FAQ Leica SM2500
SM2500
Which system configuration do you recommend for bone surface preparation? (Bones without implants, embedded in MMA)
Recommended configuration for milling (preparation of the surface of the sample):
- Leica SM2500 sledge microtome
- Leica SP2600 Ultramiller
- Pre-miller D
- Finishing miller D (+3°/+4°)
- Insert holder with balance weight
- Base plate with dovetail guide, specimen clamp 44 x 58 mm or holder for round specimens
Which system configuration do you recommend for bone surface preparation (thick sections 200 µm) (Bones without implants, embedded in MMA)?
Recommended configuration for milling thick sections (200 µm):
- Leica SM2500 sledge microtome
- Leica SP2600 Ultramiller
- Pre-miller D
- Finishing miller D (+3°/+4°)
- Insert holder with balance weight
- Adapter for vacuum stage
- Vacuum stage
- Specimen holder for vacuum stage
- Vacuum pump
- Base plate with dovetail guide
What is the appropriate configuration for sectioning large bones? (Bones without implants, embedded in MMA)
- Leica SM2500 sliding microtome
- Knife holder A
- Reusable tungsten carbide knife 40°
- Base plate 80 x 100 mm or base plate with dovetail guide
- Specimen clamp 44 x 58 mm or holder for round specimens
What is the maximum size of paraffin embedded samples that can be sectioned?
Large specimens up to 250 x 200 mm can be sectioned with the Leica SM2500.
Which knife holder and knife is recommended for which material?
Knife holder A for all hard specimens, such as resin embedded, undecalcified bones and teeth.
Appropriate knife: tungsten carbide knives with 40° or 50° wedge angle
Knife holder B for paraffin embedded soft tissue.
Appropriate knife: steel standard knives with c or d profile or blade holder for low
or high profile blades
Knife holder C primarily for biological specimens embedded in paraffin or celloidine.
Appropriate knife: steel knives with Cc or Cd profile
Which base plate and specimen stage can be used with the SP2600?
All accessories can be used, depending on the type of specimen, with the exception of the base plate with vise.
For which application is the 45° knife declination recommended for and which knife holder is suitable?
It is used to take advantage of the pulling section effect and is specially recommended for the sectioning of wood specimens. The clamping blocks are suitable for all three knife holders (A, B and C).
Is it possible to section metal implants?
The Leica SM2500 is not suitable for sectioning metal implants of teeth, bones, metal cores in cables or any sample containing metal. The metal would destroy the knife.
What is the maximum specimen size for milling?
The maximum specimen diameter for the SP2600 is approximately 60 mm.
Does Leica Microsystems offer a camera system for the Leica SM2500?
The Leica SM2500 provides a photo position. You can install any camera system of your choice.
Are adjusted parameters retained when changing to the STAND BY mode?
Yes, even when switching off the instrument the settings will be retained until new parameters are programmed.
What is the advantage of the eccentric ring?
It blocks the orientation mechanism to ensure plane sectioning.
Why must the knives in knife holder A be inserted facet down?
Due to the construction of knife holder A, the knives have to be inserted facet down to receive regular sections and to prevent damage of the specimen surface.
What is the difference between standard microtomy sections and preparations with ultramilling?
Instead of preparing thin sections with a microtome for transmitted light microscopy, ultramilling produces a polished surface for examination under reflected light.
Are the millers part of the standard delivery?
The millers are not included in the standard instrument. They have to be ordered separately, in accordance with each user’s specific application.
Is it possible to mill metal?
Soft metals can be milled but it is not possible to process any materials containing iron with the SP2600.