Manual Microtome Series
Microtome options for tissue sectioning. The Professional RD-475 provides manual cutting and advance with section settings up to 60 µm.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
Ask Louise about Manual Microtome Series fit, setup, configuration, or quote prep.
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Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- Cat, Dog, Gerbil, Hamster, Pig, Rabbit, Mouse, Rat, Guinea pig
- SKU family
- RF-RD-315/ RF-RD-475/RF-RD-495
- Shipping box
- 34.0 x 25.0 x 20.0 cm
- Ordering
- Online checkout and quote request available
- Category
- Microtomes
- Build notes
- Confirm accessories, station layout, and support needs before purchase
Compare the available microtomes for tissue sectioning. The Professional RD-475 uses manual advance and cutting, with a minimum section thickness setting of 1 µm.
Microtome Series Comparison:
| Feature | RD-315 | RD-465 | RD-475 | RD-495 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drive System | Handwheel (Manual) | Motorized advance, manual cut | Handwheel (manual advance and cutting) | Fully motorized (cut & advance) |
| Typical Section Thickness Range | 0 – 60 µm | 0.25 – 100 µm | 1 to 60 µm; minimum setting 1 µm | 0.25 – 100 µm |
| Typical Trimming Thickness Range | 10 – 60 µm | 1 – 600 µm | 0 to 60 µm | 1 – 600 µm |
| Specimen Retraction | Mechanical (if equipped) | Automated | Confirm in your quote | Automated |
| Cutting Modes | Manual only | Manual cut | Manual cut | Single, Continuous, Step |
| Control Panel | None / Basic analog | Digital display/keypad | Manual controls | Full digital touchscreen/pedal |
| Best Used For | Basic histology, low volume | Medium volume, routine pathology | Paraffin tissue sectioning | High volume, specialized research |
| Price | $5,490 | $7,090 | $8,190 | $9,390 |
How It Works
The operator advances the specimen and cuts sections manually. Set section or trimming thickness before cutting. The handwheel has an upper-position lock.
Features & Benefits
Sample Orientation
- RD-315: XY ±8°, 360° rotatable
- RD-475: 360° rotatable
- RD-495: XY ±8°
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: Confirm in your quote
- 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
Shipping weight
- 6.61 lb
Shipping box
- L: 34.0 cm
- W: 25.0 cm
- H: 20.0 cm
| Model | SKU | Listed price | Status | Shipping box |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intermediate - RD-465 | RD-465 | $7,090.00 | Available | 34.0 x 25.0 x 20.0 cm |
| Professional - RD-475 | RD-475 | $8,190.00 | Available | 34.0 x 25.0 x 20.0 cm |
| Standard - RD-315 | RD-315 | $5,490.00 | Available | 34.0 x 25.0 x 20.0 cm |
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
Warranty
Your quote confirms warranty coverage, service arrangements and delivery timing for the selected configuration and destination.
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 is the minimum section thickness setting for the RD-475?
The RD-475 has a minimum section thickness setting of 1 µm.
How does the specimen retraction system prevent tissue artifacts?
Confirm whether the selected configuration includes specimen retraction in your quote.
What is the maximum tissue block size that can be accommodated?
For the RD-475, maximum specimen size is 60 × 50 mm, horizontal travel is 28 ± 1 mm and vertical travel is 60 mm. Travel varies by model.
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.
What section thickness settings does the RD-475 offer?
The RD-475 uses manual advance and cutting, with section thickness settings up to 60 µm and a minimum setting of 1 µm. Confirm the specifications of other models in your quote.
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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