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The Tape is not being removed properly.
Remove the Tape slowly and carefully, peeling
it diagonally and downward to minimize the
tension on the section.
The knife is dull.
If using a disposable blade, shift to a different
portion of the blade’s edge or replace the
blade. If using a stainless steel or tungsten
knife, sharpen the knife.
A bubble may have formed when the Tape
was laminated to the Slide.
Apply the Tape “like wallpaper” to the Slide
while laminating with the cold Roller.
Troubleshooting Finished Slides
♦
The polymerized adhesive picks up excessive red stain after H&E.
Cause
Solution
Eosin may be too acidic or too alcoholic. This
may cause background staining.
Stain a shorter time, or use an aqueous eosin Y
at pH 5.0 - 5.2.
♦
There are chatter marks (“venetian-blind” effect, parallel to knife
edge) in the section.
Cause
Solution
There is looseness in the system
Check tightness of chuck. Clamp knife holder
and/or blade holder very tightly.
The knife is dull.
If using a disposable blade, shift to a different
portion of the blade’s edge or replace the
blade. If using a stainless steel or tungsten
knife, sharpen the knife.
Stop/start motion during cutting.
Cut slowly without stopping. If motor drive is
used, set cutting speed slower.
♦
There are tears in the section.
Cause
Solution
