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SECTION 3. SEALED CHAMBER ASSEMBLIES
Centrifugable -
These assemblies are available in plastic or stainless steel, and should
be used in the same manner as described for glass, plastic, and stainless steel on the
previous page.
Breaking Down Specimen Particles -
At speeds below 5,000 rpm, specimen
particles may be broken down in the Omni Mixer by using hard materials, such as glass
beads. The Omni Mixer will act as a “bead mill”, agitating the chamber while the hard
materials do the work. Since sharpness is not essential, a dull blade should be used.
Homogenizing -
For more complete homogenization of some materials, it may be
helpful to rock the motor drive unit slightly during processing in order to churn up the
specimen within the chamber.
WARNING: It is recommended that “bead mill” processing should not be undertaken
in a glass vessel.
Adding a Grinding Medium -
To attain the desired effect (cell breakdown) a com-
bination of procedures may be useful. First homogenize the specimen in solution at
maximum recommended speed with a sharp knife blade. Then change to a dull knife
blade, add a grinding medium and run the homogenizer at 5,000 rpm for ten to fifteen
minutes.
Using Generator Probes -
To facilitate homogenization of some materials, it may
be useful to pre-process the sample by using one of the techniques described above,
and then completing the process by using a generator probe. Generator probes can
achieve particle size reduction to less than 2 microns.
CAUTION: Never operate the motor with the generator probe (or sealed chamber
assembly) partially attached to the coupling adapter.
NOTE: If you experience excessive vibration, heat, or bearing wear, please contact
technical support at 1-800-776-4431.
WARNING: When processing pathogenic material in a sealed container, carefully
check seals and connections to be certain that they are not worn or leaking. A fume
hood is recommended for processing pathogens, even with a sealed container.
WARNING: Knife blades are sharp. Handle carefully to avoid injury.
CAUTION: To prevent damage to the drive mechanism,
never
operate the motor
without a sealed chamber assembly or generator probe installed.
