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Practical Centrifuge

Centrifuge converter (rpm ↔ RCF ×g)

Convert between centrifuge speed (rpm) and relative centrifugal force (RCF, ×g) using rotor radius. Supports radius units (mm/cm/in), a quick reference table, and copy/export features.

All calculations run in your browser; data is not sent.

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How to use (3 steps)

  1. Pick an example or choose a mode (rpm → ×g / ×g → rpm).
  2. Confirm the radius (distance from rotor center to sample) and unit (mm/cm/in).
  3. Enter rpm or ×g to see the converted result.

RCF depends on how radius is defined (rmax/ravg, etc.). Use the value provided in your rotor manual if possible.

Quick protocol workflow (when switching centrifuges)

  1. Convert the original protocol rpm to RCF (×g) using the original rotor radius.
  2. Keep that target RCF, then convert back to rpm with your destination rotor radius.
  3. Record both the radius definition and units (mm/cm/in) in your note so the run can be reproduced.

This keeps force level consistent across rotors better than copying rpm alone.

Input (radius, rpm/RCF)

What to solve for
Radius (important)

Distance from rotor center to the sample position. Use your rotor manual if possible.

Custom radius
rpm (speed)

Result (conversion)

×g (RCF)
14,170.65
Radius: 7.5 cm / rpm: 13,000 rpm

Static sample uses r=7.5 cm and 13,000 rpm. Use the rotor manual's rmax/ravg definition consistently; JavaScript recalculates this block from your inputs.

rpm×g (RCF)
1,00083.85
3,000754.65
5,0002,096.25
8,0005,366.40
10,0008,385.00
13,00014,170.65
15,00018,866.25
Formula used (coefficient 1.118×10^-5)
RCF(×g) = 1.118×10^-5 × r(cm) × rpm^2
rpm = sqrt( RCF / (1.118×10^-5 × r(cm)) )
r(cm) = r(mm) / 10
r(cm) = r(inch) × 2.54
Share

The share URL stores mode, radius, radius definition, unit, the active rpm or ×g value, and table visibility. No values are sent to a server.

How it’s calculated

This tool converts radius to cm and uses a commonly used formula.

RCF depends on how radius is defined (rmax/ravg, etc.). If results look off, recheck units (mm/cm/in) and your radius definition.

FAQ

What is RCF (×g)?
It is the relative centrifugal force expressed as a multiple of gravitational acceleration (g). Protocols often use ×g to compare conditions across different centrifuges and rotors.
Which radius should I use?
Maximum RCF is normally based on rmax. We do not recommend ravg as a safety default; use the definition in your rotor manual. An adapter can change the effective radius, and matching RCF alone does not automatically make time, braking, or sample conditions equivalent.
Should I use rmax or ravg?
Use the definition stated in your protocol and rotor manual. If the definition is unclear, do not assume ravg is a safe default. You can keep the original rpm with the same rotor, but for another rotor, confirm the radius definition and compare using RCF.
How do I reproduce an rpm protocol on a different centrifuge?
RCF changes with radius even at the same rpm. Convert the original rpm to ×g first, then convert ×g back to rpm using your rotor radius.
Why does my result differ from other sites?
Differences can come from constants, the definition of g, and how radius is defined (cm/mm, rmax/ravg). This tool uses a common formula with radius in cm.
Can I enter 0 rpm or 0 ×g?
Yes. Entering 0 gives 0 as the result (radius must be non-zero).
Why does the result feel too strong or too weak?
Common causes are unit mistakes (mm vs cm) and radius definition differences. Recheck units and radius.
Rotor radius diagram: rmin, ravg, and rmax start at the rotor center.
Rotor radius definitions — Rotor radius diagram: rmin, ravg, and rmax start at the rotor center.