Beckman Coulter Ultracentrifuges: Pioneering Excellence Since 1947
Beckman Coulter introduced the first commercial ultracentrifuge in 1947. Since then, their elite line of ultracentrifuges has attained incredible levels of speed and sophistication, without sacrificing usability. Analis together with Beckman Coulter are your long-term partners to warranty safety, performance and high quality services.
Different ultracentrifuge models enable a vast array of applications: choose between benchtop or floor models with optimal capacity and efficiency.
Compatible with extensive rotor and labware options, including multi-layered BioSafety* features for a safe and productive work environment.
Ensure maximum separation purity in the shortest possible time.
Your warranty on a long term:
Efficiency and quality of the devices.
Analis local advice and support.
Unlock the Advantages of our solutions for Your Business
New: OptiMATE™ Gradient Maker
Automate your gradient preparation with OptiMATE™ and reduce run time by over 75%.
Reliable, standardized, and intuitive — ideal for advanced purification workflows.
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The array of ultracentrifuges & power packed solutions for your separation needs
Floor ultracentrifuges: Optima XPN series
The Optima™ XPN is the premier ultracentrifuge. With networking capability and customizable security and tracking features to ensure chain of custody and compliance, the Optima XPN offers multi-layered BioSafety* features for a safe and productive work environment.
Equipped with the innovative eXpert simulation software
Available in 100k, 90k, and 80k RPM configurations
Compatible with extensive rotor and labware options
Backed by unparalleled service program options
Benchtop ultracentrifuges: Optima MAX-XP series
The Optima™ MAX-XP tabletop ultracentrifuge is a power-packed solution that delivers fast, efficient separations from samples as small as 175 μL up to 32.4 ml and at speeds of up to 150,000 RPM and more than 1,000,000 x g.
Advanced software with rigorous electronic record keeping including password-controlled access and complete audit trail documentation
Convenient touch-screen controls and easy-to-view display for gauging real-time speed, time and temperature
Four unique tube designs for unparalleled productivity across a wide range of applications
Features a proprietary multi-level approach to biosafety offering reliable protection
Analytical ultracentrifuges: Optima AUC series
Macromolecule characterization in solution
Enables characterization of samples in their native state
A specialized ultracentrifuge with unique detection capabilities
Monitors a wide variety of particles
No standards required: relies on first principles of thermodynamics
Beckman Total System Design
In the Beckman total system design, ultracentrifuges are backed by matching exclusive rotors, labware & accessories. Consult the catalogue for a complete overview of compatible rotors. Every rotor comes with a table listing rotor info & compatible tubes with
Maximum allowed speed per tube type
Required adapters & caps
Centrifugation force and efficiency (k-factor)
Other resources and literature
Viral Vector ultracentrifugation workflow
High-speed centrifugation and ultracentrifugation effectively separate viral particles from cells and cellular debris, while analytical ultracentrifugation can identify and separate viral particles based on capsid density, a measure of viral cargo. This allows empty viruses and viruses which have only partially incorporated the desired genetic material to be removed prior to transduction. The ability to consistently generate abundant high-quality virus is critical for eliminating batch-to-batch variability in terms of quality and efficiency when it comes to production of the end-product.
Ultracentrifugation for Exosome isolation and EV's
Whether from liquid biopsies or conditioned media, no other step is as critical to the success of your exosome research as your choice of isolation technique. Differential ultracentrifugation has been called the “gold standard”1 method, not only because it was the first method demonstrated to reliably isolate a pure fraction of exosomes, but also because exosomes produced by differential ultracentrifugation are largely intact and thought to contain a full complement of cargo molecules. Learn why density gradient ultracentrifugation is considered the gold standard for isolating and purifying exosomes or extracellular vesicles from body fluids.
Intellifuge. More Than Just A Rotor Calculator
Find compatible products or discover new ones
Simplify protocol transfer
Compare to make an informed decision List of possible combinations of rotors, tubes and centrifuges. Select one or more choices from the drop-down menu, then choose 'Configuration options' to see the possible combinations or choose 'Calculate' to find out g-force, k-factor and rpm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Ultracentrifuges and Gradient Materials
What is ultracentrifugation and how does it work?
Ultracentrifugation is a powerful technique that employs high-speed centrifugal force to separate particles based on their size, shape, and density. This method is crucial in various scientific fields, including molecular biology, biochemistry, and nanotechnology, for isolating specific components from complex mixtures.
In Belgium and Luxembourg, ultracentrifugation is widely used in laboratories for applications such as viral purification, organelle isolation, and protein separation. By spinning samples at extremely high speeds, ultracentrifuges create a strong centrifugal force that causes particles to sediment at different rates, allowing for precise separation and analysis.
Whether you are working in a research lab or a clinical setting, understanding and utilizing ultracentrifugation can significantly enhance your experimental outcomes. Explore our range of ultracentrifugation products and solutions tailored for laboratories in Belgium and Luxembourg to achieve optimal results in your scientific endeavors.
What Does a Complete Ultracentrifuge System Include?
A complete ultracentrifuge system includes several key components:
- Tubes: Specialized tubes designed to withstand high centrifugal forces.
- Rotors: Various types of rotors (fixed-angle, swinging-bucket) to accommodate different sample types and volumes.
- Chamber: The centrifuge chamber where the samples are placed.
- Speed and Temperature Control: Accurate and efficient speed control, often reaching up to 150,000 RPM, and precise temperature regulation to ensure optimal conditions for sensitive samples.
- Vacuum System: Reduces air friction and heat generation, allowing for higher speeds and better separation.
- Safety and Biosafety Barriers: Multi-layered safety features, including dynamic rotor inertia checks, rotor overspeed discs, and biosafety barriers to protect users and maintain a secure work environment.
Having a well-designed and expertly produced ultracentrifuge system is essential for both safety and efficiency. Beckman Coulter, a leader in ultracentrifugation technology, offers advanced systems like the Optima XPN, which includes networking capabilities, customizable security features, and remote monitoring. These features ensure that your lab operates smoothly and safely, providing reliable results every time.
What are density gradient reagents and why are they important?
Density gradient centrifugation is a technique used in biochemistry, molecular biology, and other fields to separate particles or molecules based on their buoyant density or sedimentation coefficient in a gradient of density-forming material.
Density gradient reagents, such as cesium chloride and iodixanol, are used to create a gradient in which particles can be separated based on their buoyant density. These reagents are crucial for applications like virus purification, isolation of subcellular structures, and fractionation of cells.
How do I choose the right density gradient reagent for my application?
The choice of reagent depends on the specific requirements of your application. For example, iodixanol is often used for viral separations due to its high resolution and low toxicity, while cesium chloride is preferred for nucleic acid separations.
OptiMATE Cesium Chloride & Iodixanol
A wide range of sample types can be purified using OptiMATE reagents, which are very versatile and can be applied to both step and linear (continuous) gradients. An ionic salt with a high hygroscopicity that produces low-viscosity solutions is cesium chloride. It is frequently employed in the purification of nucleic acids and viruses. Iodixanol, on the other hand, is a highly viscous, non-ionic compound that is frequently kinder to particles with lipid membranes, including cells and extracellular vesicles.
Liquid solutions designed for density gradient centrifugation, ideal for isolating various cell types, subcellular particles (such as plasmid DNA) and viruses. Our high-quality reagents are sterile and have low endotoxin levels (≤ 1 EU/mL) to support current good manufacturing practices (cGMP) workflows.
What are the different types of density gradients used in ultracentrifugation?
There are three main types of density gradients:
|
Types |
Rate Zonal |
Isopycnic |
Equilibrium Zonal |
|
Separation basis |
Materials separate in a pre-formed density gradient according to their S-values (mass and size). |
In a continuous, self-forming density gradient, materials separate according to buoyant density. |
Materials separate in a pre-formed density gradient according to buoyant density. |
|
Typical gradient |
Continuous gradient (e.g., linear sucrose gradients) |
Continuous gradient (e.g., CsCl gradients) |
The sample is separated into discrete segments of density (or steps) |
|
Common Gradient material(s) |
Iodixanol, Sucrose |
CsCl, Iodixanol |
Iodixanol (more common for viral separations), sucrose |
|
Advantage |
High resolution rate-based separation of materials with similar S-values |
Highest resolution separation by density |
One-step purification and concentration by density |
| Illustration of gradient before and after ultracentrifugation |  |  |  |
What are the common applications of density gradient ultracentrifugation?
Density gradient ultracentrifugation is used for:
Separation of biomolecules
|
DNA, RNA, proteins, etc. |
Virus purification
|
Isolating different capsid types (virus and viral vector like AAV's), including, empty, partially loaded, full, and overloaded.
|
Isolation of subcellular structures |
Nuclei, mitochondria, lysosomes, membranes, LNP's, EV's. |
Fractionation of cells
|
Studying distinct cell populations within heterogeneous samples. |
How should I store and handle density gradient reagents like OptiMATE Cesium Chloride and Iodixanol?
Density gradient reagents should be stored at room temperature (20°C) and have a shelf life of 18 months from the date of manufacture. They should be disposed of at an approved hazardous waste disposal plant according to your organization’s waste disposal plan.
Our products
The Optimate™ Gradient Maker by Beckman Coulter is a breakthrough tool for preparing density gradients in ultracentrifugation workflows. Designed for research and diagnostic labs, it offers unmatched precision, automation, and reproducibility.
Optimate™ Gradient Maker – Simplify and Standardize Your Gradient Preparations
Whether you're working in molecular biology, virus purification, exosome isolation, or complex biomolecule fractionation, Optimate™ delivers:
- Manual or automated gradient preparation—adapt to your workflow
- Real-time process visualization via an intuitive interface
- Improved reproducibility with reduced operator variability
- Time savings and enhanced experimental consistency
Optimized for use with OptiSeal™ and Quick-Seal® tubes in SW 32 Ti or SW 41 Ti rotors, this system seamlessly integrates into any Beckman Coulter ultracentrifuge environment.
Analis is the exclusive distributor of the Optimate™ Gradient Maker in Belgium and Luxembourg. Benefit from our local support and scientific expertise to successfully implement it in your protocols.
👉 Contact our specialists!
The Optima™ MAX-XP tabletop ultracentrifuge is a power-packed solution that delivers fast, efficient separations from samples as small as 175 µL up to 32.4 ml and at speeds of up to 150,000 RPM (2,500 revolutions per second) and more than 1,000,000 x g.
-Advanced software with rigorous electronic record keeping including password-controlled access and complete audit trail documentation
-Convenient touch-screen controls and easy-to-view display for gauging real-time speed, time and temperature
-Four unique tube designs for unparalleled productivity across a wide range of applications
-Features a proprietary multi-level approach to biosafety offering reliable protection
Features :
Track Detail Usage History
Security and tracking features manage your rotor life by serial number.
Password protection and electronic signatures help you maintain chain of custody and compliance.
Receive Diagnostic Alerts via Email
Remote monitoring and control enables you to start, stop, and monitor from your computer, smart phone, or tablet.
Enhanced Safety
Fits in standard biosafety hood
BioSafe optional dual PALL® Pharmaceutical Grade Sterilizing Filters
User-Friendly, Multilingual Interface
Full color LCD touchscreen display
Allows for large icons for easy selection
Touchscreen works with many glove types
9 different languages available for the intuitive interface (most in industry)
The Optima™ XPN is the premier ultracentrifuge. With networking capability and customizable security and tracking features to ensure chain of custody and compliance, the Optima XPN offers multi-layered BioSafety* features for a safe and productive work environment.
-Equipped with the innovative eXpert simulation software
-Available in 100k, 90k, and 80k RPM configurations
-Compatible with extensive rotor and labware options
-Backed by unparalleled service program options
Features :
Optimize protocols before running
Quickly perform common calculations and conversions with proprietary software to optimize protocols, save time, and save samples.
Receive diagnostic alerts via email
Remote monitoring and control enables you to start, stop, and monitor from your computer, smart phone, or tablet.
Track detail usage history
Security and tracking features manage your rotor life by serial number. Password protection and electronic signatures help you maintain chain of custody and compliance.
Enhanced Safety
Dynamic Rotor Inertia Check (DRIC)
Rotor overspeed disc
Real and simulated testing
BioSafe optional dual PALL® Pharmaceutical Grade Sterilizing Filters
The MLA-55 fixed angle rotor, rated for 55 000 rpm, has a tube angle of 35 degrees from the axis of rotation. The rotor can centrifuge up to eight tubes and is used in Beckman Coulter Optima MAX, MAX-XP, and MAX-E tabletop ultracentrifuges.
The rotor, lid, and handle are made of aluminium and anodized to resist corrosion. A rotor retention mechanism on the ultracentrifuge drive hub secures the rotor during the run. Lubricated O-rings made of Buna-N rubber in the rotor lid and handle maintain atmospheric pressure inside the rotor during centrifugation. The tube cavities are numbered to aid in sample identification.
The ultracentrifuge identifies rotor speed during the run by means of a magnetic speed sensor in the instrument chamber and magnets on the bottom of the rotor. This overspeed protection system ensures that the rotor does not exceed its maximum permitted speed.
Major Applications: Subcellular isolations.
For use in the Optima MAX-XP Benchtop Ultracentrifuges and Optima MAX Micro Ultracentrifuges.
Major applications: Rapid differential sedimentation (pelleting) of small particles such as subcellular organelles and viruses. For use in the Optima MAX-XP Benchtop Ultracentrifuge.
Rotor Package Includes:
- Rotor,
- 1 box 344625 Quick-Seal Polypropylene Tubes,
- 10 each 367310 Spacers,
- 1 each 349387 Tube Rack,
- 975001 O-ring,
- 927208 Hemostats,
- 306812 Spinkote Lubricant,
- 335148 Vacuum Grease.
This titanium top-loading swing-out
ultracentrifuge rotor is for use in Beckman Coulter instruments classified: H R S
The major applications covered are the separation of subcellular particles and viruses in density gradients.
This versatile rotor is also compatible with interchangeable SW 32.1 Ti bucket sets, which allow for a longer pathway and greater g-forces at the bottom of the thinner tubes. The SW 32 Ti and SW 32.1 Ti are swinging-bucket rotors designed to centrifuge up to six tubes each.
This ultracentrifuge rotor is for use in instruments classified H R S
Major applications are Rate-zonal centrifugation of proteins, RNA and subcellular particles.
Package Includes :
- Rotor,
- 2 boxes 331374 Polypropylene Tubes,
- 2 boxes 344060 Ultra-Clear Tubes,
- 1 each 330070 Hinge Pin Tool,
- 331313 Bucket Holder Rack,
- 306812 Spinkote Lubricant,
- 335148 Vacuum Grease,
- 330335 Overspeed Disk,
- 24 each 331309 Gaskets for Buckets.
This ultracentrifuge rotor is to be used in instruments classified HRS
Major applications covered are rate-zonal and isopycnic centrifugation of viruses, rate-zonal centrifugation of RNA.
Assembly Includes:
- SW 41 Ti Rotor head and
- 333790 Bucket Set
For use in instruments classified: H R S
Major applications: Rate-zonal separations of small particles.
Package Includes :
- Rotor,
- 2 boxes 326819 Polypropylene Tubes,
- 2 boxes 344057 Ultra-Clear Tubes,
- 1 each 330070 Hinge Pin Tool,
- 331313 Bucket Holder Rack,
- 306812 Spinkote Lubricant,
- 335148 Vacuum Grease,
- 328896 Overspeed Disk,
- 24 each 824412 O-rings.
Major applications: Pelleting of subcellular fractions; proteins; RNA. Note: Non-precipitating solutions up to 1.7 g/mL in density can be run in this rotor without a reduction in rotor speed.
For use in the Optima MAX-XP Benchtop Ultracentrifuge, Optima TLX personal micro-ultracentrifuges, and Optima MAX high-capacity personal micro-ultracentrifuges, and the discontinued TL-100 and; Optima TL micro-ultracentrifuges.
Rotor Package Includes:
- Rotor,
- 1 box 343775 Thickwall Polycarbonate Tubes,
- 1 each 348302 Tube Rack,
- 824412 O-Ring (inner, rotor lid),
- 824953 O-Rings (outer, rotor lid),
- 927208 Hemostats,
- 346133 Rotor Rotor Vise/Stand,
- 306812 Spinkote Lubricant,
- 335148 Vacuum Grease.
Major Applications: Rapid pelleting of nucleic acid precipitates in 1.5 mL tubes.
For use in the Optima MAX-XP Benchtop Ultracentrifuge, Optima TLX personal micro-ultracentrifuges, and Optima MAX high-capacity personal micro-ultracentrifuges, and the discontinued TL-100 and Optima TL micro-ultracentrifuges.
Rotor Package Includes:
- BioCertified Rotor,
- 1 box 357448 Microcentrifuge Tubes,
- 1 each 824412 and 824644 O-rings,
- 348122 Tube Rack,
- 927208 Hemostats,
- 306812 Spinkote Lubricant,
- 335148 Vacuum Grease.
This ultracentrifuge rotor is for use in instruments classified H R S.
Note: This rotor cannot be used in 40,000 rpm F or H instruments or the L5-50E unless the instruments have been upgraded with a diffusion pump and vacuum indicator.
Major applications: differential centrifugation of large volumes of subcellular fractions and viruses.
Assembly Includes:
3 each 854519 O-rings (small),
3 each 878260 O-ring (large),
and 2 each 335458 Overspeed Disks.
