Precisionary RF-1000 User manual

PRECISIONARY INSTRUMENTS
ROTARY MICROTOME RF-1000
Fully Automated Microtome
For Research & Clinical Studies
User Manual

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Table of Contents
Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................... 2
Thank You! ............................................................................................................................................. 3
Safety ...................................................................................................................................................... 3
Instrument Type & Use ........................................................................................................................ 4
Intended Use of the Instrument ............................................................................................................ 4
Safety Devices ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Model Description .............................................................................................................................. 5
RF-1000 Rotary Microtome General Information ................................................................................ 5
Technical Specifications ...................................................................................................................... 5
RF-1000 Rotary Microtome Components ............................................................................................ 6
RF-1000 Rotary Microtome Anatomy .................................................................................................. 7
RF-1000 Specimen Head Clamp Anatomy .......................................................................................... 8
RF-1000 Knife Holder Base Anatomy .................................................................................................. 8
Installation .......................................................................................................................................... 9
Delivery & Installation ........................................................................................................................... 9
Operation .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Step 1. Install the handwheel ................................................................................................................................................ 10
Step 2. Install the removeable waste tray .............................................................................................................................. 10
Step 3. Switch on the rotary microtome ................................................................................................................................. 11
Step 4. Learn the different components of the knife holder base .......................................................................................... 11
Step 5. Install the knife holder base onto the microtome base unit ....................................................................................... 12
Step 6. Adjust the knife block cutting angle ........................................................................................................................... 13
Step 7. Turn and lock the handwheel .................................................................................................................................... 13
Cutting Sections with the Rotary Microtome .................................................................................... 14
Step 1. Insert a cassette or tissue block into the specimen head clamp ............................................................................... 14
Step 2. Adjust the orientation angles of the specimen head ................................................................................................. 14
Step 3. Insert a rotary microtome cutting blade ..................................................................................................................... 15
Exchanging clamp heads in the specimen head holder ........................................................................................................ 16
Using the Touchscreen Control Panel ............................................................................................... 17
Using the Side Control Panel .............................................................................................................. 17
Using the Foot Pedal ........................................................................................................................... 18
Summary of Common Useful Functions ........................................................................................... 18
How to move the specimen head forward and backward ...................................................................................................... 18
How to change between Trimming and Sectioning modes ................................................................................................... 19
How to change the slice thickness ........................................................................................................................................ 19
How to start and stop automated cutting ............................................................................................................................... 20
How to wake the microtome from sleep mode ...................................................................................................................... 20
How to use the emergency STOP button .............................................................................................................................. 20
Cleaning & Maintenance ................................................................................................................. 21
Cleaning & Disinfecting ....................................................................................................................... 21
Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................... 21
Warranty & Services ........................................................................................................................ 23
Warranty ............................................................................................................................................... 23
Service Information ............................................................................................................................. 23
Contact Information ............................................................................................................................. 23

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Thank You!
Thank you for choosing the Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000!
At Precisionary Instruments, we are thrilled to help you get started with your new rotary
microtome, and we take great pride in quality customer service. Please read the following manual
to help you get started with the Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000.
Safety
This user manual is a key part of the Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000, therefore make
sure to keep it on hand and as close as possible to the instrument itself for future reference.
Specifically, this user manual contains crucial instructions and guidance regarding the safety
and service of the rotary microtome. As a responsible user, it is important to carefully read all
the materials in the manual before attempting to use the rotary microtome.
The Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000 is in line with the safety requirements for electrical
equipment regarding measurement, control, and laboratory use. Follow all the instructions and
warnings in this user manual. This helps to ensure your safety as the user and helps prolong the
condition of the rotary microtome.
Note
The information, numerical data, notes and value judgements contained in this manual
represent the current state of scientific knowledge and state-of-the-art technology. We aim to
update the present manual regularly according to the latest technical developments. Please
contact us or visit our website to find the latest versions of this user manual.
Contact [email protected] or call 617-682-0586 for updated information.
Website: http://www.precisionary.com
Dangers, warnings, and cautions appear in a box and are marked by the warning
triangle.
Important information for the user, such as disclaimers, appear in a box and are
marked by the information symbol.
Caution! Follow the accompanying documentation.

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Instrument Type & Use
The information (technical specifications, instructions, and handling of this rotary microtome)
provided in this user manual applies only to the Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000 model.
Please only refer to this user manual when handling the Precisionary RF-1000 rotary
microtome.
The Precisionary RF-1000 is meant to be used by trained laboratory personnel only and is
intended only for professional use. Please read this manual thoroughly and understand all
instructions BEFORE operating this instrument. For your safety and for obtaining the best
possible tissue slicing results, please familiarize yourself with the technical details explained in
this user manual.
Intended Use of the Instrument
We advise that the safety regulations found in this user manual are maintained in good practice
to prevent accidents and/or personal injuries from occurring. Any other use of this instrument,
not in a laboratory nor research setting, is considered improper use.
Safety Devices
Before you begin working with your instrument, it is important that you become familiar with all
devices that provide safety with your machine. Your instrument is equipped with the following
safety devices: a hand wheel lock system, safety guard on the blade and knife holder, and an
emergency STOP button.
The RF-1000 can be easily cleaned with chemical disinfectant (i.e., isopropyl alcohol,
ethanol, etc.). This instrument can be safely cleaned under a UV lamp. Be sure to
wear safety goggles, gloves, a laboratory coat, and mask to protect yourself from
contaminants and UV light when cleaning
• Please do not adjust or remove the accessories or protective devices located on
or inside the rotary microtome. It should only be opened and repaired by
Precisionary Instrument engineers.
• Only original accessories and spare parts authorized by Precisionary Instruments
can be used with the RF-1000.
• Only Precisionary Instruments-approved power cords should be used, please do
not attempt to replace with any other type. Make sure to contact customer service
if the power plug does not fit.

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Model Description
RF-1000 Rotary Microtome General Information
The Precisionary RF-1000 rotary microtome is a fully automatic model that is ideal for routine
and high-throughput histology tissue sectioning. This microtome provides high precision cutting
and stability, which gives you reproducible, high-quality wax-embedded and fixed tissue
sections. Key Features include:
• Fully automated controls for moving the specimen head and automated cutting.
• LCD touchscreen panel shows all cutting metrics
• Touchscreen control panel provides easy and friendly controls.
• Specimen clamp is compatible with multiple cassette sizes.
• Cutting stage has a blade guard for increased safety.
• Large volume waste tray is removable for easy cleaning.
• Top of rotary microtome can be used as storage for consumables during cutting.
• Smooth turning hand wheel can be locked, allowing for improved ergonomics.
Technical Specifications
Basic Information
Dimensions
19 ½ in (L) x 16 7/8 in (W) x 12 in (H)
Weight
60 lb
Cutting Specifications
Section Thickness Range
0.5µm – 100µm adjustable as follows:
0.5µm – 5µm (in 0.5µm increments)
5µm – 20µm (in 1µm increments)
20µm – 60µm (in 5µm increments)
60µm – 100µm (in 10µm increments)
Trimming Thickness Range!
5µm – 600µm adjustable as follows:
5µm – 10µm (in 5µm increments)
10µm – 100µm (in 10µm increments)
100µm – 200µm (in 20µm increments)
200µm – 600µm (in 50µm increments)!
Minimum Section Thickness
0.5µm
Specimen Vertical Stroke
60 mm
Specimen Horizontal Stroke
20 mm
Specimen Retraction
0-220µm (can be turned off)
Sample Orientation
6° along the X-Y axis
Power Supply
100-120V, 60Hz

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RF-1000 Rotary Microtome Components
The Precisionary RF-1000 is delivered with everything you need to get started right away to use
your new rotary microtome for cutting experiments. The following items are included with your
RF-1000 rotary microtome:
Item Name
Quantity
Part Number (Catalog Number)
RF-1000 Rotary Microtome (with Specimen
Head Cassette Clamp)
1
RF-1000
Power Cord
1
RF-1000-POWER-CORD
Removable Waste Tray
1
RF-1000-WASTE-TRAY
Microtome Knife Block Set
1
RF-1000-KNIFE-BLOCK
Tissue Brush
1
RF-TISSUE-BRUSH
Tissue Forceps
1
RF-TISSUE-FORCEPS
Specimen Metal Molds
4
RF-METAL-MOLDS
Rotary Microtome Low-Profile Cutting Blades
3
RF-BLADES
RF-1000 User Manual
1
RF-1000-MANUAL
Side Control Panel with Cord
1
RF-1000-SIDE-PANEL
Foot Pedal with Cord
1
RF-1000-FOOT-PEDAL
*Please compare the delivered components with this part list and your order. Should you
have any questions about your RF-1000 delivery, please contact us at
[email protected]or by phone at [phone]. We are here to help!

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RF-1000 Rotary Microtome Anatomy
#
Name
Function
1
Foot Pedal
Controls Start/Stop functions for automated cutting.
2
Side Control Panel
Allows for adjusting cutting parameters and cutting
modes displayed on the touchscreen.
3
LCD Touchscreen Panel
Displays cutting parameters, numbers, and controls.
4
Microtome Storage Surface
Flat surface for easy storage of accessories and
consumables while cutting.
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Specimen Head Clamp
Allows for specimen samples to be clamped tightly in
place for tissue cutting.
6
Specimen Head Rotation
Locking Handle
Allows for X-axis and Y-axis rotation of specimen head.
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Emergency Stop Button
Safety feature that immediately stops automated cutting.
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Handwheel Handle
Allows for handwheel turning.
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Knife Holder Set
Cutting stage and knife holder set for cutting tissue, can
be adjusted horizontally and at different angles.
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Removable Waste Tray
For collecting tissue and sample debris.
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Locking Lever for Knife
Holder Set
Allows for knife holder set to be firmly held in place to the
base microtome.
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Locking Handle for
Handwheel
Allows for handwheel to be locked.

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RF-1000 Specimen Head Clamp Anatomy
#
Name
Function
1
Specimen Head X-Axis
Adjustment Knob
Allows for changing the specimen head angle in the X-axis.
2
Specimen Head Y-Axis
Adjustment Knob
Allows for changing the specimen head angle in the Y-axis.
3
Sample Clamp
Allows cassettes to be inserted and tightly clamped for slicing.
4
Specimen Head Rotation
Locking Handle
When loosened, allows for X- and Y- axis rotation adjustments
of the specimen head.
5
Sample Insertion Area
Front holder of the specimen head for cassettes.
6
Universal Paraffin Clamp
Universal clamp for holding paraffin blocks and samples in
different cassette sizes. This is an additional accessory.
RF-1000 Knife Holder Base Anatomy
#
Name
Function
1
Insertion Groove onto Rotary
Microtome Base
Allows for stable insertion onto the rotary microtome unit
base.
2
Clamping Knob for Locking into
Rotary Microtome Base
Loosens/tightens the knife block to the rotary microtome
unit base.
3
Blade Guard
Safety feature to cover the cutting blade.
4
Cutting Stage
Area for collection of cut tissue slices.
5
Clamping Knob for Cutting Stage
(Horizontal Movement)
Allows for knife holder to be adjusted horizontally. Also
loosens/tightens the cutting stage slot to allow for
inserting and removing the cutting blade.
6
Clamping Knob for Cutting Stage
(Rotation Movement)
Allows for knife holder to be adjusted at different angles
for cutting.

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Installation
Delivery & Installation
The following restrictions apply:
• The instrument is for indoor use only.
• Make sure that the power plug/circuit breaker is freely and easily accessible.
• Do not use an extension cable with this instrument.
• Keep the machine in a location with a vibration-free floor that has sufficient load capacity
and rigidity for the weight of the instrument (35 kg).
• The instrument must be connected to a grounded power socket. Only use the power
cord provided.
• Chemicals used with the instrument may be flammable and hazardous. Keep the
installation location well ventilated without sources of ignitions of any kind.
• Keep the installation location protected against electrostatic charge.
The Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000 is delivered with all safety precautions using
freight shipment. Your rotary microtome will be delivered in a secure wooden crate that will
require disassembly before installation of the instrument. Upon receipt of your rotary microtome
delivery, please transport the instrument to the desired location. The instrument can be
transported with a forklift, pallet jack, or hand truck. The wooden crate containing the rotary
microtome must be transported in an upright or slightly inclined position.
At the final installation location of the uncrated rotary microtome, remove all adhesive tape,
plastic dust wrappers, and accessories.
Do not operate the instrument in rooms with an explosion hazard.
For optimal use of the instrument, make sure that a minimum distance of 12 inches
from walls and furniture is obtained as to avoid heat dissipating appliances within the
vicinity of the instrument.
To ensure safe transport with a forklift, we recommend that 3 people are required: one
operating the forklift, and the other 2 holding the instrument on either side to prevent it
from sliding down.
• When tilting the instrument, ensure that there is at a minimum of 2 people
assisting from the front side to prevent damage to the instrument and injury to
transport personnel.

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Operation
Step 1. Install the handwheel
The handwheel on the RF-1000 Rotary Microtome will need to be attached to the base microtome
after unpacking. To do this, align the handwheel to the base microtome opening, and insert the
screw into the handwheel center. Tighten the screw to lock the handwheel in place. In summary:
Step 2. Install the removeable waste tray
After unpacking the removable waste tray, slide it onto the base of the RF-1000 rotary microtome from
the front. The grooves in the removable waste tray will fit perfectly into the underside of the microtome
base. Make sure that the waste tray is secure after installation.

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Step 3. Switch on the rotary microtome
1. Begin by plugging in the rotary microtome power cord (with any appropriate surge
protectors) directly into the wall.
2. Next, plug in the cord for the foot pedal.
3. Finally, plug in the cord for the side control panel.
!
4. Turn the rotary microtome ON by flipping the on/off switch on the
back side of the rotary microtome. Flipping the switch in the
opposite direction will turn the microtome OFF.
= OFF
= ON
Step 4. Learn the different components of the knife holder base
The knife holder base is composed of three (3) separate components that interlock together:

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Starting from the bottom-most piece, here is what each component does:
Knife Holder Base Component
Movement & Function
Base Component
The base component has a groove opening
on the bottom that allows it to slide onto the
microtome unit.
The handle on the right side of the base
component allows the angle of the knife
holder base to be adjusted for cutting.
Middle Component
The middle component allows for horizontal
(or lateral) movement of the cutting stage.
This is advantageous because it allows
users to be able to access the entire length
of the microtome cutting blade during
slicing.
Top Component (Cutting Stage & Blade
Holder)
The top component functions as a cutting
stage for collection of sectioned tissue
slices. It also contains the knife blade
holder.
Blade guard: This guard covers the entire
length of the cutting blade, to protect users.
Step 5. Install the knife holder base onto the microtome base unit

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Match the grooves on the microtome base to the opening on the knife holder base (green
arrow). Once the knife holder base is installed, lock it securely in place by turning the handle.
Step 6. Adjust the knife block cutting angle
The cutting angle can be adjusted on the RF-1000 Rotary Microtome by moving the middle
component of the knife block. To do so, loosen the middle component of the knife block by
turning the handle on the right side (red arrow below). Adjust the angle of the knife block to be
an incline between 0-10 degrees (green circle below). Test cutting at different angles to optimize
your cutting angle.
Step 7. Turn and lock the handwheel
The lever below the handwheel allows you to lock and unlock the handwheel’s movement:

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Cutting Sections with the Rotary Microtome
This section covers the operational procedures of the Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000.
Step 1. Insert a cassette or tissue block into the specimen head clamp
Begin by pushing the specimen clamp lever towards you, then insert the cassette block. Once
your cassette is inserted, let go of the specimen clamp lever. The cassette will be securely and
firmly held in place, ready for cutting.
Step 2. Adjust the orientation angles of the specimen head
To adjust the angle of the specimen head holding your specimen:
• Vertical angle adjustment (north-south axis or Y-axis): Loosen the Specimen Head
Rotation Locking Lever (4), and adjust using the top knob (2) to your desired angle.
• Horizontal angle adjustment (left-right axis or X-axis): Loosen the Specimen Head
Rotation Locking Lever (4), and adjust using the side knob (1) to your desired angle.
Always remember to wear safety gloves while operating the instrument.

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Step 3. Insert a rotary microtome cutting blade
First, loosen the clamping knob (green arrow) for the top component of the knife block set to
insert a microtome cutting blade. Then tighten the clamping knob. We recommend using low-
profile cutting blades with the RF-1000 rotary microtome.
The RF-1000 has a blade safety feature installed on the cutting stage. There is a blade guard
(red arrow): This guard covers the entire length of the cutting blade to protect users.
Please note the safety guards located on the knife holder.
Please note the safety guards located on the knife holder.
Microtome knives
• Take extreme caution when handling microtome knives/disposable blades as
mishandling sharp objects may cause serious injury.
• Remember to always keep knives/disposable blades accounted for in secured areas.
• Never place a knife/disposable blade on a surface with its cutting edge facing upward.
• Do not attempt to catch a falling knife/disposable blade.
• Always remember to lock the handwheel and ensure that the knife/disposable blade is
covered by the safety guard before handling or changing the specimen.
Always remember to wear safety gloves while operating the instrument.
The knives are very sharp! Handle with care! Never attempt to catch a falling knife!
Always lock the hand wheel and cover the cutting edge with a safety guard before
making any changes to the knife and specimen or when taking a break.

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Exchanging clamp heads in the specimen head holder
The RF-1000 Rotary Microtome has a specimen head that works with two different types of
specimen clamps:
1. Cassette Clamp: This clamp is included on all RF-1000 units and can fit a typical plastic
cassette with tissue embedded in wax.
2. Paraffin Clamp: This clamp is an additional RF-1000 accessory and can fit larger
samples.
To exchange the clamp heads, simply use an Allen wrench and loosen the socket head screw
beneath the specimen head. Slide out the clamp head to one side to remove it, and slide in the
clamp head you want to install for use. Tighten the socket head screw so that the clamp head is
firmly held in place on the specimen head.

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Using the Touchscreen Control Panel
The Precisionary Rotary Microtome RF-1000 is unique in that it has a state-of-the-art LCD
touchscreen control panel for all functionalities. To help explain the functions of each panel in
the Main Control Panel, here are the specific buttons and selections:
Using the Side Control Panel
The RF-1000 Rotary Microtome also has a separate side control panel to allow for easy access
and control during cutting sessions. To help explain the functions in the Side Control Panel,
here are the specific buttons and selections:

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Using the Foot Pedal
The RF-1000 comes with a foot pedal that allows for control of the automated cutting feature on
the microtome. The foot pedal can be used as follows:
Summary of Common Useful Functions
This section summarizes how to operate the RF-1000 Rotary Microtome based on commonly
used functions. Each type of function may have multiple methods of control, allowing the RF-
1000 microtome model to be extremely user friendly and versatile.
How to move the specimen head forward and backward
There are two (2) ways to automatically move the specimen head forward or backward on the
RF-1000 Rotary Microtome:

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How to change between Trimming and Sectioning modes
There are two (2) ways to change between trimming and sectioning modes on the RF-1000
Rotary Microtome:
How to change the slice thickness
There is one (1) main method to changing the slice thickness setting on the RF-1000 Rotary
Microtome:

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How to start and stop automated cutting
There are three (3) ways to start and stop the “Automatic Cutting” mode on the RF-1000 Rotary
Microtome:
How to wake the microtome from sleep mode
After the RF-1000 is turned on but is not used for a long period of time, the rotary microtome will
enter a “Sleep Mode.” When this occurs, the touchscreen Main Control Panel will go dark. To
turn the RF-1000 Rotary Microtome back on, simply touch the Main Control Panel and resume.
How to use the emergency STOP button
The RF-1000 Rotary Microtome is equipped with an emergency STOP button that operates
during automated cutting. This is a safety feature that immediately halts any cutting process.
While automated cutting is on, pressing the emergency STOP button will immediately stop all
cutting mechanisms. To restart the system, turn the emergency STOP button clockwise. This
will restart the microtome, and the touchscreen Main Control Window will show reactivation of
the operating system. Once the system is rebooted, normal cutting can resume.