Thermo Scientific CryoStar NX70 series Manual

Thermo Scientific
CryoStar NX70 / NX50
Operator Guide
387928

Legal Information
Copyright 2011 . Thermo Fisher Scientific . All rights reserved.
Thermo Fisher Scientific is an ISO 9001 Company.
Thermo Fisher Scientific is the trading name of Microm International GmbH.
All other trademarks are the property of Thermo Fisher Scientific and its subsidiaries. Thermo Fisher Scientific
makes every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this support documentation is correct and clearly
stated but does not accept responsibility for any errors or omissions. The development of Thermo Scientific
products and services is an ongoing process. Please ensure that any published information you use as a reference is
up to date and relates to the condition of the product. If necessary, check with Thermo Fisher Scientific or your
local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.
This Operation Manual may not, in whole or in part, be copied, photocopied, reproduced, translated or
converted to any electronic or other form without prior written consent of Thermo Fisher Scientific. All
information contained in this manual is proprietary and confidential, and the exclusive property of Thermo Fisher
Scientific. This Thermo Fisher Scientific manual is protected by copyright and any reproduction is prohibited. It
is only be used by the individuals to whom it has been made available through Thermo Fisher Scientific.
Print Date: June 22nd, 2011
Version: 1.0
Contact Addresses:
Otto-Hahn-Str. 1A, 69190 Walldorf, Germany
Phone: [phone] | Fax: [phone] | Email: [e-mail]
4481 Campus Drive, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
Phone: [phone] | Fax: [phone]
Standards
The Thermo Scientific CryoStar NX70 / NX50 meets the following CE Mark requirements:
In Vitro Diagnostic Directive 98/79/EC
IEC61010-1, IEC61010-2-101 and IEC61010-2-081

Important Note Regarding Instrument Variants
This document is designed for use with the Thermo Scientific CryoStar NX70 and NX50 cryostats.
A range of optional features is available on these instruments and the instructions contained in this manual are not
specific to any one variant. Thus some features described may not be available on your instrument.
However, in cases where information only pertains to either the NX70 or NX50 models, this will be indicated by
the presence of one of the following symbols:
Information only applies to CryoStar NX70 instruments
Information only applies to CryoStar NX50 instruments

Symbols
The following symbols and conventions may be used throughout this document and on the instrument:
This symbol is used on the equipment, or in a document, to indicate that instructions
must be followed for safe and correct operation. If this symbol appears on the instrument,
always refer to the operator guide.
This symbol is used on the equipment, or in a document, to indicate that there may be a
biohazard associated with the instrument. Always act with common sense and be aware of
the samples used. Take suitable precautions.
This symbol indicates that a surface is hot. If this symbol appears on the instrument,
always refer to the operator guide. Take suitable precautions.
This symbol indicates that a surface is cold. If this symbol appears on the instrument,
always refer to the operator guide. Take suitable precautions.
This symbol is show in the manual and on the instrument to indicate that hand injuries
are possible due to moving parts. Take suitable precautions.
This symbol is shown in the manual to indicate the risk of injury caused by sharp
microtome blades and knifes. Take suitable precautions.
This symbol is used on the equipment, or in a document, to indicate that harmful
chemicals are used. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets for the chemicals used. Always
act with common sense and be aware of local laboratory procedures. Take suitable
precautions.
A WARNING IS GIVEN IN THE DOCUMENTATION IF THERE IS A DANGER OF PERSONAL INJURY
OR DAMAGE TO THE EQUIPMENT OR SAMPLES .
Note
Notes give additional information about a job or instruction, but do not form part of the instruction.

vii
Table of Contents
1 - Safety Information..................................................................................................................................... 1
2 - Introduction.............................................................................................................................................. 5
Introduction to the CryoStar NX70 / NX50 ................................................................................................ 5
Intended Use.......................................................................................................................................... 5
Instrument Features................................................................................................................................ 5
Technical Specifications .............................................................................................................................. 6
3 - Instrument Setup....................................................................................................................................... 9
Unpacking and Repacking .......................................................................................................................... 9
Location & Setup ..................................................................................................................................... 11
Identification of Parts................................................................................................................................ 12
Set Up...................................................................................................................................................... 18
Fitting or Exchanging the Anti Roll Plate............................................................................................... 18
Fitting or Exchanging Low Profile Blades............................................................................................... 19
Removing Used Blades with the Magnetic Blade Tool ............................................................................ 21
Blade Positioning and Orientation......................................................................................................... 22
Adjusting the Cutting Angle.................................................................................................................. 23
Adjusting the Anti-Roll Plate................................................................................................................. 25
Specimen Setup ........................................................................................................................................ 26
Specimen Orientation NX70................................................................................................................. 26
Specimen Orientation NX50................................................................................................................. 28
Filling with Disinfectant to Perform the Cold D Function.......................................................................... 31
Filling the Cryostat with Disinfectant Solution (Sanosil®) ........................................................................ 31
4 - Operation ............................................................................................................................................... 33
Switching On........................................................................................................................................... 33
System Interfacing .................................................................................................................................... 34
Using the Touchscreen.......................................................................................................................... 34
Main Screen ......................................................................................................................................... 34
Setting Preferences.................................................................................................................................... 36
Quick Freezing of the Specimen ............................................................................................................ 36
Trimming and Fine Section Thickness................................................................................................... 37
Temperature......................................................................................................................................... 39
Cutting Window .................................................................................................................................. 41
Select a Favorite.................................................................................................................................... 43
Vacutome and Cleaning Mode .............................................................................................................. 43

Draft CryoStar 2011-06-10
viii
Height Adjustment ............................................................................................................................... 48
Multi Function Bar............................................................................................................................... 49
Time and Date ..................................................................................................................................... 49
Cutting Mode Selection ........................................................................................................................ 49
Handwheel Brake.................................................................................................................................. 56
Multi-Function Button ......................................................................................................................... 57
Menu................................................................................................................................................... 59
Chamber Light ..................................................................................................................................... 59
Standby................................................................................................................................................ 60
Display Lock ........................................................................................................................................ 61
Favorites............................................................................................................................................... 62
User Guide........................................................................................................................................... 64
Settings Menu ...................................................................................................................................... 65
Language.............................................................................................................................................. 67
Time and Date ..................................................................................................................................... 68
Start Time............................................................................................................................................ 72
Defrost................................................................................................................................................. 75
Immediate Defrosting ........................................................................................................................... 75
Programming the Daily Defrost Cycle ................................................................................................... 78
Screen .................................................................................................................................................. 79
Retraction ............................................................................................................................................ 81
Data Log .............................................................................................................................................. 82
Default Settings.................................................................................................................................... 83
Service.................................................................................................................................................. 85
Emergency Stop........................................................................................................................................ 86
Standard Emergency Stop Function....................................................................................................... 86
Optional Foot Pedal Emergency Stop .................................................................................................... 86
Cooling Processes ..................................................................................................................................... 87
Specimen and blade holder cooling ........................................................................................................ 87
Sectioning Procedures ............................................................................................................................... 88
Cutting Movement and Retraction ........................................................................................................ 88
Trimming and First Cuts ...................................................................................................................... 88
Trimming ............................................................................................................................................ 89
Sectioning and Taking Off Sections....................................................................................................... 89

Table of Contents
ix
Handwheel Brakes.................................................................................................................................... 91
Electronic Handwheel Brake.................................................................................................................. 91
Mechanical Handwheel Brake................................................................................................................ 92
Cold D .................................................................................................................................................... 94
Starting the Disinfection (Cold D) Function.......................................................................................... 94
Aborting the Disinfection...................................................................................................................... 95
Programming Cold D ........................................................................................................................... 96
5 - Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................................... 99
Troubleshooting Tables ............................................................................................................................ 99
Tips for Successful Sectioning.................................................................................................................. 101
Optimum Temperature Ranges for Sectioning Different Types of Fresh Specimen................................. 102
6 - Cleaning and Maintenance..................................................................................................................... 103
Cleaning the Touch Screen Display ..................................................................................................... 103
Shutting Off for Cleaning ................................................................................................................... 103
Cleaning and care of the Blade Holder................................................................................................. 103
Emptying the Defrosting and Cold D Liquids...................................................................................... 104
Exchange the Vacutome Filter Bag....................................................................................................... 105
Adjustment of the Movable Specimen Head Jaw................................................................................... 107
Transportation of the Instrument ............................................................................................................ 108
Appendices................................................................................................................................................. 110
Appendix A - Spares and Accessories........................................................................................................ 111
Appendix B - Recommended Disinfection Procedure................................................................................ 113
Recommended Disinfection Procedure ................................................................................................ 113
Index ......................................................................................................................................................... 114

1
1 - Safety Information
Introduction
Thermo Fisher Scientific products are designed for convenient and reliable service; however, incorrect actions by a
user may damage the equipment, or cause a hazard to health.
The following sections contain important information for the safe setup and use of the instrument.
All users must read and understand the following sections before using the instrument.
General Safety
This instrument, as supplied, conforms with IEC61010-1, IEC61010-2-101 and IEC61010-2-081; however, the
addition of chemical introduces potential hazards.
This IVD equipment complies with the emissions and immunity requirements of IEC 61326-2-6:2006 and DIN
EN 61326-2-6:2008.
Do not use this device in close proximity to strong electromagnetic radiation, as these may interfere with the
proper operation.
The electromagnetic environment should be evaluated prior to operation of the device.
As with all scientific equipment, due care and good laboratory practice must be employed when dealing with these
chemicals, and consideration must be given to the potential for hazard when dealing with particular chemicals.
Be aware that many of the reagents used with this instrument may be flammable. Do not introduce any source of
ignition into, or near, the instrument once it has been loaded with reagents.
Do not remove any panels or covers. The instrument does not have any user serviceable parts.
The instrument must be properly connected to a good earth (ground) via the Mains input supply.
Position the instrument such that it is possible to interrupt the Mains supply at the source by removing the plug
from the socket.
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Thermo Fisher Scientific, the protection offered by the
equipment may be impaired.
Make sure that there is enough room for the adjustable height of the CryoStar and at least 100mm (4in) clearance
around any fan inlets on the instrument.
In compliance with statutory requirements all our equipment is designed to accepted standards of safety. Its use
does not entail any hazard if operated in accordance with the instructions given in the documentation. However,
the following safety precautions must be obeyed:
All users must have read and understood the Operator Guide and these safety instructions; and only
operate the unit in accordance with the instructions.
Potentially lethal voltages are present inside the instrument. Do not remove any access covers unless
specifically instructed to do so.

2
It is important that normal standards of safety and good laboratory practices are employed. Always use
common sense when operating the instrument.
Any problems and queries should be referred to your Thermo Fisher Scientific supplier.
Correct maintenance procedures are essential for consistent performance. It is recommended that a
Maintenance Contract is taken out with our Service Department.
Use only factory approved accessories or replacement parts with this instrument.
Only use reagents recommended in the Operator Guide.
Chemical Safety
THE INTRODUCTION OF CHEMICALS CREATES POTENTIAL HAZARDS AND THERMO FISHER
SCIENTIFIC HAS ADOPTED THE FOLLOWING POSITION WITH REGARD TO THE SUBJECT OF
VOLATILE CHEMICALS USED IN MEDICAL LABORATORIES:
Non-specified chemicals are used in the instrument at the customers own risk.
All the chemicals recommended by Thermo Fisher Scientific have auto-ignition temperatures considerably
above any surface temperature that can be reached during a single fault failure on the instrument.
The instrument contains no source of ignition in any areas of the instrument where chemicals are stored, or
are likely to leak into in a single fault condition.
The operator is fully aware of the contents of the specification documents detailing the properties of the
chemicals they are using.
The operator has carried out any legally required assessment of chemicals used and is using good laboratory
practice.
Some chemicals which may be used during operation are flammable - do not use
sources of ignition in the vicinity of the instrument when it is loaded with reagents.
Harmful chemical vapours such as xylene and toluene may be emitted during the
normal operation of some instruments, and the operator should be aware of suitable
precautions and safety measures.

1 - Safety Information
3
Environment
This product is required to comply with the European Union's Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) Directive 2002/96/EC. It is marked with the following symbol:
Thermo Fisher Scientific has contracted with one or more recycling / disposal companies in each EU Member
State, and this product should be disposed of or recycled through them.
Further information on Thermo Fisher Scientific 's compliance with these Directives, the recyclers in your
country, and information on Thermo Fisher Scientific products which may assist the detection of substances
subject to the RoHS Directive are available at:
www.thermo.com/WEEERoHS
Warranty Statement
We at Thermo Fisher Scientific are proud of our quality, reliability and of our after-sales service. We continuously
strive to improve our service to our customers.
Please ask you distributor or Thermo Fisher Scientific representative about Service Contracts which can keep your
purchase in peak condition for many years to come.
Warranty provisions necessarily vary to comply with differences in national and regional legislation. Specific
details can be found in the delivery documentation or from your dealer or representative.
Please note that your warranty may be invalidated if:
This instrument is modified in any way.
Accessories and reagents which have not been approved by Thermo Fisher Scientific are used.
The instrument is not operated or maintained in accordance with the instructions in the Operator Guide.

4
Product Return Safety Declaration

5
2 - Introduction
Introduction to the CryoStar NX70 / NX50
Intended Use
The Thermo Scientific CryoStar NX70 and NX50 are high-performance cryostats designed to prepare tissue
sections of frozen samples in medical, pharmaceutical and research laboratories. Only trained laboratory personnel
may operate the CryoStar NX70 / NX50.
The instrument may only be operated within the scope of its intended use as described above and as per the
instructions given in this manual.
Any other use of this instrument is considered as improper operation.
Instrument Features
The CryoStar NX70 / NX50 are precision-engineered, ergonomically-designed, high-performance cryostats in
modular design with a stainless steel cooling chamber. Some of its features are:
Knife / Blade Holder cooling.
Specimen cooling.
Ergonomic height adjustment with integrated ergonomic casing.
Colour touch-screen user interface and joystick control.
Motorized cutting with variable speed control (from 0 to 256 mm/s).
Optional Cold D function consisting of an internal fumigation unit that applies Sanosil® (disinfection
medium) into the user-accessible, operating areas of the cryochamber.

6
Technical Specifications
Mechanical Specifications
Depth 100 cm (39.4 in)
Width 75.5 cm (29.7 in)
Height Range Adjustable range 82 - 112 cm (32.3 - 44.0 in)
Maximum Weight 200 kg (440 lb)
Electrical Specifications
Power Requirements Dedicated line recommended.
100V, 50/60Hz, 10A, +/-10%, 110-120V, 60Hz, 10A, +/-10%
220-240V, 50/60Hz, 5A, +/-10%
Environmental Specifications
For Indoor Use Only
Temperature (Operating Limits) +5°C to +35°C (+41°F to +95°F)
Temperature
(Recommended Operation)
+15°C to +30°C (+59°F to +86°F)
Note: Performance may deteriorate when operated outside of this
range.
Temperature
(Transport and Storage)
-20°C to +40°C (-4°F to 122°F)
+70°C (158°F) for short exposure
Relative Humidity Max. 80% RH up to 31°C
Decreasing linearly to 50% RH at -40°C
Altitude Up to 2000 m (6,500 ft)
Pollution Degree 2
Over Voltage Category II
Floor Loading Requirements 300 kg/m² (660 lb/ft²)
Safety Class I
Sound Emission <45 dB (A) - measured with 1m distance to the instrument.
Refrigerant R404a, filling amount 400g

2 - Introduction
7
Cooling Specifications
Specimen Temperature Control -50°C to +10°C (-58°F to +50°F) at +20°C room Temp. (decrease
0,7°C/1°C room temp. increase)
Blade Temperature Control -35°C to -5°C (-31°F to +23°F) at 20°C room Temp (decrease
0,5°C 71°C room temp. increase)
Cryobar Cooling Max. -60°C (-76°F) at -35°C blade temperature
Defrosting Options Programmed / Immediate
Microtome and Sectioning Specifications
Section Thickness Range 0.5 – 500 μm
Fine Section Thickness Range 0.5 - 100 μm
Fine Section Thickness Resolution 0.5 – 2 μm in 0.5 μm steps
2 μm – 10 μm in 1 μm steps
10 μm – 20 μm in 2 μm steps
20 μm – 50 μm in 5 μm steps
50 μm – 100 μm in 10 μm steps
Trimming Thickness Range 5 - 500 μm
Trimming Thickness Resolution 5 – 10 μm in 5 μm steps
10 μm – 100 μm in 10 μm steps
100 μm – 200 μm in 20 μm steps
200 μm – 500 μm in 50 μm steps
Specimen Retraction (Return Travel) 20 μm
Vertical Specimen Stroke 64 mm
Horizontal Specimen Movement 48 mm
Specimen Approach Manual (variable speed by joystick control)
Chuck Size 30, 40 mm (additional special sizes are available)
Specimen Orientation x - and y - axes universal 7° with zero positioning; z - axis up to
360°
Coarse Feed Motorized
Cutting Drive Motorized, electronically controlled and manual via handwheel
Cutting Window Manually adjusted to specimen size
Operating Modes Interval, single, multi- and continuous-stroke
Cutting Speed 0 - 256 mm/s (0-120 1/min)
Clearance Angle Adjustment Disposable blade carrier 8- 16°
Vacutome Filter approximately 500 ml

8
Cold D Specification
Reservoir Volume 1000 ml
Recommended Medium Sanosil®S010 (5% H2O2)
Default Settings
Counter Mode Speed V = 0
Multi Counter 2
Operating Mode Continuous
Retraction ON
Language English
Fine 0.5 μm
Trim 5 μm
Joystick Calibration Calibrated
Chamber Light 100%
Screen Brightness 100%
Brake ON
Stepper Motor Initialization Yes
Blade Temperature -15°C
Specimen Temperature -15°C
Cutting Window 0 mm (OFF)
Favorites (Program 1, Program 2,
Program 3)
(-15°C/-15°C), (-20°C/-20°C), (-25°C/-25°C)
Cryobar OFF
Vacutome OFF
Disinfection OFF
Disinfection, Cycle (Automatic) ON (03:00 Night)
Defrost Cycle (Automatic) ON (00:00 Night)
Standby Mode 1h (After 1 hour, the Cryostat enters the Standby Mode
automatically). Kept temperature: -15°C.
Sleep Mode 3h (After 3 hours, the Cryostat enters the Sleep Mode
automatically). Kept temperature: -10°C. Power savings:
Approximately 30%.
Start Time 06:00 a.m.
Section Counter 0
Section Sum 0

9
3 - Instrument Setup
Unpacking and Repacking
Safety Precautions
The CryoStar is heavy and requires a minimum of two people to safely unpack and
maneuver it.
The CryoStar has a high centre of gravity and care should be taken when moving.
Do not tip the CryoStar more than 30° from the upright position.
After moving the CryoStar, wait at least 8 hours before switching on to allow the
refrigerant to settle - failure to do so may cause damage to the unit.
Note
The packing materials should be carefully stored for use in any future instrument shipment.
Unpacking Procedure
General Information:
Ensure that these Instructions are retained for future use.
The CryoStar is delivered on a pallet. The sides of the instrument are encased in cardboard and cushioned
with foam spacers inside the container. A wooden cover protects the top of the instrument.
In unpacking be aware of the weight (200 Kg/440 lbs) of the instrument.
Safe handling of the installation requires the involvement of two people.
Handling:
Place the crate on a flat surface while ensuring that there are no objects underneath the pallet.
Remove the wooden cover form the crate but retain it for later use as a ramp.
Remove the top foam spacer from the crate.
Remove the exterior cardboard container by opening the clips.
Remove the remaining foam spacers and the accessories carton. Place all the accessories carefully to one
side.
Remove the plastic cover from the instrument.
Two wing-nuts are now visible at the front edges of the wooden pallet.
Using the wing-nuts affix the wooden top of the crate to the pallet to serve as an unloading ramp for the
instrument.

10
The instrument can be moved on its castors. However, ensure that it does not roll off the pallet
inadvertently.
Screw in the two bails (part of the standard accessories) into the respective holes in the foot of the cryostat.
Mount the transport belts (part of the standard accessories) with the bails.
Important Safety Precaution: To move the instrument from the pallet stand BEHIND (NOT in front) of
the instrument.
Carefully roll the instrument off the pallet and on to the floor.
Move the instrument to the desired location while leaving space on the left- and right-hand.
Keep all packing and transportation materials together in case of future need.
In the future, if the instrument is transported by forklift, truck, train, ship or aircraft it must be packed in
the original shipping container with all transportation locks in place.
Repacking the Instrument
To repack the instrument follow these instructions in reverse order.