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Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R Refrigerated Benchtop Centrifuge with Microplate Rotor
The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R Refrigerated Benchtop Centrifuge is a high-performance refrigerated laboratory centrifuge designed for biotechnology laboratories, pharmaceutical research facilities, clinical laboratories, genomics laboratories, molecular biology workflows, and high-throughput screening applications. This particular configuration includes a microplate rotor, providing laboratories with a ready-to-use solution for microplate centrifugation, PCR workflows, genomics applications, ELISA preparation, and other plate-based research procedures.
Laboratories evaluating refrigerated centrifuges often compare rotor compatibility, sample capacity, refrigeration performance, maximum RPM and RCF capability, throughput, and workflow flexibility when selecting a centrifuge system. The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R combines powerful refrigerated centrifugation performance with the flexibility to process microplates and traditional laboratory vessels, making it an excellent choice for laboratories that require both sample protection and high-throughput capability.
At American Instrument Exchange, our technicians inspect and test each centrifuge to verify proper refrigeration performance, motor operation, braking systems, lid lock functionality, rotor operation, and controller performance prior to shipment. American Instrument Exchange offers used and refurbished laboratory centrifuges for sale, including refrigerated centrifuges, floor model centrifuges, benchtop centrifuges, microcentrifuges, and large-capacity bioprocessing centrifuge systems from leading manufacturers including Thermo Scientific, Beckman Coulter, Eppendorf, and more.
Features of the Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R
Refrigerated benchtop centrifuge
Includes microplate rotor
Temperature control for sensitive biological samples
Maximum speed up to 15,200 RPM depending on rotor configuration
Maximum force up to 25,830 × g depending on rotor configuration
Supports microplate centrifugation workflows
Suitable for PCR plates, deep-well plates, and assay plates
Digital control interface
High-throughput sample processing capability
Compact laboratory footprint
Clinical and research laboratory compatibility
90-day warranty included from American Instrument Exchange
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R provides laboratories with the flexibility to process both microplates and traditional laboratory vessels while maintaining refrigerated sample protection throughout centrifugation.
Overview of the Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R Refrigerated Benchtop Centrifuge
The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R is a refrigerated benchtop centrifuge optimized for biotechnology research, pharmaceutical development, genomics workflows, molecular biology applications, clinical sample preparation, and general laboratory centrifugation procedures. Unlike non-refrigerated centrifuges, the ST 16R incorporates active temperature control to help maintain sample integrity throughout processing.
This particular system includes a microplate rotor, making it especially attractive for laboratories performing PCR preparation, next-generation sequencing workflows, ELISA assays, cell-based screening, compound screening, and other high-throughput applications. Microplate centrifugation is commonly used to remove bubbles, collect sample volumes at the bottom of wells, and improve consistency across plate-based assays.
The combination of refrigeration, high-performance centrifugation, and the included microplate rotor makes the Sorvall ST 16R particularly valuable in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical laboratories, contract research organizations, genomics facilities, academic research institutions, and core laboratory facilities.
Browse additional used centrifuges for sale from American Instrument Exchange.
Common Applications for the Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R
The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R is commonly used for PCR plate preparation, genomics workflows, ELISA assays, high-throughput screening, molecular biology research, biotechnology sample preparation, pharmaceutical research, clinical sample processing, cell culture applications, and general refrigerated laboratory centrifugation procedures. The included microplate rotor makes this configuration particularly useful for laboratories processing large numbers of plate-based samples while maintaining temperature control.
Rotor Compatibility and Included Accessories
Rotor compatibility is one of the most important considerations when purchasing a laboratory centrifuge. The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R is designed to support a variety of laboratory workflows depending on installed rotor configuration.
The included microplate rotor is commonly used for:
PCR plates
Deep-well plates
ELISA plates
Genomics workflows
High-throughput screening applications
Molecular biology research
Drug discovery workflows
Biotechnology sample preparation
The included microplate rotor provides laboratories with a ready-to-use solution for plate-based applications and eliminates the need to source a compatible rotor separately.
Customers should verify included rotors prior to purchase, as centrifuge configurations can vary between systems.
Specifications for the Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R
Specification
Details
Manufacturer
Thermo Scientific
Model
Sorvall ST 16R
Centrifuge Type
Refrigerated Benchtop Centrifuge
Maximum Speed
Up to 15,200 RPM
Maximum RCF
Up to 25,830 × g
Refrigerated
Yes
Temperature Control
Active Refrigeration System
Rotor Included
Microplate Rotor
Rotor Compatibility
Fixed-Angle, Swinging Bucket, and Microplate Rotors
Installation Type
Benchtop
Electrical Requirements
120V, 50/60Hz
Specifications compiled from Thermo Scientific manufacturer literature, Thermo Fisher technical documentation, and American Instrument Exchange product information.
Power Requirements and Shipping Considerations
The Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R typically requires 120V, 50/60Hz electrical service and is designed for benchtop laboratory installation. Laboratories should verify electrical compatibility, available bench space, ventilation requirements, and installation location prior to purchasing this centrifuge.
Because the ST 16R contains refrigeration components, precision electronics, and a high-performance drive system, the unit typically ships via palletized freight carrier. Laboratories should verify delivery access and installation requirements before shipment.
American Instrument Exchange can assist customers with freight coordination, shipping preparation, and installation planning.
Refurbished Centrifuges from American Instrument Exchange
American Instrument Exchange specializes in refurbished laboratory centrifuges including refrigerated centrifuges, floor model centrifuges, benchtop centrifuges, blood banking centrifuges, microcentrifuges, and bioprocessing centrifuge systems.
Our technicians inspect and test centrifuges for:
Refrigeration performance
Rotor operation
Brake functionality
Controller operation
Lid lock safety systems
General operational reliability
If the centrifuge is sold with a rotor, we also test the rotor and centrifuge combination together to verify compatibility and operational performance.
American Instrument Exchange and AIE Laboratory Services provide centrifuge repair, preventive maintenance, diagnostics, and laboratory equipment service for many Thermo Scientific centrifuge models.
Available services may include:
Refrigeration system service
Centrifuge diagnostics
Rotor inspection
Preventive maintenance
Controller troubleshooting
Calibration support
General laboratory equipment repair
In addition to centrifuges, we also service laboratory freezers and ultralow freezers, biosafety cabinets, incubators, laboratory refrigerators, cryostats, freeze dryers, and other laboratory equipment.
Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R Refrigerated Benchtop Centrifuge with Microplate Rotor Frequently Asked Questions
What rotor is included with this Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R?
This system includes a microplate rotor designed for plate-based laboratory workflows including PCR preparation, ELISA assays, genomics applications, and high-throughput screening.
Is the Thermo Scientific Sorvall ST 16R refrigerated?
Yes. The ST 16R includes an active refrigeration system designed to maintain sample temperatures during centrifugation and protect temperature-sensitive biological materials.
What applications is the included microplate rotor commonly used for?
The microplate rotor is commonly used for PCR plates, deep-well plates, ELISA assays, genomics workflows, drug discovery research, and other high-throughput laboratory applications.
What is the advantage of a refrigerated microplate centrifuge?
Refrigeration helps maintain sample integrity and temperature stability during centrifugation, which can be important for enzymes, proteins, nucleic acids, and other sensitive biological materials.
Does this Sorvall ST 16R support other rotor types?
Yes. The ST 16R platform supports multiple rotor configurations, allowing laboratories to expand capabilities beyond plate-based workflows if desired.
What types of laboratories commonly use the ST 16R with a microplate rotor?
This configuration is commonly found in biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical laboratories, genomics facilities, contract research organizations, academic research institutions, and molecular biology laboratories.
My ST 16R is displaying a refrigeration alarm. Can you repair it?
Yes. AIE Laboratory Services provides diagnostics, repair, preventive maintenance, and technical support for many Thermo Scientific centrifuge systems, including the Sorvall ST series.
Can American Instrument Exchange service Thermo Sorvall centrifuges?
Yes. AIE Laboratory Services provides repair, diagnostics, preventive maintenance, and support for many Thermo Scientific Sorvall centrifuge models.
CLICK HEREto see the Thermo Sorvall ST-16R refrigerated benchtop centrifuge on our YouTube channel
Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Centrifuges
Ensure Quality, Accuracy, and Compliance Before Deployment
Used and refurbished laboratory centrifuges from American Instrument Exchange undergo testing procedures to ensure they meet the performance, safety, and compliance standards required in modern laboratories.
Why Testing Used Laboratory Centrifuges Is Essential
Before a centrifuge is reintroduced into a lab environment, it must be tested for:
Mechanical integrity
Rotor balance and speed accuracy
Safety system functionality
Electrical compliance
Proper testing helps extend equipment lifespan, reduce downtime, and ensure safety in high-stakes lab environments such as clinical diagnostics, biotechnology, and research applications.
Our structured testing protocol for used and refurbished centrifuges ensures equipment safety, accuracy, and longevity.
Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Centrifuges
1. Initial Visual Inspection
Check for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage to housing, lid, and control panels
Inspect power cords, plugs, and connectors for fraying or exposed wiring
Confirm that the rotor and accessories are compatible and undamaged
2. Functional Testing
Power up the centrifuge and confirm successful boot-up of digital or analog displays
Test lid lock and emergency stop mechanisms
Run initial cycles at various speeds to check for abnormal noise or vibration
3. Rotor and Speed Verification
Test all programmable speed settings to confirm consistent acceleration and deceleration
Monitor temperature, vibration, and RPM consistency throughout the cycle
Balance testing ensures smooth operation and prevents wear on internal components
4. Electrical Safety and Grounding Tests
Verify that all electrical components are properly grounded and shielded
5. Temperature Control (if applicable)
For refrigerated centrifuges, test cooling function to ensure temperature stability within set ranges
Check refrigerant levels and inspect for compressor noise or failure
6. Final Quality Assurance Checklist
Conduct a full run-through using the user interface
Document all test results
Repair and Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Centrifuges
Certified Quality from American Instrument Exchange
At American Instrument Exchange, we follow a meticulous repair and refurbishment protocol to ensure that every used laboratory centrifuge we sell. We strive for reliable performance and long-term durability—providing labs with exceptional value on high-quality pre-owned centrifuges.
Why Choose a Refurbished Centrifuge from American Instrument Exchange?
Fully tested
Backed by warranty and performance guarantee
Cost-effective alternative to new lab equipment
Environmentally responsible through equipment reuse
Supported by expert technicians with decades of experience
Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol
Every used centrifuge at American Instrument Exchange goes through the following comprehensive repair and refurbishment process:
1. Initial Intake & Inspection
Our technicians perform a complete visual and mechanical inspection
Evaluation of hinges, seals, gaskets, and electrical components
Any physical damage, missing parts, or wear is documented for repair
2. Cleaning and decontamination
Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, disinfectant-safe products
Biological or chemical residue is decontaminated/cleaned
3. Mechanical & Electrical Repairs
Damaged or worn parts (e.g., drive motors, lid latches, rotor buckets) are replaced or repaired
Electrical components, sensors, and fuses are tested and replaced as needed
Wiring is inspected for integrity and safety per industry standards
4. Rotor & Accessory Evaluation
All rotors, buckets, and adapters are inspected for cracks, corrosion, and balance
Non-conforming components are replaced with OEM or equivalent alternatives
5. Performance Testing
Rotor speed (RPM), acceleration, and deceleration are verified
Refrigerated centrifuges undergo temperature stability testing across set ranges
6. Safety System Verification
Lid lock and interlock systems are tested for proper function
Emergency stop and imbalance detection systems are verified
Electrical safety and grounding tests are conducted
Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange
With over 50 years of experience in the industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted name for refurbished lab equipment. Our centrifuge refurbishment protocol reflects our commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction.
Warranty Information
All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,
Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”
Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.
Return & Cancellation Policy
American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.
Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.
Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.
Ongoing and Extended Support Options
American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.
For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.
For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.
Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty. Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.
How do you test and recondition the equipment?
Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality. We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.
How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?
We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.
Return and order cancellation policy
American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.
Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?
Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.
How does your price matching policy work?
We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.
Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?
Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.
1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.
Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?
Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.
