Sutter Instrument P-30 User manual

Sutter Instrument Company
One Digital Drive
Novato, CA 94949
Voice: 415 883 0128 Web: www.sutter.com
Fax: [phone] Email: [email protected]
P
PP
P 30
3030
30
Micropipette Puller
Micropipette PullerMicropipette Puller
Micropipette Puller
Operation Manual
Rev. 3.10 ( 20100120)

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
II

Copyright © 2007-2010 Sutter Instrument Company. All Rights Reserved.
No part o this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in
any orm or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, micro ilming, recording, or
otherwise, without written permission rom Sutter Instrument Company.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
III
DISCLAIMER
DISCLAIMERDISCLAIMER
DISCLAIMER
The pipette puller Model P-30 is designed or the speci ic use o creating micropipettes and
no other use is recommended.
This instrument creates items that should only be used in a laboratory environment or use
on animal tissues. It is not intended or use, nor should be used, in human experimentation,
or applied to humans in any way. This is not a medical device.
Do not open or attempt to repair the instrument without expressed and explicit instructions
rom Sutter Instrument Company. Extreme heat and high voltages are present and could
cause injury.
Do not allow unauthorized and or untrained operatives to use this device.
Any misuse will be the sole responsibility o the user/owner and Sutter Instruments assumes
no implied or in erred liability or direct or consequential damages rom this instrument i it
is operated or used in any way other than or which it is designed.
SAFETY WARNING
SAFETY WARNINGSAFETY WARNING
SAFETY WARNING
 

 Replace use only with the same type and rating as indicated in the ollowing table.
Replace use only with the same type and rating as indicated in the ollowing table. Replace use only with the same type and rating as indicated in the ollowing table.
Replace use only with the same type and rating as indicated in the ollowing table.
Fuse
FuseFuse
Fuse
(Type: T
(Type: T(Type: T
(Type: Time Delay, 5mm x 20mm, glass tube)
ime Delay, 5mm x 20mm, glass tube)ime Delay, 5mm x 20mm, glass tube)
ime Delay, 5mm x 20mm, glass tube)
Mains Voltage
Mains Voltage Mains Voltage
Mains Voltage
Setting
SettingSetting
Setting
Rating
RatingRating
Rating Manu acturer Examples
Manu acturer ExamplesManu acturer Examples
Manu acturer Examples
“110”
(100 – 120
VAC)
2A, 250V
(Time Delay)
Bussmann: GMC-2A, GMC-2-R (RoHS), GDC-2A, or
S506-2A (RoHS)
Littel use: 239 002 or 239.002.P (RoHS)
“220”
(200 – 240
VAC)
T1.25A,
250V
Bussmann: GDC-1.25A or S506-1.25R (RoHS)
Littel use: 218 1.25 or 218 1.25P (RoHS)
A spare use is provided, which is located in the power input module. Please re er to the
A spare use is provided, which is located in the power input module. Please re er to the A spare use is provided, which is located in the power input module. Please re er to the
A spare use is provided, which is located in the power input module. Please re er to the
Fuse Replacement appendix located in the end portion o this manual.
Fuse Replacement appendix located in the end portion o this manual.Fuse Replacement appendix located in the end portion o this manual.
Fuse Replacement appendix located in the end portion o this manual.
 To prevent ire or sho
To prevent ire or shoTo prevent ire or sho
To prevent ire or shock hazard do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
ck hazard do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.ck hazard do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
ck hazard do not expose the unit to rain or moisture.
 To avoid electrical shock:
To avoid electrical shock:To avoid electrical shock:
To avoid electrical shock:
• Do not disassemble the unit. Re er servicing to quali ied personnel.
Do not disassemble the unit. Re er servicing to quali ied personnel.Do not disassemble the unit. Re er servicing to quali ied personnel.
Do not disassemble the unit. Re er servicing to quali ied personnel.
• Always use the grounded power supply cord set provided to connect the unit to a
Always use the grounded power supply cord set provided to connect the unit to a Always use the grounded power supply cord set provided to connect the unit to a
Always use the grounded power supply cord set provided to connect the unit to a
grounded outlet (3
grounded outlet (3grounded outlet (3
grounded outlet (3-
--
-prong)
prong)prong)
prong). This is required to protect you rom injury in the event
. This is required to protect you rom injury in the event . This is required to protect you rom injury in the event
. This is required to protect you rom injury in the event
that an electrical hazard develops.
that an electrical hazard develops.that an electrical hazard develops.
that an electrical hazard develops.
 To avoid burns do not touch the heating ilament, the brass clamps holding the ilament
To avoid burns do not touch the heating ilament, the brass clamps holding the ilament To avoid burns do not touch the heating ilament, the brass clamps holding the ilament
To avoid burns do not touch the heating ilament, the brass clamps holding the ilament
or the heated ends o glass pipettes that have been pulled.
or the heated ends o glass pipettes that have been pulled.or the heated ends o glass pipettes that have been pulled.
or the heated ends o glass pipettes that have been pulled.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
IV
PRECAUTION
PRECAUTIONPRECAUTION
PRECAUTIONS
SS
S
On Operation
On OperationOn Operation
On Operation
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device.
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device. Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device.
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device.
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device.
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device. Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device.
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may damage this device.
 Operate the P
Operate the POperate the P
Operate the P-
--
-30 using 110V a.c. and 60Hz, or 220V
30 using 110V a.c. and 60Hz, or 220V30 using 110V a.c. and 60Hz, or 220V
30 using 110V a.c. and 60Hz, or 220V a.c. and 50Hz line voltage.
a.c. and 50Hz line voltage. a.c. and 50Hz line voltage.
a.c. and 50Hz line voltage.
 The P
The PThe P
The P-
--
-30 is designed or operation in a laboratory environment (pollution degree I).
30 is designed or operation in a laboratory environment (pollution degree I).30 is designed or operation in a laboratory environment (pollution degree I).
30 is designed or operation in a laboratory environment (pollution degree I).
 The P
The PThe P
The P-
--
-30 is designed or connection to a standard laboratory power outlet (overvoltage category
30 is designed or connection to a standard laboratory power outlet (overvoltage category 30 is designed or connection to a standard laboratory power outlet (overvoltage category
30 is designed or connection to a standard laboratory power outlet (overvoltage category
II).
II).II).
II).
 This unit was not designed or operation
This unit was not designed or operationThis unit was not designed or operation
This unit was not designed or operation at altitudes above 2000 meters nor was it tested or
at altitudes above 2000 meters nor was it tested or at altitudes above 2000 meters nor was it tested or
at altitudes above 2000 meters nor was it tested or
sa ety above 2000 meters.
sa ety above 2000 meters.sa ety above 2000 meters.
sa ety above 2000 meters.
 Only use Sutter Instrument Company replacement heating ilaments.
Only use Sutter Instrument Company replacement heating ilaments.Only use Sutter Instrument Company replacement heating ilaments.
Only use Sutter Instrument Company replacement heating ilaments.
On Handling Micropipettes
On Handling MicropipettesOn Handling Micropipettes
On Handling Micropipettes
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautionsFailure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions
Failure to comply with any o the ollowing precautions may result in injury to the users o
may result in injury to the users o may result in injury to the users o
may result in injury to the users o
this device as well as those working in the general area near the device.
this device as well as those working in the general area near the device.this device as well as those working in the general area near the device.
this device as well as those working in the general area near the device.
 The micropipettes created using this instrument are very sharp and relatively ragile. Contact
The micropipettes created using this instrument are very sharp and relatively ragile. Contact The micropipettes created using this instrument are very sharp and relatively ragile. Contact
The micropipettes created using this instrument are very sharp and relatively ragile. Contact
with the pulled micropipette tips, there ore, sh
with the pulled micropipette tips, there ore, shwith the pulled micropipette tips, there ore, sh
with the pulled micropipette tips, there ore, should be avoided to prevent accidentally impaling
ould be avoided to prevent accidentally impaling ould be avoided to prevent accidentally impaling
ould be avoided to prevent accidentally impaling
yoursel .
yoursel . yoursel .
yoursel .
 Always dispose o micropipettes by placing them into a well
Always dispose o micropipettes by placing them into a wellAlways dispose o micropipettes by placing them into a well
Always dispose o micropipettes by placing them into a well-
--
-marked, spill
marked, spillmarked, spill
marked, spill-
--
-proo “sharps”
proo “sharps” proo “sharps”
proo “sharps”
container.
container.container.
container.
 Use only with glassware recommended by Sutter Instrument Company in the ollowing section o
Use only with glassware recommended by Sutter Instrument Company in the ollowing section o Use only with glassware recommended by Sutter Instrument Company in the ollowing section o
Use only with glassware recommended by Sutter Instrument Company in the ollowing section o
th
thth
this manual.
is manual.is manual.
is manual.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
V
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTSTABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
DISCLAIMER
DISCLAIMERDISCLAIMER
DISCLAIMER ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
......................................
............
......iii
iiiiii
iii
SAFETY WARNING
SAFETY WARNINGSAFETY WARNING
SAFETY WARNING ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
...........................................................
......................................................
...........................iii
iiiiii
iii
PRECAUTION
PRECAUTIONPRECAUTION
PRECAUTIONS
SS
S ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
..................................
....
..iv
iviv
iv
On Operation..........................................................................................................................................iv
On Handling Micropipettes ..................................................................................................................iv
1.
1.1.
1. Introduction
Introduction Introduction
Introduction................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
.......................................
..............
.......1
11
1
1.1 Technical Support.............................................................................................................................1
1.2 Glass Capillary & Heating Filament Speci ications......................................................................1
2.
2.2.
2. Product Description
Product Description Product Description
Product Description ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
..........................................................
....................................................
..........................3
33
3
2.1 Packing List.......................................................................................................................................3
2.2 Front Panel........................................................................................................................................3
2.2.1 Lower Panel Display and Controls...........................................................................................3
2.2.2 Upper Panel Display and Controls...........................................................................................3
2.3 Mechanical Description (Puller Anatomy).....................................................................................4
2.3.1 Slide Assembly............................................................................................................................4
2.3.2 Pull Solenoid...............................................................................................................................5
2.3.3 Patch Block (Figure 4-1)............................................................................................................5
3.
3.3.
3. Installation
Installation Installation
Installation ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
........................................
................
........7
77
7
3.1 Line Power (Mains) ..........................................................................................................................7
4.
4.4.
4. Operating Instructions
Operating Instructions Operating Instructions
Operating Instructions ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
.....................................................
..........................................
.....................9
99
9
4.1 First Time Use ..................................................................................................................................9
4.2 General Operation ............................................................................................................................9
4.3 Pulling a Micropipette ......................................................................................................................9
4.4 Multicycle Pulling: Pulling a Patch-Type Micropipette .............................................................10
4.4.1 Heat Settings ............................................................................................................................10
4.4.2 Pull Setting ...............................................................................................................................10
4.4.3 Trip Point Micrometer ............................................................................................................10
4.4.4 Patch Block (spacer) ................................................................................................................11
4.5 Patch Pipette Pull Sequence..........................................................................................................11
4.5.1 First cycle..................................................................................................................................11
4.5.2 Second cycle ..............................................................................................................................11
4.6 Controls Adjustment ......................................................................................................................12
5.
5.5.
5. Maintenance
Maintenance Maintenance
Maintenance................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
....................................
........
....15
1515
15
5.1 Filament Replacement ...................................................................................................................15
5.2 Lubrication ......................................................................................................................................15
5.3 Rubber Pads on Clamps.................................................................................................................16
5.4 Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................................16
APPENDIX A.
APPENDIX A.APPENDIX A.
APPENDIX A. Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
......................................
............
......19
1919
19
APPENDIX B.
APPENDIX B.APPENDIX B.
APPENDIX B. Accessories
Accessories Accessories
Accessories ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
.................................................
..................................
.................21
2121
21
Nichrome ilament block assembly (P-30-NFL/M) ...........................................................................21

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
VI
Platinum/iridium ilament block assembly (P-30-PFL/M)...............................................................21
Pipette storage box 4 3/4 x 3 5/8 x 3/4 inches (BX10)........................................................................21
Pipette storage box - long 7 x 3 5/8 x 3/4 inches (BX20) ...................................................................21
BV-10 Microelectrode Beveler (BV-10)...............................................................................................21
Glass Capillary Tubing.........................................................................................................................21
Puller Filaments....................................................................................................................................21
APPENDIX C.
APPENDIX C.APPENDIX C.
APPENDIX C. Fuse Replacement
Fuse Replacement Fuse Replacement
Fuse Replacement ................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
.....................................
..........
.....23
2323
23
APPENDIX D.
APPENDIX D.APPENDIX D.
APPENDIX D. Technical Speci ications
Technical Speci ications Technical Speci ications
Technical Speci ications................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
............................................................
........................................................
............................25
2525
25
INDEX
INDEXINDEX
INDEX................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
................................................................
.................................................
..................................
.................27
2727
27
TABLE OF FIGURES
TABLE OF FIGURESTABLE OF FIGURES
TABLE OF FIGURES
Figure 2-1. P-30 Mechanical Assembly. ...................................................................................................6
Figure 3-1. P-30 Cabinet (rear view). ....................................................................................................... 7
Figure 4-1. Patch Block Placement. .......................................................................................................12
Figure 5-1. Top view o platinum ilament glass...................................................................................15
Figure C-1. Fuse holder............................................................................................................................23
TABLE OF TABLES
TABLE OF TABLESTABLE OF TABLES
TABLE OF TABLES
Table C-1. Mains use type and ratings..................................................................................................23
Table D-1. Mains use type and ratings. ................................................................................................25

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
1
1.
1.1.
1. INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTIONINTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The P-30 Micropipette Puller is a derivative o a vertical puller design initially developed at
the National Institutes o Health in the late 1950’s. The P-30 is designed to be a basic,
economical and simple to operate puller or those investigations where tip diameters down to
0.3 micron and moderate taper lengths are satis actory. Despite its low cost, the P-30 has
been designed with a number o quality and convenience eatures. The power supplies or
the ilament and pull solenoid are constant current and are thermally protected. Dual heat
settings are provided or multi-step pipette abrications such as are used in patch clamp
investigations. The ront cover completely encloses the pulling mechanism to prevent erratic
results caused by dra ts; and the ront panel is sloped to prevent broken capillaries rom
entering the solenoid area. In addition, CMOS logic is used throughout or its high noise
immunity and low power consumption.
This manual, though brie , describes all that you need to know to operate the P-30. The
ollowing pages provide descriptions o the mechanical assembly, controls and displays along
with basic in ormation on using the puller. The P-30 provides a consistent, reproducible
environment or the manu acture o micropipettes. Its success ul use will depend on
providing the minimal maintenance detailed on the ollowing pages, in ormation on desirable
pulling conditions obtained rom colleagues and the literature; and inally, rom your own
experience and experimentation.
Throughout this manual re erence will be made to the size o the glass tubing used to pull
micropipettes. The convention used here or describing the outside diameter (O.D.) and
inside diameter (I.D.) is as ollows: O.D. x I.D. These dimensions will always be given in
millimeters (mm).
1.1
1.11.1
1.1 Technical Support
Technical SupportTechnical Support
Technical Support
Unlimited technical support is provided by Sutter Instrument Company at no charge to our
customers. Our technical support sta is available between the hours o 8:00 AM and 5:00
PM (Paci ic Standard Time) at (415) 883
(415) 883(415) 883
(415) 883-
--
-0128
01280128
0128. You may also E-mail your queries to
in [email protected]
in [email protected]in [email protected]
in [email protected].
1.2
1.21.2
1.2 Glass Capillary & Heating Filament Speci ications
Glass Capillary & Heating Filament Speci icationsGlass Capillary & Heating Filament Speci ications
Glass Capillary & Heating Filament Speci ications
The P-30 micropipette puller is designed or use with borosilicate, aluminosilicate or other
lower melting-point glass tubing or rod ranging rom 1.0mm to 2.0mm in diameter. This
instrument does not pull used silica or quartz glassware. The ull selection o glassware
available rom Sutter Instrument Co. is listed in the catalogue included with this instrument
or can be ound on the Sutter Instrument Company’s World Wide Web site www.sutter.com
www.sutter.comwww.sutter.com
www.sutter.com.
This instrument is designed to accommodate either a Nichrome wire ilament or the Sutter
Trough-type platinum ilaments that are shown in the Sutter Catalogue. The selection o
replacement ilaments or the P-30 can also be viewed on Sutter Instrument Company’s
World Wide Web site at w
ww
www.sutter.com
ww.sutter.comww.sutter.com
ww.sutter.com. ONLY USE SUTTER-SUPPLIED
REPLACEMENT HEATING FILAMENTS IN THIS INSTRUMENT! Instructions or
replacing the Heating Filament can be ound in the Maintenance section o this manual.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
2
(This page intentionally le t blank.)

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
3
2.
2.2.
2. PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONPRODUCT DESCRIPTION
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
2.1
2.12.1
2.1 Packing List
Packing ListPacking List
Packing List
Make certain that you have received all o the ollowing items in the P-30 shipping box:
 P
PP
P-
--
-30 micropipette puller
30 micropipette puller30 micropipette puller
30 micropipette puller
 Power cord
Power cordPower cord
Power cord
 Box o sample glass
Box o sample glassBox o sample glass
Box o sample glass
 3 Spare heating ilaments
3 Spare heating ilaments3 Spare heating ilaments
3 Spare heating ilaments
 Patch Block attachment
Patch Block attachmentPatch Block attachment
Patch Block attachment
 Warranty
Warranty Warranty
Warranty registration
registrationregistration
registration
 Catalog
CatalogCatalog
Catalog
The Model P-30 is shipped to you in a pre abricated oam mold. Please take note o this
method o packaging. Should it ever be necessary to ship the puller to another location, the
same method o packaging should be employed. Additional packing material may be
purchased rom Sutter Instrument Company.
IMPORTANT: Improper packaging is a orm o abuse and, as such, can be responsible or
IMPORTANT: Improper packaging is a orm o abuse and, as such, can be responsible or IMPORTANT: Improper packaging is a orm o abuse and, as such, can be responsible or
IMPORTANT: Improper packaging is a orm o abuse and, as such, can be responsible or
voiding the warranty where shipping damage is sustained because o such packing.
voiding the warranty where shipping damage is sustained because o such packing.voiding the warranty where shipping damage is sustained because o such packing.
voiding the warranty where shipping damage is sustained because o such packing.
2.2
2.22.2
2.2 Front Panel
Front PanelFront Panel
Front Panel
The ront panel controls are used to apply power to the instrument, set heat and pull
strength values and to start and stop pulling sequences. Controls on the lower portion o the
ront panel will be described irst.
2.2.1
2.2.12.2.1
2.2.1 Lower Panel Display and
Lower Panel Display and Lower Panel Display and
Lower Panel Display and Controls
ControlsControls
Controls
On/O Switch
On/O SwitchOn/O Switch
On/O Switch On applies power to the instrument. Red lamp is illuminated when
power is on.
Reset Switch
Reset SwitchReset Switch
Reset Switch Used to reset circuitry to an initialized condition. It is typical use is
to turn o the heat during multi-step abrications (patch type
pipettes).
Pull Switch
Pull SwitchPull Switch
Pull Switch Initiates the pulling process.
2.2.2
2.2.22.2.2
2.2.2 Upper Panel Display and Controls.
Upper Panel Display and Controls.Upper Panel Display and Controls.
Upper Panel Display and Controls.
Heat 1/Heat 2 switch
Heat 1/Heat 2 switchHeat 1/Heat 2 switch
Heat 1/Heat 2 switch This switch determines which o the two heat values is active.
HEAT 1 control
HEAT 1 controlHEAT 1 control
HEAT 1 control HEAT 1 is a three-digit pushbutton control used to set the level o
electrical current supplied to the ilament. The HEAT required to

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
4
melt a piece o glass is a unction o the ilament installed and the
particular glass size and composition. Maximum current available is
22.5 amperes
HEAT 2 control
HEAT 2 controlHEAT 2 control
HEAT 2 control Same as Heat 1.
PULL Strength
PULL Strength PULL Strength
PULL Strength
control
controlcontrol
control
A three-digit pushbutton control used to set the level o electrical
current supplied to the pull solenoid. This parameter controls the
orce o the hard pull. In general, the higher the PULL, the smaller
the pipette’s tip diameter and the longer the taper.
Trip Point
Trip Point Trip Point
Trip Point
Micrometer (
Micrometer (Micrometer (
Micrometer (Figure
2-1H)
H)H)
H)
A micrometer with 0.001-inch divisions that is used to adjust the
distance to which the glass draws out be ore a hard pull is initiated.
2.3
2.32.3
2.3 Mechanical Description (Puller Anatomy)
Mechanical Description (Puller Anatomy)Mechanical Description (Puller Anatomy)
Mechanical Description (Puller Anatomy)
This section presents a basic mechanical description o the P-30, with particular emphasis on
terminology. Knowing the names o the various parts greatly acilitates communication
between the investigators and the manu acturer when discussing adjustments or service
problems.
2.3.1
2.3.12.3.1
2.3.1 Slide Assembly
Slide AssemblySlide Assembly
Slide Assembly
The Slide Assembly
Slide AssemblySlide Assembly
Slide Assembly consists o all the mechanical parts that make up the glass pulling
mechanism. Its elements are described below.
Upper (Stationary) Glass Clamp As
Upper (Stationary) Glass Clamp AsUpper (Stationary) Glass Clamp As
Upper (Stationary) Glass Clamp Assembly
sembly sembly
sembly (
((
(Figure 2-1A):
A):A):
A): This assembly clamps one end o
the capillary glass above the ilament. This clamp is loosened or repositioning the glass
when doing multi-step pulling.
Filament Assembly
Filament AssemblyFilament Assembly
Filament Assembly (
( (
(Figure 2-1B):
B):B):
B): Your P-30 was assembled with one o two heat ilament
con igurations; platinum/iridium oil or nichrome coil. The platinum/iridium assembly
consists o two brass clamping blocks and two black nylon thumb screws which secure the
ilament between spring loaded clamps. The nichrome assembly consists o a series o brass
bus bars and posts or conducting current to the ilament. Brass thumb screws secure the
ilament to the conducting posts.
Lower (Moving) Glass Clamp Assembly
Lower (Moving) Glass Clamp AssemblyLower (Moving) Glass Clamp Assembly
Lower (Moving) Glass Clamp Assembly (
( (
(Figure 2-1C):
C):C):
C): This assembly clamps the lower end
o the glass capillary, and is attached to the upper end o the slide bar.
Slide Bar
Slide BarSlide Bar
Slide Bar (
( (
(Figure 2-1D):
D):D):
D): The slide bar is a hardened steel tube that guides the descent o the
lower glass clamp during pipette pulling. The weight o this bar and its attachments are
resposible or the pulling orce during the initial(gravity) phase o pulling.
Bushing Blocks and Guide Bushings
Bushing Blocks and Guide Bushings Bushing Blocks and Guide Bushings
Bushing Blocks and Guide Bushings (
((
(Figure 2-1E):
E):E):
E): The bushing blocks contain the precision
linear guide bearings that orm the descent path or the slide bar.
Trip Flag Holder
Trip Flag HolderTrip Flag Holder
Trip Flag Holder (
( (
(Figure 2-1F):
F):F):
F): The trip lag holder is located on the slide bar. It is held in
place by a thumb screw, its position being dependent on the type o pipette being pulled. The
trip lag extends to the le t o the slide mechanism so that it may interrupt the light path o
the optical switch, which is located on the end o the trip point micrometer. The lag
interrupts or “trips” the optical switch as it passes through the swith on its descent. The trip

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
5
point is adjusted by turning the trip point micrometer. Turning the micrometer clockwise
increases the length o the weak pull, indicated by a decrease in the reading on the
micrometer.
Guide Flag Holder
Guide Flag HolderGuide Flag Holder
Guide Flag Holder (
( (
(Figure 2-1G):
G):G):
G): The guide lag holder is attached to the lower end o the
slide bar. The attached lag extends back into a slot in the cabinet and serves to prevent
rotation o the slide bar and associated parts during pipette pulling. The guide lag holder is
also the point o attachement or the pull solenoid. The patch block provides two adjustable
spacers used in orming patch pipettes.
2.3.2
2.3.22.3.2
2.3.2 Pull Solenoid
Pull SolenoidPull Solenoid
Pull Solenoid
The pull solenoid (located just below the slide assembly in the angled portion o the cabinet)
is responsible or accelerating the slide bar during the second (solenoid) phase o pipette
ormation. It is energized when the trip lag interrupts the optical switch as described above.
2.3.3
2.3.32.3.3
2.3.3 Patch Block (
Patch Block (Patch Block (
Patch Block (Figure
Figure Figure
Figure 4
44
4-
--
-1
11
1)
))
)
The patch block is a metal block with screws on the top and bottom sides. The patch block
provides two adjustable spacers used in orming patch pipettes.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
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Figure 2-1. P-30 Mechanical Assembly.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
7
3.
3.3.
3. INSTALLATION
INSTALLATIONINSTALLATION
INSTALLATION
3.1
3.13.1
3.1 Line Power (Mains)
Line Power (Mains)Line Power (Mains)
Line Power (Mains)
The power cord provided with the P-30 connects to the power entry module located on the
back o the unit (see diagram below). This module also includes the line use.
Figure 3-1. P-30 Cabinet (rear view).
Con irm that the Voltage Selector Switch on the Power Entry Module is set to the proper
value (110V a.c. or 220V a.c.). I it is not, turn the selector switch until the appropriate value
I it is not, turn the selector switch until the appropriate value I it is not, turn the selector switch until the appropriate value
I it is not, turn the selector switch until the appropriate value
is lined up with the indicator. Note that the Line use di ers or the two di erent line
is lined up with the indicator. Note that the Line use di ers or the two di erent line is lined up with the indicator. Note that the Line use di ers or the two di erent line
is lined up with the indicator. Note that the Line use di ers or the two di erent line
v
vv
voltages (see the Technical Speci ications). I you have to change the voltage selector you
oltages (see the Technical Speci ications). I you have to change the voltage selector you oltages (see the Technical Speci ications). I you have to change the voltage selector you
oltages (see the Technical Speci ications). I you have to change the voltage selector you
may also have to replace the use, otherwise your protection rom ire and electric shock may
may also have to replace the use, otherwise your protection rom ire and electric shock may may also have to replace the use, otherwise your protection rom ire and electric shock may
may also have to replace the use, otherwise your protection rom ire and electric shock may
be compromised.
be compromised.be compromised.
be compromised.
Make certain that the Power Switch located on the ront panel o the P-30 cabinet is turned
OFF. Plug the power cord provided with the P-30 into the Line Input socket on the Power
Entry Module and then to a power source o the appropriate voltage and requency.

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P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
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4.
4.4.
4. OPERATING INSTRUCTIO
OPERATING INSTRUCTIOOPERATING INSTRUCTIO
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
NSNS
NS
4.1
4.14.1
4.1 First Time Use
First Time UseFirst Time Use
First Time Use
1. Load a piece o the supplied sample glass into puller as ollows:
• Loosen the upper and lower clamping knobs.
• Place glass in V-groove in upper clamp; slide it downward until about 1 cm o glass
extends above the top clamp. Tighten upper clamp
• Pull lower clamp up until it no longer moves and tighten clamping knob.
2. Press the PULL button. The heating ilament should turn on and the glass should
separate within 15 seconds.
4.2
4.24.2
4.2 General Operation
General OperationGeneral Operation
General Operation
The P-30 is quite simple to operate. However, common sense indicates that an instrument
that can melt glass must be used with some caution and a complete understanding o its
controls. Do not leave the puller powered on and unattended; particularly while a pull-
sequence is in progress. Pay extra attention when pulling pipettes a ter any control values
have been changed.
The ollowing steps outline a basic pulling sequence. The pipette being pulled is hypothetical
(with respect to the settings mentioned) and is intended only as an example o the normal
pulling procedure. The pipette shapes and tip diameter obtained rom a puller o this type
are dependent on the rate at which heat is added to the glass (rate o change o viscosity),
weight o the moving portion o the slide assembly, distance traveled during gravity pull
phase, and orce o solenoid pull. When you have ound settings that produce the desired
pipette, make note o the time it takes or the pull to take place and the distance being
traveled be ore the hard pull. The time or a pull is most important, particularly when
having to install a new ilament. No two ilaments are exactly alike with respect to their
resistance; thus, the heat setting may not be the same or two di erent ilaments to supply
the same amount o heat. All other actors being unchanged (pull strength, glass size,
acceleration due to gravity, etc.), i the heat output o the new ilament is adjusted to produce
a pull in the same amount o time as the previous ilament the pipettes should be equivalent.
4.3
4.34.3
4.3 Pulling a Micropipette
Pulling a MicropipettePulling a Micropipette
Pulling a Micropipette
Turn instrument on, and make sure that the desired heat value has been selected. I one is
setting a heat value or the irst time, then press PULL (no glass in puller) and increase the
HEAT control while watching the ilament. I using a platinum ilament, be sure the heat
value is initially set at a low value (e.g. 300 or a 1.5mm ilament, 650 or a 3.0mm ilament).
High heat values can destroy the platinum ilaments. Because o the time constant o the
nichrome ilament, allow a ew moments to pass a ter making any changes to let the ilament
stabilize at the new heat setting. When the ilament glows at desired heat level, note the
selected value. Press RESET to turn o ilament.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
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Open upper glass clamp and insert glass capillary into jaws. Close down clamp on capillary
until glass is gripped lightly so glass can still slide. Slide capillary down through ilament to
the point where the lower glass clamp can be raised up to grip lower end o capillary..
Tighten upper clamp and raise lower clamp over capillary. As glass capillaries may have a
slight curve to them, take care when inserting the capillary into the lower jaws. Tighten
lower glass clamp. The setting o the trip point is an important determinant o the size and
shape that will be obtained and will be covered below. Close ront door and press PULL.
The ollowing sequence takes place: 1) Filament turns on and glass is heated to so tening
point. 2) As glass so tens, lower glass clamp and slide bar descent under the in luence o
gravity until the trip lag interrupts the optical switch. 3) The optical switch deactivates the
heat and activates the pull solenoid or approximately one second to complete pull.
Remove lower and upper pipettes.
4.4
4.44.4
4.4 Multicycle Pulling: Pulling a Patch
Multicycle Pulling: Pulling a PatchMulticycle Pulling: Pulling a Patch
Multicycle Pulling: Pulling a Patch-
--
-Type Micropipette
Type MicropipetteType Micropipette
Type Micropipette
Patch type pipettes are characteristically stubby with a large taper angle and relatively large
tips (> 1 micron). To construct this type o pipette, it is desirable to process the glass in
multiple heating cycles. The P-30 can be used or two-step pipette abrication with the use o
the dual heat settings and the supplied Patch Block. The irst o the two steps draws the
glass out without separating. The glass tube must then be manually repositioned so that the
drawn-out portion is again centered within the heating element. The second step then draws
the glass out until it separates to orm a pipette.
4.4.1
4.4.14.4.1
4.4.1 Heat Settings
Heat SettingsHeat Settings
Heat Settings
HEAT 1 is used or the irst step, and is generally set at a airly high level (e.g. 750 or 3mm
platinum ilament or 970 or nichrome ilament). HEAT 2 is used or the second step, a ter
the glass has already been pulled once. HEAT 2 will normally be less than HEAT 1, and is
more critical than HEAT 1. The exact value or your particular application will have to be
determined on a trail and error basis.
4.4.2
4.4.24.4.2
4.4.2 Pull Settin
Pull SettinPull Settin
Pull Setting
gg
g
Pull is normally set to zero or patch pipettes because the weight o the sliding components
provides the orce that draws out the glass. I you desire, the solenoid plunger may be
disconnected rom the slide assembly by loosening the set screw that attaches the cable to the
slide lag holder. This will decrease the weight by about 20%.
4.4.3
4.4.34.4.3
4.4.3 Trip Point
Trip Point Trip Point
Trip Point Micrometer
icrometericrometer
icrometer
The micrometer should be advanced so that the lag does not interrupt the optical switch
until the second step is complete. Because the solenoid is generally not used in orming
patch pipettes, the trip point system serves primarily as a means o turning o the heat.
While it is easy to reposition the trip point or each step, it is generally more convenient to
use the RESET button to turn the heat o a ter the irst step. Thus, the optical switch will
normally be placed so that the lag passes through the switch in the second step. This will
cause the heat to turn o automatically at the end o the second step.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
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4.4.4
4.4.44.4.4
4.4.4 Patch Block (spacer)
Patch Block (spacer)Patch Block (spacer)
Patch Block (spacer)
The two screws on the Patch Block are provided so that the block can act as two adjustable
spacers. The 10/32 cap head screws supplied accept a 5/32 hex key wrench; the thumbnuts
are used to lock the screws in position. The thumbnuts are di erent colors so you can
di erentiate Spacer 1 versus Spacer 2. One spacer is needed to limit the draw o the irst pull
cycle. The second spacer is needed to reposition the glass within the heating ilament prior
to pulling the glass apart in the second step. The position o the two screws in the Patch
Block will need to be determined empirically.
4.5
4.54.5
4.5 Patch Pipette Pull Sequence
Patch Pipette Pull SequencePatch Pipette Pull Sequence
Patch Pipette Pull Sequence
4.5.1
4.5.14.5.1
4.5.1 First cycle
First cycleFirst cycle
First cycle
Set the HEAT switch to HEAT 1 and load capillary. Place the Patch Block so that is sits on
the top o the bearing block behind the slide bar as show in Figure 4-1. The head o the
screw will act to stop the slide mechanism by hitting the underside o the lower slide. The
length o the irst pull will be determined by the space between the top o the Patch Block
screw and the bottom o the lower glass clamp assembly. Press PULL, wait until the slide
drops onto the screw and then press RESET. Remove Patch Block.
4.5.2
4.5.24.5.2
4.5.2 Second cycle
Second cycleSecond cycle
Second cycle
Since the heating ilament is ixed in position and the glass is drawn in one direction, it
ollows that the portion o the glass that has been reduced in size will not be centered in the
ilament at the end o the irst step. Reposition the glass by irst loosening the upper glass
clamp, li ting the lower slide assembly until the glass is re-centered within the ilament, and
then re-tightening the upper clamp. To consistently re-center the glass, insert the Patch
Block (second screw) between the top o the bearing block and the bottom o the lower glass
clamp. Tighten the upper glass clamp while the lower glass clamp rests on the head o the
screw. Remove the Patch Block. Set the HEAT switch to HEAT 2, and press PULL. The
pipette should separate during this cycle, and the heat will automatically turn o .

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
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Figure 4-1. Patch Block Placement.
4.6
4.64.6
4.6 Controls Adjustment
Controls AdjustmentControls Adjustment
Controls Adjustment
In order to make the pipettes you desire, you irst must understand the e ects o the controls
and the various parameters on the glass. The general rule-o -thumb is that both an increase
in the heat and an increase in the pull strength will produce smaller tips and longer tapers.

P-30 MICROPIPETTE PULLER OPERATION MANUAL – REV. 3.10 (20100120)
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Thus, to obtain the smallest possible tips, you would use a high heat setting (e.g. 980 or
nichrome ilament and 750 or 3mm platinum ilament) and a pull setting above 950.
The setting o the optical switch is more complicated. Your P-30 optical switch was set at 2.5
to produce ine micropipettes with 1mm O.D. x .5mm I.D. borosilicate glass when it was
shipped to you. As the optical switch is moved lower, the distance traveled in the weak pull
will increase. The longer the weak pull, the more the glass is attenuated in diameter. This
will in luence the rate at which the glass can be drawn-out during the subsequent hard pull
as well as the rate o cooling during that pull. In addition, the length o the weak pull will
determine the position o the solenoid plunger in the solenoid coil, which in turn will alter
the orce developed by the solenoid. It ollows that some trial and error adjustment o the
optical switch may be required to obtain a particular result. I the weak pull is too short you
may ind that the tips are quite large. I the weak pull is too long the pipettes may orm long
wispy threads rather than tips.

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