®

™
Accu-Cut SRM 200
Rotary Microtome
 © 2010 Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc.

All Rights Reserved

Printed in U.S.A.

Manufactured for:
Sakura Finetek USA, Inc., Torrance, CA 90501, U.S.A.
Sakura Finetek Japan Co., Ltd., Tokyo, 135-0007, Japan
Sakura Finetek Europe B.V., 2408 AV Alphen aan den Rijn, NL
Made in U.S.A.

0000107-03 Rev. B

2 Revised 02/06/12
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 4
1 INTRODUCTION
Basic Instrument - General view 5
General Description 6
Safety Instructions 7
SPECIFICATIONS 10
2 INSTALLATION
General Information 11
Unpacking Instructions 11
Installation Site Requirements 11
3 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Inserting the Specimen Clamp 13
Direct Fitting of the Specimen Clamp onto the Orientation Attachment 13
Inserting the Specimen Block 14
Mounting the Blade Holder Base Assembly 14
Mounting the Holder for Disposable Blades 14
Inserting Disposable Blades 15
Adjusting the Clearance Angle 15
Orienting the Specimen 16
Specimen Trimming with the Coarse Feed Wheel 17
Trimming with the Mechanical Trimming Lever 18
Sectioning 19
Inserting and Removing Specimens 19
End of Day Protocol 19
4 USING THE ACCESSORIES
Specimen Clamps and Inserts 21
Blade Holder Base Assembly 22
Holder for Reusable Knives 23
Holder for Disposable Blades 24
Adjusting the Front Adapter Plate 25
5 CARE OF THE INSTRUMENT
Cleaning 27
Disposal 27
Maintenance 28
6 TROUBLESHOOTING 29
7 SERVICE 31
INDEX 32

NOTE: The symbol warns against operating procedures that could be dangerous for either the user or the instrument.

Revised 02/06/12 3
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Always keep this manual near the instrument. Read it carefully before operating the instrument.

The Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 is a manually operated retracting

Serial No.: _________________________________ rotary microtome for the preparation of thin sections in routine
and research histology applications.
Installation Date: ___________________________

Manufactured for: Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc. and This instrument is designed to section soft materials embedded
Sakura Finetek Europe B.V. in paraffin as well as harder specimens, provided those
specimens are still suitable for manual sectioning.

Any other use of this instrument is considered improper

The model and serial numbers are specified on the nameplate operation.
on the left side of the instrument.
Prior to operating the instrument, carefully read this entire
Be sure to fill in the Warranty Registration Card that can be manual.
found at the front of this manual. Send it immediately to ensure
proper activation of the warranty. The symbol warns against operating procedures that could
be dangerous either for the user or the instrument. Additional
information, explanations, or recommendations which are useful
to the operator are marked by .

This instrument may only be operated by skilled personnel and

may only be used for the application described in this manual.
The instrument may only be operated in accordance with the
instructions given in this manual.

The instrument may only be used with the accessories and tools
described in this manual.

Repairs must be carried out only by qualified service personnel

authorized by Sakura Finetek.

Due to a policy of continuous improvement of our products,

Sakura Finetek reserves the right to change specifications
without notice.

Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc.

Torrance, CA 90501
USA

Telephone: 310-972-7800 or
800-725-8723
Fax: 310-972-7888

Sakura Finetek Europe B.V.

2408 A V Alphen aan den Rijn
The Netherlands

Telephone: +31-(0)88-59.20.000
Telefax: +31-(0)88-59.20.001

www.sakura.eu

4 Revised 02/06/12
INTRODUCTION SECTION 1

Basic Instrument - General view

Universal Cassette Orientation Screw Section Thickness

Clamp Display

Section
Thickness
Coarse Feed Contol Knob
Wheel
Handwheel

Clamp for
Trimming Lever Securing Blade

Brake Lever
Clamp for Lateral
Displacement

Clamp for
adjusting Blade
Blade Holder Clamp for Blade Blade Guard Angle
Base Assembly Holder Base Assembly

Revised 02/06/12 5
INTRODUCTION

General Description

The Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 is a manually operated retracting The Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 (Part No. 1429) is a preconfigured,
rotary microtome. ready-for-use system with mechanical trimming function, coarse
feed, retraction feature, and is equipped with the following
The advance and vertical stroke mechanisms of the accessories:
Accu-Cut SRM 200 run on cross roller guides which are free
from backlash and are maintenance-free. A housing protects the Qty Item Product Code
entire micrometer feeding mechanism.
1 Blade Holder Base Assembly 1434
Sectioning is done manually by rotating the smooth-running 1 Holder for Low Profile Disposable Blades* 1435
hand-wheel in the clockwise direction. Section thickness is or
selected by turning a control knob. The coarse feed function is 1 Holder for High Profile Disposable Blades* 1469
operated by the coarse feed wheel. The instrument also features 1 Low Profile Back-Plate (included in 1435) 1437
a mechanical trimming function, which is activated by pressing a 1 Orientation Attachment for Clamps 1438
lever. 1 Universal Cassette Clamp with Adapter 1439
1 Maintenance Kit, 1440
An additional feature is specimen retraction, designed to protect consisting of:
both knife or blade, and specimen. The retraction phase 1 Allen key, size 4
coincides with the return stroke of the specimen to the starting 1 Allen key, size 3
position for the next cutting stroke. During the retraction phase, 1 Microtome Oil, 50 ml (type 405) 1447
the specimen is pulled back from the blade by 220  m . Prior to 2 Screwdrivers
the next section thickness advance, the specimen advances by 1 Dust Cover 1441
the retraction value.
1 Operating Manual 0000107-01

Never orient a specimen during the *The SRM™ 200 will be packaged with either a disposable
retraction phase as the specimen will blade holder for low profile blades (1435) or a disposable blade
advance by the retraction value plus the holder accomodating high profile blades (1469), if specified.
selected section thickness! Due to that fact,
there is a risk that both specimen and The following optional accessories are also available:
cutting edge may be damaged!
Item Product Code
Holder for Reusable (Steel) Knives 1442
Fixed Attachment for Clamps 1443
Standard Specimen Clamp, 40 x 40 mm 1444
Standard Specimen Clamp, 50 x 55 mm 1445
V-Insert 1446
Cold Plate (24/cs) 4650
Microtome Waste Collection System (w/25 bags) 4657
Waste Collection Bags (250/cs) 4658

Compare the delivered items with the parts list and your order. If
you find any discrepancies, immediately contact your Sakura
Finetek distributor or Sakura Finetek directly.

To ensure optimum performance of the Accu-Cut SRM 200

rotary microtome, the following disposable blades are
recommended:

Item Product Code

Accu-Edge® Low Profile Blade Dispenser 4689
50/pkg, 10 pkg/cs
Accu-Edge® High Profile Blade Dispenser
50/pkg, 10 pkg/cs 4685

6 Revised 02/06/12
 Safety Instructions
1

The safety devices on the instrument and on

the accessories must not be removed or
modified! Always lock the handwheel and
cover the cutting edge with the blade guard
prior to manipulating the blade and
specimen, changing the specimen, or when
the instrument is not in use.

This instrument is equipped with the following safety devices:

handwheel locking system, handwheel brake, and blade guard
on all blade holders.

Activating the handwheel locking system

2
The handle (1) of the sectioning handwheel can be used to lock
the handwheel in the 12 o’clock position (Fig.1-1). To rotate the
 = locked handwheel, the handle has to be pulled outward. As soon as the
 = released handle is pushed inward, the handwheel will be locked
Fig. 1-1 mechanically when reaching the 12 o’clock position.

Performance check

 To lock the handwheel, push the handle (1) toward the

instrument.

The handwheel remains locked in the 12 o’clock position and

cannot be rotated.

 To unlock the handwheel, pull the handle (1) away from the
instrument.

The handwheel can then be rotated again.

Activating the handwheel brake

Using the lever (2) located on the right side of the microtome
base, the handwheel brake can be activated with the handle in
any position. The “release” and “lock” positions of the brake
lever are marked with two symbols on the microtome base plate
( = locked;  = released) (Fig. 1-1).

NOTE: The brake does not lock the handwheel in any position.
The brake slows down movement of the handwheel (or prevents
easy movement of the handwheel).
The brake is a friction brake. It keeps the specimen clamp from
moving up and down

Revised 02/06/12 7
INTRODUCTION

Knife / Blade Guards

Always lock the handwheel and cover the

cutting edge with the blade guard prior to
1 manipulating the blade and specimen,
changing the specimen, or when the
instrument is not in use.

Every blade holder is equipped with a permanent blade

guard (1) (Fig. 1-2 and 1-3), which covers the entire length of
the blade edge in any position.

Holder for disposable blades

The blade guard system of the blade holder (Fig. 1-2) consists
of a hinged bar (1). To cover the blade edge, tilt the bar (1)
Fig. 1-2 upward. The guard can be easily repositioned from the base of
the blade holder to the blade edge as shown in Fig. 1-2.

The top of the fixing plate is sharp.

2
1
2

Holder for reusable knives (optional)

The knife guard of the knife holder (Fig. 1-3) can be easily
positioned using the two buttons (2).

To cover the knife edge, slide both cover strips of the knife
guard toward the center.

Fig. 1-3

8 Revised 02/06/12
 Transport and installation Cleaning

 Please make sure to carefully read the  Before cleaning the instrument, lock the
Specifications in Section 1. handwheel and remove the blade.

 The instrument may only be transported in an  Avoid harsh solvents such as acetone which will
upright position. damage the surface of the microtome and rubber/
vinyl parts.
 To move the instrument, do not grasp it by the
handles of the sectioning or coarse feed wheel.  Make sure that liquid does not get into the interior
of the instrument while cleaning.
 The Accu-Cut© SRM™ 200 is a precision
instrument and must be handled accordingly.  When using detergents, comply with the safety
Rough handling or dropping the instrument will instructions of the manufacturer and with all
disturb or damage internal components. applicable regulations in your laboratory.
Always handle the instrument with care.

 The safety devices on the instrument and on

the accessories should not be removed or
altered in any way. Maintenance

 Use a small brush to remove paraffin shavings.

Operating the instrument  Maintenance and repair work may only be carried
out by a qualified service technician, authorized by
Sakura Finetek.
 Be very careful when handling microtome knives
or disposable blades. Their cutting edges are
extremely sharp and can cause severe injuries.

 Never leave knives or holders with disposable

blades inserted lying around without protection.

 Never place a knife on any surface with the cutting

edge facing upwards.

 Never try to catch a falling knife or blade.

 Always clamp the specimen before inserting the

blade.

 Always lock the handwheel and cover the cutting

edge with the blade guard prior to manipulating
the blade and specimen, changing the specimen,
or when the instrument is not in use.

 Never orient a specimen during the retraction

phase because the specimen will advance by the
retraction value plus the selected section
thickness.
Due to that fact, there is a risk that both specimen
and blade may be damaged.

 Always wear safety goggles when sectioning

brittle specimens. Specimens may splinter.

Revised 02/06/12 9
INTRODUCTION

SPECIFICATIONS

ENVIRONMENTAL PARAMETERS
Operational Temperature: +10°C to +40°C Section Thickness Range: 0.5 - 60  m
(50°F to 104°F) Section Thickness Selection
Increments: - From 0 to 2  m in 0.5  m
- From 2 to 10  m in 1  m
PHYSICAL - From 10 to 20 m in 2 m
- From 20 to 60 m in 5 m
Dimensions in cm: 40.0 (W) x 47.0 (D) x 29.5 (H)
Coarse Feed Advance: Clockwise
Dimensions in inches: 15.8 (W) x 18.5 (D) x 11.6 (H)
Horizontal Specimen
Working height in cm: 10.5
Advance: 25 mm
Working height in inches: 4.1
Vertical Specimen Stroke
Weight (without accessories): 29 kg (64 lbs.)
Length: 59 mm
Weight (shipping): 34 kg (85 lbs.)
Specimen Retraction: 220  m
Clearance Angle for Blade
Holder: 0-10°
APPLICATION Paraffin embedded Specimen Orientation: Three-axis orientation
specimens for routine and Horizontal: 8°
research histology Vertical: 8°
Rotation: 90°
Micron Thickness Setting: Adjustable with visual display
Trimming Steps: 10  m , 50  m
Displacement of
Blade Holder Base:
North/South: Maximum: 55 mm
(Vertically) With all adapters attached:
40 mm

East/West: 45 mm
(Horizontally)

10 Revised 02/06/12
INSTALLATION SECTION 2

General Information Unpacking Instructions

The Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 is a precision instrument and must 1. Remove all accessories and packing materials from the top
be handled accordingly. Rough handling or dropping the section of the shipping box.
instrument will disturb or damage internal components. Always
handle the instrument with care. Move the instrument by 2. Remove the cardboard cover.
grasping the front and the back area at the base of the
microtome. CAUTION: The microtome is bolted to a wooden shipping
platform contained within the shipping box. Do not attempt
to remove the microtome from the shipping box by grasping
This instrument is heavy; therefore, it is and lifting the microtome! Instead, carefully follow all of the
strongly recommended that it be lifted and steps of this procedure.
transported by at least two people.
WARNING: THE MICROTOME AND ATTACHED PLATFORM
ARE HEAVY. AT LEAST TWO PEOPLE ARE REQUIRED TO
To move the instrument, do not grasp it by SAFELY LIFT THEM FROM THE SHIPPING BOX.
the handles of the sectioning or coarse feed
wheel.
3. Grasping the two handles on the platform, carefully lift the
platform, with the attached microtome, out of the shipping box,
placing it gently onto an appropriate load-bearing work surface.
All of the accessories included with the microtome are packaged
inside the shipping box. 4. Remove the protective plastic shipping cover.
1 Blade Holder Base Assembly (#1434) CAUTION: Two people are required to unbolt the microtome
1 Holder for Low Profile Disposable Blades (#1435) from the platform.
or
1 Holder for High Profile Disposable Blades (#1469) 5. Carefully tilt the microtome with attached platform so that the
1 Low Profile Back-Plate (#1437) microtome is resting on its back. This exposes the underside of
(part of #1435) the platform and allows access to the shipping bolt. If desired,
1 Orientation Attachment for Clamps (#1438) cushion the microtome with towels, gauze, plastic shipping
1 Universal Cassette Clamp with Adapter (#1439) cover, etc. to protect the microtome from being scratched.
(attached to Accu-Cut® SRMTM 200)
1 Maintenance Kit (#1440) containing: 6. With one person holding the microtome stable, a second
1 Allen Key, size 4 person (using an 8 mm Allen wrench) removes the shipping bolt,
1 Allen Key, size 3 releasing the microtome from the platform.
1 Microtome Oil, 50 mL (type 405)
2 screwdrivers 7. After removing the platform, carefully tip the microtome upright.
1 Dust Cover (#1441)
1 Operating Manual (#0000107-01) 8. The microtome can now be placed on a stable counter for
use. When moving the microtome, grasp it by its base.

Refer to Page 14 for installation of blade holder and blade holder

base.

Installation Site Requirements

The installation site needs to fulfill the following requirements:

 Stable laboratory bench with minimal vibration

 Vibration-free floor recommended
 Easy and convenient access to the sectioning handwheel
and the coarse feed wheel
 Ambient temperature always between +10 °C and +40 °C
°F to +104 °F)

Revised 02/06/12 11
12 Revised 02/06/12
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS SECTION 3

2 Inserting the Specimen Clamp

1
The Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 standard accessories include one
orientation attachment for clamps (product code 1438) and one
universal cassette clamp (product code 1439). The orienting
clamp attachment with adapter allows for three-axis orientation
of the specimen without having to release the specimen clamp.

A fixed attachment for clamps (product code 1443) is available

as an option. Both attachments are compatible with all three
specimen clamps available for the SRM 200 (universal cassette
clamp, specimen clamp 40 x 40, specimen clamp 50 x 55.) See
Section 4, Using the Accessories, for a complete description.

Refer to Fig. 3-1 on inserting the specimen clamp.

3
 Rotate the handwheel to move the attachment for specimen
Fig. 3-1 clamps to the uppermost position and lock the handwheel.

 To release the clamp, rotate the clamping lever (1)

counterclockwise (Fig. 3-1).
NOTE: The clamping lever is spring loaded. If you need to
adjust it, lift it slightly and reposition.

3  Insert the dovetail guide (2) of the specimen clamp from the
left into the dovetail clamp (3).

 Retighten the clamping lever (1) by rotating it clockwise.

Direct Fitting of the Specimen Clamp onto

the Orientation Attachment
Fig. 3-2

The specimen clamps (standard specimen

2 clamp or universal cassette clamp) can also
be directly fastened onto the orientation
attachments.

 Use the handwheel to rotate the attachment to the

uppermost position and lock the handwheel.
Fig. 3-3
 To remove the clamp adapter (3) from the orientation
attachment (Fig. 3-2), detach the four screws with a size 3
Allen key.

 To remove the dovetail guide (2), detach the two

corresponding screws at the specimen clamp (Fig. 3-3).

 Place the specimen clamp onto the orientation attachment

as shown in Fig. 3-4 and secure it with two corresponding
Fig. 3-4 screws.

Revised 02/06/12 13
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Inserting the Specimen Block

Always lock the handwheel and cover the

cutting edge with the blade guard prior to
manipulating the blade and specimen,
changing the specimen, or when the
instrument is not in use.

 Rotate the handwheel to place the specimen clamp in the

uppermost position.

 Lock the handle into place to secure the handwheel.

 Insert the specimen block into the specimen clamp.

Refer to Section 4, page 21, Using the

Accessories, for details on how to insert
specimens and a thorough description of
Fig. 3-5 each of the different types of specimen
clamps.

3
Mounting the Blade Holder Base Assembly
1

 Secure the clamp for lateral displacement (7).

7
 Release the clamping lever (1) by rotating it
counterclockwise (position  = released).
2
 Place the blade holder base assembly (2) onto the “T” piece
(3) located on the microtome base plate.
Fig. 3-6
 Lock the clamping lever (1) by rotating it clockwise (position
 = locked).
6
 Verify that the blade holder base is locked in place.

5
Mounting the Holder for Disposable
Blades

 Release the clamping lever (4) by rotating it

counterclockwise.

 Place the blade holder for disposable blades (6) onto the “T”
piece (5) of the blade holder base assembly.

 Lock the clamping lever (4) by rotating it clockwise.

Fig. 3-7
4  Verify that the blade holder is locked in place.

14 Revised 02/06/12
 Inserting Disposable Blades

Be very careful when handling microtome

blades. Their cutting edge is extremely
sharp and can cause severe injuries!

For a detailed description on how to insert

disposable blades, please refer to Section 4,
pages 23 and 25, Using the Accessories.

3
2  Carefully insert the disposable blade into the blade holder
and secure it by rotating the clamping lever clockwise (2).

 Position the blade guard in the upright position (3) to protect

the operator.

Adjusting the Clearance Angle

The scale (0°, 5°, 10°) for the adjustment of the clearance angle
is located on the right side of the blade holder (1).

On the right side of the blade holder base, there is an index line
which serves as a reference point for the adjustment scale.
(Refer to Fig. 3-8).

 To release the clamping mechanism, rotate the lever (1)

counterclockwise.
1
Fig. 3-8  Adjust the blade holder so that the index line of the desired
clearance angle coincides with the reference line on the
blade holder base.

 Hold the blade holder in the desired position and rotate the
lever (1) clockwise to secure it.

Fig. 3-9

Revised 02/06/12 15
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Orienting the Specimen

The orienting clamp attachment facilitates three-axis specimen

orientation without having to release the specimen clamp (7).

 Rotate the handwheel to move the specimen to the

uppermost position and lock the handwheel.

 Cover the blade with the blade guard.

 Rotate the coarse feed wheel counterclockwise to move the

specimen away from the blade edge to the maximum
traveling position. (See Page 17, The coarse feed wheel).

Never orient a specimen during the

retraction phase as the specimen will
5 advance by the retraction value plus the
selected section thickness! Due to that fact,
4 there is a risk that both specimen and
cutting edge may be damaged!

6  To release the clamping mechanism, rotate the clamp (4)

7 counterclockwise.

 Use adjusting screw (5) to orient the specimen in the vertical

direction, and adjusting screw (6) to orient in the horizontal
direction.

 To secure the specimen in the adjusted position, rotate the

clamp (4) clockwise.

 Release the clamping lever at the front of the microtome

base and move the blade holder base assembly to a position
close to the specimen. (See Page 22, Repositioning the
blade holder base.)

When working with the large-size standard

specimen clamp (50 x 55 mm), the vertical
direction orientation of 8° cannot be fully
utilized. The usable clearance angle, in that
case only, is approximately 4°.
Fig. 3-10

16 Revised 02/06/12
 Specimen Trimming with the Coarse Feed
Wheel

The coarse feed wheel

The coarse feed wheel is positioned on the left side of the

instrument (Fig. 3-11). When rotated, it advances and retracts
the specimen.

The coarse feed advances the specimen during clockwise

rotation. The direction of rotation is indicated by an arrow shown
in Figure 3-10. When rotating the coarse feed wheel in the
direction of the arrow, the specimen moves toward the blade.

The coarse feed is used for rapid horizontal movement of the

specimen, both forward (towards the blade) and backward
(away from the blade).

After having reached the rear or front limit of the instrument

respectively, the coarse feed wheel can only be rotated with
considerable effort. In addition, once the front limit is reached,
Fig. 3-11 the specimen will stop advancing.

Trimming the specimen

 Unlock the handwheel.

 Rotate the coarse feed wheel in a clockwise direction to

gradually bring the specimen closer to the blade while
simultaneously rotating, not rocking, the sectioning
handwheel. Keep trimming until you reach the desired area
of the specimen where you wish to begin sectioning.

2  The handwheel should be rotated in complete revolutions

1
when trimming the specimen block.

 Release the trimming lever before the handle of the

handwheel reaches the 9 o’clock position during its
clockwise rotation.

Trimming the specimen using the section

thickness setting

 Using the section thickness adjusting knob (1) located on the

upper right corner of the microtome, you may choose a thick
setting to begin trimming (e.g. 50  m ). The selected
thickness appears in the section thickness indicator (2). With
each rotation of the handwheel, the specimen will advance
the selected micron setting.

NOTE: “Rocking” the handwheel is not recommended.

Fig. 3-12

Revised 02/06/12 17
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Trimming with the Mechanical Trimming

Lever

The Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 is equipped with a mechanical

trimming function which is activated by a trimming lever. The
trimming lever has 2 settings: 10  m and 50  m . The settings
are marked as follows:
 = 10  m
  = 50  m
In the default position or uppermost position, the lever is at the
0  m position. The specimen advance is then controlled by the
section thickness setting.

To select the 10  m trimming advance, press the lever to the

area marked () and hold it there. Every rotation of the
handwheel will advance the specimen 10  m .

To select the 50  m trimming advance, press the lever down to

the bottom position ( ) and hold it there. With every turn of
the handwheel, a specimen advance of 50  m takes place. If
the section thickness setting value is more than 10 or 50  m
respectively, it will override the trimming function.
Fig. 3-13
NOTE: If the trimming lever is released before the handle of the
handwheel reaches the 9 o’clock position, the trimming function
disengages. The next rotation will then return to sectioning at the
displayed section thickness setting.
If the trimming lever is released after the handle of the
handwheel has passed the 9 o’clock position, the specimen will
be sectioned at the trimming setting, not the micron setting.
The next rotation will then return to sectioning at the displayed
section thickness setting.

The selected trimming value, 10  m or

50  m , will always override the section
thickness setting unless the section
thickness setting is greater.

To trim the specimen with the mechanical trimming lever:

 Rotate the coarse feed wheel to move the specimen close to

the blade.

 Select the desired trimming value.

 Trim the specimen by rotating the sectioning handwheel until

reaching the desired level for sectioning.

 Release the trimming lever and begin sectioning.

NOTE: “Rocking” the handwheel is not recommended.

18 Revised 02/06/12
 End of Day Protocol
The trimming lever should not be removed. If
the trimming lever is accidentally removed,
replace it carefully by making sure that the
 Rotate the handwheel to bring the specimen to the
metal shaft inside the case is positioned uppermost position and lock the handwheel.
between the two pins on the lever.

Be very careful when handling microtome

knives or disposable blades. Their cutting
edge is extremely sharp and can cause
Sectioning severe injuries!
Never place a knife on any surface with the
cutting edge facing upwards!
Always rotate the handwheel evenly. Always Never leave blades lying around without
work at a rotation speed which is protection! While not in use, always store
appropriate for the hardness of the knives in their cases! Never try to catch a
specimen, i.e. the harder the specimen, the falling blade!
slower the speed of rotation.
 Remove the blade from the holder and dispose of it properly.
When working with a reusable, steel knife, store the knife in
 Select the desired section thickness with the thickness its corresponding case after cleaning.
adjustment knob or check the indicator to see if it suits your
purposes.  Remove the specimen from the specimen clamp.

 For sectioning, you may want to use an area of the blade  Pick up any section waste.
other than the one you used for trimming. You can use the
lateral displacement feature on the SRM 200 to reposition  Clean the instrument (see Section 6, Care of Instrument).
the blade.

 To section, rotate the handwheel clockwise.

Inserting and Removing Specimens

Always lock the handwheel and cover the

cutting edge with the blade guard prior to
manipulating the blade and specimen,
changing the specimen, or when the
instrument is not in use.

 Rotate the handwheel to bring the specimen to the

uppermost position and lock the handwheel.

 Cover the cutting edge with the blade guard.

 Remove the specimen from the specimen clamp and insert a

new specimen.

Revised 02/06/12 19
20 Revised 02/06/12
USING THE ACCESSORIES SECTION 4

Specimen Clamps and Inserts

All specimen clamps can be used in

combination with both the orienting and
fixed clamp attachments.

Universal cassette clamp

The universal cassette clamp is designed for horizontal or

vertical clamping of all kinds of commercial cassettes.

 Pull the lever (1) forward as shown in the diagram.

 Mount the cassette horizontally or vertically as required.

 Release the lever (1) to secure the cassette in position.

Fig. 4-1

2
Standard specimen clamps (optional)

The standard specimen clamp is available in two sizes:

40 x 40 mm and 50 x 55 mm. It is designed for direct clamping
of rectangular blocks. In addition, it accommodates foil clamps.

3  Turn the knob (2) counterclockwise to move the movable jaw

(3) downward.

 Mount the sample as required.

 Turn the knob (2) clockwise to move the jaw (3) upward
against the fixed jaw to securely clamp the specimen block.

A V-insert (#1446) is an optional accessory which is used in

conjunction with the standard clamp (40 x 40 mm or 50 x 55 mm).
The V-insert is used to clamp round-shaped specimen holders.
Fig. 4-2

Revised 02/06/12 21
USING THE ACCESSORIES

Blade Holder Base Assembly (Fig. 4-3)

2

Install blade holder and blade holder base as

shown in Fig. 4-4.

The blade holder base assembly with lateral displacement

consists of two individual pieces and can be adjusted in a north-
south direction (3) as well as laterally (in an east-west
4 direction) (4).

Fig. 4-3
3 Repositioning the blade holder base (Fig. 4-4)

North-South orientation (Vertical direction)

The north-south orientation is designed to bring the blade holder
as close as possible to the specimen for an optimal sectioning
position.

2  Turn the clamping lever (1), at the front of the microtome

base plate, counterclockwise to release the clamping
mechanism.

 Move the blade holder base with attached blade holder

forward or backward.

 Turn the lever (1) clockwise to tighten it.

East-West orientation (Horizontal direction)

The lateral displacement feature permits using the entire length
of the cutting edge of the blade without having to release the
blade clamping mechanism.

To move the blade holder base laterally:

1  Turn the clamping lever (2) clockwise to release the

clamping mechanism.

Fig. 4-4  Adjust the blade holder base to the desired position.

 Turn the lever (2) counterclockwise to secure the clamping

mechanism.

 To separate the two holder base assembly pieces for

cleaning, unlock the lateral orientation lever (2) in Fig. 4-3.
Pull the lever to the left to remove. The blade holder (lateral)
base will lift off the sub-base portion. To reassemble, place
the blade holder base together and completely reinsert the
locking lever. Lock into position.

22 Revised 02/06/12
 Holder for Reusable Knives (Fig. 4-5)

The knife holder is designed for standard steel and tungsten

carbide knives, profile c and d, up to 16 cm long. In addition, it is
appropriate for various blade rails for disposable blades, which
are inserted in the holder like a knife.
The knife can be repositioned in height. This enables the use of
frequently resharpened knives.

1 Mounting the knife support bar

1  Slide the knife guard (1) to the middle.
 Place the knife support bar (3) as shown on the height
adjustment screws (not visible), ensuring that the flat top-
4 ends of the height adjustment screws are seated in the slots
at both ends of the knife support bar.

Inserting the knife

 Move the knife support bar via the height adjustment screws
to the lowest position by turning the wheels (6) on the right
and left of the knife holder in opposite directions to the front.
This will prevent damage to the cutting edge while inserting
the knife.
 Unscrew the knife clamping screws (2), turning
2 6 counterclockwise, as far out as possible.
3
 Hold the knife (4) at the knife back and carefully insert it in
Fig. 4-5 the holder from the right side as shown with the cutting edge
facing upward.

Adjusting the knife height (Fig. 4-6)

When adjusting the clearance angle, the cutting edge of the
knife should be positioned in the center of rotation of the knife
holder. The knife is correctly positioned in height when the
5
cutting edge is level with the locating edge of the rear clamping
jaws. The knife edge should be parallel with the locating
edges (5).

 Turn the wheels (6) in opposite directions to the rear in order

to position the knife edge parallel and level to the locating
edge (Fig. 4-6) on the rear clamping jaws.
 To clamp the knife (4), tighten the two clamping screws (2)
uniformly by turning them clockwise.

Inserting the blade rails

The blade rails should be inserted in the knife holder and
clamped.

Fig. 4-6

Revised 02/06/12 23
USING THE ACCESSORIES

Holder for Disposable Blades

The SRM™200 is configured with a blade holder for use with

low profile disposable blades or a holder configured for use with
high profile disposable blades.
2

Inserting the blade

 Verify that the blade holder base assembly levers are
locked.
 To insert the blade, move the clamping lever (1) down.
 Carefully insert the blade (2) from the right side of the blade
holder.
 To clamp the blade, move the clamping lever (1) up.
1
Fig. 4-7

24 Revised 02/06/12
 Adjusting the Front Adapter Plate (Fig. 4-8)

 Place the front adapter plate (7) in its correct position, insert
the clamping lever (2), and slightly fasten the adapter plate
3 by tightening the clamping lever. Do not overtighten.

The screws (10) on the underside of the blade holder are used
to adjust the height of the adapter plate.
7
 Adjust the height of the adapter plate (7) with screws (10).
The upper edges of both adapter plates (5) and (7) need to
be at the same height and parallel to each other.
5
The clearance angle of the adapter plate (7) is adjusted with
screw (9) which can be accessed at a slant angle from behind,
through an opening in the underside of the knife holder.
 Insert the blade with the cutting edge facing down in order to
minimize the risk of injury, and fasten it slightly with the
clamping lever (2).

 Adjust the adapter plate (7) with screw (9) in such a way that
Fig. 4-8 only the upper edge of the adapter plate actually exerts
pressure on the blade. A visible gap must remain. When the
adapter plate is clamped tightly, this gap will disappear.

Cleaning (Fig. 4-9)

The front adapter plate (7) can be removed for cleaning.
7  To remove the blade, move the clamping lever (2) down.
 Carefully remove the blade.
 Pull out the clamping lever (2).
2  Remove the adapter plate (7).

Use only mild commercial detergents or a

soap solution for cleaning!
Do not use harsh solvents such as acetone.

 Clean the blade holder with a damp cloth.

 Place the adapter plate back onto the blade holder (7), insert
the clamping lever (2), and tighten.
10
9
10
Fig. 4-9 For Left-Handed Convenience:
The clamping lever (2) can also be inserted
on the left side of the blade holder. This will,
however, change the locking position of the
lever. To unlock, move the lever upward; to
clamp, move the lever downward.

Revised 02/06/12 25
26 Revised 02/06/12
CARE OF THE INSTRUMENT SECTION 5

Cleaning

Remove the blade or knife and lock the

hand-wheel before starting the cleaning
process!
Avoid harsh solvents such as acetone which
will damage the surface of the microtome
and rubber/vinyl parts.
Make sure that no liquids get into the interior
of the instrument while cleaning!
When using detergents, comply with the
safety instructions of the manufacturer and
with all applicable regulations in your
laboratory.

 Lock the handwheel.

 Remove sectioning waste with a dry brush.

 Remove the blade holder and blade holder base for

cleaning.

 Clean the instrument and accessories with a slightly

moistened cloth.

Disposal

The instrument or parts of the instrument must be disposed of in

compliance with local laws.

Revised 02/06/12 27
CARE OF THE INSTRUMENT

Maintenance

Maintenance Checklist
 Clean the instrument daily.

 Lubricate the instrument monthly.

2
1 2  Have the instrument inspected yearly by a qualified service
technician authorized by Sakura Finetek.

Maintenance Procedures
This Accu-Cut® SRM™ 200 is virtually maintenance-free. To
ensure smooth operation of the instrument we recommend the
following:

 Remove debris and clean the instrument daily.

7
6  Lubricate the following parts with 1 to 2 drops of oil No. 405
(Product Code 1447) once a month:
Fig. 6-1
- T piece (1) on the microtome base plate.
- Guides (2) on the microtome base plate.
- Clamping levers (3) and (4) on the right and left side of
the blade holder base.
3 - T piece (5) on the blade holder base.
5
When reassembling the blade holder base
assembly (Fig. 6-2), be certain that the long
4 clamping lever (3) is inserted into the
opening on the left side of the base
assembly and secured. The shorter
clamping lever (4) should be inserted on the
right side and secured.

 Use the (optional) Microtome Waste Collection System,

product code 4657, to facilitate easy cleaning of the
Fig. 6-2
instrument. Replacement waste collection bags can be
ordered using product code 4658.

 Do not carry out any repairs on your own as this will

invalidate the warranty. Repairs may only be carried out by
qualified service technicians authorized by Sakura Finetek.

The base assembly should be carefully  For information on service contracts, please contact your
guided onto the guide rails (Fig. 6-1, item 2) local Sakura Finetek dealer or contact Sakura Finetek
and secured by moving the clamping lever directly.
(6) to the right. Verify that the blade holder
base is positioned so that the thick edge is
facing away from the instrument as shown in
Fig. 6-2.

28 Revised 02/06/12
TROUBLESHOOTING SECTION 6

Problems, Possible Causes, and Remedies

Problem Possible Cause Remedy

Thick/thin sections. - Insufficient knife/blade inclination; - Systematically try several clearance
The section thickness varies from one consequently the clearance angle is too angle adjustments, until the optimum
section to another. In extreme cases, small. angle is found.
sections are skipped and a section is
not obtained. - Insufficient clamping of specimen - Check that all levers are locked and
and/or blade. screws are tightened on the specimen
and blade holder system. Retighten the
levers and screws if necessary.

- Blunt knife/blade. - Use a different part of the cutting edge

or use a new knife/blade.

Compressed sections. - Blunt knife/blade. - Use a different part of the cutting edge
The sections are extremely compressed, or use a new knife/blade.
wrinkled or jammed together.
- Specimen too warm. - Cool the specimen on a cold plate.

- Cool the specimen in iced water

immediately before sectioning.

- Clearance angle too big. - Clearance angle adjustment;

systematically decrease the clearance
angle until the optimum adjustment is
obtained.

- Sectioning speed too fast. - Rotate the handwheel at a slower

speed.

The blade “rings” on the cutting stroke - Sectioning speed too fast. - Rotate the handwheel at a slower
when sectioning hard specimens. speed.
Sections show scratches and chatter
marks. - Clearance angle too big. - Clearance angle adjustment;
systematically decrease the clearance
angle until the optimum adjustment is
obtained.

- Insufficient clamping of specimen - Check that all levers are locked and
and/or blade. screws are tightened on the specimen
and blade holder system. Retighten the
levers and screws if necessary.

Specimens will not advance; no - Specimen has reached the front feed - Turn the coarse feed wheel in the
sections produced. limit. appropriate direction to move the
specimen toward the rear limit.

- The coarse feed wheel cannot rotate - Remove any obstruction.

freely.

Revised 02/06/12 29
30 Revised 02/06/12
SERVICE SECTION 7

Service Information Return Information

When problems arise during routine operation of the Accu-Cut® Sakura Finetek cannot accept goods returned without prior
SRM™ 200 Rotary Microtome, first refer to Section 7, authorization.
TROUBLESHOOTING. Avoid problems by carefully following
proper operating and cleaning procedures. If a problem cannot If an instrument or any part is to be returned to Sakura Finetek,
be solved and an instrument failure is apparent, our Customer please note the following:
Support Department is available to assist you.
The instrument should be disinfected prior to being serviced. a. Please contact Sakura Finetek directly to obtain a returned
goods authorization number and for appropriate shipping
instructions and procedures.

Where to Call for Service b. If the instrument or any part of it has been exposed to or
been in contact with potentially pathogenic or radioactive
If located within the United States or Puerto Rico, contact the materials, it is essential to decontaminate the instrument or
Customer Support Departement of Sakura Finetek U.S.A., Inc. part. Decontamination must explicitly be confirmed by the
by calling: customer. Our service technicians must inquire about this.
1-800-725-8723
c. Ensure that there is no radioactivity or hazardous bacteria
or present and advise Sakura Finetek of any decontamination
procedure that may have been carried out.
1-310-972-7800.
Should the instrument or any part be received in a condition
If located within Canada, contact Somagen Diagnostics by
that Sakura Finetek considers to be a potential biological
calling:
hazard, the instrument or part will be returned unrepaired at
1-800-661-9993. the expense of the customer.

In countries other than the United States, Canada, or Puerto

Rico, contact the nearest authorized SAKURA instrument
distributor or representative for service information and
assistance. For more infomation about your local distrubutor or
representative outside of the U.S.A., Canada, or Puerto Rico
contact Sakura Finetek Europe B.V. in the Netherlands by
calling:

+31-88-59.20.032
or FAX
+31-88-59.20.001

When requesting a service call, please provide the following

information:

a. Model and serial number of the instrument

b. Date of delivery
c. Location of the instrument and the contact person
d. The reason for the service call

Revised 02/06/12 31
INDEX SECTION 7

A K
Accessories 6, 11 Knife guard 8, 25
Adapter plate 23, 24 Knife holder 8, 25

B L
Blade guard 8, 15, 16, 19 Lateral displacement 19, 22
Blade holder 8, 10, 14, 22, 23, 24 Left-handed convenience 24
Blade holder base 22
Blade holder base assembly 14, 22 M
Blade rails 25
Brake lever for activating the handwheel brake 5 Maintenance 9, 28
Maintenance checklist 28
C Maintenance procedures 28
Mechanical trimming function 6, 18
Clamp for adjusting blade angle 5 Micron thickness setting 18
Clamp for blade holder base asembly 5 Mounting the blade holder 14
Clamp for lateral displacement 5 Mounting the blade holder base assembly 14
Clamp for securing blade 5 Moving the instrument 11
Clamping mechanism 22
Clamping plate 24 O
Cleaning 9, 24, 27, 28
Clearance angle 15 Orientation screw 5
Coarse feed function 6 Orientation attachment for clamps 13, 16
Coarse feed wheel 5, 16, 17, 18
P
D
PARAMETERS 10
Dimensions 10 Disposable blade 14, 15 Platform base 11
Disposal 27
R
F
Repairs 4, 28
Fixed attachment for clamps 13 Return information 31

H S
Handwheel 7, 8, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19 Safety device 7
Handwheel brake 7 Safety instructions 7
Handwheel locking system 7 Section thickness 6, 19
Holder for disposable blades 8 Section thickness adjusting knob 17
Holder for reusable knives 8, 25 Section thickness contol knob 5
Sectioning 6, 19
I Service 31
Service contacts 28
Index line 15 Service information 31
Installation 9, 11 SPECIFICATIONS 10

32 Revised 02/06/12
Specimen block 14
Specimen clamp 13
Specimen retraction 6
Specimen trimming 17
Standard specimen clamp 16, 21

T
Temperature 10
Thickness adjustment knob 19
Transport 9
Trimming lever 5, 18
TROUBLESHOOTING 29

U
Universal cassette clamp 13, 21
Unpacking 11

W
Warranty registration card 4
Weight 10

Revised 02/06/12 33