Seton thick wall polyallomer and polycarbonate tubes are designed for use with no caps in fixed-angle and swinging bucket rotors. These tubes can be reused and can be sterilized by autoclaving at 121 deg. C, ethylene oxide gas or cold methods. Cold sterilization is recommended for polycarbonate tubes because the tube life may be reduced by autoclaving. Alcohol should not be used with polycarbonate during centrifugation but can be used for cold sterilization followed by a thorough rinsing with water.

These tubes can be run when partially filled but should be at least half-full. Thick wall polyallomer tubes are translucent and polycarbonate transparent; both are non-wettable. When used in fixed-angle rotors, the maximum fill level is a function of the rotor angle, and the maximum allowable speed will depend on the rotor type and temperature of run. In Tube Chart the maximum speed and maximum fill level is given for use with no caps. The tube nominal volume corresponds to the meniscus 3 mm below the top of the tube when held in the vertical position. See Chemical Resistance for chemical resistance properties.