BRIGHT M3500 MICROTOME Guide

M3500 Issue 2 - Feb 2006
Last reviewed: Oct 2010 / Next review Oct 2013 1
Operating, Maintenance and
Spare Parts Manual for the
Bright
M3500 MICROTOME
Serial Number: ………………………

M3500 Issue 2 - Feb 2006
Last reviewed: Oct 2010 / Next review Oct 2013
2
CONTENTS
OPERATING, MAINTENANCE AND ..............................................................1
SPARE PARTS MANUAL FOR THE ..............................................................1
BRIGHT ...........................................................................................................1
M3500 MICROTOME.......................................................................................1
Serial Number: ……………………….................................................................................................1
CONTENTS ........................................................................................... 2,3 & 4
SAFETY AND GENERAL INFORMATION .....................................................6
Consumer Protection..........................................................................................................................6
ELECTRICAL.................................................................................................................................... 6
MICROTOME KNIVES/BLADES ......................................................................................................6
OPERATION..........................................................................................................................................7
ACCESSORIES......................................................................................................................................7
PRODUCT SAFETY SUGGESTIONS ................................................................................................7
DECONTAMINATION CERTIFICATES ..........................................................................................7
WARRANTY ..........................................................................................................................................8
1. INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................9
1.1 Receipt and Unpacking ......................................................................................................9
1.1.1 Receipt .............................................................................................................................9
1.1.2 Unpacking .......................................................................................................................9
1.1.3 Lifting ..............................................................................................................................9
1.2 ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION ........................................................9
1.2 Electrical connections......................................................................................................... 9
1.2.1 Electrical requirements ..................................................................................................9
1.2.2 Electrical Safety ..............................................................................................................9
1.2.3 Switching on ....................................................................................................................9
2. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS..................................................................9
2.1 Front Control Panel..........................................................................................................10
2.2 REAR FUSE PANEL ............................................................................10
2.1.1 Mains Switch.................................................................................................................10
2.1.2 Fuse ................................................................................................................................10
2.3 PRE-USE CHECKS..............................................................................11
2.4 MICROTOME CONTROLS...................................................................11
2.4.1 Specimen cassette.......................................................................................................... 11
2.4.2 Knife Holder..................................................................................................................11
2.4.3 Disposable Blades ......................................................................................................... 11
2.4.4 Rewind Control (Manual)............................................................................................ 12
2.4.5 Section Thickness Control ........................................................................................... 12

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2.5 MOTORISED ADVANCE/REWIND (WHERE FITTED)........................12
2.5.1 General ..........................................................................................................................12
2.5.2 Motorised Specimen Cassette Rewind ........................................................................ 12
2.5.3 Motorised Specimen Cassette Advance ......................................................................12
2.6 OTHER FEATURES .............................................................................12
2.6.1 Debris Trays.................................................................................................................. 12
2.6.2 Visor...............................................................................................................................13
2.6.3 Hand wheel.................................................................................................................... 13
2.7 CUTTING AND COLLECTING SECTIONS..........................................13
2.7.1 Set Up.............................................................................................................................13
2.7.2 Wax Cassette Set Up..................................................................................................... 13
2.7.3 Trimming.......................................................................................................................13
2.7.4 Section Cutting.............................................................................................................. 13
3. GENERAL MAINTENANCE....................................................................14
3.1 Daily Care..........................................................................................................................14
3.2 Microtome Knives and Blades......................................................................................... 14
3.2.1 Conventional Knives..................................................................................................... 15
3.2.2 Disposable Blades ......................................................................................................... 15
3.3 SERVICING AND REPAIRS.................................................................15
3.3.1 Routine Servicing..........................................................................................................15
3.3.2 Repairs........................................................................................................................... 15
3.4 DECONTAMINATION ..........................................................................16
3.4.1 Disinfectant ...................................................................................................................16
4. SECTIONING...........................................................................................16
A PROBLEM SOLVING QUIDE.......................................................................................................16
4.1 CHECK LIST ........................................................................................16
4.1.1 Specimen........................................................................................................................ 16
4.1.2 Knife...............................................................................................................................16
4.1.3 General Factors.............................................................................................................16
4.2 THICK / THIN SECTIONS ....................................................................17
INTERMITTENT FAILURE TO CUT..............................................................................................17
4.3 SECTIONS CRUMBLING OR NOT FORMING ....................................17
4.4 EXCESSIVE COMPRESSION OF SECTIONS.....................................17
4.5 UNEVEN THICKNESS ACROSS SECTION ........................................17
4.6 VERTICAL SCORE MARKS ON SECTIONS.......................................17
4.7 SECTIONS FAIL TO FLATTEN AND PASS DOWN KNIFE ................18
5.0 MISCELLANEOUS SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS ..............................18
5.1 Advance Pawl Replacement............................................................................................. 18
5.2 Pawl Release Lever (Advance).........................................................................................18

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5.3 Calibration ........................................................................................................................18
9. SPECIFICATIONS.....................................................................................21
Accessories ........................................................................................................................................22
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET .............................................................23
Name: CRYO-M-BED.............................................................................................................. 23
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET .............................................................24
Name: CRYOSPRAY ...............................................................................................................24
MATERIAL SAFETY DATA SHEET .............................................................25
Name: Low temperature Grease .............................................................................................25
Knives / Blades.................................................................................................................................. 26
DECONTAMINATION CERTIFICATE...........................................................27
DECONTAMINATION PROCEDURES .........................................................28
Microtomes............................................................................................................................................28
Microtome Knives ................................................................................................................................28
QUALITY SURVEY REPORT........................................................................29
Annexe:
Drawing 212-040 M3500 Microtome Assembly 1 of 3 30, 31 & 32
Part List 212-040-PL 33 & 34
Drawing 51937 Cutting Arm Assembly 35
Part List 51937-PL 36
Drawing 212-041 Microtome Motor Rewind Sub-Assembly 37
Part List 212-041-PL 38
Drawing 212-046 CQRS Non-Orientating Assembly 39
PartList212-046-PL 40
Drawing 212-047 CQRS Orientating Head Assembly M3500 41
Part List 212-047-PL 42
Drawing 212-051 Pawl Release Assembly 43
Part List 212-051-PL 44
Drawing 212-054 M3500 Knife Block Retract Model Sub-Assembly 45
Part List 212-054-PL 46 & 47
Drawing 212-061 M3500 Input Drive Shaft (Hand wheel) Assembly 48
Part List 212-061-PL 49
WiringDiagram 50

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Power IndicatorSection Counter Reset
Section Counter
Visor
Thickness
Selector Knob
Locking
L
eve
r
Rear
Cove
r
Cutting
Handwheel
RH Advance/Rewind
Sw
i
tc
h
50230 Standard
Knif
e
RH Knife
Gua
r
d
Knife Guard
H
e
i
g
h
t
Kn
ob
Debris
Tray
Knife
Clamps
Cassette Release
L
eve
r
Manual
A
dv/
R
wd
Kn
ob

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SAFETY AND GENERAL INFORMATION
Consumer Protection
The Consumer Protection Act 1987 Part 1. refers to Product Liability. This legislation was
issued as a direct result of an EC Directive to all member states and has been in force with
effect from 1 March 1988.
The Bright Instrument Company Limited, ever mindful of the need to ensure that their
products are not subject to misuse and/or incorrect handling, have made it their aim to
communicate any possible dangers to their customers.
Whilst the Bright Instrument Company Limited markets products manufactured to the highest
safety standards, it is in the interest of the purchaser that he is aware of the resultant dangers
of misuse and/or incorrect handling of these products.
Your attention is therefore drawn to the following precautions:
ELECTRICAL
a. Warning - A warning notice is fixed to the instrument (where applicable) stating that
it should be disconnected from the mains supply before removing the panels. This
warning should be strictly observed.
b. Fuses – Fuse ratings are clearly indicated on all fuse panels adjacent to the fuse
holder. If and when replacement is necessary, the correct fuse rating and type must
be adhered to.
c. Earthing (Grounding) – A protective earth terminal is fitted and must be used in all
two-wire installations.
MICROTOME KNIVES/BLADES
The microtome knife/blade can be a hazard in the laboratory. Personnel should be made
aware of the dangers and observe the following warnings:
a. DO NOT leave the microtome unattended with an exposed knife/blade in position.
Remove the knife/blade, or cover with the guards or visor provided.
b. DO NOT leave unboxed knives/blades lying around. Place knives/blades that are not
in use in their boxes or packets.
c. DO NOT carry knives/blades unless secure in the box or packet provided.
d. DO NOT clean the knife/blade along its length. Wipe the knife/blade from the back
edge to the cutting edge.
e. REMEMBER that even used knives and blades are dangerous. The are still sharp
and may have been used to cut potentially infectious specimens.
f. DISPOSE of used knives and blades with the same care as other sharp objects. On
no account should used knives or blades be placed in waste bins.

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OPERATION
When placing specimen cassettes in the microtome, when orientating, manipulating or in any
way placing fingers in a position above the knife/blade edge – ensure that the hand wheel is
locked and knife guards are in position.
ACCESSORIES
The instrument has the following accessories as standard:
Low temperature grease: (please refer to the material safety data information, towards the
back of this instructions manual, for further information).
Long series ball driver tool, to remove / fit rear cover
2 pin tool, to remove / fit the hand wheel and visor
Allen keys, fuse and brush
PRODUCT SAFETY SUGGESTIONS
All Bright Instrument Company Limited personnel are encouraged to make suggestions
regarding product safety. We also welcome such suggestions from our customers. They may
be submitted by completing the appropriate (Safety) section of the Quality Survey Record
Form supplied with all Bright instruments, or alternatively, by letter, telephone, fax or email. All
communications should be direct to our Quality Assurance Department and will be
acknowledged.
DECONTAMINATION CERTIFICATES
IMPORTANT
If the instrument or any part of it is to be returned to Bright Instrument Company Limited, a
decontamination certificate must accompany it, and please note the following:
1. If the instrument or any part of it has been exposed to or been in contact with potential
pathogenic or radioactive material, it is essential that it be decontaminated.
2. Set procedures are laid down by the Health and Safety Executive for decontamination.
The “Howie code” and the “Code of Practise for the Prevention of Infection in Clinical
Laboratories and Post-mortem Rooms”, ISBN 0 11 320464 7) explain the correct
procedures to be used. For the avoidance of doubt, we ask that a completed
decontamination certificate should accompany instruments or parts returned to us. A copy
of this can be found at the back of this instruction manual and we suggest you use a
photocopy of this when returning parts. Alternatively we would be pleased to either post or
fax you another copy should you require.
3. Should the instrument or any part of it be received in a condition that Bright Instrument
Company Limited, consider to be a potential biological hazard, the instrument or part will
be returned unrepaired at the expense of the customer.
4. Customer’s declarations must indicate that the package contains ‘British Returned
Goods’. Failure to do so will involve customs duty payable by us, which will be invoiced to
the sender.

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WARRANTY
The Warranty relating to the instrument is outlined in our Terms and Conditions of Sale
paragraph 6.
i) The Seller‘s products are carefully inspected and submitted to its standard tests.
II) The Seller warrants all its products to be free from defects in workmanship and
materials under normal conditions of use and service provided always:
a. that if any of the goods so manufactured is alleged to be defective in workmanship
and material and is returned carriage paid, and protected against damage in transit to
the Seller’s works at Huntingdon, England within 12 months from the date of despatch
and if after examination by the Seller that goods or part of them are found to be so
defective then the Seller will repair or replace them free of charge and will return them
to the Buyer , carriage paid.
b. where any part of the goods manufactured by the Seller is repaired or replaced under
the terms of the foregoing warranty, such warranty shall thereafter be limited to a
period of six months from the date when the goods shall have been re-delivered to
the Buyer.
c. this warranty does not apply to any defects caused by wear and tear, incorrect
installation abnormal conditions of working, accident, misuse or neglect.
d. that save as in this clause herein before expressed, the Seller shall not be under any
liability for negligence or otherwise in respect of defects in goods delivered or for any
injury, damage or loss resulting from such defects and the Seller’s liability under this
clause shall be in lieu of any warranty or condition implied by law as to the quality or
fitness for any particular purpose of such goods.
e. this warranty is expressly in lieu of all other warranties, guarantees or liabilities
expressed or implied by any of the Seller’s Representatives or Agents.
Please see our separate Product Warranty sheet for deliveries to the mainland UK.
WARNING
Before proceeding to Operating Instructions, ensure you are familiar with the contents
of the pages marked ‘Safety Information’. This instrument must only be used by
competent persons.

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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Receipt and Unpacking
This instrument received a final test and inspection prior to despatch from the factory. The
following instructions are given for the re-assembly of the instrument, adjustments and its
correct use. If the instrument is received before preparations for installation are completed, it
should be stored in a clean, dry place and not exposed to dirty or damp conditions.
1.1.1 Receipt
Immediately upon receipt of the instrument, make a careful examination for evidence of
damage encountered in transit. If any damage is found or suspected, notify both the carrier
and Bright Instrument Company Limited.
1.1.2 Unpacking
All packing must be carefully removed and parts checked against the enclosed packing list. If
any damage or discrepancy is noted, please inform our agent/distributor, or Bright Instrument
Company Limited, direct, immediately.
1.1.3 Lifting
The instrument has been designed with two main lifting points as hand holds at the front and
rear of the instrument. The instrument weight less than 25Kgs, but care should be taken when
lifting by following manual handling guide lines. If in doubt contact your Health & Safety
Officer.
1.2 ASSEMBLY AND INSTALLATION
The microtome is delivered virtually ready for use with only the accessories required for use in
need of fitting.
1.2 Electrical connections
1.2.1 Electrical requirements
The supply cord of the instrument should be connected to any ordinary electrical outlet (max
13 amps). Check the voltage stamped on the nameplate, located on the underside of the
instrument, with your supply:
The connections are:
Brown - Positive [live]
Blue - Negative [neutral]
Yellow/Green - Earth [ground]
1.2.2 Electrical Safety
Where earth connections are taken through connectors, then the connector must be rated to
take the maximum fault current. The machine should be disconnected before such connectors
are separated for servicing purposes.
1.2.3 Switching on
Switch on by using the Mains Power switch located on the rear fuse panel. This is applicable
only to Motorised Advance/Rewind models.
For instruments with a section counter only, this is operated by 2 AA batteries located on the
rear panel at the bottom of the plinth.
2. OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
On receipt of your new Bright instrument, please refer to section 1.1 (Receipt and Unpacking)
and section 1.2 (Assembly and Installation).

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As part of its policy of continual improvement, Bright Instrument Company Limited, reserves
the right to incorporate changes, or make additions to, without prior notice. There may,
therefore, be minor details differences between the information in this manual and your
instrument. These differences will not affect the safety and use of the instrument.
2.1 Front Control Panel
This panel houses the section counter, the re-set button to zero the counter and a Mains
Power LED for indicating purposes.
2.2 REAR FUSE PANEL
2.1.1 Mains Switch
The mains power switch provides power to the motorised advance/rewind control only.
2.1.2 Fuse
The single fuse is for the Main Power only.
Main - All circuits
If the fuse blows, replace it with a new one of exactly the same rating. In the event of
repeated fuse blowing, consult a qualified electrical engineer.
On NO account must the fuse be replaced with anything other than a correctly rated
substitute.

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2.3 PRE-USE CHECKS
With the instrument on the work surface open the visor and ensure that the cutting arm will
strike no objects. With the section thickness dial set at zero and using the mechanical
advance/rewind knob, advance the lead screw body from the cutting arm.
Unlock the hand wheel and rotate in direction of arrow. Ensure hand wheel runs smoothly and
the section counter is operating.
For models with Motorised Advance/Rewind, ensure you have the correct power supply and
fuse rating before plugging in and applying power.
With power applied ensure the section thickness dial is set at zero and the cutting arm in the
top position, repeat operation above using either of the Advance/Rewind switches located on
the left hand and right hand side of the Plinth.
2.4 MICROTOME CONTROLS
2.4.1 Specimen cassette
IMPORTANT: Ensure knife guards are in a central position if a knife is installed.
To install a specimen cassette, pull the release lever forward with your finger. Place the
cassette in position and release the lever.
To orientate (if option ordered) the specimen cassette, move the lever to the left to release
the clamp, then move the cassette to the desired position. Re-lock the lever.
2.4.2 Knife Holder
To install a knife or disposable blade holder, loosen the clamp screws, slide the knife guards
to the centre, and slide knife through from the left.
Before re-tightening clamp screws, set knife tilt angle (against the degree scale graduated 0-
25º). The correct setting of the knife tilt angle is essential for obtaining good results. With a
Bright 50230 knife, set an angle of 15º. With a Bright Lever Release Feather Blade Holder cat
no. 57903 the angle should be set to 5º.
2.4.3 Disposable Blades
The M3500 can be fitted with the Bright ‘Magnacut’ disposable blade system (not
recommended on Wax) or with a suitable alternative holder for ‘Feather’ blades, some
experimentation may be required for optimum results. Generally a knife tilt angle of 5º is a
good starting point.
Push towards centrePush towards centre

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IMPORTANT: Knife guards must be used whenever a knife or disposable blades are in
position. Take care to guard the central portion of the knife whenever sections are not being
cut.
2.4.4 Rewind Control (Manual)
The rewind control is used to reset the microtome advance system and for trimming
specimens.
NB: Lock the hand wheel in the three o’clock position and section thickness to zero – this
ensures the advance mechanism is disengaged.
2.4.5 Section Thickness Control
Select section thickness required by turning the knob to the appropriate position. There are
increments of 2µm for 2 - 30µm (or if option ordered for 1µm for 1 -15µm lead screws).
2.5 MOTORISED ADVANCE/REWIND (where fitted)
2.5.1 General
The motor used on this machine is a Pulse DC Stepper Motor. As with all stepped motors,
there is an inherent noise which you may find distracting at first. This minimal noise is caused
by the ’pulsing’ of the motor which is particularly noticeable when the motor is no longer
‘driving’. It in no way affects the operation of the microtome, or has any other adverse effects.
The motor is operated by using either of the two switches located on the left and right hand
sides of the Plinth.
The Motorised Advance/Rewind should only be operated with the cutting head below
the 3 o’clock position and the section thickness control set to 0.
2.5.2 Motorised Specimen Cassette Rewind
-to rewind the cassette follow instructions above
- for small rewind increments, press and quickly release the switch.
2.5.3 Motorised Specimen Cassette Advance
-set specimen thickness control to 0µm
-rewind specimen as required
-with microtome knife set at the correct angle with the specimen in position, use the
switch to ‘advance’ until a minimum clearance has been achieved
-begin trimming by pressing and releasing ‘advance’ switch whilst rotating hand wheel
2.6 OTHER FEATURES
2.6.1 Debris Trays
Two debris trays are provided – one is the internal part of the microtome that surrounds the
knife block.
The second tray is internal and sits under the Main Cutting Arm with the sole purpose of
collecting any stray debris that may have found its way past the Debris Blind. To access the
second tray, you must remove the External Debris Tray.

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The debris trays can easily be lifted out for emptying and cleaning, but first brush most of the
debris into the deeper sections of the trays.
Do not expose the trays to temperatures in excess of 60ºC (see section 3.4)
2.6.2 Visor
The visor is a plastic translucent moulding which can be usd as a safety feature by closing
when the unit is not in use to prevent someone inadvertently touching the settings, blade etc.
2.6.3 Hand wheel
The operating hand wheel on the right side of the Microtome can be locked with the thumb
lever. There are ten locking positions including tip and bottom. The hand wheel should always
be turned clockwise.
2.7 CUTTING AND COLLECTING SECTIONS
We recommend the following cutting angles when using:
a. leaver release Feather blade - 5º
b. solid knife [Bright 50230] - 15º
2.7.1 Set Up
-fit a sharp knife in position, ensuring knife guards are in central position
-check hand wheel is locked with specimen cassette in top position
-move knife guards to the side
2.7.2 Wax Cassette Set Up
-place the wax cassette in the quick release holder with the angled end pointing down
-set the section thickness to zero
-slowly turn the operating handle to lower the cassette in proximity to the blade or
knife
-wind the advance/rewind control to take the wax block so that it just touches the back
of the blade or knife. At the same time move the operating hand wheel with a gentle
backwards and forwards motion so that the cassette goes gently up and down.
2.7.3 Trimming
-use the advance/rewind control to carefully increment the wax cassette towards the
blade or knife while fully turning the operating hand wheel. Avoid taking too large
‘bites’ at the wax.
-alternatively, if Motorised advance/rewind is fitted, the wax cassette can be
incremented towards the blade or knife by briefly pressing one of the advance/rewind
switches.
-Another method is simply to set the section thickness control to 14µm and turn the
operating hand wheel until the specimen is suitably exposed.
Take care while trimming , particularly with small specimens or hard/tough tissues.
2.7.4 Section Cutting
-after trimming, set the section thickness control to the desired position and turn the
operating hand wheel slowly

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-once sections are seen to be cut as required proceed to cut sections
NB: For best results the wax cassettes should be cooled to their optimum sectioning
temperature
Keep the knife clear of debris by brushing upwards with the knife cleaning brush. NEVER
brush along the knife, always brush upwards.
3. GENERAL MAINTENANCE
3.1 Daily Care
Routine daily care consists of removing sectioning debris from the working area, brushing
debris from the knife and cleaning as appropriate.
-first remove the microtome knife/blade holder and clean it (see section 3.4)
-remove the debris trays and clean
-wipe covers and remove excess debris as required
-wipe visor if required
Note that the microtome requires no other routine maintenance.
3.2 Microtome Knives and Blades
Great care must be exercised when handling knives and or disposable blades.
-knives/blades must be stored in their boxes when not in use
-knives /blades fitted to the microtome must be properly guarded
-particular care must be taken during cleaning and knife sharpening

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3.2.1 Conventional Knives
Conventional microtome knives are usually made from carbon steel and will corrode in moist
conditions
Bright Instrument Company Limited offer a knife sharpening service, please contact Sales for
further information.
3.2.2 Disposable Blades
Take particular care to clean the contact surfaces of disposable blade holders. A build up of
debris can prevent the blade from seating properly and cuases instability during section
cutting.
3.3 SERVICING AND REPAIRS
3.3.1 Routine Servicing
With the exception of items mentioned in section 3.1, there is no requirement for periodical
checks.
3.3.2 Repairs
In the event of a breakdown, a qualified person should be called. For electrical and
mechanical problems contact either your local agent/distributor or bright Instrument Company
Limited. Please provide the following information:
Model
Serial Number
Date of Installation
Nature of Fault
The following tasks can be carried out by competent personnel:
-changing fuses
1. switch off power
2. unscrew fuse holder
3. replace fuse with correct fuse rating
4. screw back in fuse holder
If the microtome or any part of it is returned to the agent/distributor or manufacturer, it is
important to observe the precautions in section 3.4 to minimise the risk of infection.
NB: A completed decontamination certificate must be attached to the exterior of the
microtome. Work on the instrument will not proceed until satisfactory notification of
decontamination has been received.

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3.4 DECONTAMINATION
It is the responsibility of the user to ensure that a decontamination procedure is employed
which is appropriate to the nature of the work carried out.
Hypochlorite (bleach) solutions are corrosive to many metals and should be avoided.
Do not expose the debris trays to temperatures in excess of 60ºC.
3.4.1 Disinfectant
There are many wide-spectrum biocidal disinfectants on the market that are used in
microbiological and clinical departments. These may be used to disinfect the microtome.
-Make up the solution according to the manufacturers instructions
-Wipe around the microtome with a cloth or paper towel wetted with the solution.
Ensure all debris is collected and all surfaces have ample contact with the solution.
-Wipe over again with clean water.
-Alcohol may be used as an alternative.
-Debris screens are fitted to the microtome, which stop section trimmings etc from
entering, so the interior of the microtome should not require decontamination but
please check the internal debris tray.
4. SECTIONING
A PROBLEM SOLVING QUIDE
Cutting sections requires skill and practice, and some tissues are particularly difficult. In all
cases the quality of the result depends on a number of factors.
The notes which follow deal with the more commonly encountered difficulties, and suggest a
systematic approach to problem solving.
4.1 CHECK LIST
First check all the basic factors:
4.1.1 Specimen
-has it become loose on the cassette ?
-is the cassette tightly clamped ?
-is the orientation lever locked ? [if applicable]
-has the specimen dehydrated ?
4.1.2 Knife
-has it become dull ?
-is it nicked or chipped ?
-is the knife tilt angle incorrect ?
-is the knife loose ?
-is there a build-up of frost or debris on the knife ?
4.1.3 General Factors
-is the cutting motion too fast/slow/uneven ?

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-has the microtome reached the end of its travel ?
-is the section thickness setting appropriate ?
4.2 THICK / THIN SECTIONS
INTERMITTENT FAILURE TO CUT
-knife/blade not sharp enough
-knife/blade tilt angle too high/low
-clamping screws too loose
-cassette loose on holder
4.3 SECTIONS CRUMBLING OR NOT FORMING
-specimen dehydrated
-knife/blade not sharp enough
-cutting motion too fast or uneven
-knife/blade tilt angle too high/low
4.4 EXCESSIVE COMPRESSION OF SECTIONS
-knife/blade not sharp enough
-knife/blade tilt angle too high
-knife/blade surfaces debris built up
4.5 UNEVEN THICKNESS ACROSS SECTION
-clamping screws too loose
-cassette loose in holder
-knife/blade not sharp enough
-knife/blade edge too thin
-cutting motion uneven
4.6 VERTICAL SCORE MARKS ON SECTIONS
-knife/blade edge nicked or chipped
-knife/blade faces have build up of debris or frost
-tissue contains hard, fine particles (eg: bone fragments)
NB: When removing debris always brush up the knife, NEVER down or along

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4.7 SECTIONS FAIL TO FLATTEN AND PASS DOWN KNIFE
-knife/blade surface has build up debris
5.0 MISCELLANEOUS SERVICING INSTRUCTIONS
5.1 Advance Pawl Replacement
a. Remove rear cover by removing the 4 securing screws (rear 2 screws under visor
stoppers) and raise and support Drive Arm.
b. Using a thin bladed screwdriver, lever the spring from the hole in the bottom of the
pawl. Unscrew the slotted screw and remove slowly, being careful not to lose the
spacer.
c. Position the pawl so the spring is located in the hole at bottom of the pawl. Put the
screw into the pawl so that the screw comes into the middle of the spring levers, slide
the spacer onto the screw and
attach to the pawl arm
assembly, tighten the screw.
d. Carry out a functional check and if satisfactory replace rear cover.
5.2 Pawl Release Lever (Advance)
This lever is attached to the underside of the Long debris Blind Roller Support. 0µm and the
main arm is in the top position, the short lever holds the pawl away from the ratchet wheel.
This will leave a sufficient gap as to let the ratchet wheel rotate freely. Adjust the short lever
as required by moving the lever towards or away from the ratchet wheel at its pivot point.
5.3 Calibration
Calibration is set by selecting 2µm. One click from the pawl and ratchet wheel should be
heard.
Check by cutting wax sections so you can actually see the thickness change through micron
settings of 2, 4 & 6µm and that it is not cutting at zero thickness.

M3500 Issue 2 - Feb 2006
Last reviewed: Oct 2010 / Next review Oct 2013 19
6 Exploded Diagram

M3500 Issue 2 - Feb 2006
Last reviewed: Oct 2010 / Next review Oct 2013 20
7. Internal Construction - Front
8. Internal Construction – Rear