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
- How does this homogenizer differ from the competition? What makes it superior in quality and cost effective for the scientist?
- What accessories are necessary to run the unit? Are there pre-assembled bead kits to use that will simplify the homogenization process?
- Does the company offer demo units for the scientist to test out?
- Does the company offer application and technical phone support before/after the product purchase?
- Ask about replacements in case the product parts break down with use.
Homogenizer types used by survey respondents:
| Rotor-stator | 54% |
| Ultrasonic | 50% |
| Bead mill | 36% |
| Fluidized bed | 4% |
| Other | 14% |
Homogenizer applications as reported by survey respondents:
| Homogenization | 80% |
| Cell disruption | 54% |
| Extraction | 36% |
| Mixing | 23% |
| Dissolving | 20% |
| Emulsification | 19% |
| Shredding | 10% |
| Wetting | 4% |
| Process reactions | 1% |
| Precipitation | 1% |
| Gassing | 1% |
| Other | 1% |
Nearly 39% of respondents are engaged in purchasing a homogenizer. The reasons for these purchases are as follows:
| Replacement of an aging instrument | 44% |
| Addition to existing systems, increase capacity | 28% |
| First time purchase | 11% |
| Setting up a new lab | 6% |
| Other | 9% |
Top 10 features/factors respondents look for when purchasing a homogenizer:
| Durability of product | 82% |
| Low maintenance—easy to use and clean | 78% |
| Value for price paid | 76% |
| Results with minimum deviation | 73% |
| Variable speed controls | 69% |
| Safety features | 63% |
| Service and support | 62% |
| Warranty | 57% |
| Reliability of vendor | 57% |
| Reputation of vendor | 47% |
For more information on homogenizers, visit www.labmanager.com/homogenizers
