7 cutting into the specimen (trimming), 8 sectioning, Cutting into the specimen (trimming) – Leica Biosystems RM2245 User Manual
Page 37: Operation
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Leica RM2245
5. Operation
5.7 Cutting into the specimen (trimming)
• Use the TRIM/SECT key to select the trim mode.
• Set the desired trim section thickness.
• Release the handwheel lock and the brake.
• In TRIM mode, use the coarse feed buttons to move the specimen against
the knife/blade.
• Trim the specimen by turning the handwheel
or
• Press the ROCK button (LED (41) in button is lit) to select ROCK mode.
Trim the specimen by rocking the handwheel back and forth.
• Terminate trimming when the desired sectioning surface and depth have
been reached.
5.8 Sectioning
Always use a different area of the cutting edge for trimming and sectioning.
• To do so, laterally displace the blade or knife in the knife holder.
When using the knife holder E with lateral displacement, it is sufficient
to move the knife holder sideways.
• Use the TRIM/SECT key to select the sectioning mode.
• Adjust the appropriate sectioning thickness or verify the selected value.
• Select conventional sectioning or ROCK mode.
• To section the specimen, turn the handwheel clockwise smoothly or rock
it back and forth if in ROCK mode.
• Pick up the sections and mount them on microscope slides.
41
During fast manual trimming, do not put your fingers between the specimen and knife. The hand-
wheel continues turning after it is released and can cause injuries.
Always turn the handwheel evenly in clockwise direction; otherwise, the brake will not
work properly. The rotation speed of the handwheel must be adapted to suit the hardness
of the specimen. For harder specimens, use a slower speed.