DNA Engine Tetrad 2 Thermal Cycler Operations Manual
3-6 Tech Support: 1-800-4BIORAD • 1-800-424-6723 • www.bio-rad.com
384-Well Microplate Specifics
Some users find that a 384-well microplate can be difficult to remove from the 384-well
block after completing their thermal cycling protocol. The plate fits very snugly in the block,
and the 384 points of contact can provide a significant amount of friction. Fortunately, it is
relatively simple to ameliorate this problem if it occurs in your application.
In our experience, a very thin coating of a Teflon-based dry lubricant sprayed onto the
block will solve the sticking problem very effectively. The coating eventually wears off so
the block should be re-coated as needed, probably about once every 10 to 20 runs. Your
experience will be the best guide in establishing the frequency for re-coating. As you will
see, a very thin coat is sufficient to eliminate any sticking.
TFE (tetra-fluoroethylene) dry lubricant is available from many sources. One source in the
United States is:
Miller-Stephenson Chemical Co., Inc.
in Danbury, CT: 203-743-4447
in Morton Grove, IL: 847-966-2022
in Sylmar, CA: 818-896-4714
TFE Dry Lubricant/Release Agent
Cat.# MS-122DF (aerosol, 10 oz can) approx. $10.50/can
Here are some guidelines for applying the TFE lubricant:
1. Cool the block and lid to room temperature (below 38°C).
2. Cover the lid and any other areas that you don’t want to get slippery.
3. Shake the can well.
4. Spray for about 1 second onto the block.
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