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Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 Cryostat – Used and Refurbished
The Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 Cryostat is a precision refrigerated microtome designed for preparing thin frozen sections of biological tissues and other compatible materials for microscopic examination. Featuring the OTF 5000/LS-004 configuration and an integrated Model 5040 rotary-retracting microtome, this system combines low-temperature specimen preparation with precise mechanical sectioning and independently controlled specimen temperature.
The Ultra Pro 5000 operates at chamber temperatures as low as −35°C and offers a section thickness range of 0.5–30 µm. Its advanced specimen temperature control allows researchers to adjust tissue temperature independently of the cryostat chamber, helping optimize cutting conditions for different tissue types.
This capability is particularly valuable when sectioning difficult specimens such as brain, breast, fatty tissue, and other materials whose cutting characteristics depend strongly on temperature.
Additional features include automatic evaporator defrost, digital temperature displays, fine specimen orientation, motorized specimen advance and rewind, and a quick-release blade holder.
This Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 is available used and refurbished from American Instrument Exchange. The cryostat is inspected, cleaned, and tested before shipment, including verification of operating temperature with an external probe. A 90-day warranty is included.
Key Features
Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 refrigerated cryostat
OTF 5000/LS-004 configuration
Integrated Model 5040 rotary-retracting microtome
Minimum chamber temperature of −35°C
Independently controlled specimen temperature
Section thickness range of 0.5–30 µm
Section thickness adjustment in 0.5 µm increments
Precision specimen orientation with macro and fine adjustments
Two-speed motorized specimen advance and rewind
Single-compressor refrigeration system
Automatic evaporator defrost
Digital chamber temperature display
Buffered quartz defrost timer
Quick-release Feather blade holder
Manual handwheel-controlled sectioning
Used and refurbished by American Instrument Exchange
90-day warranty included
Overview
Cryostats are essential instruments in histology, pathology, neuroscience, and biomedical research laboratories where frozen tissue sections must be prepared without conventional paraffin processing.
The Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 combines a refrigerated chamber with a precision rotary microtome, allowing tissue specimens to be frozen, maintained at suitable cutting temperatures, and sectioned within the same instrument.
Its OTF 5000/LS-004 configuration is especially useful for challenging tissue specimens because the specimen temperature can be controlled separately from the chamber temperature.
This allows researchers to optimize tissue consistency during sectioning rather than relying entirely on a single chamber temperature.
The integrated Model 5040 rotary-retracting microtome provides precise specimen advancement and a controlled cutting stroke, supporting the preparation of thin sections for staining and microscopy.
Common Applications
The Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 supports frozen-section histology, neuroscience research, brain tissue sectioning, surgical pathology, anatomical pathology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, tissue morphology studies, pharmaceutical research, and preparation of frozen specimens for microscopic examination.
It may also support compatible materials science applications involving polymers, plastics, rubber, fibers, and other materials that benefit from controlled-temperature sectioning.
Application suitability depends on specimen preparation, material hardness, blade selection, and the required section thickness.
Ideal Laboratory Types
The Ultra Pro 5000 is well suited to neuroscience laboratories, hospital pathology departments, clinical histology facilities, biomedical research institutions, veterinary pathology laboratories, pharmaceutical research groups, biotechnology companies, and academic research facilities.
Its independent specimen temperature control makes it particularly attractive to laboratories processing multiple tissue types with different optimal cutting temperatures.
Key Specifications
Specification
Details
Manufacturer / Brand
Vibratome
Model
Ultra Pro 5000
Configuration
OTF 5000/LS-004
AIE Inventory Number
1786A
Equipment Type
Refrigerated Cryostat Microtome
Integrated Microtome
Model 5040 Rotary-Retracting
Minimum Chamber Temperature
−35°C
Refrigeration
Heavy-Duty Single Compressor
Specimen Temperature Control
Independent of Chamber Temperature
Section Thickness Range
0.5–30 µm
Section Thickness Increments
0.5 µm
Cutting Operation
Manual Rotary Handwheel
Specimen Advance / Rewind
Two-Speed Motorized
Specimen Orientation
Fine X/Y Adjustment
Standard 5040 Specimen Retraction
Approximately 50 µm
Maximum Microtome Head Advance
5.6 mm
Knife Block Coarse Adjustment
44 mm
Knife Angle Adjustment
25°
Blade Holder
Quick-Release Feather Type
Chamber Temperature Display
Digital
Defrost
Automatic Evaporator Defrost
Defrost Timer
Buffered Quartz
Warranty
90 Days
Condition
Used / Refurbished
The OTF 5000 platform was offered in multiple configurations. Specifications for optional accessories, ultra-low-temperature freezing stages, and motorized cutting should not be assumed to apply to this particular unit unless confirmed.
Independent Specimen Temperature Control
One of the most important features of the Ultra Pro 5000 is its ability to regulate specimen temperature independently of the cryostat chamber.
Different tissues often require different cutting temperatures to produce consistent sections.
For example, fatty tissues may require colder conditions to achieve sufficient firmness, while certain brain tissues can become brittle if cooled excessively.
The specimen temperature control system allows the operator to adjust tissue temperature without changing the entire chamber environment.
This can help reduce section compression, cracking, curling, and other cutting artifacts associated with unsuitable specimen temperature.
Positive Temperature Gradient
The independent specimen temperature system allows the specimen to be maintained warmer than the surrounding chamber and blade.
This creates a positive temperature difference between the specimen and cutting surface.
The technique can improve sectioning behavior for certain difficult tissues by allowing the specimen to retain the appropriate consistency while the blade remains colder.
The optimal temperature difference depends on tissue type, embedding medium, section thickness, and blade configuration.
Refrigeration to −35°C
The Ultra Pro 5000 uses a heavy-duty single-compressor refrigeration system capable of maintaining chamber temperatures as low as −35°C under appropriate operating conditions.
This provides the low-temperature environment required for preparing frozen tissue sections.
Temperature selection should be based on the specimen rather than simply using the lowest available setting.
Excessively cold tissue may become brittle, while tissue that is too warm may compress or smear during sectioning.
The ability to select and monitor chamber temperature helps researchers establish appropriate cutting conditions.
Model 5040 Rotary-Retracting Microtome
The integrated Model 5040 is a precision rotary microtome designed for reliable frozen-section preparation.
Its retracting mechanism moves the specimen away from the blade during the return stroke, helping reduce unnecessary contact with the cutting edge.
The microtome provides a section thickness range of 0.5–30 µm in 0.5 µm increments.
This allows researchers to prepare thin frozen sections for routine histological examination and specialized microscopy applications.
The cutting stroke is manually controlled through the handwheel, while the LS configuration provides motorized assistance for specimen advancement and rewind.
Precision Section Thickness Control
The Ultra Pro 5000 provides a broad range of section thickness settings suitable for frozen tissue preparation.
Thin sections may be used for detailed cellular examination, while thicker sections may be appropriate for certain research applications requiring greater tissue depth.
The 0.5 µm adjustment increments allow operators to make small changes when optimizing section quality.
Actual section consistency depends on temperature, tissue preparation, blade condition, specimen orientation, and cutting technique.
Motorized Specimen Advance and Rewind
The LS configuration incorporates two-speed motorized specimen advance and rewind.
These functions simplify positioning the tissue block relative to the cutting blade.
Motorized adjustment is particularly useful when changing specimens, trimming blocks, or preparing for a new sectioning procedure.
It reduces the need for repeated manual coarse positioning while retaining handwheel control over the cutting stroke.
Fine Specimen Orientation
The Ultra Pro 5000 includes precision specimen orientation controls.
Macro and fine adjustments allow the operator to align the tissue block with the blade in the horizontal and vertical planes.
Correct orientation is important when preparing sections from a particular anatomical region or tissue plane.
Fine adjustment helps reduce unnecessary trimming and allows more precise exposure of the desired tissue surface.
Quick-Release Feather Blade Holder
The system is equipped with a quick-release Feather blade holder.
This design facilitates blade installation and replacement while supporting accurate cutting-edge positioning.
Blade condition and correct clearance-angle adjustment are important for obtaining consistent frozen sections.
Operators should follow appropriate sharps-handling procedures and secure the microtome before changing blades or specimens.
Brain Tissue and Neuroscience Research
Brain tissue is particularly sensitive to sectioning temperature and preparation technique.
If the specimen is too warm, sections may compress or deform. If it is too cold, tissue can become brittle and fracture during cutting.
The Ultra Pro 5000's independent specimen temperature control allows researchers to adjust these conditions more precisely.
This makes the system useful for neuroscience laboratories preparing frozen brain sections for anatomical studies, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and related microscopy applications.
Breast and Fatty Tissue Sectioning
Fat-rich tissues can be challenging to section because they may remain soft at temperatures suitable for other tissue types.
The Ultra Pro 5000 allows the operator to adjust chamber and specimen temperature to improve cutting behavior.
This flexibility can help researchers obtain more consistent sections from fatty specimens.
Optimal settings should be determined experimentally for each tissue preparation.
Frozen-Section Pathology
Cryostats are commonly used in pathology laboratories when tissue sections must be prepared rapidly without the full paraffin-processing workflow.
The Ultra Pro 5000 allows frozen specimens to be sectioned within a refrigerated environment.
Prepared sections may be stained and examined microscopically according to the laboratory's established procedures.
Use in clinical diagnostic workflows requires appropriate validation, maintenance, and compliance with applicable laboratory requirements.
Automatic Evaporator Defrost
The Ultra Pro 5000 incorporates automatic evaporator defrost.
Defrosting helps manage frost accumulation within the refrigeration system and supports consistent cooling performance.
The buffered quartz timer allows defrost scheduling as part of routine instrument operation.
Laboratories should coordinate defrost cycles with their sectioning schedule and specimen storage procedures.
Digital Temperature Monitoring
The cryostat includes digital temperature displays for monitoring operating conditions.
Temperature information helps operators determine whether the chamber has reached the desired setting before beginning sectioning.
For temperature-sensitive applications, independent verification using an external calibrated probe may be appropriate.
Cryostat vs. Room-Temperature Rotary Microtome
Unlike the Microm HM335E and Leica RM2155 rotary microtomes, the Ultra Pro 5000 includes an integrated refrigeration system.
The HM335E and RM2155 are primarily used for sectioning paraffin-embedded tissue at room temperature.
The Ultra Pro 5000 is designed for frozen specimens maintained within a refrigerated chamber.
This distinction makes it particularly useful when tissue must be examined without conventional paraffin embedding or when frozen-section methods are required.
Cryostat vs. Vibrating Microtome
Despite the Vibratome branding, the Ultra Pro 5000 is a refrigerated rotary cryostat, not a conventional vibrating-blade microtome.
A vibrating microtome typically uses a horizontally vibrating blade to section suitable fresh or fixed tissue, often in a liquid-filled specimen bath.
The Ultra Pro 5000 instead uses a rotary-retracting microtome within a refrigerated chamber.
Its primary application is the preparation of frozen sections.
Refurbishment and Testing by American Instrument Exchange
American Instrument Exchange inspects and tests used cryostats before shipment.
For the Ultra Pro 5000, relevant testing includes evaluation of the refrigeration system, chamber temperature control, independent specimen temperature regulation, defrost operation, digital displays, specimen advance and rewind, microtome handwheel, retraction mechanism, blade holder, and installed accessories.
AIE verifies operating temperature using an external probe and evaluates the instrument's response to selected temperature settings.
The microtome is inspected for smooth mechanical operation and appropriate response to specimen positioning controls.
Accessible chamber surfaces and components are cleaned before shipment.
Customers with specific sectioning requirements or temperature-verification requests are encouraged to discuss those requirements with AIE before purchase.
The refurbished Ultra Pro 5000 includes a 90-day warranty.
Shipping and Installation
The Ultra Pro 5000 is a floor-standing refrigerated cryostat that requires suitable laboratory floor space, electrical service, and ventilation around the refrigeration system.
The instrument should be installed on a stable, level surface away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.
Adequate clearance should be provided for compressor ventilation, service access, and routine cleaning.
Electrical requirements and overall dimensions should be confirmed for AIE inventory unit 1786A before installation.
Following delivery, the cryostat should be allowed to stabilize and its temperature controls, defrost system, and microtome functions should be checked before routine sectioning.
American Instrument Exchange supplies used and refurbished cryostats, microtomes, microscopes, cold-storage equipment, and other instruments for histology, pathology, neuroscience, and biomedical research laboratories.
Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000 FAQs
What is the Vibratome Ultra Pro 5000?
The Ultra Pro 5000 is a refrigerated cryostat with an integrated rotary-retracting microtome for preparing thin frozen sections of biological tissues and compatible materials.
What is the minimum chamber temperature?
The cryostat is rated for chamber temperatures as low as −35°C.
What is the section thickness range?
The integrated Model 5040 microtome provides a section thickness range of 0.5–30 µm in 0.5 µm increments.
Can specimen temperature be controlled independently?
Yes. The OTF 5000/LS-004 configuration includes independent specimen temperature control, allowing tissue temperature to be adjusted separately from chamber temperature.
Is the Ultra Pro 5000 suitable for brain tissue?
Yes. Its independent specimen temperature control is particularly useful for optimizing frozen sectioning conditions for brain tissue and other challenging specimens.
Is the cutting stroke motorized?
The LS configuration uses a manual rotary handwheel for sectioning, with motorized specimen advance and rewind. Fully motorized cutting should not be assumed for this unit.
Does the cryostat have automatic defrost?
Yes. The system includes automatic evaporator defrost with a buffered quartz timer.
Is this a vibrating-blade microtome?
No. Despite the Vibratome name, the Ultra Pro 5000 uses a rotary-retracting microtome within a refrigerated chamber.
Does American Instrument Exchange test the refrigeration system?
Yes. AIE tests cryostat operation and verifies temperature using an external probe.
Does the refurbished Ultra Pro 5000 include a warranty?
Yes. American Instrument Exchange includes a 90-day warranty.
Click here to see a video of this cryostat on our YouTube channel.
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.
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.
