Used centrifuges / Centrifugal separators / Decanters 307

Advantages of Buying Used Centrifuges and Decanters

Cost savings

Investing in a used centrifuge or decanter can reduce expenses dramatically compared to purchasing new models. Buyers typically save up to 60%, with prices ranging between €8,000 and €48,000, while new equipment often exceeds €100,000. This financial flexibility allows businesses to reinvest capital into automation, staff training, or additional machinery.

Immediate availability

Unlike new machines that require long lead times of several months, most used centrifuges are ready for shipment within days. This immediate availability helps minimise downtime and accelerates production schedules.

Proven reliability

Many used units listed on Exapro include service logs and maintenance records. These machines have already demonstrated their durability in real production environments, providing reassurance to buyers that they can continue operating reliably.

Access to premium brands

Second-hand purchases provide affordable access to premium manufacturers such as Alfa Laval, GEA, and Flottweg. These globally recognised brands ensure engineering excellence, spare parts availability, and strong after-sales support.

Lower depreciation

The steepest value drop occurs in the first years of equipment use. By purchasing used machines, companies benefit from slower depreciation and enjoy stronger resale potential in the future.

Sustainability

Buying used industrial machinery extends equipment lifecycle and contributes to environmentally responsible manufacturing. Each reused centrifuge prevents up to 20 tonnes of CO₂ emissions, reduces waste, and supports global circular economy initiatives.

Main Technical Features of Used Centrifuges and Decanters

Type and design

Centrifuges and decanters come in multiple designs, each suited for specific applications:

• Disc-stack centrifuges – deliver high-clarity separation for pharmaceuticals and food.
• Tubular centrifuges – ideal for fine particle handling in biotech and research.
• Basket centrifuges – cost-effective option for batch operations.
• Decanters – designed for robust solid-liquid separation on an industrial scale.

Capacity and size

Throughput varies widely, from 1,000 L/h for laboratory models to more than 100,000 L/h for industrial machines. Solid-holding capacity defines how long a centrifuge can operate before discharge, directly affecting productivity.

Rotation speed and G-force

Modern centrifuges reach speeds of up to 20,000 RPM or 15,000 × g. These values are critical for applications requiring efficient separation of fine particles, emulsions, and complex mixtures.

Material of construction

Most centrifuges are built in stainless steel (AISI 316L) or corrosion-resistant alloys. These materials ensure compliance with strict food and pharmaceutical standards while providing resistance to abrasion and chemical exposure.

Operating limits

Industrial centrifuges are designed to handle demanding environments, with many models rated up to 150°C and 10 bar pressure. This makes them suitable for a wide range of chemical and food-processing applications.

Drive type and power

Machines are equipped with electric drives (5–90 kW) or hydraulic systems. Motor power directly influences throughput, efficiency, and adaptability to specific processes.

Automation

The level of automation determines productivity and ease of use:

• Manual – suitable for small-scale, flexible operations.
• Semi-automatic – offers a balance between affordability and efficiency.
• PLC-controlled – fully automated systems with integrated monitoring and safety features.

Cleaning systems

Many centrifuges include CIP (Clean-in-Place) systems, ensuring compliance with hygiene standards in food and pharma production while reducing cleaning downtime.

Top Brands and Models

Exapro connects buyers with leading manufacturers worldwide, ensuring access to reliable second-hand centrifuges and decanters:

• Alfa Laval – global leader in disc-stack separators and decanters, used across pharmaceuticals, food, and chemicals.
• GEA Westfalia – renowned for high-performance separation systems, particularly in dairy and pharma industries.
• Flottweg – German-engineered decanters designed for heavy-duty industrial operations.
• Andritz – specialist in decanters for mining, chemical, and environmental processes.
• Pieralisi – expert in food and oil refining applications.
• Hiller GmbH – focused on wastewater and food-processing solutions.
• Mitsubishi Kakoki (MKK) – Japanese manufacturer producing high-quality centrifugal separators for industrial use.
• Thomas Broadbent – UK-based company serving chemical, energy, and mining sectors.
• SPX FLOW – offers a wide portfolio for food and industrial separation needs.
• Kubco – specialised in oil and gas decanters, built for demanding environments.

Industries and Applications

Used centrifuges and decanters serve a broad range of industries. Their versatility makes them a core asset across many fields:

• Pharmaceuticals – cell harvesting, blood fractionation, and drug formulation.
• Chemicals – solvent extraction, crystallisation, and polymer production.
• Food & beverages – dairy separation, beer clarification, juice production, and oil refining.
• Biotechnology – protein isolation, microbial harvesting, and enzyme production.
• Environmental – sludge dewatering, wastewater treatment, and oil recovery.
• Mining – mineral processing and coolant recycling.
• Energy – biodiesel production and oil refining.
• Marine – fuel treatment and bilge water separation.
• Laboratories – advanced applications such as DNA and protein ultracentrifugation.

Pricing and Cost Factors

On Exapro, used centrifuges and decanters typically cost between €8,000 and €48,000, compared to new units that often exceed €100,000. Several factors influence pricing:

Specifications

Key elements such as throughput, solid-holding capacity, rotation speed, and construction material have a direct impact on cost. Larger, more powerful models naturally command higher prices.

Condition and history

Machines with documented service history and lower operating hours are valued higher, as they reduce risks of breakdown. Buyers should always inspect bearings, seals, and bowl wear before purchase.

Accessories

Additional features like CIP systems, PLC automation, feed pumps, and advanced sensors add significant value by improving efficiency and compliance.

How to Choose the Right Used Centrifuge or Decanter

Define process needs

Determine whether your operation requires solid-liquid separation, liquid-liquid separation, or three-phase processing. This will guide the choice of centrifuge type.

Check capacity

Throughput and solid-holding capacity must align with your production requirements to ensure smooth operations without bottlenecks.

Inspect condition

Review service logs, bearings, seals, and bowl condition. A well-maintained unit guarantees reliability and lower maintenance costs.

Evaluate material compatibility

For food, pharma, or chemical applications, ensure that construction materials (e.g. stainless steel 316L) match your industry’s compliance standards.

Consult experts

Exapro provides tailored advice on model comparisons, inspections, logistics, and price validation via Valorexo, helping buyers make informed decisions.

Optimise Your Separation Process

Explore Exapro’s current listings of used centrifuges, separators, and decanters. Connect with verified global sellers and benefit from our technical guidance, inspection services, and logistics support to secure the right machine for your production needs.