Mini benchtop centrifuge for PCR strips and tubes

prusaprinters

In our genetics lab, we have a couple of small and simple centrifuges only to spin down PCR strips and tubes to remove droplets of liquid from the wall and cap of the tubes. When one of these broke, I realized how expensive these primitive machines are. That gave the idea to design a simple one using printed parts and cheap off-the –shelf components (80 mm PC fan, food container, switches and power supply). The detailed instructions of assembly, tests and validation can be found the following link (open access): https://www.hardware-x.com/article/S2468-0672(22)00073-6/fulltext or read as a pdf attached.None of the printed parts need support. We have been using the first prototype printed of PLA for more than one and half a year without any problems. Print the rotor with 100 % infill and random z seam to be as balanced as possible.  This little centrifuge is only capable of slow speed (2000 -3000 RPM, depending on the chosen fan), but always run the tubes balanced and never operate it without the lid.