Manual Rotary Microtome with Retraction, MR3000

The Histo-Line Libra Microtome is a rotary microtome specifically designed for manually cutting paraffin sections. It is ideal for routine use in clinical histology and histopathology, but is also capable of producing the finest cuts for research applications. One of its key features is a retraction mechanism that offers multiple advantages in the cutting process, including prolonging the lifespan of the blade. When operating the microtome in retraction mode, the entire block advances by the sum of the retraction value and the thickness of the chosen section upon a full rotation of the flywheel. Additionally, the microtome is equipped with a dual mechanical trimming device located at the bottom left, which significantly speeds up the roughing process. The unit features a casing made from a specialised solvent-resistant plastic that has no sharp edges, thereby reducing the risk of injury to operators.

Safety And Operator Comfort

The flywheel features an ergonomic handle, enhancing the ease of cutting. In the microtome's upper section, there is a large work surface covered by a sheath slide. This sheath enables the operator to conveniently place all the necessary accessories for cutting, such as a package of disposable blades and a brush for collecting slices. Equipped with a low-friction flywheel for improved cutting comfort, the apparatus also includes an easily operable dual-rotation flywheel lock system. This system allows the sample arm to be securely halted in any position. The Libra model comes with two mechanical safety stops: one located on the cutting flywheel's insertion point, and the other situated beneath the toggle flywheel.

The steel clamp is equipped with a quick-release mechanism that allows for efficient swapping of samples and maintains a fixed tilt on the sample holder. Compatible with all types of standard biocassettes, the clamp can be easily interchanged by the operator with an optional biocassette ring attachment. The clamp features two red indicator lights that clearly signal when the orientation plane of the specimens is in the absolute zero position, allowing for easy and precise orientation. Located on the right side of the clamp is a bubble level, which enables precise alignment on all three axes of the sample. Additionally, the standard specimen holder clamp can be replaced using the included Allen wrench, allowing for compatibility with super mega cassettes through a convenient quick coupling mechanism.

Reliability and Precision of the Cut

The blade holder features a "dual profile" design, is compatible with both low- and high-profile disposable blades, and is equipped with a swing-action finger guard. A spring-loaded pin allows for the insertion or extraction of the blade without direct contact. Moreover, the blade holder offers three-position side-shifting capability (left, right, and center), enabling the utilization of the entire blade wire without the need for blade removal. This side-shifting range corresponds to the length of a standard biocassette, allowing for full use of the microtome blade without loosening its lock.

The system offers high-precision cutting across various sections, including those immersed in kerosene. It is well-suited for both routine and specialized laboratory research thanks to its low-maintenance, backlash-free roller bearings. The microtome features a completely silent sample retraction system designed to extend the lifespan of both the blade and the sample. During the retraction phase, the sample is safely moved to its original upper position, away from the cutting blade. If desired, the operator can disable the automatic sample retraction feature. Positioned on the operator's left side, the micrometric orientation device provides accurate readings of the cutting thickness.

The microtome's cutting thickness can be precisely adjusted between 1.0 μm and 60 μm via a small steel knob. Boasting an exceptionally stable structure, the microtome ensures reliability even when performing particularly challenging cuts. Users have the flexibility to employ either re-grindable blades—by switching out the blade holder, an optional accessory—or any type of disposable blades available on the market. The machine comes equipped with an antistatic tray designed to collect waste sections. This tray encompasses the front working area, including the space below the large, ergonomic blade holder, and can be easily removed from the instrument for convenient cleaning. Stability is further enhanced by two magnets positioned at the front of the microtome base. The micrometer orientation device, situated to the left of the operator, provides an indication of the cutting thickness.