The Benefits Of Using An Automatic Microtome

Used extensively in laboratories across the world, the microtome is a key piece of equipment in any pathological environment. A high precision cutting instrument, microtomes are used to take sections from a block of tissue with accuracy and repeatability in preparation for staining, examination and diagnosis.

Traditionally manually operated, microtomes are now also available as semi and fully automatic products. The fully automatic alternative offers a range of advantages over the semi-automatic and manual counterparts, especially in high-throughput and precision-demanding histology laboratories. Automated alternatives provide a higher level of efficiency, ensuring uniform, high-quality sections are achieved with every use.

 

Why Choose A Fully Automatic Microtome?

 

Enhanced Precision and Consistency

Designed for all applications in routine, research or industry, the automatic microtome prides itself on consistency and precision. Motorised sectioning ensures uniform section thickness across multiple cuts, minimising any variability caused by manual operation. While automated settings allow for consistent performance, crucial for diagnostic accuracy and reproducibility.

 

Efficiency and Ergonomics

A less physically demanding alternative, automated microtomes reduce the physical effort and repetitive motions that manual cutting requires. By automating the sectioning process, the fully automatic microtome reduces strain and fatigue, especially during prolonged use, while maintaining uniform, high-quality sections. In addition to the reduced physical processes, the intuitive control panel is user-friendly and easy to use with minimal training required, further boosting efficiency and enabling technicians to focus on other tasks.

Maximum Output

Automated microtomes meet the needs of demanding labs while maintaining consistent quality and precision. With the ability to process large batches of samples far quicker than the manual alterative, fully automatic microtomes are ideal for high-volume labs. Pre-programmed settings ensure smooth and rapid transition between samples with minimal adjustments required.

 

High-Quality Sections

Automated systems minimise risks associated with manual cutting, including compression, ‘chatter’ and other artifacts. The fully automatic microtome offers consistent speed and pressure to ensure cleaner cuts, especially for challenging tissues. While fine controls enable ultrathin sectioning for delicate histological and immunohistochemical staining. The automated alternative is also advantageous when sectioning large or dense samples which can be challenging to handle manually.

Cost Benefit Analysis

Solmedia Ltd are here to help you in deciding which microtome is right for your workspace. While the upfront cost of a fully automatic microtome is higher, the long-term investment offers a number of advantages over the manual alternatives. From lowering errors and reworks to reducing fatigue and enhancing employee welfare, busy labs will benefit financially from the high efficiency offered by the automated system which ensures consistency in uniform, high-quality sections.

 

When To Choose A Fully Automatic Microtome

Automated systems offer an efficient way of working in a high workload environment while maintaining a high standard of sections. Laboratories with high daily sample volumes will benefit immensely from automation, where time is limited but a high level of precision needs to be maintained. Automated systems meet these precision needs and prove highly beneficial when consistent section quality is critical, for example in research or advanced diagnostics. Well-prepared sections ensure efficiency throughout the assessment and minimal irregularities ensure the sample is accurately interpreted.

In addition to the beneficial mechanics of the automated system, staff wellbeing plays a key role in the efficiency of a busy lab. Automated systems alleviate workload pressures, reduce strain and fatigue and reclaim time for technicians. Where labs may need to meet demands beyond their current workforce capability, automated microtomes improve productivity while maintaining quality to meet those requirements.

While manual microtomes are suitable for smaller labs or occasional use, automatic microtomes provide significant advantages in precision, efficiency, safety and long-term productivity, making them a valuable investment for modern histology and pathology labs aiming to maintain high standards and throughput. Our Slee Fully-Automatic Precision Microtome CUT 6062 offers all the advantages of a fully automatic microtome with an array of optional accessories to meet individual requirements. Our complement of add-ons including premium blades, adjustable magnifier and ERGOTEC workstations offer a full solution.

 

To find out more about our range of microtomes and histology equipment please get in touch.

See The SLEE Cut 6062 in Action