Microtomes News

Laboratory microtomes are essential instruments used in histology, pathology, and research laboratories for producing thin sections of tissue samples. These sections are critical for microscopic examination, diagnostics, and scientific analysis. Choosing the right laboratory microtome ensures consistent section quality, operator safety, and efficient workflow.

🔍 Key Considerations When Selecting a Laboratory Microtome
1. Type of Microtome
Different applications in histology and pathology require specific types of microtome:
- Rotary microtomes – The most commonly used type in UK laboratories, ideal for routine paraffin-embedded tissue sectioning.
- Sliding microtomes – Suitable for larger or harder specimens, often used in research settings.
- Sledge microtomes – Designed for cutting large, dense samples such as whole organs or industrial materials.
- Cryostat microtomes – Used for frozen sectioning, particularly in clinical and intraoperative environments.
Selecting the correct microtome type depends on your laboratory’s workflow and the type of samples processed.  
2. Section Thickness and Precision
Accurate and reproducible section thickness is critical in histology. Most laboratory microtomes offer:
- Section thickness ranges typically from 0.5 µm to 60 µm
- Fine adjustment controls for precision cutting
- Consistent feed mechanisms to ensure uniform sections
High precision improves diagnostic reliability and research outcomes.  
3. Sample Handling and Orientation
Ease of specimen mounting and orientation is important for efficiency and accuracy. Look for:
- Adjustable specimen holders
- Quick-release clamping systems
- Fine orientation controls for precise alignment
These features help reduce preparation time and improve section quality.  
4. Safety Features
Modern laboratory microtomes include a range of safety features to protect operators:
- Blade guards and finger protection systems
- Handwheel locking mechanisms
- Emergency stop functions
- Anti-roll devices to prevent section curling
Safety is particularly important in high-throughput histology laboratories.  
5. Ergonomics and Ease of Use
Microtomes are often used for extended periods, so ergonomic design is essential. Consider:
- Smooth handwheel operation
- Adjustable working height or compact bench design
- Intuitive controls and clear displays
Good ergonomics help reduce operator fatigue and improve productivity.  
6. Blade Compatibility and Consumables
Ensure compatibility with commonly available microtome blades and accessories. Disposable blade systems are widely used in UK laboratories due to:
- Convenience and time savings
- Consistent sharpness
- Reduced maintenance compared to reusable knives  
7. Maintenance and Reliability
A robust and reliable microtome is essential for maintaining workflow. Look for:
- Durable construction
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Availability of service support and spare parts
Reliable instruments minimise downtime and ensure consistent performance.  

🛠 Example: Bright Instruments Laboratory Microtomes
- Bright Instruments is a UK-based manufacturer known for producing high-quality histology equipment, including laboratory microtomes designed for precision and durability. Examples include:
- Bright Instruments 8000 Microtome – A retracting base sledge microtome designed for high-throughput histology laboratories, offering the ultimate in versatility combined with strength, accuracy, reliability and, not least, safety.
- Bright Instruments 7010 Microtome – A semi-automatic rotary microtome suitable for routine laboratory use, combining ease of operation with reliable sectioning performance.  

💡 Quick Buying Tips
- Choose the correct microtome type for your application (e.g. rotary for routine histology).
- Ensure the instrument offers the required section thickness range and precision.
- Prioritise safety features such as blade guards and handwheel locks.
- Consider ergonomics for regular or prolonged use.
- Check compatibility with standard blades and availability of service support.  

🤔 Need Help?
If you are unsure which microtome is best suits your laboratory application, please consult one of our sales team who will be happy to talk through your requirements. You can find best contact details at https://www.wolflabs.co.uk/contact-us

Introduction
Bright Instrument 7010 Rotary Microtome from WolfLabs.
The Bright Instruments Rotary Microtome 7010 is a state-of-the-art device meticulously engineered for precise and repeatable sectioning of surgical biopsies, playing a pivotal role in histopathological analysis worldwide. Renowned for its stability and versatility, this microtome is adept at producing ultra-thin sections of paraffin wax-embedded tissue, making it indispensable in both histology and pathology laboratories.

Features and Benefits:
- High-Precision Mechanism: Equipped with precise cross roller bearings and a five-phase high-resolution stepper motor, the 7010 ensures consistent and accurate tissue sectioning.
- Enhanced User Safety: The dual handwheel locking system safeguards users during sample changeovers, minimising potential risks.
- Intuitive Touchscreen Interface: A 5-inch touchscreen, operable even with gloves, provides a user-friendly experience, streamlining operations.
- Ergonomic Design: Side-mounted sample feeding knobs and controls are designed to reduce repetitive motion disorders, enhancing user comfort during prolonged use.
- Efficient Maintenance: The magnetic components and a large, specially coated waste tray facilitate easy disassembly and cleaning, ensuring optimal hygiene and maintenance efficiency.

Discounted M3500 Microtome. OFFER ENDS 2013-12-24

Introduction
Bright Instrument M3500 microtomes from Wolflabs. The M3500 has been introduced by Bright Instruments to make a flatcutting radial action wax microtome available to histologists at a realistic price. Its well-proven cutting action has been available in Bright cryostats for many years and section quality has proved to be of the highest. Its design incorporates specific features to enable the user to cut sections quickly, easily, safely and comfortably.

Features and benefits
- Flat-cutting radial action for superb results
- Automatic retraction on return stroke
- Motorised advance rewind with dual controls (left and right hand)
- Section counter as standard
- Motor drive
- Accepts a wide range of knives and disposable blade holders
- Unique lever release feather blade holder for easy and safe operation
- Height adjustable safety guards to fit different size knives and blades
- Large integral debris tray takes control of waste
- Innovative debris visor increases safety when a blade or knife is loaded
- Can be used comfortably, positioned at 90º to the operator
- 10 position hand wheel lock for safety and convenience
- Quick release cassette holder as standard
- Specimen orientation available
- Advance/rewind stepping motor drive can be stalled without damage
- Lateral blade holder movement ensures full use of disposable blade

Introduction
Bright Instruments 5040 microtomes from Wolflabs. The popular 5040 microtome is of rotary retracting, self-lubricating design and has a heavy cast alloy base and cutting arm. Its robust construction makes it accurate and incredibly reliable. The use of fixed beryllium hinges means that all lateral motion is controlled and allows no slop or play that can be experienced in other, lesser designs which can result in ‘chatter’ and ‘thick and thinning’. It’s pawl and ratchet wheel and head-advance design ensures absolute calibration for section thickness accuracy and repeatability.

Features and benefits
- Easy to use rotary retracting microtome with a wide range of options
- Choice of advance/rewind handle positions
- Motor drive with zone control is available - power is simply, yet precisely controlled
- Hard wearing construction and almost maintenance free
- Standard knife holder accepts most conventional knives and the Lever Release Feather Blade Holder or, alternatively, the Quick Release Feather Blade Holder can be fitted
- Standard vice clamp or quick release cassette holder
- Specimen feed indicator
- Safety features include fitted knife guards and locking handwheel
- Cover and debris shields to prevent section debris entering mechanism
- Debris tray with holder for brushes and forceps

Introduction
Bright Instruments 8000 microtome from Wolflabs. The Bright 8000 retracting base sledge microtome offers the ultimate in versatility combined with strength, accuracy, reliability and, not least, safety. Designed to fully meet the needs of the routine histology laboratory, the 8000 will also meet the more demanding requirements of the specialised unit where it’s versatility and wide range of accessories will guarantee that it becomes the first choice of the professional base sledge user.

Features and benefits
- Easy to use base sledge retracting microtome complete with standard vice
- Sturdy cast iron construction
- 60µm retraction on the return stroke prevents possible specimen damage
- Angled and slewable knife holder for greater versatility
- Accepts a range of knives and disposable blades
- A wide range of quick release holders available
- Safety features include knife guards and low positioned operating handle
- Orientation available - using a ±8º tilt adapter
- Range of stages available
- Standard accessories include: - knife cleaning brush, set of four Allen keys, microtome oil, operating manual