Eppendorf MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus Mini Centrifuges for Laboratories – 12 Tubes

The MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus laboratory microcentrifuges are compact benchtop instruments designed for the centrifugation of small sample volumes. They are particularly suitable for sample preparation and separation procedures in molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, pharmaceutical research and life science laboratories.

With a capacity of 12 microcentrifuge tubes of 1.5 or 2.0 ml, these instruments allow multiple samples to be processed during the same centrifugation cycle. Their compact construction, maintenance-free motor and digital display make them practical for everyday laboratory operations.

Technical Specifications

Product: MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus Mini Centrifuges
Equipment type: Benchtop laboratory microcentrifuges
Intended use: General Lab Product for scientific research
Capacity: 12 × 1.5/2.0 ml microcentrifuge tubes
Maximum speed – MiniSpin® plus: 14,500 rpm
Motor: Maintenance-free
Display: Digital
Short-spin function: Included
Lid: Automatic opening
Rotor: Autoclavable at 121 °C for 20 minutes
Acceleration and deceleration: Less than 13 seconds to and from maximum speed
Sample temperature increase: Manufacturer-stated maximum of 12 °C after 20 minutes at maximum speed
Dimensions (W × D × H): 226 × 239 × 120 mm
Weight: 4.3 kg
Rated power: 85 W
Power supply: 230 V, 50/60 Hz

MiniSpin® – Specific Features

Included rotor: Standard anodised aluminium rotor
Timer: Adjustable up to 30 minutes
Operating modes: Timed centrifugation and short-spin operation

MiniSpin® plus – Specific Features

Included rotor: Black Line aluminium rotor
Display: Rotational speed in RPM and relative centrifugal force in RCF
Timer: Adjustable up to 99 minutes
Continuous centrifugation: Available
Maximum speed: 14,500 rpm

Main Advantages

Space-saving design: Compact dimensions for laboratory benches and workstations with limited available space.

Quiet operation: Carefully balanced drive system designed to minimise operating noise.

Maintenance-free motor: Reduces routine motor maintenance requirements.

Autoclavable rotor: Can be autoclaved at 121 °C for 20 minutes in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Fast centrifugation cycles: Acceleration and deceleration times of less than 13 seconds.

Digital control: Clear display of operating parameters, including RPM and RCF indication on the MiniSpin® plus.

Automatic lid opening: Convenient access to samples following centrifugation.

Laboratory Applications

MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus microcentrifuges are intended for molecular biology laboratories, biotechnology research, genetics, pharmaceutical research and life science applications. They can be used for centrifuging microcentrifuge tubes, collecting liquids at the bottom of tubes and preparing samples for subsequent experimental procedures, subject to the instrument specifications and applicable laboratory protocols.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between the MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus mini centrifuges?
The MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus belong to the same family of compact laboratory microcentrifuges, but they offer different operating features and rotor configurations. Both models accommodate 12 microcentrifuge tubes of 1.5 or 2.0 ml and include a maintenance-free motor, digital display, short-spin function and automatic lid opening. The MiniSpin® is supplied with a standard anodised aluminium rotor and features a timer adjustable up to 30 minutes. The MiniSpin® plus includes a Black Line aluminium rotor, provides RPM and RCF indication, offers a timer adjustable up to 99 minutes and supports continuous centrifugation. The plus version is particularly suitable for molecular biology applications requiring higher centrifugation speeds. Choosing between the two models depends on the required centrifugal speed, sample volume, centrifugation duration and the operating parameters specified by the laboratory protocol. Laboratories performing routine short centrifugation procedures may find the standard version suitable, while those requiring extended operating times and additional display functions may benefit from the MiniSpin® plus.

• How many samples can the MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus centrifuge simultaneously?
Both MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus microcentrifuges accommodate 12 microcentrifuge tubes of 1.5 or 2.0 ml. This capacity makes them suitable for laboratories working with small sample volumes and requiring several tubes to be centrifuged during the same operating cycle. Tubes of these sizes are commonly used in molecular biology, genetics, biotechnology and scientific research. The 12-position rotor allows users to organise repetitive sample preparation procedures without requiring a larger centrifuge when higher capacities are unnecessary. Before centrifugation, users should verify tube compatibility with the installed rotor, respect the maximum permitted speed of the consumables and ensure that samples are correctly balanced. The stated capacity refers to the specified 1.5/2.0 ml tubes and should not automatically be extended to other tube sizes or formats without checking the manufacturer's approved accessories and operating instructions. Correct tube selection and balanced loading are essential for safe and consistent laboratory operation.

• What are the advantages of a compact benchtop microcentrifuge for molecular biology laboratories?
A compact benchtop microcentrifuge allows laboratory personnel to centrifuge small sample volumes while occupying minimal workspace. MiniSpin® microcentrifuges measure only 226 × 239 × 120 mm, making them particularly useful for sample preparation workstations, genetics laboratories and molecular biology research facilities. Their maintenance-free motor simplifies routine instrument management, while the carefully balanced drive system contributes to quiet operation. The digital display makes operating parameters easy to read, and the dedicated short-spin button allows users to perform brief centrifugation steps, such as collecting liquid at the bottom of microcentrifuge tubes. Another important advantage is the acceleration and deceleration time of less than 13 seconds, which can reduce waiting time during repetitive laboratory procedures. The automatic lid opening system also makes sample access more convenient. When selecting a laboratory microcentrifuge, users should consider the required speed, sample volume, tube compatibility and the specific requirements of their experimental protocols.

• Can the MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus centrifuge rotors be autoclaved?
Yes. The MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus rotors can be autoclaved at 121 °C for 20 minutes, according to the manufacturer's stated conditions. This feature is useful for laboratories that require defined cleaning and decontamination procedures for reusable components. However, an autoclavable rotor does not mean that the entire centrifuge can be sterilised in an autoclave. Only the components specifically approved by the manufacturer should undergo this process. Users must follow the relevant instructions concerning rotor removal, preparation, permitted autoclaving conditions and inspection after treatment. Routine cleaning procedures should also be compatible with the materials used in the equipment. In molecular biology, pharmaceutical research and biotechnology laboratories, appropriate handling and maintenance of reusable components help support reliable working conditions and reduce contamination risks. Before performing any sterilisation or decontamination procedure, laboratory personnel should consult the official operating instructions and observe all applicable safety requirements.

• Are MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus suitable for pharmaceutical, biotechnology and scientific research laboratories?
The MiniSpin® and MiniSpin® plus microcentrifuges are classified as General Lab Products intended for scientific research applications. They can be considered for use in molecular biology, biotechnology, genetics, pharmaceutical research and life science laboratories that routinely prepare samples in 1.5 and 2.0 ml microcentrifuge tubes. Their principal features include compact dimensions, a 12-tube capacity, digital control, short-spin operation and autoclavable rotors. The MiniSpin® plus also offers RPM/RCF indication, continuous centrifugation and a timer adjustable up to 99 minutes, making it suitable for research protocols requiring additional operating flexibility. These instruments may support sample preparation, liquid collection and separation procedures within the limits specified by the manufacturer. However, use in regulated pharmaceutical environments requires separate assessment of instrument suitability, qualification procedures and any applicable validation requirements. General Lab Product classification does not automatically indicate approval for clinical diagnostic applications or certification of GMP or GLP compliance.