Centuries in a Spin : The History of Centrifuge Tubes and the unique Offerings of Abdos
By Abdos
Centrifuge tubes have played a crucial role in laboratory practices, particularly in the separation and analysis of components in a mixture. The development of these tubes reflects advancements in both scientific understanding and technology over the years.
Early Beginnings
The concept of centrifugation dates back to the 18th century. In 1794, the English scientist William G. W. Stokes developed one of the first devices resembling a centrifuge, using a hand-powered mechanism to separate cream from milk.
The 19th Century: Mechanical Innovations
In the 1860s, German scientist Hermann von Helmholtz conducted experiments that laid the groundwork for understanding the principles of centrifugal force. By the end of the century, industrial centrifuges were being used in various applications, including the sugar industry.
The 20th Century: Laboratory Centrifuges Emerge
The early 20th century saw the introduction of laboratory centrifuges. In the 1920s, American scientist Thomas L. D. A. de Jongh developed a simple centrifuge that allowed for the separation of blood components. This period also saw the introduction of glass centrifuge tubes.
Mid-20th Century: Plastic Revolution
The 1950s and 1960s marked a significant shift with the introduction of plastic materials in laboratory equipment. Plastic centrifuge tubes became popular due to their lightweight nature, durability, and resistance to breakage compared to glass.
Standardization and Specialization
As centrifugation techniques advanced, so did the design of centrifuge tubes. By the late 20th century, manufacturers began producing tubes in various sizes and designs tailored for specific applications. Innovations included features like graduated markings for easy volume measurement and conical bottoms for efficient sample recovery.
Contemporary Developments – ABDOS Centrifuge Tubes
Abdos centrifuge tubes are crafted from ultra-pure USP Class VI certified virgin medical-grade polypropylene, guaranteeing top-notch quality while meeting US FDA 21 CFR standards. Their unique printing technology ensures a surface that is both chemically resistant and scratch-proof, making them ideal for rigorous lab environments.
The screw cap design offers a perfect grip, ensuring secure handling. Built to endure, these tubes feature uniform wall thickness that can withstand an impressive maximum G-force of 18,000 *g RCF, and they remain reliable across a wide temperature range from -80°C to +121°C.
Sterility is paramount; Abdos tubes are validated to ISO 11137 with a SAL of 10^-6. The large white frosted area provides ample space for easy labelling and identification, while the high transparency boasts 5% less haze than competitors, allowing for clear visibility of samples.
Plus, rest assured that our tubes are free from heavy metals, natural rubber, and inhibitory plasticizers. Elevate your laboratory experience with Abdos centrifuge tubes—where quality, safety, and performance meet innovation!
