Buying Guide for OHAUS Frontier Centrifuges

Introduction

OHAUS Frontier centrifuges are well-regarded for their precision, reliability, and ease of use in a variety of laboratory settings. This guide will help you choose the best OHAUS Frontier centrifuge model based on your specific needs, highlighting the key features and capacities of the available models.

Key Considerations

  1. Application Needs

    • General Laboratory Use: For routine tasks such as separating blood components or preparing samples.
    • Specialized Applications: For applications requiring high speeds, large capacities, or temperature control.
  2. Capacity and Rotor Options

    • Capacity: Determine the volume of samples you need to process. Models vary in capacity, from smaller tubes to larger bottles.
    • Rotor Compatibility: Ensure the centrifuge supports the rotors needed for your specific applications, whether for microcentrifuge tubes, larger tubes, or bottles.
  3. Speed and RCF (Relative Centrifugal Force)

    • Speed: Centrifuges operate at different speeds, measured in RPM (revolutions per minute). Higher speeds are necessary for applications involving small particles or delicate samples.
    • RCF: This measure of centrifugation force (in g) is crucial for achieving the desired separation.
  4. Temperature Control

    • Non-Refrigerated: Suitable for general use where temperature control is not critical.
    • Refrigerated: For temperature-sensitive samples, opt for refrigerated models to maintain a stable temperature.
  5. Size and Footprint

    • Bench Space: Consider the available space in your lab. Compact models are ideal for smaller labs, while larger models offer more capacity but require more space.
  6. Ease of Use and Features

    • Digital Controls: Look for models with digital controls and displays for ease of operation.
    • Pre-set Programs: Some models come with pre-set programs for common protocols, which can save time and reduce errors.
    • Safety Features: Ensure the centrifuge has safety features like lid-lock mechanisms and imbalance detection.
  7. Budget and Warranty

    • Cost: OHAUS Frontier centrifuges are available in various price ranges. Choose a model that fits your budget while meeting your needs.
    • Warranty: Check the warranty details to ensure support and service coverage.

Model Comparison

Here’s an overview of the OHAUS Frontier centrifuge models available:

  1. OHAUS Frontier FC5714

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 14,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 18,624 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 4 x 100 ml
    • Best For: General laboratory use with a high-speed requirement but a smaller capacity.
  2. OHAUS Frontier FC5718

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 18,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 23,542 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 4 x 100 ml
    • Best For: High-speed applications where maximum RCF is essential but with a similar capacity to the FC5714.
  3. OHAUS Frontier FC5718R

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 18,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 23,542 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 4 x 100 ml
    • Features: Refrigerated model for temperature-sensitive samples.
    • Best For: High-speed centrifugation with precise temperature control.
  4. OHAUS Frontier FC5816

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 15,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 21,379 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 6 x 250 ml
    • Best For: Laboratories needing a higher capacity with a moderate speed range.
  5. OHAUS Frontier FC5816R

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 16,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 24,325 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 6 x 250 ml
    • Features: Refrigerated model for samples requiring temperature control.
    • Best For: High-speed and high-capacity applications with temperature-sensitive samples.
  6. OHAUS Frontier FC5916

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 16,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 24,325 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 4 x 750 ml
    • Best For: Large volume samples requiring high speed and capacity.
  7. OHAUS Frontier FC5916R

    • Speed Range: 200 rpm – 16,000 rpm
    • Maximum RCF: 26,331 x g
    • Maximum Capacity: 4 x 750 ml
    • Features: Refrigerated model for temperature-sensitive, large volume samples.
    • Best For: High-capacity centrifugation with precise temperature control.

Comparison Table

OHAUS Frontier Centrifuges Comparison

OHAUS Frontier Centrifuges Comparison

Model Comparison
Model Speed Range Maximum RCF Maximum Capacity Features Best For
FC5714 200 rpm – 14,000 rpm 18,624 x g 4 x 100 ml - General laboratory use with a high-speed requirement but a smaller capacity.
FC5718 200 rpm – 18,000 rpm 23,542 x g 4 x 100 ml - High-speed applications where maximum RCF is essential but with a similar capacity to the FC5714.
FC5718R 200 rpm – 18,000 rpm 23,542 x g 4 x 100 ml Refrigerated model High-speed centrifugation with precise temperature control.
FC5816 200 rpm – 15,000 rpm 21,379 x g 6 x 250 ml - Laboratories needing a higher capacity with a moderate speed range.
FC5816R 200 rpm – 16,000 rpm 24,325 x g 6 x 250 ml Refrigerated model High-speed and high-capacity applications with temperature-sensitive samples.
FC5916 200 rpm – 16,000 rpm 24,325 x g 4 x 750 ml - Large volume samples requiring high speed and capacity.
FC5916R 200 rpm – 16,000 rpm 26,331 x g 4 x 750 ml Refrigerated model High-capacity centrifugation with precise temperature control.

Selecting the right OHAUS Frontier centrifuge involves evaluating your specific needs in terms of capacity, speed, temperature control, and space requirements. The models listed offer a variety of features to suit different laboratory demands. For detailed specifications and assistance, consult the OHAUS website or contact their customer service.