Laboratory centrifuges are essential for sample preparation, clinical diagnostics, and life sciences research. Choosing the right benchtop centrifuge can significantly improve laboratory efficiency, sample protection and workflow productivity.
The Sigma 3-16T centrifuge and Sigma 3-17KT refrigerated centrifuge are designed to deliver powerful performance, flexible rotor compatibility and reliable results across a wide range of laboratory applications. Whether you are processing blood tubes, preparing biological samples or conducting molecular biology research, these advanced centrifuges provide the versatility and precision modern laboratories require.
In this guide, we explore the key features, benefits and applications of the Sigma 3-16T and Sigma 3-17KT centrifuges - and how they can optimise laboratory workflows.
What Is a Benchtop Laboratory Centrifuge?
A benchtop centrifuge is a compact laboratory instrument used to separate components of a sample based on density by spinning tubes at high speeds.
Common centrifugation applications include:
- Blood and plasma separation
- Cell harvesting
- DNA and RNA extraction
- Protein purification
- Sample preparation for diagnostics and research
Benchtop centrifuges are widely used in clinical laboratories, biotechnology research, pharmaceutical development and academic institutions because they offer powerful performance while occupying minimal laboratory space.
Sigma 3-16T Centrifuge: Reliable Performance for Routine Laboratory Workflows
The Sigma 3-16T centrifuge is designed for laboratories that require dependable centrifugation for routine sample processing.
Key Features of the Sigma 3-16T
- Speed range up to 15,800rpm
- High-performance benchtop centrifugation
- Touch screen control panel
- Automatic rotor detection
- Automatic digital imbalance monitoring
- USB port to export and document run data
- Compact footprint
- Quiet and stable operation with a silent motorised lid lock operation
The Sigma 3-16T supports a wide range of laboratory applications, making it an excellent solution for clinical diagnostics, environmental testing and general laboratory workflows.
Its robust design ensures consistent performance even in high-throughput laboratory environments.
Sigma 3-17KT Refrigerated Centrifuge: Temperature Control for Sensitive Samples
The Sigma 3-17KT refrigerated centrifuge offers the same powerful centrifugation capabilities as the 3-16T, with the added benefit of high-performance cooling technology.
Temperature control is essential for laboratories handling temperature-sensitive biological materials, including proteins, enzymes and nucleic acids.
Key Benefits of the Sigma 3-17KT
- Integrated refrigeration system with a temperature setting range: -20 °C to +40 °C
- Stable temperature control during centrifugation
- Narrower footprint compared to predecessor 3-16KL centrifuge
- Fast precooling program using Rapid Temp function to cool rotor chamber to designed temperature prior to loading samples
- Ideal for molecular biology and clinical research
By maintaining low temperatures throughout the centrifugation process, the Sigma 3-17KT helps preserve sample integrity and ensures reliable experimental outcomes.
Flexible Rotor Options for Multiple Sample Types
One of the major advantages of the Sigma 3-16T and Sigma 3-17KT centrifuges is their extensive rotor compatibility, with a selection of swing out and fixed angled rotors. All the fixed angled rotors come with aerosol tight bio certified lids.
Laboratories can configure the centrifuge to accommodate various tube formats, including:
- Microcentrifuge tubes
- Blood collection tubes
- Conical centrifuge tubes
- 96 well plates
This flexibility allows laboratories to handle diverse workflows with a single centrifuge, reducing equipment costs and improving operational efficiency.
User-Friendly Controls for Efficient Laboratory Operation
Ease of operation is essential in laboratories where multiple users may operate the same equipment.
The Sigma 3-16T and Sigma 3-17KT feature an intuitive touchscreen control panel that allow users to quickly configure centrifugation parameters such as:
- Speed
- Run time
- Temperature (3-17KT model)
- Set and store up to 99 programs
This user-focused design reduces training requirements and helps laboratories maintain smooth, efficient workflows.
Applications of Sigma 3-16T & 3-17KT Centrifuges
Thanks to their versatility and reliability, these centrifuges support a wide range of laboratory applications:
- Clinical diagnostics laboratories
- Biotechnology and life sciences research
- Pharmaceutical laboratories
- Blood sample processing
- Molecular biology workflows
- Academic research institutions
- Environmental and industrial testing laboratories
Their flexible rotor options and powerful performance make them a multi-purpose centrifugation solution for modern laboratories.
Sigma 3-16T vs Sigma 3-17KT: Which Centrifuge Is Right for Your Laboratory?
When selecting between the two models, the main consideration is whether temperature control is required.
Choose the Sigma 3-16T if you need:
- Reliable centrifugation for routine laboratory workflows
- A compact benchtop centrifuge for general applications
- Efficient sample processing in clinical or testing labs
Choose the Sigma 3-17KT if you need:
- A refrigerated centrifuge for temperature-sensitive samples
- Stable cooling for molecular biology or protein research
- Enhanced sample protection during centrifugation
Why Choose Sigma Laboratory Centrifuges?
Sigma have been manufacturing centrifuges for more than 50 years and are widely recognised for their precision engineering, durability and laboratory-focused design. The Sigma 3-16T and Sigma 3-17KT models reflect this commitment by combining performance, versatility and ease of use.
For laboratories seeking a high-performance benchtop centrifuge, these models provide the reliability and flexibility required to support modern scientific workflows.
Learn More About Sigma 3-Series Centrifuges
If you are looking to upgrade your laboratory centrifugation equipment, the Sigma 3-16T and Sigma 3-17KT centrifuges offer powerful, space-efficient solutions for a wide range of laboratory applications.
Contact our team today to learn more about the new range of Sigma centrifuges and how these centrifuges can support your laboratory workflows.