2010 Geno/Grinder
Page 13 of 28 SPEX® SamplePrep LLC July 2014
6.0 LOADING THE CLAMP
6.1 Loading the Adjustable Clamp (2189)
The clamp is the most critical component of the Geno/Grinder, as it must be carefully
adjusted to hold the titer plates (or vials, centrifuge tubes, etc.) firmly in place. The up-and-
down motion of the clamp is extremely vigorous. Sample holders (titer plates, vials,
centrifuge tubes, etc.) must be held securely in the clamp during operation to prevent
damage and leakage.
6.1.1 Vials in Holders or Cryo-Blocks
1. Place the sample vials (in the appropriate holder or cryo-block) in the clamp base
(Figure 6). The sample load must be evenly distributed at the front and back of the
clamp to avoid excess wear to the Geno/Grinder. Also, the clamp lid must have an
even surface upon which to rest. If running less than a full holder of vials, be sure to
place vials at the 4 corners to support the clamp lid.
2. Press and hold the button on the lid handle and slide the lid onto the vertical screw
and the guide onto the upright at the back of the clamp (Figure 7).
3. While holding in the button, slide the clamp lid down to rest on top of the sample
vials (Figure 8).
4. Release the button and press down on the lid handle.
5. Turn the handle clockwise until finger tight and ensure that the button has popped
out. It is not necessary to over tighten the clamp lid. Check to see whether the vials
can be moved from side to side in the clamp. If not, the clamp is tight and samples
are secure. If the vials can be moved, tighten the handle gradually until the vials are
secure. If the button does not pop out during tightening, loosen the handle one full
turn and retighten.
6. Close the Geno/Grinder cover and run the unit.
This warning symbol is visible in front of the clamp assembly. It is
essential that samples are securely locked into the sample holder
(clamp assembly) before operation.
NOTE: To maintain proper functionality of the Geno/Grinder, the maximum
recommended total sample load in the clamp assembly is 4 lb. (1.8 kg) Total
sample load includes sample, vials (or titer plates), grinding media, holders (or
cryo-blocks), and nesting trays. For Sample loads exceeding 2.0 lb. (0.9 kg), the
maximum recommended operating rate is 1500 rpm. Sample loads less than 2.0
lb. can be run at rates up to the maximum of 1750 rpm. Operating with loads that
exceed the recommended maximum rate and weight limits can result in damage to
the Geno/Grinder. Therefore, warranty restrictions or invalidation may apply.
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