Virtually all biological laboratories need a benchtop refrigerated centrifuge as refrigerated centrifugation steps are present in many biochemical and molecular separation portocols, including protein, DNA, and RNA preparations. In our experience, many instruments are unsatisfactory with respect to experimental requirements. An ideal machine would be compact, fast and quiet, while being able to spin a relatively large number of tubes with ease and flexibility.
The Heraeus Biofuge Fresco is a refrigerated centrifuge that can be easily placed on the bench thanks to the small footprint (11.4 x 17.7 inches) that leaves you plenty of space. In addition, the absence of vibration and noise make it compatible with placement in a working area. The rotor can hold up to 24 tubes, ranging from 0.2-2 ml in size (adaptors for PCR tubes are not included), while the aerosol-tight lid ensures a contained unit. Even at the maximum speed (16,000 g), the temperature can be held as low as 0oC. The ergonomic design and the straightforward design make it easy extremely user friendly.
We decided to buy a Heraeus Biofuge Fresco on the basis of two major considerations. First, we had been using the same model with satifactory results in a neighboring laboratory for more than 1 year. Second, we have a very small laboratory necessitating the use of instruments with a limited “environmental” impact (small, silent, etc.) After puchasing this centrifuge for our own lab, we are happy with both the reliability, versatility and low impact of the Heraeus Biofuge Fresco. I can shift from room temperature centrifugation to a 4oC in a few minutes (it takes less than 10 minutes to get the rotor perfectly equilibrated to 4oC). Although the front filter (for motor cooling) of the Heraeus Biofuge Fresco gets clogged with dust, it is easy to access and clean, thus, we never considered it to be a major problem. I have been using our Heraeus Biofuge Fresco for about a year, now, with 1.5 ml Eppendorf tubes to pellet both bacteria and mammalian cells, for sub-cellular separations and for RNA purification experiments. In all cases I was always extremely satisfied. Also, I centrifuged 0.2 ml PCR Eppemdorf tubes at low speed using 1.5 tubes as a support – I am not going to spend extra money for adaptors: they should be included in the price of the centrifuge!
All being considered, we are quite happy with the Heraeus Biofuge Fresco. The features of the instrument render it convenient for multiple applications, ranging from simple pelleting of cells to biochemical assays and enzymatic tests. The compact design, good performance and intuitive commands make it a practical, user-friendly device, perfectly suited for most laboratory requirements. In conclusion, I would say the fame of Heraeus as a good company for centrifuges is deserved for what concerns the Biofuge Fresco.
Dario Coletti, PhD
Research Associate
Univeristy of Rome La Sapienza, Italy