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Lab Homogenizers

How Homogenization Works & How We Save You Time & Money

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Lab homogenizer

Homogenization is a common and necessary procedure in a range of industries and laboratories, as it allows manufacturers and scientists to more easily combine samples.

General lab equipment

Homogenization in the lab is the process by which the components of a substance are broken up into tiny particles equal in size and structure, before being thoroughly mixed back together, creating a homogenous mixture.

This is typically done to substances that are mutually insoluble and immiscible, making them equal in size and, hence, miscible. It differs from emulsification in that emulsifying substances only requires that they are mixed into one another. However, when performing homogenization, emulsification is usually performed first.

In some cases, homogenization is also referred to as micronization or cell fractionation. Although liquids are the most common, scientists also homogenize tissue, food, plant, and soil samples. For example, specific devices, called tissue homogenizers, are made for tasks involving the breaking down of tissue structure to form an emulsion of tissue solids, proteins, and fluid.

Molecular biology, cell biology, and biochemistry laboratories utilize homogenization for research and production, while the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries implement cell disruption and cell lysis, the process of breaking down a cell’s membrane through viral, enzymic, or osmotic mechanisms, in a variety of ways. While similar to homogenization, these two methods are used in situations where the nucleus should be kept intact.

In molecular biology, PCR is just one application that benefits from homogenization, where sample preparation is vital to achieving accurate results.

Homogenization is a vital part of today’s scientific world, and laboratory homogenizers are best suited for the job. These machines are an important part of any modern laboratory, and aid in everything from simple mixing tasks to the development of cost effective, life-saving medicines and alternative biofuels.

Laboratory homogenizers come in a variety of styles that operate using different methods of force. These methods offer a myriad of applications, including DNA/RNA extraction, particle size reduction, and the preparation of suspensions, emulsions, and dispersions.

The mortar and pestle is perhaps the original homogenization method used, having been invented thousands of years ago.

Lab Mixer & Homogenizer Methods, Types & Prices

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It’s important to understand the requirements of your lab or company to ensure that you buy the correct type of device. This includes homogenization method and components used to break apart substances.

Take into consideration the type of method best suited for your needs, as well as the size. Do you need a small handheld homogenizer, a benchtop homogenizer, or something bigger, fit for industrial and large-scale needs?

Let’s review some common methods.

Agitation, Impact, Stirring, and Shearing

Mechanical homogenizers can utilize blades, beads, or probes to break apart cells. Some examples include:

  • Bead mill homogenizers
  • Rotor-stator homogenizers and blade homogenizers
  • High shear mixers and high shear homogenizers

Bead mill homogenizers, or bead mills, use small beads to agitate a sample and break it open in order to understand its intracellular contents.

Rotor-stator homogenizers, as well as high shear mixers, use a rotating rotor to draw a sample up through a stator with small holes, shearing the sample into very small particles.

Although blade homogenizers are less efficient, their simple design and use of blades allows for a wide variety of samples to be processed. Mechanical homogenizers have greatly improved the speed and quality of homogenization through updated speed control and digital displays.

High Pressure

A high pressure homogenizer, or HPH, similar to but slightly different than its mechanical counterpart, uses pressure in order to lyse cells.

Shearing is achieved by passing a sample through a system that applies force in a number of ways, as the sample squeezes through a narrow opening, effectively disrupting the cellular bonds.

These machines can be used to modify microorganisms, create cost-effective drugs, and synthesize new chemicals.

Ultrasonic

Ultrasonic treatment, also known as sonication or ultrasonication, is the method of applying sound to agitate cells or subcellular structures in suspension. This technique is used for the extraction of compounds from samples like seaweed, plants, and so much more.

By creating microbubbles within a sample, the cells eventually expand and burst open. These devices, known as ultrasonic homogenizers, are especially useful in the field of life sciences.

Cell fractionation is another method of homogenization, and is a term most commonly used in the biotech industry. This three-step process separates cellular components while preserving the individual function of each component. The steps are:

  • Extraction: Firstly, in order to maintain any biological activity, isolation must occur.
  • Homogenization: Once a cell or tissue is isolated in suspension, the cells are disrupted using homogenization. Accomplish by either grinding, osmotic shock, or some form of high pressure. Sometimes ultrasonication may even be used.
  • Centrifugation: After homogenization, separation (fractionation) of different components of the mixture is done with the use of a type of centrifuge called an ultracentrifuge. This device spins at extremely high speeds to generate force, separating small molecules from one another.

High-Shear Mixer Leases to Fit Every Need

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Founder-Friendly Leases

Our lease agreements are founder-friendly and flexible, helping you preserve working capital, strengthen the cash flow of your business, and keep business credit lines open for expansions, staffing, and other crucial operational expenses and business development opportunities.

2-5 Year Lease Lengths

Leases range from 2 to 5 years. Length will depend on several factors, including how long you want to use the equipment, equipment type, and your company’s financial position. These are standard factors leasing companies consider and help us tailor a lease agreement to fit your needs.

Your Choice of Manufacturer

We don’t carry an inventory. This means you’re not limited to a specific set of manufacturers. Instead, you can pick the equipment that aligns with your business goals and preferences. We’ll work with the manufacturer of your choice to get the equipment in your facility as quickly as possible.

Maintenance & Repair Coverage

Bundle preventive maintenance and repair coverage with your lease agreement. You can spread those payments over time. Easily maintain your equipment, minimize the chances something will break down, repair instrumentation quickly, and simplify your payment processes.

End-of-Lease Options

At the end of your lease, you have multiple options. You can either renew the lease at a significantly lower price, purchase the machine outright based on the fair market value of the original pricing, or call it a day and we’ll come the pick up the equipment for you free of charge.

No Loan-Like Terms

Our leases do not include loan-like terms, which can be restrictive or harmful in certain situations. We do not require debt covenants, IP pledges, collateral,  or equity participation. Our goal is to maximize your flexibility. When you lease with us, you’re collaborating with a true business partner.

In-House Underwriting Process

Our underwriting is done in-house. You can expect quicker turnaround, allowing you respond to your equipment needs as they arise. We require less documentation than traditional lenders and financiers and can get the equipment you need in operation more quickly.