New homogenisers mix power with versatility

Stuart's new homogenisers, offer fast sample processing for life science applications. A choice of specially designed stainless steel and disposable polycarbonate probes provide the versatility to handle volumes ranging from 0.03 ml up to 2 litres.

The Stuart SHM1 is a lightweight, variable speed homogeniser ideal for handheld use. Its high-speed, high-torque 125 watt motor spins the rotor shaft at up to 35,000 rpm, enabling most samples to be processed within 30 seconds. However, for applications requiring longer processing the SHM1 can also be stand-mounted.

The 700 watt SHM2 handles virtually any homogenising task, including cell disruption, emulsions, suspensions and protein extraction. Powerful enough to process larger volumes and very tough tissue, such as lung, the SHM2 is generally intended for stand-mounting but may be handheld for short processes.

Both homogenisers accommodate a dedicated range of precision engineered stainless steel probes: 5 mm flat head as well as 7, 10 and 20 mm saw tooth probes capable of processing hard or frozen tissue. Sample volumes extend from 0.03 ml up to 2 litres and all probes can be autoclaved. Stuart stands out from other manufacturers by also offering packs of disposable polycarbonate probes for use with the SHM1 and SHM2. These 7 mm saw tooth probes can process 0.25-30 ml samples.

Jackie Taylor, Stuart Product Manager, comments, 'The new homogenisers are lightweight and ergonomically designed for ease of use. The availability of probes manufactured from polycarbonate, in addition to the usual stainless steel, offers a distinct advantage for labs where cross-contamination between samples must be avoided. These disposable probes are robust enough for processing hard tissue and, if necessary, can be dismantled and autoclaved up to seven times.'
All Stuart homogenisers are supplied with a tool kit for disassembling the probes for easy cleaning.

For further information, e-mail: info@bibby-scientific.com or view website: www.bibby-scientific.com  Refer to page 278

A smooth, impervious surface, which harbours no germs, fungi or bacteria

Ideal for hygienically sensitive locations such as clean rooms and pharmaceutical laboratories, Acrovyn Hydroclad from Construction Specialties (UK) Ltd is a new, easy-to-clean, impact-resistant cladding for internal walls. The product has a smooth, impervious surface, which harbours no germs, fungi or bacteria. It is available in white and also five other colours at no additional cost. Supplied in 2mm thick sheets, Hydroclad is quickly and easily applied to the  surface of a wall with adhesive.

Jointing options include colour-matched C/S Mastic or Trim sections or, for a superior hygienic finish, sheets may be welded. Longer-lasting than paint, and moisture-resistant, Hydroclad provides a complete and cost-effective way of achieving a smooth hygienic surface.

Hydroclad is fire-rated to BS476 Class 1 and is resistant to chemicals, acids, alkalis and grease. Frequent cleaning will not damage the surface or degrade its anti-bacterial properties and anti-fungal properties.

Refer to picture on the left:  Ideal for hygienically sensitive locations such as clean rooms and pharmaceutical laboratories.

For further information, e-mail: info@c-sgroup.co.uk  or view website: www.c-sgroup.co.uk

Sub-zero performance from T-Tubes

T-Tubes, the advanced pipe insulation system from Zotefoams, is gaining popularity as an easy fit, insulation solution for refrigerated systems.

Notoriously, refrigerated steel pipe work induces condensation, even in clean environments. Condensate invariably provides a breeding ground for microorganisms but more importantly it adversely affects the temperature gradient along the length of the line and makes it more susceptible to ambient humidity and temperature conditions.

Being manufactured from Zotek F closed cell PVDF Foam, T-Tubes have a working temperature range of -55°C to +155°C making them ideal for both low and high temperature insulation typically on applications from cold water to superheated steam

The T-Tube system comprises clamshell design straight components and custom moulded elbows and tees. Individual components are fixed with pressure sensitive adhesive tape or fast acting T-Tubes adhesive.
Components can be cut and installed within clean environments as they are made from closed cell foam that does not shed when being cut to size. 

Only 6mm in thickness, the T-Tube insulation system can be installed in practically any situation. Space and accessibility are reported to be seldom a problem when installing this non-porous FM approved system. Installation can be carried out successfully in virtually a third of the time it takes to fit competitive porous insulation materials that need separate jacketing. 

Tests have shown that T-Tubes insulation has a thermal conductivity (K) of 0.0317 W/mK @ 22°C according to the ASTM C-518 test method.

Zotefoams plc (LSE - ZTF) is the world's leading producer of lightweight, cross-linked, closed-cell block foams.  These pure, consistent foams are manufactured using a unique environmentally friendly nitrogen expansion technology.  Zotefoams was the first to develop cross-linked polyolefin block foams and is increasingly using its production technology to manufacture foamed materials based on high-performance polymers.  Based in Croydon, U.K., Zotefoams also manufactures in Kentucky, U.S.A. and markets its products worldwide through a global sales network.

For further information, e-mail: fl@zotefoams.com   

New disposable homogeniser probes from Stuart

Robust polycarbonate homogeniser probes from Stuart are economical enough for single use but also quick and easy to clean and autoclavable.

These 7 mm saw tooth probes can process 0.25-30 ml samples and are ideal for hard tissues such as heart, tumours, fatty tissue, muscle, kidney and lung, as well as all soft tissue applications. Compatibility with common reagent kits and with liquid nitrogen ensures complete versatility, while the clear two-piece construction eliminates sample loss.

The new Stuart probes are designed to be disposed of after a single use to prevent cross contamination but may also be autoclaved up to seven times or cleaned, for example with 5% chlorine bleach or 70% alcohol. However, unlike traditional stainless steel probes which may take as long as 15 minutes to strip down and clean, the polycarbonate probe can be dismantled in seconds and without tools.

Compatible with Stuart's lightweight SHM1 homogeniser and the more powerful SHM2 model, the polycarbonate probes are virtually unbreakable. Their processing capabilities are almost identical to those of stainless steel probes, except with the hardest sample types such as bone, cartilage and skin.

Robert Skehens, Bibby Scientific Marketing Director, comments, 'The disposable probes offer significant advantages for research, clinical and diagnostic laboratories. Using our polycarbonate product means it is now possible to completely eliminate the risk of cross-contamination by disposing of probes between samples, or to increase throughput by cutting radically the time required to disassemble and clean homogeniser probes.'

Bibby Scientific in profile
One of four new companies established by Nova Capital from the former Barloworld Scientific business which it acquired in November 2007, Bibby Scientific Limited focuses on the design, manufacture and distribution of three world-leading benchtop laboratory equipment brands: Jenway®, Stuart® and Techne®.

Stuart sample-processing equipment and Techne temperature control products are developed at Bibby Scientific's headquarters in Stone, Staffordshire, while the Jenway analytical range is manufactured at the company's Felsted, Essex site. All three brands are available through good laboratory distributors worldwide and Bibby Scientific Ltd has subsidiaries in France and Italy, as well as associated companies in Hong Kong and the USA.

For further information, e-mail: info@bibby-scientific.com or view website: www.bibby-scientific.com  Refer to page 299