WESCOR 7720 Owner's manual

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Document: DOC-00322-EN
Revision: A
Date Issued: 2009-08-13
CO Number: 09149
Essential Information for the Aerospray" AFB Slide Stainer/Cytocentrifuge
(Model 7720), its Accessories and Supplies

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Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................................................3
2 SYMBOLS USED (8.2) ..................................................................................................................................................................... 5
SYMBOLS USED ON INSTRUMENTS AND REAGENTS: .................................................................................................................................5
3 HAZARDS (8.3)................................................................................................................................................................................. 7
A. RISK AND SAFETY PHRASES.............................................................................................................................................................7
4 INTENDED PURPOSE (8.5) ......................................................................................................................................................... 11
5 IDENTIFICATION / LOT / EXPIRATION DATES (8.6) .........................................................................................................11
6 DETAILS FROM LABELS (8.7A AND 8.4A) .............................................................................................................................11
A. MANUFACTURER NAME AND ADDRESS (8.7A AND 8.4A)...............................................................................................................11
B. AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE NAME AND ADDRESS (8.7A AND 8.4A)........................................................................................11
C. IDENTIFICATION OF THE DEVICE, ACCESSORY, OR SUPPLY ITEM (8.7A AND 8.4B) ........................................................................12
D. IN VITRO DIAGNOSTIC USE (8.7A AND 8.4G) ................................................................................................................................. 13
E. STORAGE AND HANDLING CONDITIONS (8.7A AND 8.4H) ..............................................................................................................13
F. OPERATING INSTRUCTION (8.7A AND 8.4J) ....................................................................................................................................14
G. APPROPRIATE WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (8.7A AND 8.4J) .....................................................................................................16
H. COMPOSITION OF CRITICAL CHEMICALS IN REAGENT PRODUCTS (8.7B)....................................................................................... 17
I. STORAGE CONDITIONS AND SHELF LIFE (8.7C) .............................................................................................................................18
J. PERFORMANCE OF DEVICE (8.7D) ..................................................................................................................................................18
K. SPECIAL EQUIPMENT REQUIRED (8.7E)..........................................................................................................................................20
L. TYPE OF SPECIMEN TO BE USED (8.7F)...........................................................................................................................................20
M. PROCEDURE FOR USE (8.7G) ..........................................................................................................................................................21
N. INTERNAL QUALITY CONTROL (8.7K)............................................................................................................................................ 21
O. PERFORMANCE VERIFICATION, MAINTENANCE, AND SAFE WASTE DISPOSAL (8.7N) ...................................................................21
P. TROUBLESHOOTING ....................................................................................................................................................................... 25
Q. SETUP AND PRE-USE PROCEDURES (8.7O)...................................................................................................................................... 26
R. PROCESS FOR CLEANING, DECONTAMINATION (8.7Q) ................................................................................................................... 28
S. ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIFICATIONS AND PRECAUTIONS (8.7R) ......................................................................................................29
T. DISPOSAL OF DEVICE (8.7S)...........................................................................................................................................................29

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1 Introduction
This document contains the information required by the In Vitro Diagnostic Directive (98/79/EC) Annex I (Essential
Requirements), Part B, Section 8 (Information supplied by the manufacturer) for the Aerospray" AFB Stainer/Cytocentrifuge
(Model 7720), its accessories and supplies. In particular, it describes any symbols used on labels and on the instrument, hazards
associated with the stain reagents used, the intended purpose of the device, lot numbers and expiration dates, and instructions
for the use and maintenance of the device.
Some sub-requirements of Section 8 are not applicable to this product, but the applicable requirements are referenced herein.
This document is available in the official language of each EC member state where the product is sold that requires information
in its own language. Additional helpful information may be found in Wescor User’s Manuals, Service Manuals, Technical
Bulletins, or other information supplied by Wescor or its Authorized Distributors for specific countries. Some supplementary
material is in the English language only. Many of these materials may be found on Wescor’s web site: www.wescor.com. A
Document Packet is included with each Aerospray" AFB Stainer/Cytocentrifuge, which includes MSDS sheets, a Declaration of
Conformity, Nozzle Cleaning Instructions, an Installation Checklist, and a User’s Manual (8.1).
Aerospray" AFB Slide Stainer/Cytocentrifuge Front and Side
Slide Staining Carousels
The carousel hold 1 to 12, or 1 to
30 slides. It mounts on the drive
hub, rotating at approximately 20
rpm for staining and approximately
950 rpm for drying.
Reagent Spray Nozzle
Each reagent has a separate spray
nozzle(s) to dispense the correct
amount of reagent.
Reagent Bottle Dip Tubes
Five reagent dip tubes, A through
E, connect the reagents to the
internal pumps and spray nozzles.
Manual Priming Buttons
These buttons operate the
corresponding pumps for priming.

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Aerospray" AFB Slide Stainer/Cytocentrifuge Rear Panel
Exhaust Vent
During operation, air is drawn through
openings at the rear of the instrument lid and
expelled through the exhaust vent.
Power Switch
The main power switch turns the stainer On
(I) and Off (O). When the instrument is
connected to the proper power source and
the power switch is on, the front panel power
indicator is lit.
Fuse Door
To get to the main fuses, turn the power off,
disconnect the power cord and use a small
screwdriver to open the fuse door. Follow
normal safety precautions.
Drain Port
Provides connection for 5/16 inch inside
diameter drain tube (AC-041). This port
must be connected to a drain or vented waste
container.
Power Entry Module
Provides connection for a standard IEC 320
type power cord (provided).
Volume Control
Adjusts the volume of the signal tone
sounded when a staining or
cytocentrifuge cycle is complete.
Turn clockwise to increase volume.

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2 Symbols Used (8.2)
Symbols used on instruments and reagents:
Alternating Current (AC)
Authorized Representative in the European Community
Batch Code
Biological Hazards (Biological Risks)
Catalog Number (Model Number)
Caution, Consult Accompanying Documents (Attention, see instructions for use)
CE
Consult Instructions For Use
Do Not Reuse
Do not use if package damaged
Fragile, Handle with Care
Fuse
General Symbol for Recovery, Recyclable
In vitro Diagnostic Device (In vitro Diagnostic Medical Device)
Keep away from sunlight (Keep away from heat)
Manufacturer
This product must be disposed of separately and not with normal household waste

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I
“On” (Power)
O
“Off” (Power)
RoHS Pollution Control
Serial Number
Temperature Limitation – indicates high and low limits (normal room temperatures
are specified for all Wescor Reagents).
Use By
Volume Control
General Warning, Caution, Risk of Danger
Warning, Biological Hazard
Corrosive
Environment Hazard
Flammable
Harmful / Irritant
Oxidant
Toxic

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3 Hazards (8.3)
a. Risk and Safety Phrases
Reagents SS-061A – Acid Fast Reagent A Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer and SS-161A - Acid Fast Reagent A Carbol Fuchsin
Decolorizer concentrate when properly diluted are associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The associated EU
Symbols of Danger are: F and T.
R 11: Highly flammable
R 23/24/25 Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 39/23/24/25:
Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation, in contact with skin and if
swallowed
S 7: Keep container tightly closed
S 16: Keep away from sources of ignition – No smoking
S 36/37: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves
S 45: In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible)
Reagents SS-061AF – Acid Fast Reagent A Fluorescence Decolorizer and SS-161AF - Acid Fast Reagent A Fluorescence
Decolorizer concentrate when properly diluted are associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The associated EU
Symbols of Danger are: F and Xi.
R 11: Highly Flammable
R 36: Irritating to eyes
R 67: Vapors may cause drowsiness and dizziness
S 7: Keep container tightly closed
S 16: Keep away from sources of ignition - No smoking
S 24/25: Avoid contact with skin and eyes
S 26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
Reagents SS-061BMB – Acid Fast Reagent B Methylene Blue and SS-161BMB – Acid Fast Reagent B Methylene Blue
Concentrate when properly diluted are associated with the following Rask and Safety Phrases. The associated EU Symbols of
Danger is: none.
R 10: Flammable
S Phrases: None
Reagents SS-061BBG – Acid Fast Reagent B Brilliant Green and SS-161BBG – Acid Fast Reagent B Brilliant Green
Concentrate when properly diluted are associated with the following Rask and Safety Phrases. The associated EU Symbols of
Danger is: none.
R 10: Flammable
S Phrases: None
Reagents SS-061BP – Acid Fast Reagent B Potassium Permanganate and SS-161BP Acid Fast Reagent B Potassium
Permanganate Concentrate when properly diluted are associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The associated
EU Symbol of Danger is: none.
R 52/53: Harmful to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment
S 61: Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/safety data sheet
Reagent SS-061CZN – Acid Fast Reagent C Carbol Fuchsin Ziehl-Neelsen is associated with the following Risk and Safety
Phrases. The associated EU Symbols of Danger are T and C.
R 10: Flammable
R 20/21/22: Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 34: Causes burns
R 45: May cause cancer
R 68: Possible risk of irreversible effects

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S 24/25 Avoid contact with skin and eyes
S 26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S 28: After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water
S 36/37/39: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves and eye/face protection
S 45: In case of accident of if you feel unwell seek medical advice immediately
S 53: Avoid exposure – obtain special instructions before use
Reagent SS-061CKY – Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent C Carbol Fuchsin Kinyoun is associated with the following Risk and
Safety Phrases. The associated EU Symbols of Danger are T and C.
R 10: Flammable
R 20/21/22: Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 34: Causes burns
R 45: May cause cancer
R 68: Possible risk of irreversible effects
S 24/25 Avoid contact with skin and eyes
S 26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S 28: After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water
S 36/37/39: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves and eye/face protection
S 45: In case of accident of if you feel unwell seek medical advice immediately
S 53: Avoid exposure – obtain special instructions before use
Reagent SS-061CA – Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent C Fluorescence Auramine is associated with the following Risk and
Safety Phrases. The associated EU Symbol of Danger is Xn and C.
R 10: Flammable
R 20/21/22: Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 34: Causes burns
R 68: Limited evidence of a carcinogenic effect
S 24/25: Avoid contact with skin and eyes
S 26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S 28: After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water
S 36/37/39: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves and eye/face protection
S 45 In case of accident of if you feel unwell seek medical advice immediately
Reagent SS-061CAR – Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent C Auramine and Rhodamine is associated with the following Risk and
Safety Phrases. The associated EU Symbols of Danger are Xn and C.
R 10: Flammable
R 20/21/22: Harmful by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 34: Causes burns
R 68: Limited evidence of a carcinogenic effect
S 24/25: Avoid contact with skin and eyes
S 26 In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S 28: After contact with skin, wash immediately with plenty of water
S 36/37/39: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves and eye/face protection
S 45 In case of accident of if you feel unwell seek medical advice immediately
Reagents SS-061M – Acid Fast Mycohold Cell Adhesive and SS-161M – Acid Fast Mycolhold Cell Adhesive Concentrate
when properly diluted are associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The associated EU Symbol of Danger is:
none.
R Phrases: None
S Phrases: None
SS-161M – Acid Fast Mycohold Cell Adhesive Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The
associated EU Symbol of Danger is Xn.
R22 Harmful if swallowed
R 52/53: Harmful to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment

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S 61: Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/safety data sheet
SS-161A – Acid Fast Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The
associated EU Symbol of Danger is C.
R 35: Causes severe burns
S 23 Do not breathe vapors.
S 26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S 36: Wear suitable protective clothing
S 45: In case of accident of if you feel unwell seek medical advice immediately (show the label where
possible)
SS-161AF – Acid Fast Fluorescence Decolorizer Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. The
associated EU Symbol of Danger is C.
R 34: Causes burns
S 23 Do not breathe vapors
S 26: In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice
S 36: Wear suitable protective clothing
S 45: In case of accident of if you feel unwell seek medical advice immediately (show the label where
possible)
SS-161BBG – Aerospray Acid Fast Brilliant Green Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases.
The associated EU Symbol of Danger is none.
R R10: Flammable
S Phrases: None
SS-161BMB – Aerospray Acid Fast Methylene Blue Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases.
The associated EU Symbol of Danger is none.
R R10: Flammable
S Phrases: None
SS-161BP – Aerospray Acid Fast Potassium Permanganate Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety
Phrases. The associated EU Symbol of Danger is N.
R 51/53: Toxic to aquatic organisms, may cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment
S 61: Avoid release to the environment. Refer to special instructions/safety data sheet
SS-029 Aerospray Nozzle Cleaning Solution and SS-029C when diluted as instructed are associated with the following Risk
and Safety Phrases. European Symbols of Danger are: F and T.
R 11: Highly Flammable
R 23/24/25 Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 39/23/24/25: Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation, in contact with skin and if
swallowed
S 7: Keep container tightly closed
S 16: Keep away from sources of ignition – No smoking
S 36/37: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves
S 45: In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medial advice immediately (show label where possible)
SS-029C Aerospray Nozzle Cleaning Solution is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. European Symbol of
Danger is: None.
R: None
S: None
SS-230 Aerospray Stain Residue Solvent is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. European Symbols of
Danger are: None.

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R: None
S None
SS-133 Decontamination Solution Concentrate is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. European Symbols
of Danger is Xi.
R 36/38 Irritating to eyes and skin.
S 60 This material and its container must be disposed of as hazardous waste.
SS-MeOH Aerospray Reagent-Grade Methanol is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases.
European Symbols of Danger are: F and T.
R 11: Highly Flammable
R 23/24/25: Toxic by inhalation, in contact with skin and if swallowed
R 39/23/24/25: Toxic: danger of very serious irreversible effects through inhalation, in contact with skin and if
swallowed
S 7: Keep container tightly closed
S 16: Keep away from sources of ignition – No smoking
S 36/37: Wear suitable protective clothing and gloves
S 45: In case of accident or if you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately (show label where possible)
SS-103 O-ring/Nozzle Thread Grease is associated with the following Risk and Safety Phrases. European Symbols of Danger
are: None.
R: None
S: None

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4 Intended Purpose (8.5)
The Aerospray" AFB Stainer/Cytocentrifuge (Model 7720) is a dual-purpose stainer intended for use by medical professionals to
stain microbiological specimens suspected to contain acid fast organisms, a step in standard laboratory practice of diagnosing
disease in humans. Addition of the Cytopro rotor allows preparation of slides by cytocentrifugation before staining. Consult the
7620 Cytopro Centrifuge Essential Information for further details.
5 Identification / Lot / Expiration Dates (8.6)
The device and all accessories and supplies are clearly identified. Labels on reagents include lot number and expiration date
information as shown in Section 6.
6 Details from Labels (8.7a and 8.4a)
a. Manufacturer Name and Address (8.7a and 8.4a)
Wescor, Inc
370 West 1700 South
Logan, UT 84321-8212
USA
Phone: (+1) 435-752-6011
Fax: (+1) 435-752-4127
Email: [email protected]
www.wescor.com
b. Authorized Representative Name and Address (8.7a and 8.4a)
Medical Technology Promedt Consulting
Altenhofstra#e 80
66386 St. Ingbert
Germany
Tel. +49 6894 581020
Fax: +49 6894 581021
Email: info@mt-procons.com

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c. Identification of the Device, Accessory, or Supply Item (8.7a and 8.4b)
The model number and name is on the front panel of the instrument. Accessories and supplies are labeled with names and
product numbers.
Aerospray" AFB Stainer/Cytocentrifuge Faceplate (Label Print-0005)
A list of Accessories follows:
Slide Carousel (12 Slide Capacity) AC-028
Slide Carousel (30 Slide Capacity) AC-057
Nozzle Tool AC-034
Nozzle Hex Wrench AC-035
5.0 Liter Space-Saver Container with Cap AC-038
Spigot for Space Saver Container AC-039
Drain Tube (1.8 meters, 6 feet length) AC-041
500 mL Bottle with Cap AC-043
Nozzle Orifice Cleaning Wire AC-059
Cytopro Cytocentrifuge Rotor AC-060
Reagent Pump Priming Tool AC-069
5.0 Liter Bottle Assembly for Reagent D (Deionized Water) AC-072
Nozzle Maintenance Kit AC-075
Aerospray/Cytopro Safety Shield AC-110
A list of Supplies follows:
Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer Reagent, 500 mL SS-061A
Methylene Blue Reagent, 500 mL SS-061BMB
Brilliant Green Reagent, 500 mL SS-061BBG
Ziehl-Neelsen Carbol Fuchsin Reagent, 500 mL SS-061CZN
Kinyoun Carbol Fuchsin Reagent, 500 mL SS-061CKY
Fluorescence Decolorizer Reagent, 500 mL SS-061AF
Potassium Permanganate Reagent, 500 mL SS-061BP
Auramine Reagent, 500 mL SS-061CA
Auramine/Rhodamine (modified) Reagent, 500 mL SS-061CAR
Methanol, 500 mL SS-MeOH
Mycohold (Cell adhesive solution) 500 mL SS-061M
Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer Concentrate, 30 mL (dilute to 500 mL) SS-161A
Methylene Blue Concentrate, 130 mL (dilute to 2 L) SS-161BMB
Brilliant Green Concentrate, 130 mL (dilute to 2 L) SS-161BBG
Fluorescence Decolorizer Concentrate, 30 mL (dilute to 500 mL) SS-161AF
Potassium Permanganate Concentrate, 200 mL (dilute to 1.8 L) SS-161BP
Mycohold Cell Adhesive Concentrate, 100 mL (dilute to 1 L) SS-161M

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Nozzle Cleaning Solution, 355 mL SS-029
Nozzle Cleaning Solution, 250 mL Concentrate (dilute to 500 mL) SS-029C
Nozzle Cleaning Solution, 1.89 liter Concentrate (dilute to 3.7 L) SS-029CG
Nozzle Caps (package of six) SS-105
Preventive Maintenance Chart (pad of 24 sheets) SS-127
Disposable Cleaning Swabs for Slidepro SS-134
Thermometer for Slidepro 41-0102
Cytopro Rotor Lid Maintenance Kit SS-060
Cytopro Slide Cushions SS-109
Sample Chamber Caps for Cytopro SS-110
Fast (white) Cytopad Absorption Pads SS-111
Slow (tan) Cytopad Absorption Pads SS-112
Sample Chambers with Caps and Fast Cytopads SS-113
Sample Chambers with Caps and Slow Cytopads SS-114
Sample Chambers with Fast Cytopads SS-115
Sample Chambers with Slow Cytopads SS-116
Uncoated Custom Microscope Slides for Cytopro SS-117
Uncoated Custom Microscope Slides for Cytopro Dual Sample Chambers SS-217
POLY-L-LYSINE Coated Custom Microscope Slides for Cytopro SS-118
POLY-L-LYSINE Coated Custom Microscope Slides for Cytopro Dual Sample
Chambers
SS-218
Dual Sample Chamber Caps SS-210
Fast Cytopad Dual Sample Absorption Pads SS-211
Slow Cytopad Dual Sample Absorption Pads SS-212
Dual Sample Chambers with Caps and Fast Cytopads SS-213
Dual Sample Chambers with Caps and Slow Cytopads SS-214
Dual Sample Chambers with Fast Cytopads SS-215
Dual Sample Chambers with Slow Cytopads SS-216
d. In Vitro Diagnostic Use (8.7a and 8.4g)
The symbol on the label recognizes the diagnostic use described above (Intended purpose).
e. Storage and Handling Conditions (8.7a and 8.4h)
Reagents are marked with a storage temperature range of 18° to 31°C. Do not freeze reagents or store in direct sunlight.
Temperatures slightly outside these specified limits for a short duration will not harm the reagents.
If the Aerospray stainer will be idle for more than a week, the following procedure prevents nozzle-plugging problems when
ready to use the instrument again. Do this for each reagent line.
• Carefully loosen the ring-cap from the reagent bottle.
• Lift the dip tube out of the bottle and wipe off any remaining reagent from the tube.
• Install a cap on the reagent bottle and set aside.
• Place the dip tube in a bottle of methanol or ethanol.
• Flush at least 250 mL of methanol or ethanol through the line and spray nozzle. Leave methanol or ethanol in the line.
NOTE: If using potassium permanganate in line B, flush with 100 mL of DI water, then 150 mL of nozzle
cleaning solution (prepared SS-029C). Leave standing at least 1 hour before the methanol or ethanol flush.
• Leave flushing fluids in the reagent lines during storage. Do not run reagent lines dry.
• One at a time, remove and disassemble each spray nozzle. After removing o-ring, place metal nozzle parts in a 50 mL
centrifuge tube (provided in the Aerospray Maintenance Kit) filled with prepared SS-029C.
• Mark the tube to identify the correct reagent line. Use the provided cleaning kit tube stand to store the tubes. Place each
tube holding nozzle parts in the position corresponding with the reagent line that the nozzle is removed from. Be sure the
nozzles are returned to their original position in the stainer.
• Flush the instrument drain tube with water to prevent build-up of paper fibers, precipitates, or other materials.

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CAUTION! Do not subject stainer to freezing temperatures while aqueous fluids remain in any
reagent lines. Serious damage can result.
f. Operating Instruction (8.7a and 8.4j)
i. Initial Instrument Setup
• Install the drain tube
• Plug in the power cord and switch the power on
• Install all reagent bottles
• Prime all reagent lines
• Run the CLEAN cycle twice to purge the reagent nozzles of precipitates and debris. (See Clean Cycle 6.f.ix.)
NOTE: Dirty nozzles cause most staining problems. Check spray pattern and clean nozzles as
necessary.
ii. Select Stain Mode
Press PROG at power up to open the program menu. Press 1 to select Carbol Fuchsin or press 2 to select
Fluorescence.
iii. Load Carousel
Press the center button to remove the carousel lid. Load the 12-slide carousel with labeled end of the slide facing
the outer rim of the carousel. Load the 30-slide carousel with labeled end of the slide facing the carousel hub.
Smears in either carousel must face clockwise
The stainer can be programmed to save reagent when staining partial loads in either the 12-slide or the 30-slide
carousel. To use this feature, place slides in the marked slots on the 12-slide or 30-slide carousel and enter the
number of slides on the keypad. Put the first slide in position 1, the second in position 2, and so on. If there is an
odd number of slides, place a blank slide in the next position for balance. If there are empty slots in the carousel,
place a blank blocking slide in the first empty slot clockwise from a specimen slide and another blank blocking
slide directly across the carousel.
iv. Load Instrument
Replace the carousel lid by pressing the release button while lowering the lid over the indexing posts. Release the
button and press the lid handle lightly until it clicks into place. Place the carousel into the stainer and close the
stainer lid.
v. Program Number of Slides
If staining a partial load, enter the number of slides into the stainer by using the numbered keypads. Slide selection
defaults to Full Carousel at the end of the run or after pressing STOP.
This instrument treats anything over a partial load as a full carousel. To stain more than a partial load there is no
need to program the number of slides. A partial load on the 12-slide carousel is anything from 1 to 6 slides. A
partial load on the 30-slide carousel is anything from 1-16 slides.
vi. Select Intensity
Press PROGRAM, then select Stain Intensity 1 through 6. The selected stain cycle remains current until it is
changed. This enables the running of multiple batches at the same setting without reprogramming.
NOTE: When you power up the stainer, or whenever power is interrupted, programming defaults to the
full carousel option and the last stain settings used, all of which are indicated on the display.

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vii. Running a Staining Cycle
For best results, separate the slides according to smear thickness, and load specimens of similar thickness in the
same carousel. Most specimens can be stained satisfactorily on settings 3 or 4. See Section 6L, Type of Specimen
to be Used.
Press RUN to begin staining. During the staining cycle, the display shows the current stain setting and reagent
currently being applied. At the bottom of the display, a progressing bar graph portrays remaining time in the cycle.
When the staining cycle is complete, the signal tone sounds and the display shows CYCLE COMPLETE.
viii. Clean Cycle
CAUTION! Remove all specimen slides before using the clean or reprime cycles, otherwise
specimens will be ruined.
At the end of each shift, or whenever the stainer will be idle for more than four hours, use the CLEAN cycle to
maintain nozzle performance. Place an empty carousel in the stainer and close the lid. Press CLEAN. Leave the
stainer with “Press Clean to Reprime” on the display while it is idle. When ready to stain slides, make sure there is
a carousel in the stainer and press CLEAN to reprime the stainer. After running the CLEAN cycle, spray nozzle
faces with methanol, ethanol, or prepared Nozzle Cleaning Solution (SS-029C). Use a nozzle brush to clean the
nozzle orifices when patterns are less than optimal.
NOTE: The B nozzle frequently plugs when running potassium permanganate. Reduce plugging when
not is use by covering the nozzle with a #14 rubber sleeve stopper (SS-105) containing a piece of paper
towel and filled with nozzle cleaning solution.
ix. Emergency Stop
The STOP button interrupts any cycle immediately. Pressing STOP during a clean or reprime cycle establishes a
warning routine that cannot be escaped until a clean and reprime cycle is repeated.

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g. Appropriate Warnings and Precautions (8.7a and 8.4j)
Following are warning labels for the device and its reagents.
Rear Panel Label
Model / Serial Number Label
Side Panel Membrane Switch

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h. Composition of Critical Chemicals in Reagent Products (8.7b)
SS-061A Acid Fast Reagent A Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer
SS-161A Acid Fast Reagent A Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer Concentrate when diluted properly
>90% Methyl Alcohol
<3% Nitric Acid
SS-061AF Acid Fast Reagent A Fluorescence Decolorizer
SS-161AF Acid Fast Reagent A Fluorescence Decolorizer Concentrate when diluted properly
<80% Isopropyl Alcohol
<1% Nitric Acid
SS-061BMB Acid Fast Reagent B, Methylene Blue
SS-161 BMB Acid Fast Reagent B Methylene Blue Concentrate when diluted properly
<1% Methylene Blue
<1% Benzalkonium Chloride
<10% Ethanol
SS-061BBG Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent B, Brilliant Green
SS-161 BBG Acid Fast Reagent B Brilliant Green Concentrate when diluted properly
<1% Brilliant Green
<1% Benzalkonium Chloride
<10% Ethanol
SS-061BP Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent B with Potassium Permanganate
SS-161BP Acid Fast Potassium Permanganate Concentrate when diluted properly
<1% Potassium Permanganate
SS-061CKY Acid Fast Reagent C, Carbol Fuchsin
< 24% Ethanol
< 2% Basic Fuchsin
< 5% Phenol
SS-061CZN Acid Fast Reagent C, Ziehl Neelsen
< 10% Isopropyl Alcohol
< 1% Basic Fuchsin
< 5% Phenol
SS-061CA Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent C; Auramine
<24% Ethanol
<15% Ethylene Glycol
<5% Phenol
<1% Auramine
SS-061CAR Aerospray Acid Fast Reagent C with Auramine and Rhodamine
<24% Ethanol
<15% Ethylene Glycol
<5% Phenol
<1% Auramine
<1% Rhodamine
SS-061M Acid Fast Mycohold Cell Adhesive
SS-161M Acid Fast Mycohold Cell Adhesive Concentrate when diluted properly
<0.1% Sodium Azide

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SS-161A Acid Fast Carbol Fuchsin Decolorizer Concentrate
<30% Nitric Acid
SS-161AF Acid Fast Fluorescens Decolorizer Concentrate
<10% Nitric Acid
SS-161BMB Acid Fast Methylene Blue Concentrate
<5% Methylene Blue
<1% Banzalkonium Chloride
<24% Ethanol
<2% Malic Acid
SS-161BBG Acid Fast Brilliant Green Concentrate
<24% Ethanol
<5% Brilliant Green
<2% Malic Acid
<1% Banzalkonium chloride
SS-161BP Acid Fast Potassium Permanganate Concentrate
<10% Potassium Permanganate
SS-161M Acid Fast Mycohold Cell Adhesive Concentrate
<1% Sodium Azide
SS-MeOH Reagent-Grade Methanol contains:
!99.5% Methyl Alcohol, Reagent Grade, Anhydrous
SS-029 Nozzle Cleaning Solution contains:
40-50% Methyl Alcohol
1-5% Oxalic Acid
SS-029C, SS-029CG Nozzle Cleaning Solution Concentrate:
95-99% Deionized Water
1-5% Oxalic Acid
SS-230 Aerospray Stain Residue Solvent contains:
70-85% Dimethyl sulfoxide
SS-133 Decontamination Solution Concentrate contains:
<30% Germicidal Detergent
>70% Deionized Water
SS-133 Decontamination Solution when diluted as directed contains:
<2% Germicidal Detergent
>98% Deionized Water
i. Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (8.7c)
Reagents should be stored at room temperature away from direct light. Expiration dates are shown on each reagent label with
the international symbol .
j. Performance of Device (8.7d)
This is not a measurement instrument; however, running a spray pattern, and volume test can check instrument
performance. Run this test if any abnormal results are observed after completing a staining cycle:
i. Spray Pattern Test
a. Remove the carousel from the instrument.
b. Press VOLUME TEST.
c. Press 1 for Pattern Test.
d. Hold a sheet of white paper in front of the carousel hub.

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e. Press the prime button that corresponds with the reagent line to be tested. The display shows the selected
Pattern Test and which reagent line is being tested. The instrument sprays a short burst of the
corresponding reagent.
f. The spray pattern must be round and uniform. If the spray pattern is abnormal, a clogged nozzle may be the
reason. Resolution to this problem is usually achieved by doing one or more of the following:
1. Wipe the nozzle orifice with methanol or ethanol, then run a CLEAN cycle.
2. Briskly push the bristles of the nozzle cleaning brush into the nozzle orifice. Repeat several times to
allow bristles to remove debris blocking the orifice.
3. Disassemble and clean the nozzle.
g. Press STOP to exit Pattern Test.
h. If the spray pattern is normal but staining results are abnormal, perform a Slide Pattern Test.
ii. Slide Pattern Test
a. Place a 26 mm x 76 mm (1” X 3”) piece of paper in slots 1 and 2 of the carousel with a blocking slide in
the slot before the paper slides. Replace the carousel lid. Load the carousel into the instrument and close the
lid.
b. Press VOLUME TEST.
c. Press 1.
d. Press the manual prime button for the reagent line to be tested. This sprays the paper “slide” and reveals the
pattern of stain application to the slide.
e. Remove the paper slides.
f. Repeat steps a to e for each reagent line.
g. Press STOP to exit the Pattern Test.
h. The pattern on the slide should be uniform without any continuous lines or streaks. If continuous lines or
streaks on the paper slides are observed, disassemble and clean the defective nozzle.
iii. Spray Volume Test
a. To test the volume of stain being delivered, press VOLUME TEST.
b. Press 2 to select Volume Test.
c. Hold a small container such as the 14 mL centrifuge tube included with the Aerospray Maintenance Kit to
capture the spray from the desired nozzle.
d. Press the corresponding prime button. The pump for that position runs for 20 seconds.
e. Place the centrifuge tube with the collected reagent in the tub stand of the maintenance kit. Place the tube in
the position that corresponds to the reagent line being tested. Use the information found in Interpreting
Results to determine the results of the Spray Volume test.
f. To exit Volume Test press STOP.
iv. Interpreting Results
When factory new, the A nozzle should deliver between 9.0 and 12.0 mL over the 20 second spray sequence if
using the Fluorescence decolorizer. All other nozzles, A (when using Carbol Fuchsin decolorizer), B, C, D, and E
nozzles should deliver between 7.75 and 11.5 mL over the 20 second spray sequence. Older nozzles may exhibit
higher volumes. The instrument stains properly with reagent deliveries above and below these levels. Volume
relationships between nozzles are at least as important as the actual volumes collected, and your investigation
should center on whether these nozzle groups are delivering close to the same levels.
When operating correctly, nozzles B, C, and D (front) should deliver approximately the same volume of stain. The
D (rear) nozzle volume may be slightly higher or lower. Reagent A will almost always be higher. Reagent E can
be higher or lower than the other nozzles (except Reagent A).
Low Volume
Normal
Pattern
Moderately
Abnormal Pattern
Very
Abnormal Pattern

DOC-00322-ENA.doc Page 20 of 29 ! Wescor, Inc
Reagent precipitate or foreign matter inside the nozzle typically causes low volume from a spray nozzle. If the
CLEAN cycle does not help, the best solution is to manually disassemble and clean the spray nozzle.
Excessive Volume
If collecting excessive volume, make sure the nozzle is assembled correctly (see Reassembly in Section 6o). If this
fails to correct the problem, contact an authorized representative or Wescor for assistance.
k. Special Equipment Required (8.7e)
See the list of Accessories in Section 6c for the maintenance tools and supplies provided with each stainer.
l. Type of Specimen to be Used (8.7f)
The equipment is used to stain acid fast bacteria specimens that are applied to microscope slides. The stainer allows
selection of stain applications on a scale of 1 to 6. The chart below shows recommended settings for various specimens.
For best results, separate your slides according to smear thickness, and load specimens of similar thickness in the same
carousel. Specimens should be prepared as thinly as possible. If prepared as thin smears, most specimens can be stained
satisfactorily on settings 3 or 4.
NOTE: These are suggested settings only. Each laboratory should establish its own protocol for staining.
INSTRUMENT
SETTING
THICKNESS
1 THIN SPECIMEN
2
3 MEDIUM SPECIMEN
4
5
6 THICK SPECIMEN
Over-decolorization
Over-decolorization occurs when acid fast bacteria positives are incompletely stained or when the decolorizer removes
the stain from the cells to make them appear negative. Possible causes include:
a. Low or primary stain application
Check the reagent delivery system (reagent levels, spray volume, spray pattern and solenoid function).
b. Incorrect decolorizer preparation
Use SS-061A for the carbol fuchsin stains and SS-061AF for fluorescence stains. Check decolorizer to assure
proper composition if made from concentrate.
c. Stain setting too high
Decolorization is increased as the stain setting is increased. Use the lowest setting that yields proper staining.
Under-Decolorization
Insufficient decolorization of specimens results in a partially acid fast positive appearance in the smear’s AFB negative
bacteria, due to incomplete removal of the primary stain. Possible causes include:
a. Inadequate decolorizer application
Improper spray pattern or volume delivery from the decolorizer nozzle causes poor decolorization. Check the
level in the decolorizer bottle, and check for air in the decolorizer line. Verify nozzle performance.
b. Thick smears
Smears that are excessively thick, can contribute to under-decolorization due to incomplete penetration of the
water wash and decolorizer reagents. In general, try to make smears as thin as possible. If necessary, increase
the stain setting for thick specimens.
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