VTi 65.2 vertical tube rotor: power and precision for biomolecular ultracentrifugation
The Beckman Coulter VTi 65.2 rotor is a precision instrument designed to meet the most stringent requirements for biomolecular separation inpreparative ultracentrifugation. Suitable for use in the brand's H, R and S class centrifuges, this vertical tube rotor can process up to 81.6 mL of samples distributed in 16 individual tubes, each inserted vertically to optimise force distribution and improve density gradient resolution. This type of configuration is particularly suitable for the separation of nucleic acids (such as plasmid or genomic DNA) and proteins on CsCl or sucrose gradients.
Made of titanium, a lightweight, robust and corrosion-resistant material, the VTi 65.2 has a black polyurethane paint finish and a reinforced safety system including a photoelectric overspeed disc. This device, installed at the base of the rotor, is detected by the ultracentrifuge to prevent the maximum permitted speed (65,000 rpm) from being exceeded. With a relative centrifugal force of up to 416,000 × g at maximum radius, this rotor is one of the most powerful in its class for protocols requiring extreme speeds.
Rotor preparation is simplified through the use of OptiSeal and Quick-Seal tubes, each requiring specific spacers depending on their type. OptiSeal tubes are closed by hydrostatic pressure and g-force, ensuring a tool-free seal, while Quick-Seal tubes are heat-sealed before centrifugation. These disposable tubes are single-use, minimising the risk of cross-contamination and optimising user safety, particularly when handling pathogenic samples.
In terms of operation, the VTi 65.2 requires a symmetrical tube arrangement with balanced filling to maintain rotor stability at high speeds. Each cavity used must be equipped with a spacer and a cap, screwed in place with a torque wrench to ensure a tight seal. The acceleration time to maximum speed is approximately 11 minutes, while deceleration takes 8 minutes, times that can be adjusted according to gradient stability requirements.
The VTi 65.2 thus embodies performance, reliability and safety, three fundamental pillars for demanding laboratories in molecular biology and biochemistry.
