operation with partially filled plastic tubes in high-speed angle rotors.
14. Lifting or moving of the centrifuge during operation. Leaning against or resting
on the centrifuge is not allowed.
15. Do not place potential dangerous material - eg. glass vessels containing
liquids - near the centrifuge.
19. Substances which could damage the material of the centrifuge, the rotors or
the buckets must not be centrifuged. Infectious, toxic, pathogene or
radioactive substances must be centrifuged in certified rotors and vessels
only and all necessary safety precautions are taken.
Remove product particles from the rotor chamber using a cloth or paper towl. It is
recommended to open the cover when the centrifuge is not in use so that
moisture can evaporate. Increased wear of the motor bearings will thus be
avoided. If there is the risk of toxic, radioactive or pathogene
contamination, special safety measures must be kept.
Buckets, trunnions and also synthetic buckets are produced exactly in order to
withstand the permanent high stress with high gravitational fields.
In order to avoid corrosion, rotor incl. tie-down screw and cover seal, buckets and
carriers must be cleaned and greased regularly with the supplied slushing oil
(SIGMA part no.: 70104 for 20 ml slushing oil). Before using detergents or
decontamination agents which had not been recommended by us, the user has
to contact us to make sure that such procedure would not damage the centrifuge.
The rotor tie-down screw must be greased using the supplied grease (SIGMA
part no.: 70284).
Careful maintenance increases life time and avoids premature failure of the rotor.
Corrosion or resultant damages which are caused by insufficient care do not
constitute a warranty claim.
Glass particles in the rubber cushion will cause glass breakage again.
Particles on the rotor pins prevent buckets and carriers from swinging evenly
which will cause an imbalance.
Glass particles in the centrifuge chamber will cause metal abrasion due to the
strong air circulation. This dust will not only pollute the centrifuge chamber, the
rotor, the buckets, the carriers and the material to be centrifuged but also
damage the surfaces of the accessories, the rotors and the centrifuge chamber.
In order to totally remove the glass particles and the metal dust from the rotor
chamber, it is advisable to grease the upper part of the centrifuge chamber with
e.g. Vaseline. Then the rotor should rotate for some minutes at a moderate
speed. The glass and metal particles will now collect at the greased part and can
easily be removed with a cloth together with the grease. If necessary repeat this
procedure.
Principally we want to point out that for centrifuging of e.g. infectious material
certified and hermetically sealed accessories have to be used in order to avoid
that the centrifuge is contaminated.
During autoclaving the caps of the tubes must not be screwed on to avoid
deformation of the tubes. It can not be excluded that plastic parts, e.g. lids or
carriers, would deform during autoclaving.
Autoclaving:
1. Motor suspension
2. Concentricity of the motor shaft
3. Fastening of the trunnions in the rotor
4. Rotors and accessories have a limited life. For safety reasons a regular
check is recommended after 50.000 cycles. Any changes like e.g. corrosion,
cracks, material abrasion etc. require special attention.
5. Screw connections have to be tight.
− With linear and quadratic slopes, curves are numbered in the direction of
increasing acceleration (from right to left).
− The deceleration curves are inverted images of the acceleration curves with
the same numbers (exception: curve 0).
Comment: The acceleration time depends on the moment of inertia of the rotor.
Linear Curves (0 - 9)
Figure 2
19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10
1.000
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
180
200
220
240
0
Figure 3
The curve 19 is a special case compared with the other curves. The centrifuge
accelerates with maximum torque. The acceleration time only depends on the
moment of inertia of the rotor.
Quadratic curve no. Time up to 1000 rpm Slope from 1000 rpm linear
− Type of centrifuge
− Rotor
− Interdependent parameters
All entry limits are automatically checked. When reaching a limit the operation is
stopped.
If two values are given, the third value is determined by the equation. If the speed
or the rotation radius is changed, the resulting RCF will be recalculated. If the
RCF is altered, the speed under consideration of the radius is adapted
accordingly.
r = radius in cm
n = speed in rpm
RCF without dimension
9.4.2 Density
If the density of the liquid is higher than 1.2 g/cm3, the allowed maximum speed
of the centrifuge is calculated according to the following formula:
No indication on Actions:
the command panel:
Remove stopper at the upper right side front panel using e.g. a screw driver.
Unlock the motorized lid lock using the supplied square wrench. Put in wrench
and turn to the right. The lid is unlocked and can be opened.
Attention!
The lid may only be unlocked and opened when the rotor is at standstill.
9.7 Speed-RCF-Diagram
An additional help is the enclosed Speed-RCF-Diagram.
!!! Attention –This form must be glued on outside of the box !!!
Return declaration
YES NO
Decontamination declaration inside :
!!! Attention –This form must be glued on outside of the box !!!
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Accessories :
Date : Stamp :
Signature :
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Please make some copies before removing this page.
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