Replacing the StatSpin® Express 2 with the DASH Apex 4

StatSpin products are no longer available for purchase, which means clinical labs still operating a StatSpin® Express 2 will need to find a replacement before their current unit reaches end of service. Continuing to operate an unsupported centrifuge increases the risk of unexpected repairs, unavailable parts, or workflow disruptions that can affect sample processing and patient care.

Drucker Diagnostics’ DASH Apex 4 offers an easy path forward. This compact STAT centrifuge matches the Express 2 in capacity and preset spin parameters, occupies a smaller footprint, and is supported by an industry-leading, U.S.-based manufacturer.

In this article, we’ll break down how the two models compare and what to keep in mind when planning an upgrade.

Capacity: Four Tubes Up to 5 mL

The DASH Apex 4 and the StatSpin Express 2 offer the exact same sample capacity. Both units spin four tubes up to 13 x 75 mm or 5 mL, and both can accommodate Monovette syringe tubes and smaller tube formats.

The Apex 4’s fixed angle rotor is compatible with recommended IFUs for all common tube manufacturers, including Greiner and BD, as well as 1.5 to 2 mL micro BD Microtainers. Each unit ships with a four-place fixed angle rotor and 13 x 75 mm tube adapters included, so no assembly or additional accessories are required prior to use.

Preset Cycles: Three Default Settings

The Express 2 and DASH Apex 4 both offer three pre-programmed cycles at 8,500 RPM and 4,440 xg:

Because both models share the same time, speed, and RCF values, the DASH Apex 4 fits into existing SOPs without any changes to spin parameters. These presets can also be customized for specific workflows.

Interface: A Simple Two-Button Design

The StatSpin Express 2 and the DASH Apex 4 are both three-setting centrifuges.

The Apex 4 uses a two-button interface for cycle selection. Its Single Cycle Lock function allows users to lock to one cycle for maximum repeatability, which reduces the potential for operator error, especially in high-volume STAT labs.

A QR code on the front of the unit provides direct access to support videos, manuals, and additional documentation.

Size and Weight: A Compact Footprint for the Benchtop

The DASH Apex 4 is the smallest model in the DASH STAT centrifuge family. It measures 7 x 7 x 7 in (17.8 x 17.8 x 17.8 cm) and weighs only 4.3 lbs (1.95 kg). The StatSpin Express 2 measures 6.6 x 8.6 x 6 in (16.8 x 21.9 x 15.2 cm) and weighs 5.0 lbs.

The Apex 4’s compact footprint and lower weight allow it to be positioned on any benchtop and moved between locations as workflow requires. Busy labs can also use multiple units as a centrifuge array in accessioning. This eliminates queuing so samples are spun immediately upon arrival and shortens TAT.

Performance: Comparable PPP Preparation

A comparative, third-party study evaluated the DASH Apex 4 and StatSpin Express 2 for platelet-poor plasma (PPP) preparation. Blood samples were collected from 24 volunteer donors in lithium heparin plasma separator tubes and centrifuged individually at 4,440 xg for three minutes.

Both the DASH Apex 4 and StatSpin Express 2 consistently produced PPP with platelet counts below 10 x10³ platelets/µL, the generally accepted clinical threshold for PPP. A one-way ANOVA found no statistically significant difference in mean platelet counts between the two units (p > 0.05), and a paired t-test and difference analysis confirmed the mean values are equivalent.

The study concluded that both centrifuges can be confidently used in clinical settings where high-quality PPP is required.

Industry-Leading Support

All DASH centrifuges are designed, built, and supported in the USA. Drucker Diagnostics manufactures all of its products at its facility in Central Pennsylvania and maintains a U.S.-based customer service and technical support team. Because production stays in-house, from injection molding to final assembly, replacement parts and technical guidance come from the same team that built the centrifuge, without the lead times that come with overseas supply chains.

The DASH Apex 4 carries a two-year parts and labor warranty, with 1-, 2-, and 3-year extended warranties available for purchase within 90 days of the original ship date.

A Familiar Starting Point with a New Centrifuge

Drucker Diagnostics offers two programs to support laboratories replacing a StatSpin centrifuge.

• StatSpin trade-in program. Labs can return an existing StatSpin unit, working or not, using a prepaid shipping label and receive promotional pricing on a qualifying Drucker centrifuge.
• 30-day evaluation. Evaluate a DASH Apex 4 in your own lab at no cost, with no payment information required.

Labs that are proactive in replacing equipment before failure occurs are able to plan the transition on their own timeline rather than under pressure. For facilities currently running a StatSpin Express 2, the DASH Apex 4 provides the same capacity and spin parameters already in use, in a smaller footprint, with manufacturer support and warranty coverage in place.

To get started, visit the StatSpin replacement page or review full specifications for the DASH Apex 4.