KD-202A Rotary Microtome
| Origin | Beijing, China |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | KD-202A |
| Cutting Thickness Range | 1–25 µm (continuous), >25 µm (step-adjustable) |
| Minimum Increment | 1 µm |
| Maximum Section Area (paraffin) | 40 × 30 mm |
| Sectioning Accuracy | ±10% |
| Overall Dimensions | 380 × 340 × 270 mm |
| Net Weight | 21.5 kg |
| Display | LCD slice counter with safety alarm |
Overview
The KD-202A Rotary Microtome is an entry-level precision instrument engineered for consistent, reproducible sectioning of paraffin-embedded biological and plant tissue specimens in histopathology, research laboratories, and teaching facilities. Based on the classical rotary microtome principle—where a specimen block advances linearly toward a fixed knife while the knife oscillates through a fixed arc—the KD-202A delivers mechanical stability and tactile control essential for routine histological preparation. Its robust cast-aluminum base, ergonomic handwheel with top-position locking mechanism, and sealed chamber design minimize vibration and contamination risks during operation. Unlike cryostat-based systems, the KD-202A operates at ambient temperature and is optimized for room-temperature paraffin sections; however, it serves as the core mechanical platform for the optional KD-202A-VI integrated cryo-paraffin dual-mode configuration (sold separately).
Key Features
- Linear advancement mechanism with micrometer-driven thickness adjustment (1–25 µm continuous range; >25 µm coarse step mode)
- LCD digital display showing real-time slice count and integrated audible/visual safety alarm for misalignment or excessive resistance
- Adjustable knife holder permitting precise anterior-posterior and lateral translation for trimming and fine-sectioning alignment
- Sealed, easy-clean chamber housing to contain paraffin debris and reduce cross-contamination between samples
- Streamlined polymer-coated outer casing with intuitive control layout and anti-slip handwheel surface
- Standard compatibility with reusable steel knives and optional disposable blade holders (model suffix “B”)
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The KD-202A supports standard histological workflows involving formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) human, animal, and botanical tissues. It accommodates specimen blocks up to 40 × 30 mm in footprint and is routinely used for H&E, IHC, and special stain preparation per CAP, CLIA, and ISO 15189-aligned laboratory protocols. While not certified for GLP/GMP production environments, its mechanical repeatability and traceable slice counting meet internal QA requirements for academic and diagnostic labs performing routine histology. The device complies with IEC 61010-1:2010 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment and incorporates thermal cut-off protection in motor circuits. For dual-mode operation (paraffin + frozen sections), integration with the KD-VI cryogenic module enables compliance with ASTM E2165-22 guidelines for frozen section quality assessment.
Software & Data Management
The KD-202A is a fully manual, non-computerized microtome and does not include embedded software, network connectivity, or data export capabilities. Slice count data is retained locally on the LCD display only and resets upon power cycle. No audit trail, user authentication, or FDA 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic record functionality is provided. Laboratories requiring digital documentation may integrate external imaging or LIMS systems via manual entry or third-party camera-based section monitoring solutions. Optional KD-202A-VI configurations include programmable temperature presets, memory retention for last-used parameters, and dual-channel real-time temperature readouts (cryostage and cold knife), but these features remain hardware-locked and do not interface with external software platforms.
Applications
- Routine diagnostic histopathology: Preparation of FFPE tissue sections for light microscopy analysis in clinical pathology labs
- Academic research: Serial sectioning of rodent brain, liver, or tumor xenografts for morphometric analysis and immunohistochemical profiling
- Botanical morphology: Sectioning of woody stems, root nodules, and leaf cross-sections for anatomical characterization
- Teaching laboratories: Hands-on training in microtomy technique, knife sharpening, and ribbon formation for undergraduate and graduate students
- Quality assurance: Verification of embedding orientation and section integrity prior to downstream molecular assays (e.g., RNA extraction from serial sections)
FAQ
Is the KD-202A suitable for frozen sectioning without the KD-VI module?
No. The base KD-202A operates exclusively at ambient temperature and lacks cryogenic components. Frozen sectioning requires the integrated KD-202A-VI system, which adds semiconductor-based cooling to both specimen stage and knife holder.
What is the recommended maintenance schedule for optimal performance?
Daily cleaning of the specimen chuck and knife holder with ethanol; weekly lubrication of the advance mechanism using mineral oil; biannual inspection of handwheel gear backlash and knife alignment by qualified service personnel.
Can the KD-202A accommodate large-format tissue blocks beyond 40 × 30 mm?
No. The maximum supported block dimension is strictly 40 × 30 mm. Larger blocks must be trimmed or segmented prior to mounting.
Does the LCD display retain slice counts after power loss?
No. The display is volatile and resets to zero upon deactivation. For long-term tracking, users must log counts manually or employ external documentation methods.
Are replacement parts such as specimen chucks or knife holders available separately?
Yes. Standard aluminum specimen chucks (single-slot, dual-slot), steel knife holders, and disposable blade adapters are stocked and shipped globally under KD-202A spare part codes.
