Centrifuge tubes are available in various volume capacities, configurations, materials, and closure types, and some may be sterile and non-sterile. Capacities can scale from 0.1mL to over 100mL. The most common centrifuge tube sizes are 15mL and 50mL. The sizes 1mL and 2mL are categorized as microcentrifuge tubes. Centrifuge tubes contain liquid during the centrifugation process, during which the sample is separated into components by rotating it around a fixed axis. Most lab centrifuge tubes and sterile microcentrifuge tubes include a conical bottom that collects solid of the sample's heavier parts. All centrifuge tubes must be suitable to withstand centrifugal pressure, which happens during use.
- Materials - Centrifuge tubes come in a variety of materials to suit different applications. Copolymer tubes provide flexibility and resistance to chemical solvents, making them suitable for demanding tasks. Glass tubes offer excellent chemical resistance and clarity, ideal for high-temperature or harsh chemical environments. Polyethylene (PE) tubes are durable and flexible, perfect for low-temperature applications, while polypropylene (PP) tubes are highly versatile, resisting chemicals and temperature fluctuations for reliable performance. Polystyrene (PS) tubes, on the other hand, are rigid and clear, making them ideal for visual analysis. For enhanced durability, PP/HDPE tubes combine polypropylene's chemical resistance with the toughness of high-density polyethylene.
- Colors - Centrifuge tubes are available in various colors for sample management and organization. Amber tubes protect light-sensitive samples by blocking UV radiation, while clear or natural tubes allow easy monitoring of liquid levels. Color-coded options simplify sample differentiation in busy workflows, such as blue, green, orange, red, and yellow. Lavender tubes provide a unique color option for clear identification during multi-step processes or specialized applications.
- Volume - Thomas Scientific offers Centrifuge tubes in various volumes to accommodate a wide range of sample sizes. Smaller options, such as 0.5 mL to 2 mL, are ideal for microcentrifugation and precision protocols. Mid-range sizes, including 10 mL and 15 mL, are popular for general-purpose applications, offering versatility and compatibility with standard centrifuge rotors. For larger sample volumes, 100 mL tubes are commonly used in bulk processing and high-volume workflows.
- Size - Our tube packaging varies to meet the needs of laboratories of all scales. Bulk packs, such as 500 to 5000 tubes, are ideal for high-throughput labs handling large sample quantities. Smaller packs, such as 10 to 20 bags of 25 to 50 tubes, are more suitable for medium or small-scale workflows. High-capacity options like 1000 x 2 mL packs provide convenient solutions for labs processing large numbers of microcentrifuge samples.
- Bottom type - Different bottom types are available to suit specific applications. Conical bottoms are ideal for centrifugation, efficiently collecting sediment during sample separation. Flat and freestanding bottoms provide stability for storage and sample preparation, while round bottoms are commonly used for liquid storage and mixing. Skirted conical bottoms offer additional stability, making them suitable for high-throughput workflows and precise centrifugation tasks