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ARS Home » Plains Area » Houston, Texas » Children's Nutrition Research Center » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #436719
Research Project: Impact of Dietary Components on Health

Location: Children's Nutrition Research Center

Title: Multi-tube Holder for Vortexers

Author
item WATERLAND, BROLAN - Baylor College Of Medicine
item Dzakovich, Michael

Submitted to: Dataset
Publication Type: Database / Dataset
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/3/2026
Publication Date: 8/3/2026
Citation: Waterland, B., Dzakovich, M.P. 2026. Multi-tube Holder for Vortexers. Dataset. https://doi.org/10.60705/3dpx/23627.1.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.60705/3dpx/23627.1

Interpretive Summary: Many labs use vortex genies to quickly mix their samples, as they are convenient and easy to use. However, when needing to use it for larger quantities of samples, it becomes inefficient and quite time consuming to mix each sample individually. Most labs are forced to buy expensive attachments to combat this issue.To address this problem, we designed a 3D-printed vortex genie attachment. It allows the user to mix larger batches of samples much efficiently than by using the basic attachments offered. This model fits onto the vortex genie like many commercial attachments and allows centrifuge tubes to slot into place. It has a swappable section, allowing the user to switch between 1.5 (x56), 15 (x24), and 50 (x24) mL tubes easily.This solution helps solve the problem by making the task of mixing amounts of samples easier, quicker, and more consistent. It allows lab workers to have a simpler workflow as well as making it more comfortable. Moreover, it costs a fraction to print than what these devices sell for commercially. Overall, it helps researchers to mix samples more efficiently and conveniently.

Technical Abstract: 3D printed vortex genie attachment designed to mix multiple 1.5 mL (x56), 15 mL (x24), and 50 mL (x24) centrifuge tubes at once. Vortex genies are an easy and reliable way to mix samples, allowing laboratory employees to quickly mix a sample without risk of sample loss or contamination. However, with many samples, it becomes increasingly difficult and inefficient to manually vortex samples individually. This leads to discomfort for lab workers, as well as slower workflow, and an increased chance of errors or spills. This device allows laboratory employees to slot multiple centrifuge tubes to be mixed simultaneously with a vortex genie. Its modular capabilities allow for easy swapping of slot size, allowing for placement of 1.5, 15, and 50 mL tubes. Comparable systems cost upwards of $150 per tube type and this suite of parts can be printed for <$10.