Beckman Coulter JA-17 Fixed-Angle Rotor: Proven Performance for Avanti J-Series Centrifuges
Service AI
The Beckman Coulter JA-17 fixed-angle rotor, rated for 17,000 rpm, is designed for use in Beckman Coulter J2, J6, and Avanti J Series centrifuges, including the Avanti JXN-30.
Manufactured in an ISO 9001/13485-registered facility, the JA-17 is built for dependable, high-speed centrifugation of biological samples with full containment and durability.
According to Beckman Coulter’s specifications, the JA-17:
Centrifuges up to fourteen 50 mL tubes at a 25-degree angle to the axis of rotation.
Has a nominal total capacity of 700 mL.
Is made of anodized aluminum for corrosion resistance (black rotor body, blue lid).
Develops centrifugal forces up to 39,800 × g at rₘₐₓ = 123 mm.
Offers a k factor of 690, enabling efficient pelleting of biological material.
O-rings made of Buna N rubber in the lid and rotor body maintain atmospheric pressure during operation when properly lubricated. The rotor has been tested to demonstrate containment of microbiological aerosols under normal operating conditions.
Typical Applications
As described in the manual, the JA-17 “develops centrifugal forces that can efficiently pellet cells, cell membranes, and subcellular particles.”
It may also be used for short-column methods (partially filled tubes) “to isolate and band different classes of subcellular organelles.”
With its broad range and speed, the rotor is well suited for:
Pelleting cells and subcellular fractions
Gradient separations for organelles and membranes
High-speed collection of particulates in biochemical and molecular protocols
Compatibility with the Avanti JXN-30
The Avanti JXN-30 automatically recognizes the JA-17 through the rotor-ID system, allowing safe operation up to its full 17,000 rpm rating.
For earlier JA-17 rotors manufactured before 2002 (without embedded magnets), speed in the Avanti J-E is limited to 13,000 rpm; later versions include magnets for full-speed operation in all Avanti J-series centrifuges.
Safe Operation and Maintenance
Per Beckman Coulter’s safety instructions:
Opposing tubes must be filled to the same level with liquid of equal density (within 2 grams).
Only containers listed in the JA-17 manual (Table 1) should be used.
Never exceed the rated maximum speed or run solutions denser than 1.2 g/mL without adjustment.
Regularly inspect for corrosion, lubricate metal threads with Spinkote (306812), and apply silicone vacuum grease (335148) to O-rings.
Following these guidelines preserves rotor integrity and ensures continued safe performance.
Summary
The JA-17 fixed-angle rotor combines capacity, speed, and reliability in a robust design that supports efficient pelleting of cells, organelles, and subcellular particles.
When paired with the Avanti JXN-30, it provides laboratories with consistent, validated results backed by Beckman Coulter’s engineering and safety standards.
