Semi-Automated Cryostat, MC5050

The MC5050 is the latest cryostat microtome to emerge from Histo-Line Laboratories, designed to deliver precision cutting, ensure operator safety, and facilitate maximum cleanliness of the instrument. Classified as a medical device, regulated by the first national class, this semi-automatic cryostat is used for the rapid freezing of pathological sections from both human and animal tissues. Commonly used in hospitals, medical schools, forensic laboratories, and pathological research institutes, the device plays a pivotal role in pathological diagnosis, analysis, and research. Featuring an ergonomic, attractive, and modern design, the MC5050 has rounded corners and an easy-to-use Pad Control interface, all set at a convenient working height.

The instrument is composed of four major components:

• The touchscreen control panel, situated at the top, displays the temperature, settings, and overall operating conditions of the instrument.
• The cryochamber is spacious and well-designed, featuring constant low temperatures, ergonomic storage, and a flat freezing shelf.
• Within the cryochamber, you'll find a fully encapsulated microtome equipped with a stepper motor feed.
• The lower section serves as the core of the refrigeration system, housing the compressor unit.

The freezing chamber is both wide and spacious, featuring an anti-fog and anti-reflection sliding window. When this window is opened, the UV lamp is automatically disabled for safety. The holder disks are situated on the left side of the chamber and can be conveniently stored in a dedicated shelf area with 20 refrigerated slots. Through the front-facing touchscreen display, users can easily monitor and adjust critical parameters—such as thickness, temperature, and sample retraction—to achieve excellent cutting results. Located on the front left side of the unit, a user-friendly Pad Control facilitates straightforward control over the sample's forward and backward movements, as well as additional settings for the cutting operations. All of these functions can be effortlessly managed while maintaining visual focus on the cutting unit.

Reliability and precision of the cut

The key features of the MC5050 include:

• The Pad Control system provides precise control of sample advancement and retraction via a step motor.
• The device features a blade holder with an adjustable cutting angle that accommodates a variety of disposable blades.
• An integrated anti-roll system is in place.
• The system's uniform orientation allows for perfect alignment of the sample.
• The sample orientation can be adjusted in the X, Y, and Z axes up to 12°.
• The unit comes equipped with two Peltier elements for rapid cooling, reaching temperatures as low as 60°C.
• The blade holder includes levers with plastic handles and contact points, minimising the risk of frostbite injury during adjustments.
• The sample holder discs feature a large freezing surface and multiple grooves for maximum stability during cutting.
• Rapid sample freezing is facilitated by pre-cooled discs that have a large rear surface in contact with the freezing bar. The support discs are located on the chamber's left side and can be arranged to accommodate up to 18 refrigerated slots.

The cryostat accommodates a wide range of sample types, including normal, hard, and large specimens, thanks to its robust blade holder that features a dovetail attachment system for improved stability. The narrow- and wide-band disposable blade holders evenly distribute clamping pressure over the entire length of the blade, ensuring vibration free sectioning.

Safety and operator comfort

For optimal precision and comfort for the operator, the machine features:

• An anti-fog system for the glass.
• A built-in blade protection system with support.
• An integrated, removable PVC container for the collection of liquid condensation.
• A locking system that secures the cutting crank in any position.
• A stainless-steel extractor designed to shape the sample.

Disinfection systems

Enhanced Features for the Operator:

• Convenient disinfection settings via a control panel equipped with UV light.
• Offers both manual and automatic defrost systems.
• Features a spacious chamber that is easy for the operator to clean.
• Provides generous space for accessing the working chamber.
• Comes equipped with a large-capacity, transparent container for collecting washing liquids, disinfectants, and defrost water, which is easily removable from the instrument.