194 | Chapter 4: Maintenance
Unclog the Dispense Tips
The small diameter of the dispense tips makes them susceptible to clogging. You
may be able to visually identify a clogged tip, or inaccurate dispense performance
may signal a problem. Good work habits can prevent clogging or reduce its
occurrence:
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When using 1 µL cassettes, filter fluids to 50 microns before dispensing.
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Thoroughly flush the tubing after/in-between usage, especially when using
liquids that crystallize or harden.
In case the need arises, BioTek ships a 10 cc plastic syringe with special tubing and
fitting for use unclogging tips. Installation instructions recommend storing it in the
pouch on the back of the instrument. The remedy involves removing the dispense
tip and flushing it with water. Depending on the type of clog, soaking the tip
holder in hot water with mild detergent is recommended.
This task may be easier if you use the cassette’s shipping container to hold the
unaffected cassette parts, keeping them out of your way.
Required Materials
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10 cc syringe with tubing and fitting attachment shipped with dispenser
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Screwdriver shipped with dispenser
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A sufficient quantity of deionized (DI) water in a beaker
MultiFlo™ FX Multi-Mode Dispenser