What Is a Centrifuge?

A centrifuge is a machine that uses centrifugal force to separate the contents of a sample based on their density.

When the centrifuge spins, it creates a strong centrifugal force. Though separation would eventually happen naturally with Earth’s gravity, the centrifuge machine delivers rapid results for laboratory and other applications.

There are many types of centrifuges, varying by intended use and rotor design. Centrifuge types include:

Benchtop centrifuge

Microcentrifuge

Floor-standing

Large capacity

STAT

Refrigerated

High speed

Ultracentrifuge