Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT Manual Microtome

Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT Manual Microtome – Used and Refurbished

The Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT Manual Microtome is a precision rotary microtome designed for sectioning paraffin-embedded tissue specimens in routine histology, pathology, biomedical research, and other laboratory applications. Combining precise manual sectioning with a multi-color LED backlit specimen chuck, 3D specimen orientation, adjustable trimming thickness, and multiple operator-safety features, the SRM 300 LT is designed to help histology professionals produce consistent tissue sections while improving specimen visibility and operator ergonomics.

One of the defining features of the Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT is its illuminated specimen chuck. The multi-color LED backlight increases contrast between embedded tissue and surrounding paraffin, helping the operator identify exactly where tissue is located within the block. This can be particularly valuable when working with small biopsies, previously sectioned blocks, or specimens where unnecessary trimming could result in loss of diagnostically or scientifically important tissue.

The SRM 300 LT provides section thickness settings from 1 to 40 µm and incorporates a 3D Precision Chuck with ±8° specimen orientation on the X, Y, and Z axes. Dial indicators help the operator reproduce chuck orientation and return accurately to a zero position, an important advantage when performing recuts or aligning previously sectioned blocks.

This Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT is used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange. AIE technicians inspect and test the microtome before shipment to verify mechanical operation and general functionality. The instrument is thoroughly cleaned and includes a 90-day warranty.

Key Features

• Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT manual rotary microtome

• Designed for paraffin-embedded tissue sectioning

• Section thickness range from 1 to 40 µm

• Multi-color LED backlit specimen chuck

• 3D Precision Chuck with ±8° X, Y, and Z orientation

• Dial indicators for repeatable specimen alignment

• Adjustable 10 or 40 µm trimming advance

• Universal blade holder for low- and high-profile disposable blades

• Lateral blade-holder displacement

• User-selectable coarse advance direction

• Smooth-running handwheel

• Brake Lock Indicator

• Red blade guard

• Removable paraffin waste tray

• Used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange

• 90-day warranty included

Overview

Microtomy is one of the critical steps in preparing paraffin-embedded tissue for microscopic examination. After fixation, processing, and embedding, the tissue block must be trimmed and sectioned into extremely thin slices that can be mounted on microscope slides and prepared for staining.

The Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT is designed specifically for this work.

Unlike a basic manual microtome, the SRM 300 LT incorporates features intended to improve specimen visibility, block alignment, ergonomics, blade utilization, and operator safety.

Its manually operated rotary mechanism gives experienced histology professionals direct control over the sectioning process, while the illuminated chuck can make tissue within the paraffin block considerably easier to visualize.

Common Applications

The Sakura SRM 300 LT is designed primarily for routine and research histology involving paraffin-embedded specimen blocks. Typical applications include surgical pathology, biopsy sectioning, histopathology, biomedical research, veterinary pathology, toxicology, anatomical pathology, oncology research, tissue morphology studies, and preparation of sections for routine and special staining.

The microtome can also support preparation of tissue sections for immunohistochemistry and other downstream analytical techniques when the sectioning requirements are compatible with the instrument.

The appropriate section thickness depends on specimen type, staining method, downstream analysis, and laboratory protocol.

Ideal Laboratory Types

The Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT is well suited to hospital pathology laboratories, independent pathology laboratories, histology laboratories, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical research facilities, contract research organizations, academic medical centers, university research laboratories, veterinary pathology facilities, toxicology laboratories, cancer research centers, and other facilities routinely preparing paraffin-embedded tissue sections.

Its manual operation can be particularly attractive to laboratories that value direct tactile control during sectioning while still wanting modern features for specimen visualization and alignment.

Key Specifications

1–40 µm Section Thickness Range

The SRM 300 LT provides a section thickness range from 1 to 40 microns.

Rather than using the same adjustment interval across the entire range, Sakura provides progressively larger increments as section thickness increases.

From 1 to 10 µm, thickness can be adjusted in 1 µm increments. From 10 to 20 µm, settings advance in 2 µm increments, while the 20 to 40 µm range uses 5 µm increments.

This provides fine control in the lower thickness ranges commonly encountered during routine paraffin histology while retaining flexibility for applications requiring thicker sections.

Multi-Color LED Backlit Chuck

One of the most distinctive features of the SRM 300 LT is its multi-color LED backlit chuck.

The illumination system uses white, red, green, and blue light that can be adjusted to increase contrast between the tissue specimen, embedding paraffin, and cassette.

Improved contrast allows the operator to see where the tissue is located before excessive material is removed from the block.

This can be particularly valuable when sectioning small biopsies or returning to previously sectioned blocks where relatively little tissue remains.

Reducing the Risk of Cutting Through Small Biopsies

Small tissue specimens can be difficult to see when embedded in paraffin.

During block trimming, removing too much material can potentially cut through or unnecessarily deplete a small specimen before optimal sections are collected.

The illuminated chuck helps the operator identify the position of tissue within the paraffin block.

By increasing visual contrast, the SRM 300 LT gives the histotechnologist additional information when approaching the tissue during trimming and sectioning.

3D Precision Chuck

The SRM 300 LT incorporates Sakura's 3D Precision Chuck for accurate alignment of the specimen block relative to the microtome blade.

The chuck provides fine adjustment on the X, Y, and Z axes, with ±8° orientation capability.

This allows the block face to be positioned precisely before sectioning.

Once an appropriate orientation has been established, the chuck is designed to retain its position when locked and unlocked, reducing the need to repeatedly recreate the cutting angle.

Dial Indicators for Repeatable Alignment

Dial indicators provide a visual reference for the angular position of the 3D Precision Chuck.

This allows the operator to make controlled orientation adjustments and accurately return the chuck toward its zero position.

Repeatable positioning can be especially valuable when performing recuts.

When a previously sectioned paraffin block must be returned to the microtome, reproducing its earlier cutting plane can reduce unnecessary trimming before usable sections are obtained.

Adjustable Trimming Advance

Before thin sections can be collected, excess paraffin often needs to be removed from the face of an embedded block.

The SRM 300 LT incorporates a trimming lever that advances the specimen by either 10 or 40 µm with each handwheel rotation.

The operator can select the appropriate trimming increment according to the specimen and how much material needs to be removed.

This provides a convenient way to transition between more aggressive block trimming and controlled approach toward the tissue.

Manual Rotary Sectioning

The SRM 300 LT is a manually operated rotary microtome.

Rotating the handwheel moves the specimen through the cutting cycle, giving the operator direct physical control over sectioning speed and technique.

Many experienced histology professionals value manual microtomes because they provide immediate tactile feedback during cutting.

Variations in paraffin hardness, tissue consistency, blade condition, or block preparation can often be felt during manual sectioning, allowing the operator to adjust technique accordingly.

Ergonomic Handwheel Design

Repeated sectioning can involve hundreds or thousands of handwheel rotations during a working day.

Sakura designed the SRM 300 LT with a smooth-running handwheel positioned to help reduce unnecessary arm fatigue during routine operation.

Ergonomics can be especially important in high-volume histology laboratories where technicians spend significant portions of the workday performing repetitive microtomy.

Appropriate workstation height, seating, posture, and instrument positioning should also be considered as part of an ergonomic microtomy setup.

User-Selectable Coarse Advance

The coarse advance wheel can be configured for either clockwise or counterclockwise operation.

This allows individual users to select the direction that feels most natural for their preferred working technique.

In shared histology laboratories, user-selectable operation can make the same microtome more comfortable for technicians with different preferences.

Universal Blade Holder

The SRM 300 LT uses a universal blade-holder base designed to accept both low-profile and high-profile disposable microtome blades.

This gives laboratories flexibility when selecting blades according to specimen type, laboratory preference, and established histology protocols.

The blade-holder design also incorporates lateral displacement, allowing different areas along the cutting edge to be used without removing and repositioning the blade manually.

Lateral Blade Displacement

A microtome blade does not necessarily need to be discarded as soon as one area of the cutting edge becomes less effective.

The SRM 300 LT blade-holder base allows lateral repositioning so another portion of the blade can be brought into the cutting path.

This can help laboratories make more complete use of the available blade edge.

It also reduces unnecessary direct handling of the blade during repositioning.

Brake Lock Indicator

Microtome blades are extremely sharp, making mechanical safety an important part of routine operation.

The SRM 300 LT incorporates a Brake Lock Indicator that visibly shows when the specimen chuck is locked and will not move while the operator is interacting with the cutting area.

A clear lock indication gives the user immediate confirmation of the mechanical state of the instrument before manipulating the specimen or working near the blade.

Normal laboratory blade-handling precautions should always be followed regardless of the installed safety features.

Red Blade Guard

The blade holder incorporates a red blade guard designed to reduce accidental exposure to the cutting edge.

The guard can be moved into the protective position while the operator is working around the blade area.

Its contrasting color also makes the guard easy to identify visually.

Blade guards are particularly important during block changes, specimen adjustments, cleaning, and other procedures where sectioning is not actively taking place.

Paraffin Waste Management

Trimming and sectioning paraffin blocks produces substantial wax debris over the course of a working day.

The SRM 300 LT incorporates a large removable waste tray designed to collect paraffin trimmings and sectioning debris.

The tray snaps in and out for easier cleaning and includes a slot for convenient waste collection and disposal.

Routine removal of paraffin waste helps maintain a clean work area and prevents debris from accumulating around the mechanical components of the microtome.

Recuts and Previously Sectioned Blocks

Recuts can be challenging because the original cutting plane must often be recreated without unnecessarily sacrificing additional tissue.

The 3D Precision Chuck is particularly useful in this situation.

Because the chuck provides controlled orientation in three axes and incorporates dial indicators, operators can more precisely align the existing block face with the blade.

The ability to retain orientation when locking and unlocking the chuck can further reduce unnecessary readjustment.

Routine Histology Sectioning

Routine histology frequently requires paraffin sections only a few microns thick.

The SRM 300 LT's fine 1 µm adjustment increments throughout the 1–10 µm range provide the control needed for these applications.

Actual section quality depends on many variables beyond the microtome itself, including fixation, tissue processing, paraffin infiltration, embedding orientation, block temperature, blade selection, blade condition, clearance angle, and operator technique.

The microtome provides the mechanical precision necessary for sectioning, but good histology depends on the entire tissue-preparation workflow.

Biopsy Sectioning

Biopsies can present special challenges because tissue specimens may be very small and conserving material can be particularly important.

The LED backlit chuck is one of the SRM 300 LT's most useful features for this work.

By improving contrast between tissue and paraffin, the system helps the operator locate the specimen as the block is trimmed.

This can assist in approaching small tissue fragments more cautiously and reducing unnecessary removal of paraffin and embedded specimen material.

Histopathology Applications

In histopathology laboratories, microtome sections are commonly transferred to microscope slides and subsequently stained for examination.

The SRM 300 LT can support routine hematoxylin and eosin workflows, special staining procedures, and other histological preparations requiring paraffin sections.

The appropriate section thickness and preparation procedure should be determined by the tissue type, staining protocol, diagnostic requirements, and laboratory SOP.

Immunohistochemistry Sample Preparation

Paraffin sections prepared on a microtome may also be used for immunohistochemistry and other downstream staining techniques.

Consistent section thickness and careful tissue conservation can be important when multiple slides must be prepared from limited specimen material.

The SRM 300 LT's fine section-thickness control, specimen alignment capabilities, and illuminated chuck can be useful in these workflows.

Downstream IHC performance also depends on fixation, processing, antigen retrieval, staining reagents, and the complete laboratory protocol.

Manual vs. Automated Microtomes

Manual and automated microtomes approach tissue sectioning differently.

The SRM 300 LT requires the operator to rotate the handwheel for each cutting cycle, providing direct tactile control over the sectioning process.

Automated microtomes use a motorized cutting stroke and may reduce repetitive handwheel motion during high-volume sectioning.

A manual system can be attractive for laboratories that prefer operator-controlled cutting, require a straightforward mechanical platform, or do not need motorized sectioning.

Manual Microtome vs. Cryostat

The SRM 300 LT is designed primarily for sectioning paraffin-embedded tissue at room temperature.

A cryostat combines a microtome with a refrigerated chamber and is used to cut frozen tissue.

Frozen sectioning is often used when rapid preparation or preservation of particular tissue characteristics is required, while paraffin histology provides a different workflow involving fixation, processing, embedding, sectioning, and staining.

The SRM 300 LT should therefore not be confused with a cryostat or frozen-section microtome.

Compact Benchtop Design

The SRM 300 LT measures approximately 16.5 inches wide × 20.7 inches deep × 11.8 inches high.

This compact benchtop footprint allows it to fit into many dedicated histology workstations while still providing the mass and mechanical stability required for precision sectioning.

At approximately 68 pounds, the instrument has enough weight to provide a stable platform during handwheel operation.

A solid, level work surface is recommended for consistent sectioning and comfortable operator use.

Refurbishment and Testing by American Instrument Exchange

American Instrument Exchange tests used microtomes before shipment to verify mechanical operation and overall functionality.

For the Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT, technicians inspect the handwheel and specimen-advance mechanisms, chuck movement and orientation, trimming controls, blade-holder functions, locking mechanisms, illumination, and other installed features.

The instrument is also thoroughly cleaned before shipment.

Because final section quality depends on specimen preparation, paraffin conditions, blade selection, technique, and other laboratory variables, customers with particular testing requirements are encouraged to discuss them with American Instrument Exchange before shipment.

Why Buy a Refurbished Sakura SRM 300 LT?

The Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT combines the direct control of a manual rotary microtome with several sophisticated features that are not found on many conventional manual models.

The LED backlit chuck can improve visualization of embedded tissue, while the 3D Precision Chuck helps operators align blocks accurately and reproduce orientation during recuts. Adjustable trimming, universal blade compatibility, lateral blade displacement, a Brake Lock Indicator, and an integrated blade guard further support routine histology workflows.

Purchasing a used and refurbished SRM 300 LT from American Instrument Exchange can provide these capabilities at a lower acquisition cost than purchasing new histology equipment.

AIE tests and cleans the instrument before shipment and includes a 90-day warranty.

Shipping and Installation

The Sakura SRM 300 LT is a benchtop instrument weighing approximately 68 pounds.

It should be installed on a stable, level work surface at a height that allows comfortable access to the handwheel, specimen chuck, blade holder, and controls.

Workstation ergonomics are particularly important for laboratories where microtomy is performed for extended periods.

Before use, the instrument should be inspected and the blade holder, specimen chuck, handwheel lock, and other mechanical components should be checked according to laboratory procedures.

Related Equipment

Histology laboratories using the Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT may also require tissue processors, paraffin embedding centers, tissue flotation baths, slide warmers, histology ovens, staining systems, microscopes, cryostats, centrifuges, laboratory refrigerators, and other equipment used throughout tissue preparation and analysis.

American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished microtomes, histology equipment, microscopes, water baths, laboratory cold storage, centrifuges, and other equipment for pathology, biomedical research, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and academic laboratories.

Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT Microtome FAQs

What is the Sakura Accu-Cut SRM 300 LT?

The SRM 300 LT is a manual rotary microtome designed primarily for sectioning paraffin-embedded tissue specimens for routine and research histology.

What is the section thickness range?

The SRM 300 LT provides section thickness settings from 1 to 40 µm.

What are the thickness increments?

Settings from 1 to 10 µm adjust in 1 µm increments, 10 to 20 µm in 2 µm increments, and 20 to 40 µm in 5 µm increments.

What is the trimming thickness?

The trimming lever provides selectable 10 or 40 µm specimen advance per handwheel rotation.

What is the LED backlit chuck?

The specimen chuck incorporates multi-color LED illumination designed to increase contrast between tissue, paraffin, and the cassette.

Why is the illuminated chuck useful?

Improved contrast can make it easier to identify where tissue is located within a paraffin block, helping the operator avoid unnecessarily cutting through small biopsies or previously sectioned specimens.

What colors does the backlight use?

The system combines white, red, green, and blue illumination. Color intensity can be adjusted to improve specimen contrast.

What is the 3D Precision Chuck?

It is an adjustable specimen chuck that allows the block face to be aligned with the blade on the X, Y, and Z axes.

How much specimen orientation is available?

Sakura specifies ±8° orientation on all three axes.

Why are the dial indicators useful?

They provide a reference for chuck orientation, allowing more controlled adjustment and helping operators return the chuck accurately toward its zero position.

Is the SRM 300 LT useful for recuts?

Yes. The 3D Precision Chuck and dial indicators can help align previously sectioned blocks with the cutting plane during recuts.

What blades does the SRM 300 LT use?

The universal blade holder accepts both low-profile and high-profile disposable microtome blades.

Can the blade be moved laterally?

Yes. The blade-holder base provides lateral displacement so different portions of the cutting edge can be used without directly repositioning the blade.

What is the Brake Lock Indicator?

The indicator shows when the specimen chuck is mechanically locked, giving the operator visual confirmation before interacting with the cutting area.

Does the SRM 300 LT have a blade guard?

Yes. A red blade guard helps protect the operator from accidental contact with the cutting edge.

Is the SRM 300 LT automated?

No. It is a manual rotary microtome. The operator rotates the handwheel to perform the cutting stroke.

Is this a cryostat?

No. The SRM 300 LT is intended primarily for paraffin-embedded tissue sectioning. A cryostat incorporates refrigeration for frozen tissue sectioning.

Can the SRM 300 LT be used for biopsy specimens?

Yes. It is suitable for paraffin-embedded biopsies, and the illuminated chuck can be particularly helpful when working with small specimens.

Can it prepare sections for immunohistochemistry?

It can produce paraffin sections used in IHC workflows when the section thickness and preparation requirements are appropriate for the laboratory's protocol.

What are the dimensions?

The SRM 300 LT measures approximately 16.5"W × 20.7"D × 11.8"H.

How much does it weigh?

The microtome weighs approximately 68 pounds.

Is this Sakura SRM 300 LT refurbished?

Yes. This unit is used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange.

How does AIE test a used microtome?

American Instrument Exchange evaluates the instrument's mechanical operation, specimen advance, handwheel, chuck adjustment, trimming controls, blade-holder functions, locking mechanisms, illumination, and general operating condition.

Does the refurbished SRM 300 LT include a warranty?

Yes. American Instrument Exchange includes a 90-day warranty with this refurbished microtome.

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