Lab Manager | Run Your Lab Like a Business

Top Features Readers Look for in Homogenizers

Learn the most common applications and more from our latest survey results

by Shane Downie

Turning a sample into a suspension—the essence of homogenizing—occurs in a wide range of laboratory applications. In life science and clinical research, scientists often homogenize tissue samples for various analytical studies.

Top 5 Questions You Should Ask When Buying a Homogenizer

  1. How does this homogenizer differ from the competition? What makes it superior in quality and cost effective for the scientist?
  2. What accessories are necessary to run the unit? Are there pre-assembled bead kits to use that will simplify the homogenization process?
  3. Does the company offer demo units for the scientist to test out?
  4. Does the company offer application and technical phone support before/after the product purchase?
  5. Ask about replacements in case the product parts break down with use.

Homogenizer types used by survey respondents:

Rotor-stator 60%
Ultrasonic 38%
Bead mill 33%
Fluidized bed 8%
Other 13%

Homogenizer applications as reported by survey respondents:

Homogenization 70%
Cell disruption 44%
Extraction 38%
Mixing 34%
Emulsification 34%
Dissolving 21%
Shredding 5%
Process reactions 5%
Precipitation 5%
Gassing 3%
Wetting 0%
Other 3%

Nearly 55% of respondents are engaged in purchasing a homogenizer. The reasons for these purchases are as follows:

Addition to existing systems, increase capacity
45%
Replacement of an aging instrument
42%
First time purchase
4%
Setting up a new lab
4%
Other
6%

Top 10 features/factors respondents look for when purchasing a homogenizer:

Durability of product 93%
Low maintenance—easy to use and clean 82%
Value for price paid 75%
Variable speed controls 65%
Reliability of vendor 62%
Safety features 61%
Warranty 58%
Results with minimum deviation 57%
Reputation of vendor 55%
Service and support 54%

For more information on homogenizers, visit www.labmanager.com/homogenizers

See results from previous surveys: