17 Cleaning, Sterilizing and Autoclaving

The blade holder can be fitted or removed from the vibrating head using the 2.5mm hexagonal driver supplied in the Toolkit. The blade holder may be autoclaved using standard procedures. Replacement blade holders are available for purchase should the original items be lost, damaged or an extra is required for continual use.

The stainless-steel inner bath and tissue mounts are made from magnetic stainless steel. This steel is not completely immune from the effects of salt buffers and the items should be thoroughly rinsed with clean water after use.

The tissue mounts and the inner stainless steel bath are autoclavable. The tissue mount is located by a circular magnet to the inner bath, and the two may be separated by simply pulling the items apart. Similarly, the Inner Bath is also located in the Outer Bath by magnets and may be separated by pulling them apart.

Autoclaving of the tissue mounts and inner bath may be carried out using standard procedures. The outer bath and its associated parts are not autoclavable, nor should they be dismantled.

Additional or replacement outer baths, inner baths, and tissue mounts are available for purchase.

Should the vibrating head require cleaning due to splashing or build-up of aerosol residue from bath solutions, the cover must be removed.

Procedure to remove the cover:

  1. Remove the Blade from the Blade Holder.
  2. Remove the Blade Holder.
  3. Using the Move Screen commands lower the Stage/Outer Bath to the lowest possible position. BOTTOM will be displayed on the Stage position window and advance the blade position to its maximum forward position so that FRONT will be displayed on the Advance position window.
  4. Switch OFF the 9000SMZ and unplug from the mains supply. The blade advance and Stage will remain in their current position.
  5. Remove the Outer Bath
  6. Remove the four retaining screws on the cover using the 2.5mm hexagonal driver supplied in the Toolkit. Figure
  7. Clean the front and rear faces of the Blade Holder mounting plate, and inside the cover using soapy water and a soft cloth. DO NOT use chlorinated bleach or anything that could be corrosive.
  8. Check that the clearances between the drive magnets, hinges, and leaf springs are free of dust and salt residue.
  9. Refit the cover with the four fixing screws.
  10. Plug in and switch the 9000SMZ ON and the Advance and Stage mechanisms will return to their "Home" positions.