Super centrifuge is a continuous centrifuge used for separating two immiscible liquid phases. Principle, construction, working and uses.
What is Super centrifuge?
A super centrifuge in pharmacy is an instrument which can separate and purify particles or molecules in a sample based on their density.
It operates on the principle of centrifugation. But it is designed to achieve much higher centrifugal forces. And it is capable of separating very small particles or molecules that standard centrifuges cannot effectively separate.
Super centrifuge principle
This is a sedimentation centrifuge equipment. The separation is based on the difference in the densities between two immiscible liquids. And the centrifugation is done in the bowl of centrifuge.
During centrifugation the heavier liquid is thrown against the wall. While the lighter liquid remains as an inner layer. The two layers are simultaneously separated using modified weirs.
Construction
- It consists of a long hollow cylindrical bowl of small diameter.
- It is suspended from a flexible spindle at the top and guided at the bottom by loose-fit bushing. It can be rotated on its longitudinal axis.
- For feeding suitable pressure system is used.
- Two liquid outlet pipes provided at different heights at the top of the bowl, for separation of liquids by using modified weirs.
Working
- Rotates the centrifuge at 2000 revolutions per minute.
- Introduce the feed to centrifuge bowl from the bottom of the centrifuge using suitable pressure system.
- During centrifugation, two liquid phases separate by their density.
- Heavier liquid hits the wall, lighter stays inside.
- Both liquids rise to the top of the vertical bowl.
- A hydraulic balance maintains their separation.
- By using modified weirs, we can separate the liquids at different heights.
Thus, super centrifuge can work for continuous separation of two immiscible liquid phases.
Uses
- Separating liquids from emulsion.
- Processing heat-sensitive and delicate materials.
- Clarifying liquids in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.
- Achieving precise separation and purification.
- Laboratory and industrial applications for liquid-solid separation.
- In food industry this centrifuge widely used.
Advantages of super centrifuge
- Efficient separation of liquids and solids.
- High-speed operation for quick processing.
- Suitable for delicate materials and heat-sensitive substances.
- Minimal liquid loss during separation.
- Precise control over separation process.
Disadvantages
Here are some disadvantages of super centrifuge,
- High initial cost and maintenance expenses
- May require skilled operators.
- Requires a power source for rotation.
- Potential for wear and tear over time.
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