microTec

Rotary Microtome CUT 4050

Operating Manual

MADE IN GERMANY

microTec Laborgeräte GmbH

Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 47
69190 Walldorf, Germany
Phone: + 49 6227 8222-0
fax: + 49 6227 8222-30
mail@micro-tec.de
www.micro-tec.de

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Table of Contents
1. General Notes ...........................................................................................................4
1.1 Significance of the Operating Instructions ..................................................................4
1.2 Usage According to its Specification .........................................................................5
1.3 Improper Use .............................................................................................................6
1.4 Warranty and Liability ................................................................................................6
1.5 Warranty ....................................................................................................................6
1.6 Brief Discription of Use, Function and Sequence ......................................................7
1.7 Edition, Date of Issue of the Operating Manual ..........................................................8
1.8 Copyright ...................................................................................................................8
1.9 Address of Manufacturer ...........................................................................................8

2. Basic Safety Instructions ........................................................................................9

2.1 Heed the Notes and Instructions Given in this Operating Manual .............................9
2.2 Obligation on the Part of the Operator .......................................................................9
2.3 Obligations on the Part of the Operating Staff ...........................................................9
2.4 Hazards and Dangers in Handling and Using the Instrument .................................. 10
2.5 Interpretation of Hazard Symbols ............................................................................ 11
2.6 Informal Instructions Issued by the Manufacturer .................................................... 12
2.7 Particular Zones of Danger ...................................................................................... 12
2.8 Servicing and Fault Clearance ................................................................................. 13
2.9 Structural Modifications and Replacements to the Instrument ................................. 13
2.10 Cleaning and Associated Care ................................................................................ 14

3. Transportation and Storage .................................................................................. 15

3.1 Dimensions and Weights ......................................................................................... 15
3.2 Instructions for Transportation ................................................................................. 15
3.3 Packaging ................................................................................................................ 15
3.4 Inspection upon Acceptance by the Recipient ......................................................... 16
3.5 Reporting and Documenting Transportation Damage ............................................. 16
3.6 Ambient Conditions .................................................................................................. 16

4. Data and Information Concerning the Instrument ............................................... 17

4.1 Designation ............................................................................................................... 17
4.2 Scope of Supply ....................................................................................................... 17
4.3 Certification of Conformity ......................................................................................... 18
4.4 Ambient Temperatures during Operation .................................................................. 19
4.5 Performance ............................................................................................................. 19

5. Installation, Assembly, Commissioning ............................................................... 20

5.1 Installation ................................................................................................................ 20
5.2 Transportation Locking Pieces and Securements .................................................... 20
5.3 Controls, Indicators and Displays ............................................................................. 21

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6. Operation ………………………………………………………………………………..…22
6.1 Preparation, Orientation and Alignment of Specimen ............................................... 22
6.2 Commencing the Cutting Operation ......................................................................... 22
6.3 Instructions for Producing Sliced Microtomic Sections of the Specimen ................... 22
6.4 Cutting Action ........................................................................................................... 23
6.5 Handwheel ................................................................................................................ 23
6.6 Coarse Advanced Drive ............................................................................................ 23
6.7 Friction Clutch on the Coarse Advanced Drive Mechanism ...................................... 24
6.8 The Handwheel of the Coarse Advanced Drive Mechanism (11) ............................. 24
6.9 Collision Protection Device ....................................................................................... 24

7. Setting Up and Changing the Setup ...................................................................... 25

7.1 Specimen Fixture ...................................................................................................... 25
7.2 Standard Specimen Clamping Fixtures .................................................................... 25
7.3 Orientable Adapter ................................................................................................... 26
7.4 Fixed Adapter ........................................................................................................... 26
7.5 Cylindrical Specimen Insert and Prism ..................................................................... 27
7.6 Film (Thin Material) Clamping Fixture ....................................................................... 28
7.7 Universal Cassette Clamping Fixture ........................................................................ 29
7.8 Specimen Orientation Device ................................................................................... 30
7.9 Exchanging the Specimen Clamping Systems ......................................................... 31

8. Setting up the Knife ............................................................................................... 32

8.1 Knife Holder ............................................................................................................. 32
8.2 Knife Holder Base .................................................................................................... 32
8.3 The “R“ Type Knife Holder ....................................................................................... 33
8.4 The “RS“ Type Knife Holder .................................................................................... 34
8.5 Holder for Throw-away Blades ................................................................................ 35
8.6 Clearance Angle Adjustment ................................................................................... 36

9. Emergency Service, Customer Service ................................................................. 36

9.1 Unpacking the device ……………………………………………………………………37

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1. General Notes
1.1 Significance of the Operating Instructions
Dear Customer,

Please read through the operating instructions carefully before using the equipment and
familiarize yourself with its functions and controls. This is imperative to ensure proper use
of the equipment.

Please check the production serial number against the number given on the microTec
identification plate of your unit. It will facilitate faster service and response to queries by
quoting the production serial number.

microTec Production Serial-Number: 500-______

microTec Laborgeräte GmbH

Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 47
69190 Walldorf, Germany
Phone: + 49 6227 8222-0
Fax: + 49 6227 8222-30
mail@micro-tec.de
www.micro-tec.de

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1.2 Usage According to its Specification

The CUT 4050, CUT 4055 and CUT 4060 rotary microtomes are manually operated
instruments for use in all work involving paraffin wax and solid cut microtomology within
the disciplines of biology and medicine, and within industry at large.

The specimen can be moved back and forth by means of the coarse wheel mechanism so
as to attain rapid advance of the specimen in relation to the knife during cutting.

The micro-drive mechanism enables feed settings to be made within the range of 0.5 to
60 microns.

The user friendly throw-away blades and universal knife holder with its integrated knife
guard enables trouble-free clamping and setting of the knife blade. The integrated safety
device to prevent any collisions occurring, which is incorporated in the micrometer
mechanism, disables any adjustment to the feed setting being made upon reaching its
maximum setting.

To prevent damage occurring to the knife or the specimen, the rotary microtome
CUT 4055 and CUT4060 imparts an action of slight retraction of the specimen by approx.
80 microns during the motion of advancement.

The CUT 4060 rotary microtome is equipped with an electronic cutting counter, which
indicates the total number of cuts made. A three-position trimming assembly is also
incorporated (10, 20 and 30 micron trimming).

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1.3 Improper Use

The rotary microtome is designed and manufactured to the latest state-of-the-art
technology and to recognized principles of technical and engineering safety.
Nevertheless, dangers can arise during its use to endanger life and limb of the operator or
third persons or damage to the instrument or to other property. The instrument is only to
be used

• for use according to its specification of intended use

• in a proper technical state of repair, free of any defects

1.4 Warranty and Liability

The company – microTec GmbH – certifies that this instrument has been carefully tested
and inspected. Verification to ensure adherence to the technical specification data
published has been carried out prior to shipping out the instrument from the factory.

No liability is assumed for the correctness of technical data and other data or drawings.
Reserve technical changes.

The instrument is assigned to Class 4 of the MedGV (legislation governing medical

supplies). Observance of existing legislation and regulation is assured.

1.5 Warranty
Warranty is provided for this microTec product in the event of any deficiencies or defects
in material or workmanship for a period of 12 months. Defective parts will be repaired or
replaced free of charge during this period of time. Any additional claims made under the
warranty of whatsoever nature are excluded. Neither does the warranty provide cover for
any claims arising from services and supplies provided by third parties.

In principle, our “General Conditions of Sale and Supply „shall apply. These
conditions are made available to the prospective operator of the instrument, by, at the
latest, the signing of the contract. Warranty and liability claims for personal injury and
material damage are excluded if attributable to one or more of the following causes:

• Improper use of the instrument!

• Incorrect installation and assembly, commissioning, operation and servicing of the
instrument!
• Operating the instrument with the safety devices defective or safety mechanisms
and guards inappropriately fitted!
• Disregarding instructions given in the operating manual concerning transportation,
storage, installation, commissioning, servicing and equipping of the instrument!
• Unauthorized tampering and structural modification to pneumatic, electrical and
mechanical components!
• Ineffective or incorrect monitoring of machine parts which are subject to wear!
• Improperly effected repairs!
• Catastrophes caused by external influences and force majeure!
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1.6 Brief Description of Use, Function, and Sequence

Use
The CUT 4050, CUT 4055 and CUT 4060 rotary microtomes are manually operated
instruments for use in all work involving paraffin wax and solid cut microtomology within
the disciplines of biology and medicine, and within industry at large.

Function and Sequence

Manually rotating the hand wheel on the rotary microtome translates into vertical
movement of the fixture holding the specimen. To produce the cut, resharpenable knives
or throw-away blades are used, which are adapted and attached to the various knife
holders.

A microtomic cut is made during the downward motion of the specimen (cutting action).
By continuing to rotate the hand wheel further in a clockwise direction the specimen starts
to rise again in its return motion.
The cutting feed can also be set by means of the three-position trimming assembly (only
available on the CUT 4060 model).

The selected feed for the thickness of cut is instigated at top dead center.

Rapid advance of the specimen towards the knife is achieved by means of the coarse
feed mechanism.

A universal clamping fixture for holding a variety of specimens is provided.

As a result, simple alignment to the plane of cut is possible using the facility for orientating
the specimen.

The various knife holders enable trouble-free use of a variety of knife types and thereby
provide facility for making adjustment to suit the application in question.

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1.7 Edition, Date of Issue of the Operating Manual

Edition: Version 004.96
Date of issue: 13. February 1996

1.8 Copyright
Copyright: Firma microTec GmbH

Copyright to this operating manual remains with microTec GmbH. This operating manual
is only intended for use by the operator and his staff.

It contains specifications and instructions, which may not be

- copied,
- distributed or
- otherwise divulged to others in their entirety or in part.

Infringements can lead to legal proceedings being brought against the perpetrators.

1.9 Address of the Manufacturer

microTec Laborgeräte GmbH
Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 47
69190 Walldorf, Germany
Phone: + 49 6227 / 8222-0
Fax: + 49 6227 / 8222-30
mail@micro-tec.de
www.micro-tec.de

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2. Basic Safety Instructions

2.1 Heed the Notes and Instructions Given in this Operating Manual!

A prime prerequisite for safe handling and malfunction-free operation of this instrument is
the awareness and recognition of basic safety instructions and regulations.
This operating manual contains the most important instructions for operating the
instrument in a safe manner.
This operating manual, especially the instructions on safety, are to be heeded by all
personnel who operate the instrument.
In addition, compliance with the regulations and specifications on accident prevention
applicable for the site of installation and use is to be maintained.

2.2 Obligation on the Part of the Operator

The operator is obliged to only allow personnel to operate the instrument, who

• are familiar with basic regulations on safety at work and accident prevention, and
are trained in the use and operation of the instrument.

• have read the chapter on safety and the warning notes and instructions given in
this operating manual.

• have been taught to have due regard to aspect of safety during the execution of
their work.

2.3 Obligations on the Part of the Operating Staff

All personnel who are delegated with the task of operating this instrument are obliged
before starting work

• to heed the basic regulations on safety at work and accident prevention.

• to read and to comprehend the chapter on safety and the warning notes and
instructions given in this operating manual.

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2.4 Hazards and Dangers in Handling and Using the Instrument

Important!

The following precautionary measures must be undertaken during

any operation carried out using the instrument. Non-compliance with
these precautionary measures will infringe recognized principles and
rules of technology and the intended and proper use of the
instrument. The manufacturer – microTec GmbH – accepts no
liability in the event of such infringement.

Risk of Injury
The finger guard must be used when setting the knife and
specimen, in order to reduce the risk of injury on the knife/blade.

Always insert the specimen first.

Then insert the knife into the knife holder.

Before exchanging the clamping device, always remove the knife

or blade. Knives, which are not being used, must always be stored
in the knife box. Never attempt to catch a falling knife.
Take care when cutting or removing a sliced section.

Risk of Infection
Appropriate measures regarding protection and disinfection are to be
taken when working with infected material.

Danger due to Radio Activity

The current applicable regulations for the protection against radiation
must be observed at all times when working with radio active
materials or specimens.

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2.5 Interpretation of Hazard Symbols

Interpretation Symbol

• Danger

• Warning

• Caution

• Note

• Important !

• Information

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2.6 Informal Instructions Issued by the Manufacturer

Preparation of the Specimen
Due attention should be paid in the preparation of specimens with regard to making the
correct choice of the medium used for embedding and encapsulation of the specimen and
its curing and infiltration time.

Temperature of the Specimen

Microtomic sectioning is generally carried out at room temperature (except in the case of
frozen specimens). Increases in temperature will soften the paraffin wax. The heating up
of paraffin wax specimens due to direct exposure to sunlight or their proximity to any
other source of heat is to be avoided.

Choosing the Knife

Depending upon the ground facet in question, a clearance setting at an angle of 18 to 20
degrees is to be selected. In the case of re-sharpened knives, use the knife height
adjustment facility to set the height of the knife.

Levers and Clamping Screws

Securely tighten all levers and clamping screws on the knife holder and the specimen
orientation device. Overtightening could result in damage of knife holder!!

Cutting Speed
Rule: “The harder the material, the slower the cutting speed“.

Starting the Cut

Take care when approaching the knife or the specimen.

2.7 Particular Zones of Danger

Important!
Knives are sharp

Always set the knife guard in its proper position after completing the operation – even if
it’s for a brief moment of time – and make sure it is properly seated.

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2.8 Servicing and Fault Clearance

Servicing
To secure the quality of the microtomic section and operational reliability of the rotary
microtome, a routine service should be carried out once a year. Servicing should only be
carried out by a trained service engineer.

Service Contract
microTec offers a service contract which guarantees that your instrument will remain in a
perfect operational condition.

Fault Clearance
Malfunctions, which can adversely affect safety, are to be rectified immediately.

2.9 Structural Modifications and Replacements to the Instrument

• No modifications, conversions or enhancements may be made to the instrument

without the approval being given by the manufacturer.

• All conversions require written confirmation issued by microTec.

• Replace components which are not in proper working order immediately.

• Only use original replacement and consumable parts and items.

• It cannot be guaranteed that parts sourced from other suppliers are designed
and manufactured to meet safety and reliability conditions.

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2.10. Cleaning and Associated Care

Cleaning
Depending upon the level of dirt and contamination and upon the
frequency of use, regular cleaning and care of the rotary
microtome is recommended. The instrument is best cleaned using
a mild domestic cleaning agent. Do not use harsh solvents or
cleaning compounds, because paintwork and plastic components
can be damaged by their use.

Always remove the knife and stow in the knife box prior to
cleaning the instrument.

Important!

Never place a knife on a table or surface with the cutting edge facing
upwards. Thoroughly clean the bearing surfaces and
contact faces and the guide of the knife holder.

Associated Care
When the instrument is not in use, turn back the cylinder
by means of the coarse drive mechanism and lock the
Hand wheel. Cover the instrument with the cover supplied.

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3. Transportation and Storage

3.1 Dimensions and Weights

Dimensions
Width: .…….…………………….…460 mm
Depth: …….…………………….… 460 mm
Height: ..…………………………... 280 mm

Weight
Weight (without accessories) ……..36 kg

3.2 Instructions for Transportation

Lock the hand wheel.
Remove all knives, knife holders, specimen
fixtures and specimens from the rotary microtome.

3.3 Packaging
The rotary microtome has been supplied in a
special packaging designed for transportation. Do
not commission (start-up) the instrument until at
least 24 hours have elapsed following
transportation.
Please ensure the specified procedures are strictly
observed!

Transportation crate
unopened.

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3.4 Inspection upon Acceptance by the Recipient

Firstly, check that all items ordered are supplied in the transportation crate. Inspect the
transportation crate and the rotary microtome for any damage incurred during transit.

3.5 Reporting and Documenting Transportation Damage

In the event of damage caused in transit, the manufacturer and the forwarding agent are
to be advised immediately in writing.

3.6 Ambient Conditions

Storage temperature range 20° C to + 50° C.

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4. Data and Information Concerning the

Instrument
4.1 Designation
Rotary Microtome, model CUT 4050

4.2 Scope of Supply, i.e.

According to order confirmation.

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4.3 Certification of Conformity

Declaration of Conformity

Manufacturer: microTec Laborgeräte GmbH

Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 47
69190 Walldorf, Germany

Product: Rotary Microtome CUT 4050

Serial-No.: 500-______

We declare under our sole responsibility that our product meets all the requirements of the
following directives that are applicable

98/79/EG In-vitro Diagnostic Directive

Classification acc. to IVD-RL 98/79/EWG Other devices

Applied harmonised standards, national DIN EN 292, safety of the machines,

Standards or other normative documents equipment and systems

Person in the Community duly authorized to compile the relevant technical documentation:
Walter Ganter - microTec Laborgeräte GmbH

Walldorf,

Place, Date Signature Walter Ganter, Managing Director

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4.4 Ambient Temperatures During Operation

+ 10°C to + 35°C

4.5 Performance
Cut thickness range: ………………………………………………………0,5 - 60 microns
… 0,5 microns of 0,5 - 2 microns
1 micron of 2 - 10 microns
2 microns of 10 - 20 microns
5 microns of 20 - 60 microns

Horizontal specimen movement: ……………………………………………..max. 40 mm

Vertical specimen movement: ……………………………............................max. 70 mm

Specimen size: Standard ………………………………... 55 x 50 mm

Specimen orientation: X-and Y- axes: ………………………………………8°
Z-axis: ………………………………………up to 360°

Cutter drive: …………………………………………………………manual via handwheel

Coarse advance: ……………………………………………………manual via handwheel

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5. Installation, Assembly, Commissioning

5.1 Installation
Protect the instrument from:
• sources of heat such as fan heaters or hot air outlets;
• extremely low temperatures;
• direct sunlight;
• excessive dust;
• moisture or rain;
• mechanical vibration or impacts;
• Equipment which contain magnets or generate magnetic fields.

5.2 Transportation Locking Pieces and Securements

Remove all locking pieces and adhesive tape used for securement during transportation.

Place the instrument on a rigid, vibration-free table or bench.

Align the instrument on the table. Lift up the instrument a little at the front.

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5.3 Controls, Indicators, and Displays

Item Description
1 Handwheel for cutting operation
2 Handwheel handle for handwheel 1
3 Knob for releasing the handwheel locking device 4
4 Handwheel locking device
5 Rotary knob for setting the thickness of slice
6 Inspection window for setting and inspecting slice thickness
7 Locking lever for knife holder
8 Lever for trimming adjustment*
9 LCD display (cutting counter)*
10 Reset for LCD display*
11 Handwheel for coarse drive
12 Cylinder
13 Clamping mechanism for knife holder
14 Guide bars for knife holder

*Only on the Cut 4060 model

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6. Operation
6.1 Preparation, Orientation, and
Alignment of the Specimen
Prior to starting to cut the specimen, the specimen must be
suitably prepared and embedded and encapsulated in an
appropriate medium. Various molds and plastic cassettes
are used for encapsulation purposes.

By using the microTec adapter system, the specimen can be

aligned to the plane of cut.

6.2 Commencing the Cutting Operation

Macro positioning of the specimen in relation to the
knife cutter is accomplished by moving the base of the
knife holder, or by operating the hand wheel of the
coarse feed drive (Fig. 2.11).

With continued operation, cutting of the specimen

commences up to the required depth of slice. The
residues of the cut specimen so produced must be
wiped away from the knife in an upwards direction from
underneath using a brush.

Important!
Do not touch the knife with your fingers!

6.3 Instructions for Producing Sliced

Microtomic Sections of the Specimen
The following aspects are to be heeded in order to
produce effective sliced microtomic sections of the
specimen:

• always use a sharp knife,

• as wear occurs at the point of cut, slide the knife to
the left or to the right, in order to be able to continue
working with a sharp section of the knife,
• always keep the front and rear face of the knife
clean. It is important to thoroughly remove any
traces of paraffin wax.

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6.4 Cutting Action

The cutting action of the rotary microtome is
generated by rotating the hand wheel (Fig. 1.1) in a
clockwise direction. The cut is accomplished on the
down stroke and retraction on the upwards directed
stroke by further rotation of the hand wheel (Fig.
1.1) in a clockwise direction.

6.5 Handwheel (Fig. 1)

Button for releasing

Handwheel locking
Handwheel for
cutting movement
Handwheel

The hand wheel (1) is integrated in the casing of the

microtome (Fig. 1).
The position of the handle (2) corresponds to the
vertical position of the specimen.
The hand wheel locking device is situated on the
hand wheel (1).

Releasing the hand wheel locking device

Press down the knob (refer to illustration)

Locking the hand wheel (1)

Press the hand wheel locking device (refer to
illustration).

Hand wheel (1) engages in one of the 24 locking

positions.

Important!
For personal safety, the hand wheel should
always be locked in the upper region of vertical
travel when exchanging specimens.

6.6 Coarse Advanced Drive

To rapidly alter the distance between the knife

and the specimen, the rotary microtome is
equipped with a coarse advancement drive (11).
The specimen fixture can be moved forwards or
backwards horizontally by the hand wheel for
the coarse advancement drive (11).

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6.7 Friction Clutch on the Coarse Advanced Drive Mechanism

On reaching the front and rear positions of the specimen feed, a friction clutch built into the
coarse advanced drive prevents the blocking of this coarse advanced drive. As soon as an
audible engagement is triggered by the coarse drive, the feeding operation of the specimen
stops. Upon rotation of the hand wheel of the coarse advanced drive (11) in the opposite
direction, the feeding motion is restored.
If the feeding motion is not restored by this procedure, the hand wheel of the coarse
advanced drive mechanism (11) must be pressed inwards against the casing. Only a short
forward or backward movement is needed to ultimately activate the feeding motion.

Important!
Avoid touching the specimen or the specimen holder containing the knife when
operating the hand wheel of the coarse advanced drive mechanism.

6.8 The Handwheel of the Coarse Advanced Drive Mechanism (11)

The hand wheel of the coarse advanced drive mechanism (11) is integrated in the casing
(Fig. 2)

6.9 Collision Protection Device

On the specimen feed system reaching its forward
terminal position, a red mark is visible on the
cylinder (12). From this mark there is a further distance of adjustment
of max. 2500 microns available. A second red mark then becomes
visible, and the cylinder must be rotated back by means of the hand
wheel of the coarse advanced drive (11), before further cuts can be
made.

Important!
As soon as the remaining distance of adjustment of 2500 microns is exceeded, the
preselected thickness of cut is disabled by the in-built collision protection device.
Any automatic adjustment by rotating the hand wheel is now inactivated.

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7. Setting Up and Changing the Setup

7.1 Specimen Fixture
To hold the specimens during cutting, various adapters and clamping fixture systems are
available, based on the microTec principle of modular construction. In conjunction with the
specimen orientation device, it is possible to orientate and align the specimen to the plane
of cut is simple manner. An adapter piece is inserted at the orientation point where
operations do not require such orientation.

7.2 Standard Specimen Clamping Fixtures

The standard specimen clamping fixture (Fig. 3) is used for paraffin wax or plastic molded
blocks of square or rectangular form. When using, the specimen is placed against the top
fixed jaw (Fig. 3 – item 1) and clamped by the clamping screw (Fig. 3 – item 2).

Important!
On the grounds of stability, the specimen should not be
allowed to protrude too far beyond the clamping jaws.

Fig. 3

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7.3 Orientable Adapter

The orientable adapter (Fig. 3 – item 3) can optionally be attached by screws to the various
specimen clamping systems and be used only in combination with the specimen orientation
device.

Specimen clamping systems of orientable design are supplied ex works equipped with the
orientable adapter.

Example (Fig. 3)

The orientable adapter (Fig. 3 – item 3) is shown in this illustration attached to the standard
specimen clamping fixture by 4 screws (Fig. 3 – item 4) and can be removed if required.

Dismantling the standard specimen clamping fixture: Loosen 4 screws

(Fig. 3 – item 4)

7.4 Fixed Adapter

This adapter (Fig. 4 – item 1) is used as a fixed attachment directly on to the cylinder (Fig.
4 – item 2), and can be optionally fitted to various specimen clamping systems (Fig. 4).

Fig. 4

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7.5 Cylindrical Specimen Insert and Prism

To clamp cylindrical specimens (Fig. 5), the cylindrical specimen insert (Fig. 5 – item 1),
or the prism (Fig. 5 – item 2), can be inserted into the standard specimen clamping fixture
(Fig. 5 – item 3), having the diameters

- Ø 6 mm
- Ø 15 mm
- Ø 25 mm
- Ø special diameters on request

The location pin (Fig. 5 – item 4) engages the movable clamping jaw. Springs (Fig. 5 –
item 5) on the cylindrical specimen insert (Fig. 5 – item 1) enable easy removal of the
cylindrical specimens from the inserts.

Fig. 5

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7.6 Film (Thin Material) Clamping Fixture

The film clamping fixture (Fig. 6) is a clamping system for film and foil materials or flat and
thin specimens. To insert the specimen, the three threaded pins (Fig. 6 – item 4) are
loosened, and the movable jaw (Fig. 6 – item 2) against the two compression springs, the
setting of which is made by the two threaded pins (Fig. 6 – item 3), moved laterally. The
specimen is held by the force of the springs, but can be repositioned. By screwing in the
threaded pins (Fig. 6 – item 4), the specimen is securely clamped between the jaws of the
film clamping fixture.

Fig. 6

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7.7 Universal Cassette Clamping Fixture

The universal cassette clamping fixture (Fig. 7) is a quick change specimen system, and
is used for the clamping of cassettes.

Inserting and removing the cassette

Pull clamping lever (Fig. 7 – item 1) in the direction
of the arrow (Fig. 7)

Important!
Optimal clamping is only achieved if the bearing faces are
clean of any paraffin wax residues.

Fig. 7

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7.8 Specimen Orientation Device

Specimen clamping systems are attached to the orientation device (Fig. 8) by means of
the orientable adapter (Fig. 8 – item 3). This way, orientation of the specimen in relation
to the plane of cut is accomplished.

Rotate the eccentric cam lever (Fig. 8 – item 1) towards the front.
Specimen clamping fixture is released. Range of specimen clamping: 360º (Z axis).

Turn orientation screws (Fig. 8 – item 2)

It is possible to orientate the specimen 8º in each direction (X axis, Y axis).

The spring loaded pin (Fig. 8 – item 3) acts upon the orientation screws (Fig. 8 – item 2).

After orientating the specimen, press the eccentric cam lever (Fig. 8 – item 1) upwards
into the clamping position.
Specimen is clamped.
Cutting of the specimen can now commence.

Important!
The spring loaded pin (Fig. 8 – item 3) must remain fully screwed
in, in order to keep the orientation screws loaded under spring
pressure

Fig. 8

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7.9 Exchanging the Specimen Clamping Systems

Exchanging the specimen clamping system
Release (press downwards) the eccentric cam lever (Fig. 8 – item 1).
Withdraw from the left out of the specimen orientation device (Fig. 8).
Screw out the orientation screws (Fig. 8 – item 2) and spring loaded pin (Fig. 8 – item 3) a
little way.
Withdraw the specimen clamping fixture from the front from the specimen orientation
device.

Important!
After exchanging the clamping system, make sure that the spring
loaded pin (Fig. 8 – item 3) is screwed in again, otherwise there will
be insufficient spring pressure imparted.

Note
In order to increase leverage at the handle of the eccentric cam
lever (Fig. 8 – item 1), the handle sleeve (Fig. 8 – item 4) can be
pulled out. After releasing, the handle sleeve springs back into its
nominal position.

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8. Setting up the Knife

8.1 Knife Holder
The knife holders are user friendly designed
and easy to clean due to its special surface
treatment. The risk of injury during the setting
up of the knife and the specimen is minimized
by a laterally movable finger guard.

8.2 Knife Holder

The knife holder base is designed for
universal use, and can be used for the “R“
type knife holder and also for the holder for
throw-away blades.
Mounting the base of the knife holder (Figs. 9 + 10).
Fig. 2
Release clamping lever (Fig. 2 – item 7) by rotating to the left.

Push the base of the knife holder on the guide bars (Fig. 2 – item 5).

Push the base of the knife holder centrally over the clamping mechanism (Fig. 2 – item 5).
Take note of the prism guide.
When in the required position, rotate clamping lever (Fig. 2 – item 4) to the right.

Allow the cutting edge of the knife to align flush with edge1. The height is adjusted by the
knurled screw (Fig. 9 – item 7). Clamping is accomplished by means of the clamping
screws (Fig. 9 – item 4).

“R“ type Knife holder

angle marking

Base of Knife holder

Fig. 9

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8.3 The “R“ type knife holder

Assembling the “R“ type knife holder on the base of the knife holder
Release clamping lever (Fig. 9 – item 1) in opposite
direction to that of the arrow.
Introduce the “R“ type knife holder into the clamping
mechanism (Fig. 9 – item 2).
Clamp at the required clearance angle position (Fig. 9 –
item 5).

Inserting the knife

Slightly unscrew clamping screws (Fig. 9 – item 4).
Push the knife in from the side.
or
Hinge up knife guard (Fig. 9 – item 3) in direction of arrow.
Insert knife from above.
Clamp knife by means of the clamping screws (Fig. 9 – item 4).
Push finger guard (Fig. 9 – item 6) to center each time when
Carrying out setting-up operation.
Clamping levers are fitted to both sides of the knife holders to facilitate easier operation.

Knife height adjustment device

Loosen clamping screws (Fig. 9 – item 4).
Adjustment to the height of the knife (1) is accomplished by screwing the knurled screws
(Fig. 9 – item 7) to the left or the right.
Tighten the clamping screws (Fig. 9 – item 4).

“R“ type knife holder

angle marking
Base of knife holder

Fig. 9

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8.4 The “RS“ type knife holder

Stable version for Tungsten carbide conventional

steel knives with the central clamping plate
providing optimal stability. The knife is stabilized
exactly, where the highest cutting forces are
applied. Full use of the knife length.

Assembling the „RS“ type Knife Holder on the base of the Knife Holder

Release clamping lever in opposite direction to that of the arrow.

Introduce the „RS“ type knife holder into the clamping mechanism.
Clamp at the required clearance angle position.

Inserting the blade

Slightly unscrew clamping screws.
Lift the valve completely bent up.
Insert the blade and adjust with the knife height adjustment device the blade-edge to the
white strip.
Fit the valve and clamp it evenly with the two clamp screws.

Open the blade guard

Move the movable protection for opening outwards. Finger-blade guard when setting
always closed hold.

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8.5 Holder for Throw-away Blades

Assembling the holder for throw-away blades on the base for the knife holder.
Release clamping lever (Fig. 9 – item 1) in opposite direction to that of the arrow.
Introduce the holder of the throw-away blades into the clamping mechanism
(Fig. 9 – item 2). Clamp at the required clearance angle position (Fig. 9 – item 2).

Inserting the throw-away blades

Release clamping lever (Fig. 10 – item 3).
Insert throw-away blades from the side in the gap between the bars and the clamping
plate (Fig. 10 – item 4).
Push throw-away blades to the center of the throw-away blade holder.
Tighten clamping lever (Fig. 10 – item 3).

Suitable Knife blades

Blades type Manufacturer Dimensions

ACCU-EDGE FEATHER 0,25 x 8,0
ACCU-EDGE FEATHER 0,32 x 14,1

Inscription of clamping plate

MS24, MS33, MS100, MS200, MS300 MICROS Austria 0,25 x 8,0 CUT 2511A Low Profile I
EDGE-RITE Thermo Scientific 0,30 x 8,0 CUT2511AE Low Profile I
Plasma High Profile MICROS Austria 0,32 x 14,0 CUT 2511B High Profile I

Holder for throw-away blades

Space for inscription

clamping plate
Fig. 9

Base for Knife holder

Fig. 9+10

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Utilization of the blades

In order to utilize the entire cutting edge of the blades. These blades can be pushed to
the right or to the left.
Release clamping lever (Fig. 10 – item 3).
Push blade with the clamping plate to the left or the right.
Tighten clamping lever (Fig. 10 – item 3).

8.6 Clearance Angle Adjustment

The clearance angle between the knife cutting edge and the specimen can be adjusted
as required to conform to the respective cutting requirements. The clearance angle
setting is made by means of the clamping lever (Fig. 9 – item 1 + Fig. 10 – item 1) at the
base of the knife holder on all knife holder systems.

Clearance angle setting

Release clamping lever (Fig. 9 – item 1 and/or Fig. 10 – item 1).

Pivot the knife holder and /or the holder of the throw-away blades into the clearance
position.
The clearance angle can be read off from scale markings on both sides as an actual
value.

Tighten the clamping lever (Fig. 9 – item 1 and/or Fig. 10 – item 1).

Empirically, suitable microtomic sections are produced at a clearance

angle of 15º. This clearance angle position is characterized by a longer
mark on the knife holder base.

9. Emergency Service, Customer Service

microTec Laborgeräte GmbH

Rudolf-Diesel-Str. 47
69190 Walldorf / Germany
Phone: + 49 6227 8222-0
Fax: + 49 6227 8222-30
mail@micro-tec.de
www.micro-tec.de

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9.1 Unpacking the device

1st Step
Remove all side and top sitting screws
sides and take the complete cover of
the transportation crate.

2nd Step
Remove all hexagon headed screws
around and the packaging frame.

3nd Step
With both hands lift the instrument out
from the transportation crate.

Important!

The unit is heavy – do not lift or carry

the instrument by means of the hand
wheel.

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Notice

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