Relative Centrifugal Force Calculator
The relative centrifugal force (RCF) used in laboratory sedimentation procedures is absolutely critical to organism recovery and diagnostic accuracy. Unfortunately the majority of laboratories mistakenly assume that RCF and RPM are equivalent. This failure can have serious consequences, especially in AFB specimen processing, as mycobacteria are very difficult to sediment due to their buoyancy.
To help ensure our customers are processing their samples in the best possible way, we have provided an easy-to-use calculator that allows for the conversion of RPM to RCF. To use this calculator simply measure the radius of your centrifuge in cm. This measurement should be from the center of the rotor to the extreme edge of the tube when the centrifuge is in motion. Once this measurement is taken, enter that number and the desired RCF. In the case of mycobacteria processing 3000xg is the proper RCF. The calculator will return the appropriate RPM at which to set your centrifuge.
