Eppendorf - Vacuum Concentration - Operating Manual - Concentrator Plus Vacufuge Plus
Eppendorf - Vacuum Concentration - Operating Manual - Concentrator Plus Vacufuge Plus
plus/Vacufuge® plus
EN)
nstructions
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge®
plus
Original instructions
Copyright ©2020 All rights reserved, including graphics and images. No part of this publication may be
reproduced without the prior permission of the copyright owner.
Eppendorf® and the Eppendorf Brand Design are registered trademarks of Eppendorf AG, Germany.
Registered trademarks and protected trademarks are not marked in all cases with ® or ™ in this manual.
5305 900.038-04/042020
Table of contents
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 3
English (EN)
Table of contents
1 Operating instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.1 Using this manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2 Danger symbols and danger levels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2.1 Danger symbols. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.2.2 Danger levels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.3 Symbols used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
1.4 Abbreviations used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2 Safety. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.1 Intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.2 User profile . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.3 Application limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.3.1 Declaration concerning the ATEX directive (2014/34/EU) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.4 Information on product liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.5 Warnings for intended use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5.1 Personal injury or damage to the device. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.5.2 Incorrect handling of the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.5.3 Incorrect handling of the rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.5.4 Extreme strain on the sample tubes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.5.5 Vacuum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.6 Safety instructions on the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3 Product description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.1 Product overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.2 Delivery package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.3 Features. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.4 Name plate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4 Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.1 Selecting the location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.2 Preparing installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.3 Installing the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.3.1 General installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
4.3.2 Complete system: Connecting the emission condenser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
4.3.3 Complete system: Connecting the gel dryer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
4.3.4 Basic device: Connecting the vacuum pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
5 Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
5.1 Operating controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
5.2 Possible applications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.3 Preparation for concentration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.3.1 Switching on the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
5.3.2 Inserting the rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.3.3 Starting the warm-up phase . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.3.4 Loading a fixed-angle rotor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.3.5 Loading a swing-bucket rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5.3.6 Closing the lid of the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Table of contents
4 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
6 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.1 Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.1.1 Device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.1.2 Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.1.3 Rotor and accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.2 Preparing cleaning/disinfection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
6.3 Cleaning/disinfection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
6.3.1 Cleaning and disinfecting the device . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
6.3.2 Cleaning and disinfecting the rotor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6.4 Cleaning glass breakage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
6.5 Replacing fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
6.6 Decontamination before shipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
7 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
7.1 General errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
7.2 Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
7.3 Opening the device in case of a mains/power outage using the emergency release . . . . . . . . . 51
9 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.1 Power supply. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.2 Ambient conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.3 Weight/dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
9.4 Noise level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
9.5 Diaphragm vacuum pump for the complete system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
9.6 Application parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
9.7 Service life of accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
9.8 Rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
9.8.1 Fixed-angle rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
9.8.2 Swing-bucket rotor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
9.8.3 Special notes on the individual rotors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Table of contents
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 5
English (EN)
10 Ordering information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
10.1 Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
10.2 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
10.2.1 Rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
10.2.2 Adapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
10.2.3 Others accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
Certificates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Table of contents
6 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
Operating instructions
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 7
English (EN)
1 Operating instructions
1.1 Using this manual
Read this operating manual completely before using the device for the first time. Observe the
instructions for use of the accessories where applicable.
This operating manual is part of the product. Please keep it in a place that is easily accessible.
Enclose this operating manual when transferring the device to third parties.
The current version of the operating manual for all available languages can be found on our webpage
www.eppendorf.com/manuals.
The safety instructions in this manual have the following danger symbols and danger levels:
Depiction Meaning
1. Actions in the specified order
2.
Actions without a specified order
• List
Text Display or software texts
Additional information
ETFE
Ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer
FFKM
Perfluorelastomer
MTP
Microplate
PCR
Polymerase Chain Reaction
PMMA
Polymethyl methacrylate
PTFE
Polytetrafluorethylene
rcf
Relative centrifugal force : g-force in m/s2
rpm
Revolutions per minute
UV
Ultraviolet radiation
Safety
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 9
English (EN)
2 Safety
2.1 Intended use
The Concentrator plus and the Vacufuge plus are intended for sample preparation. They have been
designed in particular for the concentration of aqueous solutions of nucleic acids and proteins in approved
micro test tubes. The devices may only be operated by trained and skilled personnel and are intended for
indoor use only.
The device and accessories may only be operated by trained and skilled personnel.
Before using the device, read the operating manual and the instructions for use of the accessories carefully
and familiarize yourself with the device's mode of operation.
Do not operate the device in areas where explosive substances are handled.
Do not use this device to process any explosive or highly reactive substances.
Do not use this device to process any substances which may generate an explosive
atmosphere.
Due to its design and the environmental conditions inside the device, the Concentrator plus/Vacufuge plus
is not suitable for use in a potentially explosive atmosphere.
The device must be used only in a safe environment, such as in the open environment of a ventilated
laboratory or a fume hood. The use of substances which could create a potentially explosive atmosphere is
not permitted. The final decision on the risks associated with the use of these types of substances is the
user's responsibility.
In the following cases, the designated protection of the device may be affected. The liability for any
resulting damage or personal injury is then transferred to the owner:
Read the operating manual and observe the following general safety information before using the device.
Only switch on the device if the device and mains/power cord are undamaged.
Only operate devices which have been installed or repaired properly.
In case of danger, disconnect the device from the mains/power supply voltage. Disconnect
the mains/power plug from the device or the earth/grounded socket. Use the isolating
device intended for this purpose (e.g. the emergency switch in the laboratory).
Only connect the device to voltage sources which correspond with the electrical
requirements on the name plate.
Only use earth/grounded sockets with a protective earth (PE) conductor.
Only use the mains/power cord supplied.
When handling infectious liquids and pathogenic germs, observe the national regulations,
the biosafety level of your laboratory, the material safety data sheets, and the
manufacturer's application notes.
Wear your personal protective equipment.
For comprehensive regulations about handling germs or biological material of risk group II
or higher, please refer to the "Laboratory Biosafety Manual" (source: World Health
Organization, Laboratory Biosafety Manual, the current edition).
WARNING! Burns due to hot micro test tubes and device parts.
If the heater is at full power, the wall of the rotor chamber, the rotor and the micro test tubes
will be heated to over 60 °C.
Avoid using aggressive chemicals, including strong and weak alkalis, strong acids,
solutions with mercury, copper and other heavy metal ions, halogenated hydrocarbons,
concentrated saline solutions and phenol.
If the rotor is contaminated by aggressive chemicals, clean it immediately using a neutral
cleaning agent. This applies in particular to the bottom panels of the rotors.
If this occurs, clean the device immediately using a mild cleaning agent.
After installing the device, wait for at least 3 h. Only then connect the device to the mains/
power line.
Do not reach between the device and lid when opening or closing the device lid.
NOTICE! Damage from knocking against or moving the device during operation.
If the rotor hits against the rotor chamber wall, this will cause considerable damage to the
device and rotor.
Only operate the device if the rotor has been mounted properly.
If there are any unusual noises when the device is started up, stop the concentration
immediately by pressing the start/stop key.
Observe the maximum load for each rotor (adapter, tube and contents) per rotor bore or
per bucket, and do not exceed this limit.
2.5.5 Vacuum
Ensure the required condensation and separation of vapors using suitable cold traps or
chemical traps.
Wear personal protective equipment (gloves, clothing, goggles, etc.), ensure proper
ventilation and note the biosafety level of the lab.
3 Product description
3.1 Product overview
Abb. 3-1: Complete system with gel dryer connection
1 2 3 4 5
13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6
4 2 3 5
11 7 10 9 8 15 14
3.3 Features
The Concentrator plus is designed for the evaporation of liquid or wet samples in micro test tubes,
round-bottom tubes, conical tubes, flat-bottom tubes and different plates.
A complete list can be found in the following chapter (see Rotors on p. 58).
The device is available as a complete system with an integrated diaphragm vacuum pump or as a basic
device without a vacuum pump. The basic device can be connected to an external vacuum system.
• 3 temperature levels can be set (30, 45, 60 °C). Alternatively, evacuation is carried out without
temperature control.
• The evaporation of liquids can be carried out optimized in 3 functions. In addition to pure evacuation,
aqueous and/or alcoholic solutions can be concentrated extra fast with 2 special functions.
• You can also operate the device as a pure desiccator.
• You can connect a solvent trap to the device behind the pump.
Product description
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 19
English (EN)
1 2 3 4
14 Made in 11
Germany
13 12
4 Installation
4.1 Selecting the location
Only connect the device to voltage sources which correspond with the electrical
requirements on the name plate.
Only use earth/grounded sockets with a protective earth (PE) conductor.
Only use the mains/power cord supplied.
NOTICE! If an error occurs, objects in the immediate vicinity of the device may become
damaged.
Do not position the device near heat sources (e.g., heating, drying cabinets).
Do not expose the device to direct sunlight.
Ensure unobstructed air circulation. On all sides of the device, ensure that there is a
minimum gap of 30 cm not obstructed to adjacent devices or to the wall. Ensure that the
bottom of the device is not obstructed.
Always keep the ventilation gaps of the device free from obstructions.
The mains/power switch and the disconnecting device of the mains/power line must be easily
accessible during operation (e.g. a residual current circuit breaker).
Mains/power connection for the concentrator: Operation of the concentrator is only permitted
in building installations that comply with the applicable national regulations and standards. In
particular, it must be ensured that there are no impermissible loads on the supply lines and
assemblies that are located upstream of the internal protection of the device. This can be
ensured by additional circuit breakers or other suitable safety elements in the building
installation.
Installation
22 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
The mains/power switch and the disconnecting device of the mains/power line must be easily
accessible during operation (e.g., residual current circuit breaker).
Select the location for the device according to the following criteria:
Read the following chapter before operating the device (see General installation on p. 24).
The weight of the complete system is 31.5 kg. The weight of the basic device is 16.5 kg.
• Two persons are always required to transport and install the device.
• Only transport the device in its original packing.
• Use a transport aid for longer distances (e.g., hand truck).
• Keep the packaging board and the transport securing device for later transport or storage.
See also the instructions relating to transport (see p. 53).
Abb. 4-1: Transport protection screws on the bottom of the device (complete system)
Fig. 4-1: Transport protection screws on the bottom of the device (complete system)
6. Slide the rear transport protection pad on the bottom of the device slightly back until the rear transport
protection screw is visible.
7. Unscrew and remove both transport protection screws.
8. Slide the rear transport protection pad to its original position.
9. Return the device with the transport protection pad to the upright position.
10. Slide the rear transport protection pad on the bottom of the device slightly back until the rear transport
protection screw is visible.
11. Remove the front and rear transport protection pads.
12. Remove the plastic covers from the device and the lid.
13. Install the device in a well-ventilated location which is protected from direct sunlight to prevent it from
overheating.
Installation
24 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
Only connect the device to voltage sources which correspond with the electrical
requirements on the name plate.
Only use earth/grounded sockets with a protective earth (PE) conductor.
Only use the mains/power cord supplied.
Ensure the required condensation and separation of vapors using suitable cold traps or
chemical traps.
Wear personal protective equipment (gloves, clothing, goggles, etc.), ensure proper
ventilation and note the biosafety level of the lab.
After installing the device, wait for at least 3 h. Only then connect the device to the mains/
power line.
Select a setup for the collection and/or discharge of liquids and gases which complies with the
applicable legal requirements and regulations for your application.
Installation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 25
English (EN)
Emission
condenser
Filter/ Cold
Hood trap
Chemical
trap
1. Connect the components according to your chosen configuration. Please note the relevant instructions
in the following chapters.
• Complete system: Connecting the emission condenser (see p. 26).
• Complete system: Connecting the gel dryer (see p. 27).
• Basic device: Connecting the vacuum pump (see p. 28).
2. Check that the mains/power supply voltage and frequency match the requirements on the device name
plate.
3. Connect the device to the mains/power line and switch it on with the mains/power switch located on the
right of the device (basic device: on the rear of the device) (refer to front fold-out page).
• The display is active.
• The lid is unlocked (the lid indicator lamp lights up).
• You can now open the lid.
Check whether using the emission condenser is sufficient for the intended application. For the
concentration of chemically aggressive or biologically hazardous substances one of the
following measures must be taken:
• Replace the emission condenser with a suitable cold trap or chemical trap.
• In addition, place the emission condenser in an ice bath.
• Attach a hose to the upper connection of the emission condenser and connect it to an
extraction system.
• Set up a series connection of cold trap or chemical trap and emission condenser.
The pump of the Concentrator plus is fully solvent resistant. Therefore, the emission
condenser can be placed behind the pump.
Installation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 27
English (EN)
6. You can install a filter at the upper connection of the emission condenser. The overpressure at the pump
outlet of the complete system must not exceed 1 bar.
Prerequisites
• 1 connecting hose (length: max. 50 cm, inner diameter: 5 to 7 mm, chemical resistant and suitable for
vacuum applications).
1. Screw the supplied hose connection (size: G1/4 ") into the thread of the stop valve on the left of the
device.
2. Connect the gel dryer to the hose connection with the connecting hose.
Installation
28 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
Observe the solvent properties. Only carry out parallel operations with identical solvents or
solvents that evaporate in a non-hazardous manner.
Prerequisites
• The vacuum pump is approved in accordance with the applicable standards in your country.
• A condenser (e.g., emission condenser, cold trap or chemical trap) between the devices or behind the
vacuum pump, depending on your application.
• The pump withstands an ultimate pressure of at least 20 mbar. Its suction capacity is at least 1.8 m³/h.
Vacuum pumps which meet these requirements can for example be diaphragm or rotary vane
pumps. The specifications can be found in the vacuum pump's technical data or requested
from the manufacturer. If you have any other questions regarding the correct operation of the
vacuum pump, e.g., handling, use, performance, service, troubleshooting or the specification
and connecting a cold trap, please also contact the manufacturer.
Should you encounter any problems when connecting the vacuum pump, please contact
Technical Service. The contact addresses can be found at the end of the operating manual or
on the Internet at www.eppendorf.com.
Prerequisites
• Power consumption of the vacuum pump: max. 350 W or connected electrical connection load max. 400
VA.
• Special plug for control and mains/power supply of the vacuum pump (see Accessories on p. 63).
• 1 connecting hose (length: max. 50 cm, inner diameter: 8 mm, chemical resistant and suitable for
vacuum applications).
Abb. 4-4: Special plug for control and mains/power supply of a vacuum pump with a power consumption of up to 350 W.
Fig. 4-4: Special plug for control and mains/power supply of a vacuum pump with a power consumption
of up to 350 W.
Installation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 29
English (EN)
Abb. 4-5: Connecting a vacuum pump with a power consumption of up to 350 W to the Concentrator plus basic device.
1 2
3 4 5
9 8 7 6
Fig. 4-5: Connecting a vacuum pump with a power consumption of up to 350 W to the Concentrator plus
basic device.
1. Disconnect the device and the vacuum pump from the mains/power line.
2. Plug the mains/power cord of the vacuum pump into the special plug.
3. Connect the special plug to the provided plug socket on the rear of the device (connected mains/power
supply voltage!).
4. Install the connecting hose between the vacuum pump inlet and the pump connection on the rear of the
device.
5. Connect the device to the mains/power line.
Installation
30 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
Prerequisites
• Additional power source for the vacuum pump.
• Solenoid valve to control the vacuum pump with the basic device (see Accessories on p. 63).
• 2 connecting hoses (length: max. 50 cm, inner diameter: 8 mm, chemical resistant and suitable for
vacuum applications)
Abb. 4-6: Solenoid valve to control a vacuum pump with external mains/power supply.
P A
Fig. 4-6: Solenoid valve to control a vacuum pump with external mains/power supply.
Abb. 4-7: Connecting a vacuum pump with external mains/power supply to the Concentrator plus basic device.
1 2
3 4 5 6 7
P A
11 10 9 8
Fig. 4-7: Connecting a vacuum pump with external mains/power supply to the Concentrator plus basic
device.
1. Disconnect the basic device and the vacuum pump from the mains/power line.
2. Connect hose connection P of the solenoid valve to a connecting hose and attach the other end of the
connecting hose to the pump connection on the rear of the device.
3. Connect hose connection A of the solenoid valve to a connecting hose and attach the other end of the
connecting hose to the vacuum pump inlet.
4. Connect the plug of the solenoid valve to the provided connection socket on the rear of the device
(connected mains/power supply voltage!).
5. Connect the device to the mains/power line.
6. Connect the vacuum pump to the mains/power line.
The vacuum pump is isolated from the device automatically before concentration is complete
by the closure of the solenoid valve which is piloted by the concentrator. The vacuum pump
can also be isolated from the device without a solenoid valve by manually closing an in-line
valve (e.g., stop valve with ground-in stopper).
Installation
32 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
Operation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 33
English (EN)
5 Operation
5.1 Operating controls
Before using the device for the first time, familiarize yourself with the operating controls and the device
display.
1 2 3 4
5
6
11 10 9 8 7
The device can be used as a concentrator, a desiccator, or a centrifuge. For the concentrator and desiccator
functions, there are three different modes available for the quick concentration of different solvents:
To set the desired function, press the mode/vent key before operation of the device.
Use the V-AQ, V-AL, D-AQ or D-AL modes if possible, or press the mode/vent key from time to
time during the run.
During operation, you cannot change the set function. Instead, holding the mode/vent key
during the concentrator or desiccator function ventilates the rotor chamber.
Please note before putting the device into operation that the ambient temperature during
operation must be between 15 and 35 °C.
At altitudes above 1000 m MSL, measures to ensure the supply of cooling air in accordance
with DIN EN 60034-1; VDE 0530-1 are required.
Switch on the device at the mains/power switch.
• The display is active.
• The lid is released (the lid indicator lamp lights up).
• You can now open the lid.
• The parameter settings of the last run are displayed.
Operation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 35
English (EN)
First observe the rotor information and the special notes on rotors F-35-6-30, F-45-72-8,
F-45-48-11, F-45-24-12 and A-2-VC (see p. 61).
Rotor A-2-VC: remove the buckets before inserting the rotor and pick it up at the rotor cross
using both hands.
The diaphragm vacuum pump reaches the displayed output and the ultimate pressure (see p. 57)only after
the device has gone through a 15-minute warm-up phase. The warm-up phase reduces the condensation of
liquid in the pump and on the lid of the rotor chamber and therefore prolongs the service life of the pump.
Do not reach between the device and lid when opening or closing the device lid.
The following notes apply to fixed-angle rotors. Loading the rotor A-2-VC is described in the following
chapter (see Loading a swing-bucket rotor on p. 37).
When loading the rotor, observe the safety instructions for hazards resulting from
overloaded or damaged tubes.
1. Check the maximum payload (tube and content) per rotor bore. Detailed information can be found in
this operating manual (see Rotors on p. 58).
2. Only load rotors with the tubes intended for this purpose.
3. Insert open tubes opposite each other in pairs into the rotor bores. To ensure symmetrical loading,
tubes that are arranged opposite each other must be of the same type and contain the same filling
quantity.
In order to minimize weight differences between the filled micro test tubes, we recommend taring with
a balance. This will reduce wear on the drive and cut operating noise.
Operation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 37
English (EN)
Prerequisites
• A rotor, bucket and adapter combination approved by Eppendorf.
• Two inserted buckets.
• Matching and tested tubes and plates.
• Adapters and plates with a total height of ≤ 27 mm.
Fill the plate wells to a maximum of 2/3 of the maximum filling volume.
1. Check the bucket grooves for cleanliness and grease them lightly with pivot grease (order no. int.: 5810
350.050/North America: 022634330).
Dirty grooves and pivots prevent the buckets from swinging out evenly.
2. Hang the buckets into the rotor.
3. Check that both buckets are hanging properly and can swing out freely.
4. When using a plate type for the first time, carry out a manual loading and swing-out test.
5. Check the maximum payload (adapter, plate and content) per bucket.
The relevant details can be found on the rotor and in this operating manual (see Rotors on p. 58).
6. Load the buckets symmetrically when inserting adapters and plates.
Operation
38 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
The plate arrangement shown on the right-hand side is incorrect as the buckets will not swing out
properly.
The plates have some play in the buckets.
Do not reach between the device and lid when opening or closing the device lid.
Each of the applications described here must be preceded by the preparation described above (see
Preparation for concentration on p. 34).
Only operate the device if the rotor has been mounted properly.
If there are any unusual noises when the device is started up, stop the concentration
immediately by pressing the start/stop key.
Before commencing concentration, follow the safety instructions relating to risks from
asymmetrically loaded and/or overloaded rotors and from overloaded and/or damaged
tubes.
Unusual noises may occur when braking heavy rotors. This is construction-related and does
not indicate a problem.
If a temperature has been set, the rotor chamber is heated continuously, i.e., even when the
rotor has stopped and the lid is open. Therefore, switch the device off after completing the
application or set the temperature to - - (no temperature set), if applicable.
Operation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 39
English (EN)
CAUTION! Continuous operation may affect the safe operation of the device.
If operated continuously to deliver liquids, the membranes and valves of the vacuum pump
may become damaged.
Use the continuous run function if you do not want to set a fixed run time .
1. Use the time arrow keys to set the continuous run function (oo), this can be achieved below 0:01 or above
9:59.
2. Set all other parameters as described above (see Starting the concentration process with time setting on
p. 39).
3. Press start/stop to start the concentration process.
The time is counted up in increments of 1 minute.
4. Press start/stop to end the concentration process after the desired time period.
If the device runs for more than 9:59 h, 9:59 remains on the display.
Operation
40 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
Rotor A-2-VC: First remove the buckets, then grip the rotor at the rotor cross with both hands
to lift it out of the device.
2. Dispose of the liquid in accordance with the current legal requirements and regulations for your
application.
1. Leave the device lid open and secure it against closing to allow any remaining liquid to evaporate.
2. Switch off the device at the mains/power switch.
Operation
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 41
English (EN)
Always wait for the rotor to stop before opening the device lid and removing the plates or
tubes.
With the desiccator function the rotor chamber is evacuated. However, the rotor is not turned.
You can place the micro test tubes directly in the rotor chamber without a rotor or insert them into a rotor.
With the centrifuge function the rotor is turned. However, the rotor chamber is not evacuated.
On a complete system with a gel dryer connection, a gel dryer can be run in parallel to the operation as a
concentrator and/or desiccator or used individually.
Observe the solvent properties. Only carry out parallel operations with identical solvents or
solvents that evaporate in a non-hazardous manner.
1. mode/vent: select the V-AQ, V-AL, V-HV, D-AQ, D-AL or D-HV mode.
We recommend the V-HV and D-HV modes.
If you use the gel dryer individually, you should use the D-AQ, D-AL or D-HV modes in order to protect
the drive.
2. In contrast to the concentrator or desiccator function, open the tap of the gel dryer connection before
operation (→ knob points in flow direction) and close it after operation.
When the gel dryer is operated without concentrator or desiccator function, the device lid must also be
closed as a vacuum cannot be generated otherwise.
3. Then proceed as with the concentrator function (see Starting the concentration process on p. 38).
Maintenance
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 43
English (EN)
6 Maintenance
6.1 Service
Have the centrifuge's electrical safety, especially the paths for the protective connections,
checked every 12 months by trained and skilled personnel.
We recommend to have the concentrator and the associated rotors checked by Technical Service during a
service at least every 12 months.
6.1.1 Device
The drying of saline aqueous solutions and the long-term exposure of the device components
to acids or alkalis will damage the device.
Avoid the use of aggressive chemicals. These include strong and weak alkalis, strong acids,
solutions containing mercury, copper and other heavy metal ions, halogenated hydrocarbons,
concentrated saline solutions and phenol.
For the frequent evaporation of corrosive liquids, apply a thin layer of pivot grease to the rotor and the
rotor chamber (order no. int.: 5810 350.050/North America: 022634330).
Inspect the device for corrosion.
Inspect the motor shaft for damage.
6.1.2 Pump
The chemical-resistant pump of the complete system does not need to be maintained by the user. However,
the valves and diaphragms are subject to natural wear and tear.
Regularly remove the condensation from the pump and the hose system. To do so, complete a
15-minute run in D-AQ mode without samples.
This will prolong the service life of the consumables.
Observe any changes in the time required for your application. If you notice any deterioration, have the
valves and diaphragms checked by the authorized service.
Clean all accessible surfaces of the device and the accessories at least weekly and when contaminated.
Clean the rotor regularly. This way the rotor is protected and the durability is prolonged.
Furthermore, observe the notes on decontamination (see Decontamination before shipment on p. 47)
when the device is sent to the authorized Technical Service for repairs.
The procedure described in the following chapter applies to the cleaning as well as to the disinfection or
decontamination. The table below describes the steps required on top of this:
Cleaning Disinfecting/decontamination
1. Use a mild cleaning fluid to clean the accessible 1. Choose the disinfection method which
surfaces of the device and the accessories. corresponds to the legal regulations and
2. Carry out the cleaning as described in the guidelines in place for your range of application.
following chapter. For example, use alcohol (ethanol, isopropanol)
or alcohol-based disinfectants.
2. Carry out the disinfection or decontamination as
described in the following chapter.
3. Then clean the device and the accessories.
If you have any further questions regarding the cleaning and disinfection or decontamination
or regarding the cleaning fluid to be used, contact the Eppendorf AG Application Support. The
contact details are provided on the back of this manual.
6.3 Cleaning/disinfection
Switch off the device and disconnect it from the mains/power line before starting cleaning
or disinfection.
Do not allow any liquids to penetrate the inside of the housing.
Do not perform a spray clean/spray disinfection on the housing.
Only reconnect the device to the mains/power line when it is completely dry, both inside
and outside.
Do not use any aggressive chemicals on the device or its accessories, such as strong and
weak bases, strong acids, acetone, formaldehyde, halogenated hydrocarbons or phenol.
If the device has been contaminated by aggressive chemicals, clean it immediately using a
mild cleaning agent.
Maintenance
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 45
English (EN)
Do not use any corrosive cleaning agents, aggressive solvents or abrasive polishes.
Do not incubate the accessories in aggressive cleaning agents or disinfectants for longer
periods.
Do not use UV, beta, gamma, or any other high-energy radiation for disinfection.
Avoid storage in areas with strong UV radiation.
Autoclaving
All rotors, rotor lids and adapters can be autoclaved (121 °C, 20 min).
1. Open the lid. Switch the device off at the mains/power switch. Disconnect the mains/power plug from
the voltage supply.
2. Remove the rotor.
3. Clean and disinfect all accessible surfaces on the device including the mains/power cord using a damp
cloth and the recommended cleaning agents.
4. Thoroughly clean the rubber seals of the rotor chamber with water.
5. Rub the dry rubber seal with glycerol or talcum powder to prevent it from becoming brittle. Other
components of the device, such as the motor shaft and rotor cone, must not be lubricated.
6. Clean the motor shaft with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not grease the motor shaft.
7. Leave the lid open when the device is not in use.
8. Only reconnect the device to the mains/power supply if it is fully dry on the inside and outside.
Maintenance
46 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
English (EN)
1. Clean and disinfect the rotors and accessories with the recommended cleaning agents.
2. Rinse the rotor and its accessories thoroughly with water.
3. Place the rotors and accessories on a towel to dry.
4. Clean the rotor cone with a soft, dry, lint-free cloth. Do not lubricate the rotor cone.
5. Place the dry rotor onto the motor shaft.
6. Load the fixed-angle rotor with the cleaned adapters or the swing-bucket rotor with the cleaned buckets
and adapters, if necessary.
7. Leave the rotor lid open when the rotor is not being used.
When using glass tubes there is a risk of glass breakage in the rotor chamber. The resulting glass splinters
are swirled around in the rotor chamber during centrifugation and have a sandblasting effect on the rotor
and accessories. Very small particles of glass can become lodged in the rubber parts (e.g., the motor
sleeve, the rotor chamber seal, and the rubber mats of adapters).
Switch off the device and disconnect the mains/power plug before commencing any
service or cleaning operations.
The fuse holder is located between the mains/power cord socket and the mains/power switch.
1 2 3
1. Press the upper and lower end of the plastic springs together and pull the fuse holder out completely.
2. Replace faulty fuses and reinsert the fuse holder. Make sure that the guiding rail is positioned correctly.
If you are shipping the device to the authorized Technical Service for repairs or to your authorized dealer
for disposal please note the following:
7 Troubleshooting
If you cannot remedy an error with the recommended measures, please contact your local Eppendorf
partner. The contact address can be found on the Internet at www.eppendorf.com.
Contact Service.
Error 10 Heater defective. Contact Service.
Error 12 Electronics fault. Contact Service.
Error 14
Error 16
IMBAL The rotor is loaded asymmetrically. Load the rotor symmetrically and
balance it.
Troubleshooting
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 51
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7.3 Opening the device in case of a mains/power outage using the emergency
release
If the device lid cannot be opened during a mains/power outage, you can activate the emergency release
manually.
Wait for the rotor to stop before activating the emergency release.
To check, look through the monitoring glass in the centrifuge lid.
If there is a mains/power outage, the vent valve will open. Before the rotor comes to a
standstill, the standard pressure in the rotor chamber will be restored.
8.2 Storage
8.3 Disposal
If the product needs to be disposed of, the relevant legal regulations must be observed.
Information on the disposal of electrical and electronic devices in the European Community:
Within the European Community, the disposal of electrical devices is regulated by national regulations
based on EU Directive 2012/19/EU pertaining to waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
According to these regulations, any devices supplied after August 13, 2005, in the business-to-business
sphere, to which this product is assigned, may no longer be disposed of in municipal or domestic waste. To
document this, they have been marked with the following marking:
Because disposal regulations may differ from one country to another within the EU, please contact your
supplier if necessary.
Technical data
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9 Technical data
9.1 Power supply
9.3 Weight/dimensions
The noise level was measured in a sound measuring room with accuracy class 1 (DIN EN ISO 3745)
frontally, at a distance of 1 m from the device and at lab bench height.
Do not use accessories that have exceeded their maximum service life.
Eppendorf states the maximum service life of rotors and accessories in cycles and years. The number of
cycles is decisive. If determination of the number of cycles is not possible, the service life in years applies.
Each centrifugation run in which the rotor is accelerated and braked is counted as a cycle, independent of
the speed and the duration of the centrifugation run.
Unless stated otherwise (in the manual of the centrifuge, indications of the number of cycles on the rotor, in
the instructions for use of the rotor), all other rotors and rotor lids can be used over the entire service life of
the centrifuge if the following prerequisites are met:
• proper use
• recommended maintenance
• undamaged condition
The date of manufacture is stamped on the rotors and buckets in the format 03/15 or 03/2015 (= March
2015). On the inside of the plastic rotor lids and aerosol-tight caps, the date of manufacture is stamped in
the form of a clock .
9.8 Rotors
The device can be operated with the following rotors. Before using micro test tubes, please note the
manufacturer's recommended specifications with regard to centrifugation stability (max. g-force).
Rotor code:
Fixed-angle Angle of Ø of Swing-bucket Ø of
All Eppendorf® rotors are identified rotor bores bores (mm) rotor buckets (mm)
using a simple, alphanumeric
format that represents the technical
specifications in a uniform series of F A 45 30 11 A 4 81
letters and numbers.
Aerosol-tight Number of Number of
version bores buckets
Technical data
Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus 59
English (EN)
Rotor Tubes / plates Number of Dimensions (mm) Max. g-force/ Max. payload
tubes Ø × L or speed per rotor
Volume L×W×H bore(1)
F-45-72-8 72 micro test 8 × 31 Inner row: 10 g
tubes 202 × g,
0.5 mL outer row:
224 × g/
1 400 rpm
F-45-70-11 70 micro test 11 × 41/ Inner row: 15 g
tubes 11 × 47 153 × g,
1.5/2.0 mL middle row:
202 × g,
outer row:
248 × g/
1 400 rpm
F-45-48-11 48 micro test 11 × 41/ Inner row: 15 g
tubes 11 × 47 217 × g,
1.5/2.0 mL outer row:
239 × g/
1 400 rpm
F-45-22-17 22 micro test 17 × 59 242 × g/1 10 g
tubes 17 × 67 400 rpm
5.0 mL
F-45-24-12 24 12 × 67 – 100 234 × g/ 35 g
round-bottom 1 400 rpm
tubes
6.0/8.0 mL
F-50-8-16 8 16 × 105 – 120 230 × g/ 70 g
round-bottom 1 400 rpm
tubes
8.0 - 12.0 mL
F-50-8-18 8 18 × 105 – 128 230 × g/ 70 g
round-bottom 1 400 rpm
tubes
8.0 - 12.0 mL
F-35-6-30 6 conical tubes 17 × 116 – 123 232 × g/ 25 g
15 mL 1 400 rpm
F-45-8-17 8 conical tubes 17 × 118 – 123 239 × g/ 70 g
15 mL 1 400 rpm
F-35-6-30 6 conical tubes 29.5 × 116 – 123 232 × g/ 75 g
50 mL 1 400 rpm
Technical data
60 Concentrator plus/Vacufuge® plus
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Rotor Tubes / plates Number of Dimensions (mm) Max. g-force/ Max. payload
tubes Ø × L or speed per rotor
Volume L×W×H bore(1)
F-40-36-12 36 flat-bottom 12 × 32 215 × g/ 15 g
tubes 1 400 rpm
1.5 mL
F-45-36-15 36 flat-bottom 15 × 45 – 48 217 × g/ 20 g
tubes 1 400 rpm
3.0/5.0 mL
F-45-16-20 16 flat-bottom 20 × 42 – 55 217 × g/ 45 g
tubes 1 400 rpm
6.5/10.0 mL
F-40-18-19 18 flat-bottom 19 × 66 228 × g/ 35 g
tubes 1 400 rpm
10.0 mL
F-45-12-31 12 flat-bottom 31 × 55 226 × g/ 55 g
tubes 1 400 rpm
20.0 mL
F-35-8-24 8 flat-bottom 24 × 86 – 90 232 × g/ 90 g
tubes 1 400 rpm
25.0 mL
(1) Maximum payload per rotor bore for adapter + tube + content.
Technical data
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Rotor Tubes / plates Number of Dimensions (mm) Max. g-force/ Max. payload
tubes Ø × L or speed per rotor
Volume L×W×H bore(1)
A-2-VC Two buckets to 128 × 86 × 27 131 × g/ 115 g
hold: 1 400 rpm per bucket
• 0.2 mL PCR
tubes
• PCR strips
of 5 or 8
• PCR plates
• Microplates
• Cell-culture
plates
• Deepwell
plate (max.
height =
27 mm)
• Slides (with 26 × 75
CombiSlide
adapter)
(1) Maximum payload per rotor bore for adapter + tube + content.
Rotor F-45-24-12
• Tube length ≤ 75 mm: max. capacity 24 tubes.
• Tube length > 75 mm: max. capacity 12 tubes.
Rotor A-2-VC
• Tubes, PCR-strips and plates without frame can only be used with a suitable work tray (see Adapters on
p. 64).
• Max. perm. loading height: 27 mm.
Rotor F-35-6-30
• The recommended maximum filling volume for 50 mL conical tubes is 44 mL. If the tubes are filled up
to the top, the rotational movement may cause the samples to overflow.
Ordering information
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10 Ordering information
10.1 Fuses
Order no. Order no. (North Description
(International) America)
Fuse
5301 850.249 022654403 4.0 A T (230 V), 2 pieces
5417 341.007 022375831 6,3 A T (230 V), 2 pieces
10.2 Accessories
10.2.1 Rotors
10.2.2 Adapters