Microm HM335E Power-Assisted Rotary Microtome

Brand : Thermo

Product Code : SKU 3500B MICROTOM

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Microm HM335E Power-Assisted Rotary Microtome – Used and Refurbished

The Microm HM335E Power-Assisted Rotary Microtome is a precision histology instrument designed for producing thin, consistent sections of paraffin-embedded tissue and other appropriately prepared specimens for microscopic examination. Combining manual rotary sectioning with electronically controlled specimen advancement, the HM335E provides accurate section thickness adjustment, convenient specimen positioning, and improved workflow efficiency for histology and pathology laboratories.

The HM335E offers a section thickness range of 1–25 µm and a trimming range of 5–250 µm. Its 28 mm horizontal specimen feed and 64 mm vertical stroke accommodate a variety of tissue blocks, while motorized coarse feed and automatic specimen approach reduce the amount of manual adjustment required during specimen preparation.

Additional features include selectable specimen retraction, a safety handwheel locking mechanism, electronic feed controls, a precision knife carrier system, and a spacious section waste tray.

This Microm HM335E is available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange. The instrument is inspected, cleaned, and tested before shipment and includes a 90-day warranty.

Key Features

Power-assisted rotary microtome for histology and pathology
Section thickness range of 1–25 µm
Trimming thickness range of 5–250 µm
Horizontal specimen feed of 28 mm
Vertical specimen stroke of 64 mm
Motorized coarse specimen feed
Automatic specimen approach
Selectable fine and trimming feed functions
Specimen retraction with option to deactivate
Manual handwheel-controlled cutting stroke
Safety handwheel locking mechanism
Precision specimen positioning and clamp adjustment
Knife carrier system for accurate blade positioning
Spacious section waste tray
Compact benchtop design
Refurbished and tested by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included

Overview

Rotary microtomes are essential instruments in histology laboratories, where thin sections of tissue must be prepared for staining and microscopic analysis.

The Microm HM335E combines the familiar mechanical cutting action of a rotary microtome with electronically assisted specimen positioning.

The operator rotates the handwheel to move the specimen vertically past the cutting blade. Between cutting strokes, the instrument advances the specimen by the selected section thickness.

Electronic controls provide motorized coarse feed and specimen approach, helping operators position tissue blocks more efficiently than with entirely manual feed mechanisms.

The HM335E is particularly useful for laboratories processing paraffin-embedded tissue specimens and other materials requiring controlled section thickness and repeatable cutting performance.

Key Specifications

Specification	Details
Manufacturer	Microm
Model	HM335E
AIE Inventory Number	3500B
Instrument Type	Power-Assisted Rotary Microtome
Cutting Operation	Manual Rotary Handwheel
Section Thickness Range	1–25 µm
Trimming Thickness Range	5–250 µm
Horizontal Specimen Feed	28 mm
Vertical Specimen Stroke	64 mm
Coarse Feed	Motorized
Specimen Approach	Automatic
Specimen Retraction	Selectable / Can Be Deactivated
Sectioning Modes	Fine and Trim
Handwheel Lock	Included
Knife Carrier	Precision Adjustable System
Section Waste Tray	Included
Approximate Dimensions	19"W × 16"D × 11"H
Approximate Weight	65 lb
Electrical Requirements	115 V, 50/60 Hz
Condition	Used / Refurbished
Warranty	90 Days

Specifications reflect published HM335E model information. Included specimen clamps, blade holders, and other accessories should be confirmed for the individual AIE unit.

Common Applications

The Microm HM335E is suitable for routine histology, surgical pathology, anatomical pathology, biomedical research, veterinary histology, tissue morphology studies, pharmaceutical research, and preparation of tissue sections for microscopic examination.

It is commonly used with formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue blocks and may also support compatible plastic-embedded specimens when appropriate blades and preparation methods are used.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The HM335E is well suited to hospital pathology laboratories, clinical histology departments, medical research institutions, veterinary diagnostic laboratories, pharmaceutical research facilities, biotechnology companies, academic laboratories, and independent histology service providers.

Its combination of manual cutting control and electronically assisted specimen positioning makes it useful for both routine sectioning and specialized research applications.

Power-Assisted vs. Fully Automated Sectioning

One of the most important distinctions of the HM335E is its power-assisted operating design.

Unlike a fully motorized rotary microtome, the HM335E does not rely on an automatic motor-driven cutting cycle.

The operator controls the cutting stroke through the handwheel, while electronic functions assist with specimen advancement and positioning.

This arrangement preserves the tactile feedback of manual sectioning while reducing repetitive adjustments associated with coarse specimen movement.

For laboratories that prefer direct operator control but want the convenience of electronic specimen positioning, the HM335E offers a practical middle ground between traditional manual microtomes and fully automated systems.

Precision Section Thickness Control

The HM335E provides a section thickness range of 1–25 µm.

This range supports the preparation of thin sections for routine histological staining and other microscopy applications.

For many paraffin-embedded tissue specimens, sections of approximately 3–5 µm are commonly used, although the appropriate thickness depends on tissue type, staining procedure, and diagnostic or research requirements.

Consistent specimen advancement helps support uniform section preparation when the blade, specimen, and operating technique are properly matched.

Motorized Coarse Feed and Automatic Specimen Approach

The motorized coarse feed system is one of the HM335E's principal advantages over a conventional manual microtome.

It allows the specimen to be advanced or retracted electronically during setup and trimming.

Automatic specimen approach further simplifies positioning the tissue block relative to the cutting blade.

These functions can reduce setup time when changing specimens or transitioning between trimming and fine sectioning.

They also help minimize repetitive manual adjustment during routine laboratory workflows.

Separate Trimming and Fine Sectioning

The HM335E provides separate settings for trimming and fine sectioning.

Its trimming range of 5–250 µm allows relatively larger amounts of embedding material or tissue to be removed during initial block preparation.

Once the desired tissue surface is exposed, the operator can select a thinner section setting for collecting specimens suitable for microscopic examination.

Separating these functions improves workflow efficiency and allows researchers to select the appropriate cutting thickness for each stage of specimen preparation.

Specimen Retraction

The HM335E incorporates a specimen retraction function that can be deactivated when appropriate.

During the return portion of the cutting cycle, retraction moves the specimen slightly away from the blade.

This helps reduce unnecessary contact between the specimen surface and the cutting edge during upward movement.

Retraction can contribute to improved section quality and reduced blade wear, particularly when working with delicate or difficult specimens.

The ability to deactivate retraction provides additional flexibility for specialized sectioning procedures.

Knife Carrier and Specimen Positioning

The HM335E incorporates a precision knife carrier system and adjustable specimen mounting arrangement.

Proper blade positioning is essential for producing consistent sections and minimizing artifacts such as compression, chatter, or tearing.

The specimen positioning system allows the tissue block to be aligned with the cutting edge before sectioning begins.

Blade-holder and specimen-clamp compatibility should be verified for the particular instrument configuration.

Safety and Operator Convenience

The HM335E includes a handwheel locking mechanism to help prevent unintended specimen movement during blade changes, specimen adjustments, and other procedures.

The spacious waste tray collects sectioning debris and excess paraffin generated during trimming.

Electronic specimen positioning also helps reduce the need for repeated manual coarse adjustments.

Operators should always lock the handwheel and use appropriate blade guards when handling specimens or changing cutting blades.

Paraffin-Embedded Tissue Sectioning

Paraffin sectioning is the primary application for many rotary microtomes.

After tissue fixation, processing, and embedding, the specimen block is mounted in the microtome and trimmed to expose the desired tissue surface.

The HM335E allows the operator to establish a trimming thickness, prepare the block face, and then switch to the desired fine section thickness.

Collected sections can be transferred to a water bath for flattening before mounting on microscope slides.

The instrument can support common histology workflows involving hematoxylin and eosin staining, special stains, and appropriately prepared sections for immunohistochemistry.

Harder and Plastic-Embedded Specimens

The HM335E may also be used with certain harder or plastic-embedded materials when the specimen preparation method and cutting accessories are suitable.

Hard specimens can require specialized blades, appropriate cutting angles, and careful feed adjustment.

Not all resin-embedded or undecalcified specimens are suitable for routine rotary microtome sectioning.

Customers working with particularly hard materials should confirm blade-holder compatibility and application requirements before purchase.

Refurbishment and Testing by American Instrument Exchange

American Instrument Exchange inspects and tests used histology equipment before shipment.

For the Microm HM335E, the refurbishment process includes inspection of the handwheel, specimen feed mechanism, motorized coarse feed, control interface, specimen retraction, locking mechanism, knife carrier, and other installed components.

The instrument is checked for smooth mechanical operation and proper response to electronic controls. Accessible surfaces and the section waste tray are cleaned before shipment.

Customers requiring specific sectioning demonstrations, blade-holder configurations, or specimen-clamp accessories are encouraged to discuss those requirements with AIE before purchase.

The refurbished HM335E includes a 90-day warranty.

Shipping and Installation

The Microm HM335E is a compact benchtop instrument measuring approximately 19 inches wide × 16 inches deep × 11 inches high.

Its approximate weight is 65 pounds.

The instrument should be installed on a stable, level laboratory workbench with sufficient clearance for the handwheel and operator access.

A vibration-resistant work surface is recommended for consistent sectioning performance.

The published North American configuration operates on 115 V, 50/60 Hz electrical service.

After installation, the microtome should be checked for correct blade alignment, specimen movement, and sectioning performance before routine use.

Related Equipment

Histology laboratories using a Microm HM335E may also require other microtomes and cryostats, tissue flotation water baths, laboratory ovens, microscopes, and laboratory refrigerators.

American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished histology instruments, microscopes, laboratory water baths, ovens, and other equipment for clinical, academic, pharmaceutical, and biomedical research laboratories.

Microm HM335E FAQs

What is the Microm HM335E?

The Microm HM335E is a power-assisted rotary microtome designed for preparing thin sections of paraffin-embedded tissue and other compatible specimens for microscopic examination.

What is the section thickness range?

The HM335E provides a section thickness range of 1–25 µm.

What is the trimming thickness range?

The instrument offers trimming thickness settings from 5–250 µm.

Is the HM335E fully automated?

No. The cutting stroke is manually controlled through the handwheel. Electronic assistance is provided for specimen advancement and coarse positioning.

What is the advantage of motorized coarse feed?

Motorized coarse feed simplifies specimen positioning and can reduce setup time when trimming blocks or changing specimens.

Does the HM335E include specimen retraction?

Yes. The instrument includes a specimen retraction function that can be deactivated when required.

Can it section paraffin-embedded tissue?

Yes. Paraffin-embedded tissue sectioning is one of the primary applications of the HM335E.

Can the HM335E section plastic-embedded specimens?

It may be used for certain compatible plastic-embedded specimens with appropriate blades and operating procedures. Suitability depends on the embedding material and specimen hardness.

Does the microtome include a blade holder and specimen clamp?

The HM335E supports compatible knife carriers and specimen clamps. The specific accessories supplied with AIE inventory unit 3500B should be confirmed before purchase.

Does the refurbished HM335E include a warranty?

Yes. American Instrument Exchange includes a 90-day warranty with this used and refurbished Microm HM335E rotary microtome.

Testing Procedures for Used and Refurbished Laboratory Equipment

Ensure Accuracy, Safety, and Dependable Performance Across Applications

At American Instrument Exchange, all used and refurbished laboratory equipment undergoes a rigorous, multi-point testing protocol to ensure optimal performance, operational safety, and long-term reliability. Whether the equipment is destined for research, diagnostics, quality control, or production environments, our thorough inspection and testing process is designed to meet the highest standards of laboratory excellence.

Why Testing Used Lab Equipment Is Essential

Before any refurbished laboratory equipment is returned to service, it must be carefully tested to verify:

• Functional integrity and operational performance
• Setpoint accuracy and repeatability (where applicable)
• User interface responsiveness and control features

Proper testing reduces the risk of equipment failure, measurement inaccuracies, or user hazards—helping to ensure consistent results in clinical, academic, biotech, and industrial labs.

Our standardized lab equipment testing procedures are tailored to each equipment type, ensuring every unit meets manufacturer specifications and industry benchmarks.

Key Testing Procedures for Refurbished and Used Laboratory Equipment

1. Initial Visual Inspection

• Examine equipment housing for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage
• Check ports, power cords, and exterior components for tampering or deterioration
• Verify that internal and external parts (racks, shelves, connectors, accessories) are present and undamaged

2. Functional Startup and Operational Testing

• Power on the equipment and verify startup diagnostics
• Confirm functionality of displays, buttons, switches, and control panels
• Run basic functions to confirm proper response and behavior under standard operating conditions

3. Testing and Performance Verification

• Test internal sensors or control systems using industry-standard tools
• Perform operational tests to validate accuracy and consistency
• Verify key performance specifications such as temperature control, timing, speed, or measurement outputs, depending on equipment type

4. Mechanical and Electrical System Testing

• Evaluate motors, pumps, fans, or other moving parts for smooth operation
• Inspect and test wiring, relays, fuses, and circuit boards for safety and reliability
• Test power delivery and grounding compliance

5. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Ensure equipment is grounded and insulated to meet laboratory safety standards
• Test alarms, interlocks, emergency stops, or safety shutdown systems if applicable

6. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation

• Perform extended runtime testing
• Document operational logs, testing results, and any repairs or adjustments made
• Complete a final inspection, thorough cleaning, and packaging for delivery

Trusted Quality from American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of experience in laboratory equipment refurbishment, American Instrument Exchange is committed to delivering certified, lab-ready instruments backed by expert testing. Our testing protocols ensure that each piece of equipment—regardless of type—is safe, accurate, and dependable from day one.

Whether you're equipping a startup lab or expanding a high-throughput facility, you can count on our refurbished laboratory equipment to perform with precision and reliability.

Refurbishment Protocol for Used Laboratory Equipment from American Instrument Exchange

At American Instrument Exchange, every piece of used laboratory equipment we offer undergoes a multi-step refurbishment process. Whether it's an analytical balance, centrifuge, freezer, oven, or any other essential lab instrument, our goal is to restore each unit to peak performance—ensuring accuracy, safety, and long-term reliability in scientific, clinical, industrial, and academic environments.

Why Choose Refurbished Lab Equipment from American Instrument Exchange?

• Thoroughly tested for performance, precision, and safety
• Backed by a warranty
• A cost-effective alternative to new equipment
• Environmentally sustainable through equipment reuse and waste reduction
• Serviced by expert technicians with decades of laboratory equipment experience

Step-by-Step Refurbishment Protocol

Every instrument and system refurbished at American Instrument Exchange follows a detailed, industry-aligned process:

1. Initial Intake & Inspection

• Complete visual and structural inspection for cosmetic damage, wear, or corrosion
• Mechanical assessment of hinges, seals, fasteners, motors, and moving parts
• Missing components and damaged items are documented for repair or replacement

2. Cleaning and Decontamination

• Full internal and external cleaning using non-abrasive, lab-safe solutions
• Removal of biological, chemical, or particulate contamination
• Disassembly and cleaning of removable parts such as trays, shelves, and filters

3. Mechanical and Electrical Repair

• Replacement or repair of worn or broken mechanical parts
• Evaluation and servicing of control panels, sensors, switches, and displays
• Testing and repair of electrical wiring, fuses, circuit boards, and power supplies

4. Functional System Testing

• Assessment of all major functions specific to the equipment type (e.g., speed, temperature, force, weight, timing)
• Operation of control interfaces, programming menus, and digital displays
• Verification of stabilization time, responsiveness, and user input reliability

5. Testing and Performance Verification

• Testing of internal sensors, controllers, and measurement systems using certified tools
• Multi-point testing to ensure repeatability, accuracy, and performance consistency
• Confirmation of user-defined setpoints, timing sequences, or programmable cycles

6. Safety and Compliance Checks

• Testing of safety interlocks, alarms, and over-limit protection systems (as applicable)
• Electrical safety inspections, including grounding and insulation verification

7. Final Quality Assurance and Documentation

• Full operational testing under simulated lab conditions
• Completion of performance benchmarks, testing results, and repair logs
• Final cleaning and visual inspection

Trust the Experts at American Instrument Exchange

With over 50 years of experience in the laboratory equipment industry, American Instrument Exchange is a trusted leader in high-quality refurbished lab instruments. Our refurbishment protocols ensure that every piece of equipment we sell is lab-ready—offering the precision, performance, and durability your team can count on.

Whether you’re outfitting a new lab or expanding an existing operation, choose American Instrument Exchange for tested, warrantied, and cost-effective laboratory equipment.

Warranty Information

All used equipment sold by American Instrument Exchange is refurbished/reconditioned, tested to meet specifications, cleaned, and comes with a 90-day warranty from the date of shipment unless otherwise specified. New products include a warranty from the manufacturer. Your warranty is only valid if you have paid your invoice. If your invoice is over 30 days old, warranty work will not be performed until your invoice is paid in full. American Instrument Exchange is not liable for any special or consequential damages that result from the use of, or the inability to use, the materials on this site or the performance of the products,

Exceptions include international sales and items that are agreed to be sold with a lesser warranty or items that are agreed to be sold “as is.”

Should there be visible shipping damage to packaging or concealed shipping damage to item(s) supplied, buyer must communicate such damage to the delivering entity or carrier upon receipt first and to American Instrument the same day item is accepted / signed for. Failure to do so voids warranty. Customer decision to involve / procure third party or OEM service other than American Instrument or AIE assigned vendors to resolve in-warranty instrument failure or defect without first placing a service call to American Instrument voids warranty.

Return & Cancellation Policy

American Instrument Exchange will authorize the return of and issue a full refund for any equipment that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer’s satisfaction by AIE or a representative of AIE during the warranty period. Returns without prior authorization and an RMA number will not be accepted.

Customers are responsible for proper packaging of the equipment and all included accessories. American Instrument will pay for insurance and shipping costs. Non-inventory items bought specifically to fill customer orders may possibly be returned, but on a case by case basis.

Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun or after delivery where there are no equipment performance issues may be subject to a Restocking/Cancellation Fee of 20% or more and responsible for shipping costs for both the delivery and return.

Ongoing and Extended Support Options

American Instrument Exchange is able to provide additional repair and support services outside the warranty terms for most products that sell.

For biosafety cabinets, clean benches, chemical fume hoods, and other clean air products our team at AIE Laboratory Services can provide certifications, repairs, decontaminations, and other services for customers throughout New England, and guidance and limited technical assistance for any customers in the US and Canada for new or refurbished biosafety cabinets purchased from American Instrument Exchange.

For all other products, the repair service team at American Instrument Exchange can provide both field and depot repair evaluations. We can easily schedule and coordinate the pick-up and transportation of your malfunctioning equipment. By offering hourly rates lower than most OEM service providers and eliminating travel time for technicians, we help reduce repair costs. Furthermore, our lab depot repair service minimizes or eliminates scheduling delays. Our experienced service technicians are qualified to restore your equipment to factory specifications.

Please contact our team at info@americaninstrument.com for more details.

FAQ

Does the equipment come with a warranty?

Yes, all equipment from American Instrument Exchange comes with a warranty.
Used/reconditioned/refurbished equipment is tested to make sure it operates to the manufacturer's specifications and comes with a 90-day warranty (unless otherwise noted). New equipment comes with a warranty from the manufacturer.

How do you test and recondition the equipment?

Testing requirements vary across all the equipment categories we sell. Temperature controlled units are tested with NIST traceable probes and data loggers. Gaskets, external housing, glass, handles, controls and control screens are all thoroughly inspected for integrity and functionality.
We test all equipment using the manufacturer's parameters and specifications to confirm that the unit operates properly.

How do products ship from American Instrument Exchange?

We can ship products both nationally and internationally using a well-established network of transporters. Smaller items will ship via UPS. Larger equipment will be palletized and shipped either LTL or air-ride, depending on the specific equipment and/or delivery requirements.

Return and order cancellation policy

American Instrument Exchange will accept the return of any product that is not working as represented and could not be replaced or repaired to the customer's satisfaction during the warranty period. Customers who cancel orders after refurbishing has begun will be subject to a cancellation and restocking fee of between 20% and 40%.

Are discounts available for educational or non-profit institutions, or for bulk purchases?

Yes – call or email us today with a list of equipment you're looking for and we can potentially put together a quote that includes a discount.

How does your price matching policy work?

We strive to keep our pricing competitive and reasonable. If you find comparable items for sale at a lower price from other vendors please send us a link and or quote for the item and we'll do our best to match or beat the price.

Can I see the equipment in person before committing to a purchase?

Customers are welcome to make an appointment to view equipment in our warehouse. Given our workload we may not be able to test or clean the equipment prior to your arrival if you have not committed to an order.

1023 Western Avenue is a working warehouse, not a showroom, and customers should dress appropriately and wear closed toe shoes.

Can I ship products that I purchased elsewhere to American Instrument for repair?

Yes – please see our repair services page for more information.