Centrifugation equipment selection Compared with disk-bowl centrifuges, tubular (tabular) bowl centrifuges typically:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: operate at higher speed

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
For microbe and fine-solids separations, both disk-bowl and tubular-bowl centrifuges are used. Understanding their comparative features helps in choosing the right unit for bioprocessing and pharmaceutical clarification.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Tubular-bowl machines have narrow, long bowls with very high rotational speeds.
  • Disk-bowl machines contain conical plates that create many parallel thin layers.


Concept / Approach:
Tubular-bowl centrifuges achieve extremely high g-forces thanks to higher rotational speed and small radius, making them suitable for ultrafine solid separation. Disk-bowl units are more versatile for continuous clarification but generally run at lower speeds than tubular bowls.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Compare speeds: tubular > disk-bowl → option (a) correct.Bowl diameter: tubular bowls are slender (smaller diameter), not larger → (b) false.Pressure capability: both designs have variants with sealing; blanket statements like (c) are not universally true → false.Fine solids: tubular bowls are actually excellent for very fine solids → (d) false.


Verification / Alternative check:
Manufacturer specs list tubular-bowl speeds often above 15,000–20,000 rpm, exceeding many disk-bowl speeds.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • (b) Contradicts geometry of tubular bowls.
  • (c) Overgeneralizes; sealing options exist.
  • (d) Opposite of common application (cell debris, yeast, fine pigments).


Common Pitfalls:

  • Assuming larger diameter equals better g-force; actually g ∝ ω^2 r and tubular bowls compensate with very high ω.


Final Answer:
operate at higher speed

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