Centrifuge Tube Types:

1. Based on Size:

• Large Centrifuge Tubes (500mL, 250mL)
• Standard Centrifuge Tubes (50mL, 15mL)
• Microcentrifuge Tubes (2mL, 1.5mL, 0.65mL, 0.2mL)

2. Based on Bottom Shape:

• Conical Centrifuge Tubes (conical bottom, most commonly used)
• Flat-bottom Centrifuge Tubes
• Round-bottom Centrifuge Tubes

3. Based on Lid Closure:

• Snap-cap Centrifuge Tubes (sealed by pressing, common in microcentrifuge tubes)
• Screw-cap Centrifuge Tubes, further divided into flat caps (top of the cap is flat) and plug caps (top of the cap has a plug-like shape)

4. Based on Material:

• Plastic Centrifuge Tubes
• Glass Centrifuge Tubes
• Steel Centrifuge Tubes

1. Plastic Centrifuge Tubes:

• Advantages: Transparent or semi-transparent, low hardness allowing sample retrieval by puncture. Disadvantages include susceptibility to deformation, poor resistance to organic solvent corrosion, and a relatively short lifespan. Plastic centrifuge tubes come with lids.

2. Glass Centrifuge Tubes:

• Caution should be exercised with the centrifugal force when using glass tubes, and rubber pads should be used to prevent breakage. High-speed centrifuges generally do not use glass tubes. The lids of glass centrifuge tubes may not provide sufficient sealing, preventing them from being filled to the brim (especially for high-speed centrifuges with angled rotors) to avoid spillage and imbalance. Spillage can contaminate the rotor and centrifuge chamber, affecting the proper functioning of sensors. When centrifuging at high speeds, it is essential to fill the tube completely to avoid deformation.

3. Steel Centrifuge Tubes:

• Steel tubes have high strength, resist deformation, tolerate heat, freezing, and chemical corrosion. However, they should avoid contact with strongly corrosive chemicals such as strong acids and bases. Steel tubes are resistant to high temperatures, fractures, and chemical corrosion. Despite the broad application of steel tubes, contact with highly corrosive chemicals should be avoided.

Lid Functions:

1. Prevents leakage of samples, especially in the case of radioactive or highly corrosive samples.
2. Prevents sample evaporation.
3. Supports the centrifuge tube, preventing deformation.

Considerations when Purchasing Centrifuge Tubes:

• Preferably choose polypropylene (PP) plastic centrifuge tubes when selecting plastic tubes. Check the lid for tightness and whether it seals well during experiments, especially when inverted.

Product Characteristics of Centrifuge Tubes:

1. Made of transparent high molecular weight polypropylene (PP).
2. Thick-walled centrifuge tubes can withstand centrifugal forces of 10,000 xg (15/50mL) and 7,500 xg (225mL).
3. Can be sterilized at high temperatures and pressures.
4. Free from DNA and RNA enzymes, without a heat source.
5. Available in bag or rack packaging.