FlowCam® 8000 Series Dynamic Imaging Particle Analyzer
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Care and Maintenance
General
Immediately after use, rinse the analyzer system with appropriate cleaner. This rinse will help keep
the flow cells clear and free from contamination for day-to-day use. If necessary, precede the rinse
with a solvent or surfactant to remove particles.
Flow Cell
•
Immediately after use, or if you suspect that the flow cell is obstructed, remove the flow cell
from the upper and lower tubing connections, and clean it as follows:
o
Use a warm water jet first, followed by dilute detergent, and then a warm water jet to rinse.
o
Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner.
o
Do not blow dry flow cells with compressed air.
o
Never use tap water with flow cells.
o
Use a final rinse of deionized water.
•
Never leave a flow cell with sample or material inside when not using the analyzer.
•
Inspect the flow cell channel frequently for contamination or obstructions. The inspection
should include removing the tubing from each end to look into the channel.
•
Carefully inspect your flow cell using a compound microscope at 40X total magnification,
especially the ends of the flow cell chamber.
•
Clean your flow cell with a dilute solution of lab cleanser. We recommend that you use luer-lock
fittings attached to a syringe to obtain a tight seal with your flow cell.
•
Cleaner can be stored inside your flow cell overnight.
•
After cleaning, use ample washes of deionized water to remove any cleaner.
•
Before installation, clean the exterior of the flow cell with
labgrade water and a low-lint lens
paper.
Fluidics Bottles and Tubing
•
Inspect the tubing connections frequently to ensure they are in place and secure, and have no
leaks or cracks.
•
Check the caps on the bottles to ensure they are sealed tightly.
•
Empty the waste bottle daily.
Analyzer
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Always disconnect the power cord from its power source before cleaning the analyzer.
•
Clean the outside of the analyzer with a damp (not wet) lint-free cloth. A mild disinfectant or
liquid soap will remove grease.
•
Never blow canned or compressed air into the analyzer.
