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Note:
The tubing can be connected to a device, such as a peristaltic pump to re-circulate cold water
through the Horn reservoir, this is described below. This tubing is commercially available and you will
need to purchase longer pieces of tubing for this process.
How to fill the Horn reservoir for sample processing:
For standard microplates: Be sure the tubing attached to the Horn is clamped shut. Fill the Horn
reservoir with
140 ml
of water.
For Deep Well microplates or microtubes: Be sure the tubing attached to the Horn is clamped shut.
Fill the reservoir with
350 ml
of water.
Attach the cable from the converter to your Sonicator unit.
Choosing a Microplate
Using the proper type of microplate is critical to obtaining optimum, reproducible results. Please select
a type of microplate that meets the following criteria:
Each individual well on the microplate must be exposed to water on all sides for optimum sample
processing.
Flat bottom plates are not recommended for 96 well plates. Larger samples, such as 6 well plates will
process well since more surface area is in contact with the ultrasonic energy. Plates with chimneys or
holes on the skirt that allow air pockets to vent are ideal.
Special Note
:
Ultrasonic energy does not pass through air, it requires a liquid medium to be
transmitted effectively. If air pockets are present and water is not in contact with the bottom and side
of each well, sonication will be inefficient and your results will vary.
If you have a particular type of microplate that does not meet all of the above stated criteria, we
recommend you prepare your microplate so it will sonicate at optimum levels. You may need to cut a
notch out of the side of the plate to allow water to fill the area under the plate. This will also help to let
air bubbles out.
Use small needle-nose pliers or nail clippers to snip a piece of the microplate at one or more of the
sides. This should be a tiny piece no bigger than 10mm and only at the lowest ridge of plastic.
Keeping Your Sample Cool
The Horn generates a significant amount of heat that may affect the ability to obtain optimum results
and performance. Circulating cold water through the Horn reservoir is highly recommended.
Note
: If you add ice to the reservoir, be sure that the ice is not under your samples. Ice will reduce
the transmission of ultrasonic energy.
QSonica recommends the use of a Chiller or a Peristaltic Pump with a dual head that allows two
pump-heads on one pump or drive motor. It should be rated at a minimum of 40ml per minute.
Attaching a circulator or water pump directly to the tubing attached to the portholes on the Horn will
allow you to recirculate water throughout the reservoir.
