Legacy equipment modernization — common questions
Does SmartControl™ work on the RC-3C and RC-3B, or only the RC-3C Plus?
All three. The Sorvall RC-3C, RC-3C Plus and RC-3B share the same drive and control architecture, so the SmartControl conversion applies to each — including RPM control and display, temperature control, and process timing. Send us the model and serial number and we will confirm the exact configuration for your unit.
My Sorvall RC-3B is decades old. Is it worth modernizing?
Usually yes. The bowl, motor and mechanical structure of these machines routinely outlast their electronics by decades — it is the control boards that fail and can no longer be sourced. A conversion costs a fraction of a comparable new floor centrifuge, keeps your existing rotors and footprint, and returns the unit to calibrated service with a one-year warranty.
Do I keep my existing rotors and buckets?
Yes. SmartControl replaces the control electronics and drive system, not the bowl or the rotor set. Your existing Sorvall rotors, buckets and adapters continue to be used, and the converted unit is calibrated and verified with them in place.
Is SmartControl™ a repair or a product?
It’s a product. SmartControl™ is an engineered modernization system — designed, built, and validated by BMCA — that replaces the obsolete control electronics of the Sorvall RC-3C Plus. It’s supported as a platform, not a salvaged parts swap.
Do I have to replace my rotor or buckets?
No. SmartControl™ retains your existing validated rotor, buckets, and adapters. The mechanical platform stays; only the control electronics are modernized.
How long does installation take?
Most conversions are completed on-site in one to three days, depending on logistics and site access. We commission the instrument and verify performance before leaving, so your bench is back in service quickly.
What does the warranty cover?
Every SmartControl™ conversion carries a one-year parts-and-labor warranty, backed by BMCA’s long-term commitment to component supply and service for the platform.
Are maintenance plans included?
Yes. We put together a preventive-maintenance schedule tailored to how heavily the instrument is used — higher-volume labs are serviced more often — and aligned to the licensing and inspection standards your lab has to meet, such as CLIA, CAP, AHCA, and Joint Commission. Service and calibration records are kept inspection-ready throughout.
Will other centrifuge models be supported?
Yes. The Sorvall RC-3C Plus is the first SmartControl™ platform. Additional Sorvall, Beckman, Heraeus, and Thermo legacy centrifuge models are on the roadmap as BMCA Engineering expands the portfolio.
