Manual Microtome Series
Manual microtome series offering three models with 0.5-60μm sectioning capability, specimen retraction, and precision positioning for histological tissue preparation. Available models: Standard – RF-RD-315, Professional – RF-RD-475, and Advanced – RF-RD-495.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Neuroscience · ConductScience
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Before You Order — Key Facts
| ✔ Complete system | Includes microtome body, universal adjustable cassette clamp, adjustable blade holder, and waste tray. Ready to use out of the box. |
| ✔ Blades sold separately | Low-profile disposable blades are not included. Available as an optional add-on so you can choose the grade that suits your specimens. |
| ✔ Trimming capability | Coarse advance and adjustable trimming thickness included. No dedicated one-motion trimming lever on this model. |
The Manual Microtome Series comprises three precision sectioning instruments designed for histological tissue preparation in research laboratories. Available in Standard (RF-RD-315), Professional (RF-RD-475), and Advanced (RF-RD-495) configurations, these microtomes provide section thickness control from 0.5–60 µm (RD-315) and 1–60 µm (RD-475, RD-495) with variable increment settings optimized for different thickness ranges. Each model incorporates specimen retraction capability, replaceable cassette holder systems, and imported cross-roller guide rails for consistent sectioning performance.
The series features adjustable knife and specimen angles with 360° rotation capability. Advanced positioning systems enable X and Y axis adjustment with ±1% precision, while the screw motion mechanism and handwheel provide controlled tissue advancement. Maximum specimen accommodation is 60 mm × 50 mm across all models, with vertical stroke of 52 mm (RD-315), 60 mm (RD-475), and 70 mm (RD-495) to support diverse tissue block sizes in histopathological workflows.
What's Included
- Microtome main body
- Universal adjustable cassette clamp
- Adjustable blade holder
- Waste tray
- Adjustment tools and hex keys
- User manual and operation guide
- Protective blade guard
Low-profile disposable blades are available separately and not included in the standard package.
Technical Parameters
| Parameter | RD-315 | RD-475 | RD-495 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section Thickness Range | 0.5–60 µm | 1–60 µm | 1–60 µm |
| Section Thickness Increments | 0.5 µm (0–2 µm) 1 µm (2–10 µm) 2 µm (10–20 µm) 5 µm (20–60 µm) |
— | 1 µm (0–20 µm) 5 µm (20–60 µm) |
| Trimming Thickness Range | — | 0–60 µm | 15–35 µm |
| Max Specimen Size | 60 × 50 mm | ||
| Horizontal Specimen Stroke | 0–28 mm | 28 mm ±1 mm | 28 mm |
| Vertical Specimen Stroke | 52 mm | 60 mm | 70 mm |
| Specimen Retraction | Yes | 50 µm | 90 µm (optional) |
How It Works
Manual microtomes operate through controlled mechanical advancement of tissue blocks against a fixed cutting blade. The specimen holder advances the tissue block in precise increments determined by the thickness setting, while the operator applies consistent cutting motion across the blade edge. The screw motion mechanism converts rotational input from the handwheel into linear specimen advancement, with imported cross-roller guide rails ensuring smooth, vibration-free movement.
Section thickness is controlled through graduated increment settings that vary by thickness range: 0.5μm increments for 0-2μm sections, 1μm increments for 2-10μm sections, 2μm increments for 10-20μm sections, and 5μm increments for 20-60μm sections. The specimen retraction feature allows the tissue block to move away from the blade during return strokes, preventing compression artifacts and maintaining section integrity.
Specimen orientation adjustment enables optimal cutting angles for different tissue types, while the replaceable cassette holder system accommodates standard histological cassettes. The trimming function allows removal of excess tissue before sectioning, improving section quality and blade preservation.
Features & Benefits
Sample Orientation
- RD-315: XY ±8°, 360° rotatable
- RD-475: 360° rotatable
- RD-495: XY ±8°
Model
- Standard - RF-RD-315
- Professional - RF-RD-475
- Advanced - RF-RD-495
Horizontal Specimen Stroke
- RD-315: 0–28 mm
- RD-475: 28 mm ±1 mm
- RD-495: 28 mm
Maximum Specimen Size
- 60 mm × 50 mm
Vertical Specimen Stroke
- RD-315: 52 mm
- RD-475: 60 mm
- RD-495: 70 mm
Voltage and Frequency
- RD-315 / RD-495: AC 220V±10%, 50Hz (AC 110V±10%, 60Hz optional)
Research Domain
- Cancer Research
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Histopathology
- Neuroscience
- Pathology
- Toxicology
Species
- Cat
- Dog
- Gerbil
- Hamster
- Pig
- Rabbit
- Mouse
- Rat
- Guinea pig
Automation Level
- Manual
Section Thickness Range
- RD-315: 0.5–60 µm
- RD-475: 1–60 µm
- RD-495: 1–60 µm
Specimen Angle
- Adjustable on three axes
Guide Rail Type
- Imported cross-roller guide rails
Motion Mechanism
- Screw motion mechanism
Specimen Retraction
- RD-315: Yes
- RD-475: 50 µm
- RD-495: 90 µm (optional)
Specimen Holder System
- Replaceable — paraffin block clamp and cassette clamp
Precision
- ±1%
Section Thickness Increments
- RD-315: 0.5 µm (0–2 µm) / 1 µm (2–10 µm) / 2 µm (10–20 µm) / 5 µm (20–60 µm)
- RD-495: 1 µm (0–20 µm) / 5 µm (20–60 µm)
Trimming Thickness Range
- RD-475: 0–60 µm
- RD-495: 15–35 µm
Blade Holder Angle
- RD-475: 0°–15° adjustable
Dimensions (W×D×H)
- RD-315: 565×440×285 mm
- RD-475: 555×450×320 mm
- RD-495: 590×500×330 mm
Net Weight
- RD-315: 28 kg
- RD-475: 45 kg
- RD-495: 37 kg
Weight
- 6.61 kg
Dimensions
- L: 34.0 mm
- W: 25.0 mm
- H: 20.0 mm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section Thickness Range | 0.5-60μm with variable increments | Many entry-level models limited to 1-50μm range | Extended range accommodates both ultra-thin and thick sectioning applications in a single instrument. |
| Specimen Retraction | Built-in retraction system standard | Retraction often optional or absent in basic models | Prevents tissue compression artifacts critical for morphometric studies. |
| Positioning Precision | ±1% accuracy with cross-roller guide rails | Standard models may have ±2-3% variation | Higher precision supports quantitative analysis and serial section consistency. |
| Specimen Orientation | 8° X-Y adjustment with 360° rotation | Enables optimal cutting angles for diverse tissue types and specialized sectioning protocols. | |
| Cassette Compatibility | Replaceable holder system | Fixed holders limit specimen size options | Accommodates various cassette sizes and custom specimen holders for specialized applications. |
The Manual Microtome Series combines extended thickness range, precision positioning, and specimen retraction in a comprehensive sectioning platform. The three-model configuration provides scalable capabilities from routine to advanced histological applications.
Practical Tips
Verify thickness settings monthly using calibrated test blocks or micrometers to maintain sectioning accuracy.
Why: Mechanical wear can gradually affect thickness precision over time.
Clean and lubricate guide rails weekly using recommended lubricants to prevent binding and ensure smooth operation.
Why: Proper lubrication prevents premature wear and maintains sectioning consistency.
Allow paraffin blocks to equilibrate to room temperature before sectioning for optimal ribbon formation.
Why: Temperature affects paraffin hardness and cutting characteristics.
If sections compress or fold, check blade sharpness, cutting angle, and ensure specimen retraction is functioning properly.
Why: Multiple factors can contribute to sectioning artifacts requiring systematic evaluation.
Document sectioning parameters including thickness, specimen orientation, and environmental conditions for reproducible results.
Why: Consistent documentation enables protocol optimization and troubleshooting.
Always engage blade guards when not actively sectioning and use proper blade disposal procedures.
Why: Microtome blades are extremely sharp and pose significant injury risk if handled improperly.
Trim excess tissue using the trimming function before beginning serial sectioning to improve section quality.
Why: Removing excess material reduces blade wear and improves ribbon formation.
Store the microtome with specimen holder retracted and blade removed to prevent accidental contact and damage.
Why: Proper storage prevents component damage and extends instrument life.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- Microtome main body
- Universal adjustable cassette clamp
- Adjustable blade holder
- Waste tray
- Adjustment tools and hex keys
- User manual and operation guide
- Protective blade guard
Compliance
Is this a complete, ready-to-use microtome system?
Yes. The system ships as a complete, ready-to-use unit. Every order includes the microtome main body, a universal adjustable cassette clamp, an adjustable blade holder, and a waste tray. No additional components are required to begin sectioning — simply install your blade of choice and the instrument is ready for use.
Are disposable blades included with the microtome?
Low-profile disposable blades are not included in the standard package. They are available as an optional add-on and may be purchased separately. This gives you the flexibility to select the blade grade best suited to your specimen type — standard, low-profile, or heavy-duty — without paying for blades you may not need.
Does this microtome support rapid trimming mode?
This model does not include a dedicated trimming lever. However, it does include coarse advance functionality and an adjustable trimming thickness range, which allows you to set a thicker step for rapid gross trimming before switching to your final section thickness. For workflows requiring a one-motion dedicated trim lever, please contact us to discuss model options.
What section thickness accuracy can I expect across the full range?
The microtome maintains ±1% precision accuracy across the 0.5-60μm range, with graduated increment settings optimized for different thickness ranges to ensure consistent results.
How does the specimen retraction system prevent tissue artifacts?
The retraction mechanism moves the tissue block away from the blade during return strokes, eliminating compression forces that can distort tissue morphology and create sectioning artifacts.
What is the maximum tissue block size that can be accommodated?
The microtome accepts specimens up to 60mm × 50mm in cross-section with 52mm vertical stroke, covering most standard histological cassette sizes.
How do I optimize cutting angles for different tissue types?
The specimen orientation system provides 8° adjustment along X-Y axes with 360° rotation capability, allowing angle optimization for hard tissues, soft tissues, and composite specimens.
How do the three models differ in sectioning capabilities?
All models cover 0.5-60μm thickness range, but differ in increment control precision and advanced features - consult product datasheet for detailed model specifications.
What maintenance procedures are required for consistent performance?
Regular blade replacement, guide rail lubrication, and thickness mechanism calibration are essential, with detailed procedures provided in the operation manual.
Can this microtome handle frozen sections as well as paraffin blocks?
The microtome is optimized for paraffin-embedded specimens; frozen section capability depends on specimen holder temperature control - consult product datasheet for freezing modifications.
Can this microtome series be used for cutting plastic materials?
Yes, the Manual Microtome Series can be used for cutting plastics. The semi-automated model is particularly suitable for plastic sectioning applications. The microtome's precision cutting mechanism and adjustable settings make it versatile for various non-biological materials beyond traditional tissue samples.
Is this microtome suitable for cutting cable materials and similar industrial samples?
The Manual Microtome Series can potentially handle cable materials depending on their composition and hardness. For specialized industrial materials like cables, we recommend consulting with our technical team to determine the optimal cutting parameters and blade selection to ensure clean sectioning without damaging the microtome or sample.
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