Reliable & Consistent Cryostat Machine

Proper temperature settings depend on the type of tissue being sectioned. Here’s a general guideline:

• Soft tissues (e.g., brain, liver): These typically require lower temperatures, around -20°C to -25°C, to maintain structural integrity during sectioning.
• Harder tissues (e.g., bone, cartilage): These may require slightly higher temperatures, typically around -10°C to -15°C, to avoid cracking and ensure smooth sectioning.
• General rule: For thin, delicate sections (below 5 µm), colder temperatures are better, while thicker sections may allow for higher temperatures. Make sure to monitor the temperature on the digital display, and always pre-cool the chamber and specimen before sectioning to avoid temperature fluctuations.

Follow these steps to ensure optimal sectioning:

1. Freezing the sample: Use OCT or another embedding medium to fully cover the tissue sample. Freeze it at the optimal temperature for the tissue type.
2. Mounting the sample: Secure the frozen sample into the specimen head of the cryostat. Ensure it is aligned correctly and tightly fixed to avoid shifting during sectioning.
3. Blade positioning: Adjust the blade to the correct angle (typically around 10°–15°) to minimize drag and prevent artifacts like chatter marks.
4. Temperature setting: Ensure the cryostat chamber has reached the desired temperature before you begin slicing.
5. Begin sectioning: Use the handwheel for manual sectioning or the automated sectioning feature to make continuous, consistent slices.

Chatter marks can be caused by several factors. Here are potential causes and solutions:

• Blade Issues:
  • A dull or worn blade may cause vibrations that lead to chatter marks. Try replacing the blade with a sharp one.
  • Ensure the blade is securely fastened. Even slight movement can cause irregularities.
• Sample Temperature:
  • If the sample is too cold, it becomes brittle, leading to chattering. Try slightly raising the temperature by 2-3°C to see if that reduces the issue.
  • Conversely, if the sample is too warm, it may become too soft, causing the blade to drag. Lower the temperature in small increments and test again.
• Cutting Speed:
  • Slow down the cutting speed to reduce vibrations. If you’re using the automatic sectioning function, try adjusting the speed setting to a lower level.
• Blade Angle:
  • Adjust the blade angle slightly to reduce drag on the tissue. A 10°–12° angle is often optimal.

Alternating thick-and-thin sections usually indicate an issue with stability. Here’s what you can check:

• Specimen Stability:
  • Ensure the specimen is securely mounted. If it’s loose, the tissue can shift during sectioning, causing irregular section thickness.
  • Recheck the positioning of the sample in the specimen holder.
• Blade Sharpness:
  • A dull blade can create resistance during the cut, leading to inconsistent section thickness. Replace the blade if necessary.
• Blade and Specimen Temperature:
  • Temperature fluctuations can cause sample inconsistency. Ensure that both the blade and the sample are at a stable and uniform temperature throughout the sectioning process.
• Cutting Speed:
  • Try reducing the sectioning speed to allow for more consistent cutting.

If the cryostat is not reaching the set temperature, try the following steps:

• Check for Frost Buildup:
  • Excessive frost or ice can prevent proper cooling. Run the defrost cycle and clean out any frost from the chamber.
• Air Filter Maintenance:
  • Ensure that the air filters are clean and free from debris. Clogged filters reduce the efficiency of the cooling system.
• Room Temperature:
  • Ensure the cryostat is in a well-ventilated room with a stable ambient temperature. Extremely warm environments can make it harder for the cryostat to reach low temperatures.
• Service Check:
  • If issues persist, it may indicate a malfunction in the refrigeration unit. Contact Precisionary technical support for assistance.

Frost buildup can interfere with visibility and cooling efficiency. Here’s how to reduce it:

• Keep the Chamber Closed: Avoid opening the cryostat chamber too frequently during use. Exposure to warm, humid air can cause condensation and frost buildup.
• Use Defrost Cycles: Run the automatic defrost cycle regularly, especially if you notice ice accumulating. Manual defrosting can also help, depending on your usage frequency.
• Dry Tissue Samples: Ensure that any tissue or embedding medium is thoroughly dry before placing it in the chamber. Wet materials can lead to condensation.

The CF-6100 comes with a 1-year warranty that covers:

• Parts and Labor: Includes repairs or replacement of defective components, such as refrigeration units, electronic controls, and blade systems.
• Technical Support: Access to expert troubleshooting and technical assistance.
• Exclusions: Consumables like blades and routine maintenance tasks such as filter replacement are not covered under the warranty.

Yes, Precisionary Instruments offers extended service plans that include:

• Annual Maintenance Checks: Regular inspection and servicing of your cryostat by a certified technician to keep it in top working condition.
• Priority Support: Faster response times for technical assistance or repair requests.
• Discounted Parts: Reduced pricing on replacement parts and consumables like blades.ibrating microtome, otherwise known as a vibratome. We call ours the Compresstome® because our models utilize a patented compression technology that no other tissue slicer on the market possesses. This technology works by cutting samples vertically instead of horizontally. More importantly, it uses a specimen tube that embeds tissue samples in low-melting agarose. The sample then exits the tube, and the blade cuts the sample right at the site of compression, creating even, consistent slices every time you cut.

The lead time from the date of order confirmation is typically 1-2 weeks.

We offer the following delivery options:

• Standard Delivery: The cryostat is shipped to the loading dock of your facility.
• White Glove Delivery: Includes full service—unpacking, setup, and installation—at the destination. This is recommended if you require assistance with setting up the cryostat

Yes, we offer both virtual and onsite training:

• Virtual Training: A detailed session that covers setup, operation, and maintenance. This is included with all purchases.
• Onsite Training (optional): Available for an additional fee, especially for institutions requiring hands-on assistance with operation and troubleshooting.

Before performing any cleaning or maintenance, make sure to:

• Power Off and Disconnect: Ensure the CF-6100 is turned off, and disconnect the main power supply before starting.
• Authorized Access Only: Maintenance and repair should only be performed by authorized, qualified personnel.
• Secure the Hand Wheel: Lock the hand wheel securely before cleaning.
• Use Appropriate Cleaners: Clean using alcohol or alcohol-based disinfectants. Do not use corrosive solvents such as acetone or xylene as they can damage the instrument.
• Avoid Liquid Exposure: Take care to prevent liquids from entering any part of the instrument during the cleaning process.

After each daily use, follow these steps:

1. Lock the Hand Wheel: Securely lock the hand wheel to prevent accidental movement.
2. Remove and Store Blades Safely: Remove the blade from the blade holder and return it to the blade box. Dispose of accumulated waste properly.
3. Close Sliding Glass Door: Ensure the sliding glass door is closed to maintain cleanliness.
4. Turn Off Interior Light: Switch off the interior light, but keep the main power switch on and the refrigeration system running.
5. Clean Blade and Brush Holders: Clean these components as needed to ensure optimal performance.

The waste collecting container is intended for defrosting liquids, rinsing solutions, and other waste:

• Pre-Fill with Disinfectant: Before use, fill the container with 200 ml of 10% formalin solution or another disinfectant to safely collect waste.
• Dispose of Waste Responsibly: Dispose of wastewater following your institution’s waste discharge regulations. To remove the waste container, simply lift the bucket plate to detach the container and connected water pipe.
• Regular Monitoring: Monitor the liquid level regularly and empty the container as needed, following proper waste disposal protocols

Sectioning fragile tissues like brain or lung requires extra care to avoid damage:

• Lower the temperature: Use a slightly lower temperature to ensure that the tissue stays firm and doesn’t become mushy during sectioning.
• Slow down the sectioning speed: Reducing the sectioning speed helps to avoid tearing or compressing the tissue.
• Use a sharp blade: Always use a new or freshly sharpened blade to minimize drag and distortion.
• Stabilize the sample: Ensure the specimen is securely mounted and properly aligned to reduce the risk of movement or uneven sectioning.

If you’re not using the cryostat for an extended period, follow these steps to store it safely:

• Turn off and unplug the unit: Ensure the cryostat is powered down and disconnected from the power source.
• Defrost and clean the chamber: Run a defrost cycle to remove any ice, then thoroughly clean the chamber, blades, and specimen holder.
• Cover the cryostat: Use a dust cover or cloth to protect the unit from dust and debris.
• Store in a cool, dry place: Avoid placing the cryostat in areas with extreme temperatures or high humidity, as this could affect the refrigeration unit and electronics.
• Regular checks: Even in storage, inspect the unit periodically to ensure there’s no buildup of dust or humidity, which could affect its performance when next in use.

To prevent contamination between samples, particularly in clinical or research settings, follow these best practices:

• Use UV Disinfection: The built-in UV disinfection cycle can be run after each session to sterilize the chamber.
• Clean the specimen holder and blade regularly: Thoroughly clean all tools and components that come in contact with the tissue, such as forceps and specimen holders, between each use.
• Cover or remove unused components: If you’re not sectioning, keep the blade and other components covered or stored in a sterile environment to minimize exposure to contaminants.
• Use sterile forceps and gloves: Always handle samples and cryostat components with sterile tools and gloves to avoid introducing external contaminants.