The Corning® Lambda™ EliteTouch™ single-channel pipettor
is a volumetric instrument designed to measure and
transfer liquids precisely and safely. It can accommodate
volumes from 0.1 μL to 1000 μL depending on the model.
Corning Lambda EliteTouch 8-channel and 12-channel
pipettors have been designed for microplate lling.
The pipettors enable precise and simultaneous delivery
of 8 or 12 preset volume doses of liquid. These pipettors are
produced in four volume ranges: 0.5-10 μL, 5-50 μL, 20-200 μL,
and 30-300 μL.
Model Volume Range
(µL)
Single-channel pipettors
260500.1-2
1060510.5-10
2060522-20
5060535-50
100605410-100
200605520-200
10006056100-1000
8-channel and 12-channel Pipettors
8-10
12-10
8-50
12-50
8-200
12-200
8-300
12-300
Cat. No.
6057
6061
6058
6062
6059
6063
6060
6064
Corning pipettors operate on the air-cushion principle
(i.e., the aspirated liquid does not come into contact with
the shaft or plunger of the pipettor). The liquid is drawn
to the disposable tips that are attached to the pipettor.
Range of Pipettor
Volumes (µL)
0.5-10
5-50
20-200
30-300
INSTRUCTION MANUAL – 1
2. Packing
The pipettors are delivered with the following:
DescriptionQuantity
Pipettor1
Instruction manual1
Quality control certicate 1
Calibration key 1
Pipettor hanger1
Lubricant (single-channel pipettor)1
Set of 3 colored pipetting pushbuttons
(yellow, blue, red)
1
3. Pipettor Design
A
B
C
D
HandleShaft and piston area
E
F
G
R
H
I
Single- and Mul-channel Pipeors
A. Pipetting pushbutton
B. Volume adjustment knob: Used to set and lock the preset
volume.
Module
C. Cap: Protects the calibration spot.
D. Ejector pushbutton
E. Calibration switch: Switches the pipettor from operating
mode to calibration mode (CAL).
F. Volume counter: Four-digit volume counter indicates
the preset volume.
G. Counter overlay: The overlay is printed with the range
of the aspirated volume according to the pipettor model.
H. Tip ejector: For multi-channel pipettors, the tips are
ejected sequentially, which reduces the required force.
I. Shaft holder set: Made of high quality plastic, ensuring
high chemical and mechanical strength.
R. Multi-channel manifold: Contains a set of plungers
and a set of exible-suspension shafts, reducing
the required tip attachment force.
Model Idencaon
Pipettor model volume range is printed on the counter
overlay. Additionally, it is printed on the tip ejector bar
in the multi-channel pipettors.
Materials Used
Handle parts:
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polycarbonate (PC)
• Polyacetal (POM)
• Stainless steel
Shaft and piston area parts:
• Polypropylene (PP)
• Polyvinylidene uoride (PVDF)
• Polyphenylene sulde (PPS)
• Polyamide (PA)
• Fluoropolymer elastomer
• Stainless steel
4. Safety Recommendations
Long-term and correct pipettor operation depends mainly
on the method of use. Please read the Instructions for Use
of the pipettor carefully and follow the rules described herein.
Symbols used:
Danger, risk of injury.
NOTERisk of damage to the pipettor or errors in pipetting.
• The pipettor is designed for the transfer of liquids
only in the tip. Do not draw liquids without the tip
attached. The aspirated liquid should not get inside the
pipettor, as it may damage the pipettor.
• The single use of the tip reduces the risk of contamination
of samples.
• Keep the pipettor clean, avoiding the use of aggressive
substances (e.g., acetone) for cleaning purposes.
• Do not place the pipettor horizontally if there is liquid
in the tip.
• Only using the pipettor in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions ensures the correct pipettor
parameters are maintained.
• After replacing the plunger or the shaft, the pipettor
should be calibrated.
• In the case of incorrect operation, the device should
be cleaned in accordance with the instructions for use
or transferred to a service point.
• Ambient operating temperature: -5°C – 45°C
• Ambient storage conditions: -25°C – 55°C
When working with the pipettor:
• Follow general work safety regulations regarding hazards
related to work in the laboratory.
• Take special care when pipetting aggressive substances.
• Use protective clothing, goggles, and protective gloves.
• Avoid pointing the pipettor with the tip attached and
lled at yourself or at others.
• Only use parts and accessories recommended by the
manufacturer.
5. Specications
The pipettor is a high quality instrument which offers
excellent accuracy and precision. The accuracy and
precision (repeatability) of the liquid volume depends on
the quality of pipet tips used. The values for accuracy and
precision shown in the table below were obtained using
Corning® pipet tips. It is recommended to use these tips
to obtain proper compatibility with the pipettors and proper
parameters of accuracy and precision of the aspirated liquid.
The accuracy and precision are obtained gravimetrically using
Corning® pipet tips performing at least 10 measurements
of distilled water at a temperature of 20°C ± 1°C according
to the EN ISO 8655 standard.
The design of the pipettor enables the user to recalibrate it
according to the information presented in Section 9.
6. Pipettor Operation
Attaching the Tips
• Attach the tip corresponding to the model on the pipettor
on the shaft (Section 5).
• Position the pipettor vertically when putting on the tips.
• Single-channel pipettors, when attaching the tip, press
the pipet tip on rmly using a slight twisting motion.
This will ensure an airtight seal.
• Multi-channel pipettors, when attaching the tips on the
shafts, press the pipettor against the tips in the rack box
until the shafts retract approximately 1.5 mm into the
manifold. The suspension system of the shafts ensures even
and tight sealing of the pipet tips. The rocking movement
does not have to be performed to seal the pipet tips tightly.
✓✕✓✕
ABC
A. To enable volume selection, set the black adjustment
knob to the upper position.
B. To set a certain value, turn the knob. The volume is
indicated by the counter and its value consists of four
digits that should be read from top to bottom. Digits
on the bottom drum represent the scale division for
the pipettor model. See scale intervals in Section 5.
The volume range of the pipettor model is shown on
the counter overlay.
C. After the desired volume has been set, move the knob
down to avoid an inadvertent change of the volume.
Examples of counter indications
The white mark
separates the
integer part from
the decimal part of
the aspirated liquid
volume in µL.
Volume Ranges0.1-2 µL5-50 µL100-1000 µL
NOTE:
• Do not attach the tips with a swinging movement,
as this may damage the shaft or plunger. Observe this
rule particularly with single-channel pipettors of low
volume range.
• Never draw liquids directly into the pipettor without
the tip attached.
Volume Setting
NOTE: The red calibration switch above the counter
should remain in the lower position during
operation. Otherwise, any change in volume will
result in a loss of calibration of the pipettor.
To attain the maximum accuracy, the set volume must be
approached from a higher value by diminishing counter
readings. Before reaching the desired value, reduce the
speed of turning the adjustment knob to not exceed this
value.
7. Operating Instructions
Observing the following recommendations will ensure
maximum possible accuracy and precision of liquid sampling.
• During operation, the pipettor’s volume setting should be
locked, the black adjustment knob should be in the lower
position.
• The pipettor is equipped with a counter operating mode
switch, the calibration switch located under the CAL sign
on the counter overlay. This switch should only be used
when the pipettor is calibrated (upper position marked
as CAL on the switch).
• Make sure to operate the pipettor slowly and smoothly.
• The depth of immersion in the sample liquid should be
the minimum necessary and should remain constant
during aspiration. The recommended immersion depths
are given in the table below:
Model Volume Range [μL]Immersion Depth [mm]
0.1-1≤1
1-100 2-3
101-10002-4
8. Aspiration and Dispensing Instructions
• The pipettor should be held in a vertical position.
• Change the pipet tip when volume setting is changed
or when a different liquid is to be aspirated.
• Change the pipet tip if a droplet remains on the end
of the tip from the previous pipetting operation.
• Each new pipet tip should be pre-rinsed with the liquid to
be pipetted.
• Liquid should never enter the pipettor shaft. To prevent this:
– Press and release the pushbutton slowly and smoothly.
– Never turn the pipettor upside down.
– Never lay the pipettor on its side when there is liquid in
the tip.
• Never force the volume setting beyond its recommended
limits.
• When pipetting liquids with temperatures different from
the ambient temperature, it is recommended to pre-rinse
the tip several times before use.
• Do not pipette liquids with temperatures above 70°C.
NOTE: When pipetting acids or corrosive solutions which
emit vapors, it is recommended to disassemble the shaft
and rinse the piston and seal with distilled water after
nishing the pipetting operation.
Aspirating Liquid
1. Press the pushbutton to the rst positive stop.
Holding the pipettor vertically, immerse the pipet tip
into the sample liquid. The depth to which the pipet
tip is immersed in the sample liquid depends on
the model (for recommended values see Section 7).
If the pipet tip is not immersed to the recommended
depth or if the pipetting pushbutton is rapidly
released, air may enter the disposable pipet tip.
2. Release the pipetting pushbutton slowly and smoothly
to aspirate the sample. Wait one second and then
withdraw the pipet tip from the liquid.
Do not touch the used tip.
Dispensing Liquid
3. Place the end of the pipet tip against the inside wall
of the vessel at an angle of 10° to 40°. Then, press the
pushbutton smoothly to the rst stop. Wait one second.
4. Press the pushbutton to the second stop to expel any
remaining liquid. Keep the pushbutton depressed to the
very end, and remove the pipettor by drawing the pipet
tip against the inside surface of the receiving vessel.
5. Release the pushbutton to its starting position.
6. Eject the pipet tip by pressing the tip ejector button.
Remember to change the pipet tip whenever a different
When pipetting liquids of higher viscosity or lower surface
tension than water (e.g., sera or organic solvents), a lm of
liquid is formed on the inside wall of the pipet tip. This lm
can create an error. As the lm remains relatively constant in
successive pipetting operations with the same tip, this error
can be eliminated by forming the lm before transferring
the rst sample. This is done by aspirating a sample and
dispensing it back into the same vessel. Now, as the lm is
already formed, all of the following samples will have better
accuracy and repeatability.
This pre-rinsing operation should be repeated when
the volume to be aspirated is changed or when a new pipet
tip is used.
NOTE: Normally the degree of error resulting from heavy or
viscous liquids is negligible if pipetting is done slowly and
carefully. It is most important to give the liquids some time
to react to the change of pressure by holding the pipet tip
in its position for at least 2 seconds after the aspiration and
the blow out stroke.
If in extreme cases, this method of operation does not result
in accurate values, recalibrate the pipettor out in accordance
with Section 9.
After calibration, it is recommended to record the recalibration
and the size of the correction introduced, to facilitate
reverse calibration to the standard liquid.
9. Checking Pipetting Accuracy Parameters
and Pipettor Recalibration
The pipettors are factory-calibrated using the gravimetric
method with Corning® pipet tips and distilled water, in
accordance with ISO 8655 guidelines for the maximum
(nominal) liquid volume drawn by the pipettor and for 10%
of the maximum volume according to the values given
(Section 5).
The design of the pipettors enable their recalibration
and adaptation to other pipetting techniques or liquid
properties (i.e., temperature, density and viscosity).
It is recommended to carry out periodic checks of the
operation of the pipettor at least once a year, the period
of operation of the pipettor with no checks depends
on the type of workload (liquids collected), and other
conditions (load intensity and sterilization in the autoclave,
replacement of components) in which the pipettor is used.
If during pipettor operation you nd that the accuracy error
(the difference between the real aspirated volume and
the preset volume) exceeds the permissible value given
in the table in section 5, the pipettor recalibration procedure
should be carried out.
Recalibration of the pipettor consists in setting on the counter
the value of the liquid volume obtained in weighing.
Recalibration of the pipettor is performed only for one liquid
volume drawn by the pipettor. The recommended volume
for recalibration is 10% of the maximum (nominal) value.
Conditions for Checking the Pipetting Accuracy Parameters
The pipetting accuracy is inuenced by such factors as:
tips used, characteristics of the pipetted liquid (density,
viscosity), or operating conditions (ambient temperature,
pressure).
To determine the accuracy error of the pipettor, the following
conditions should be met:
• Ambient temperature and the temperature of the
pipettor, pipet tips, and liquid should be within the range
of 20°C to 25°C and stabilized during weighing within
±0.5°C.
• Measurements should be conducted using distilled water.
• Balance sensitivity should be suitable for the volume “V”
to be measured:
Volume Checked
(μL)
0.1≤V≤ 100.001
10≤V≤1000.01
V>1000.1
Balance Sensitivity
(mg)
• When calculating the liquid volume aspirated by
the pipettor, the values of conversion factor Z [μL/mg] for
distilled water or a liquid with comparable density should
be taken into account. Sample values of this conversion
factor are given in the following table:
See ISO 8655 for the full table of the value of the conversion
factor Z.
NOTE: Pipetting should be performed in accordance with
the rules described in Sections 7 and 8.
Checking the Pipetting Accuracy Parameters
• Set the pipettor to the calibration volume.
• Perform 10 aspirations, and calculate their average value
in [mg].
• Calculate the volume in [μL] by multiplying the value
in [mg] by the conversion factor Z [μL/mg].
If the average aspirated volume exceeds the permissible
values of the range given in Section 5, the pipettor should
be recalibrated.
Pipettor Recalibration
Make sure that the pipettor is set to the calibration volume
and the volume adjustment knob is locked.
calibration key
1. Remove the cap from the ejector pushbutton.
2. Set the calibration switch to the upper
position (CAL) using the at end of the
calibration key.
3. Insert the calibration key with the cross
end vertically into the hole in the ejector
pushbutton, placing it in the counter’s
“Calibration”
position
calibration knob.
4. Turn the key so that the volume indicated
by the counter is equal to the volume
calculated.
5. Remove the calibration key.
6. Set the calibration switch in the
operating position.
“Operating”
position
7. Fit the ejector pushbutton cap.
8. Repeat the pipetting accuracy check (Section 9: Checking
the pipetting accuracy parameter). If the accuracy error
value is exceeded, repeat the calibration process.
10. Pipettor Maintenance
Depending on the applications and the intensity of use,
the pipettor requires periodic maintenance.
The components most exposed to vapors of aggressive
solutions, such as shaft elements, should be regularly
checked and cleaned.
To properly carry out the maintenance, familiarize yourself
with the design of the shaft holder set shown in Figures
10A, 10B, 10C, and follow the instructions given in this
Section.
Do not use sharp tools for pipettor maintenance. It may
cause damage to the device and affect the user’s safety.
Cleaning
External surfaces of the pipetting pushbutton, the ejector
pushbutton, the handgrip, the shaft nut, and the adjustment
knob may be cleaned using a cloth dampened in isopropyl
alcohol. The remaining parts removed from the pipettor
during pipettor disassembly may be washed with distilled
water or isopropyl alcohol.
NOTE: Before using cleaning agents other than those
recommended by the manufacturer, check the compatibility
charts and consider chemical resistance of the following
plastics: PP, PC, POM, PA, PPS, PVDF used to produce the
pipettor parts.
Dismantling shaft elements of the single-channel pipettor:
• Holding the pipettor handle, slightly unscrew the shaft
holder set and pull the Ejector (H) out of it;
• Still holding the handle, unscrew the remaining part
of the shaft holder set from it.
Then proceed according to the pipettor models shown
below:
To check and clean the shaft and the seal, it is not necessary
to dismantle the entire set. Unscrew the Shaft (J) from the
Shaft holder (K) and remove the O-ring (O), and in the case
of pipettor 2 μL, also the Seal (P).
I
P
O
If you need to clean other components:
• Unscrew the Shaft Cap (M)
• Remove from the Plunger (I) and pipetting Spring (N)
• Remove the Shaft (J) from the Connecting Bush (L)
• Check the condition of components, and clean as
recommended
• Replace any damaged parts
• Assemble the components in reverse order
NOTE: When disassembling, care should be taken so that
the plunger does not pop out under the action of the
pipetting spring.
• Unscrew the Shaft Cap (M) and slide it off the Seal (P) at
the end of the Plunger (I)
• If necessary, remove the O-ring (O) from the Shaft Cap (M)
remove the Plunger (I) with the Seal (P) and pipetting
Spring (N) from the shaft
• Remove the Shaft (J) from the Connecting Bush (L)
• If necessary, remove the Seal (P) from the Plunger (I)
check the condition of components and clean as
recommended
I
J
• Replace any damaged parts
• Assemble the components in reverse order
When inserting the shaft
or the shaft holder set into
the Connecting Bush, make
sure that they are inserted all
the way to the end by gently
rotating the shaft or the shaft
holder while pulling on its end.
Incorrect assembly of the shaft or the shaft holder set
in the threaded bush assembly may result in damage to the
components.
After cleaning the plunger, apply onto its surface a thin layer
of lubricant attached to each pipettor.
NOTE: After replacing the plunger, it is necessary to
recalibrate the pipettor. In the case of any signs of incorrect
operation of the pipet, check the correctness of assembly.
The pipettor can be sterilized in an autoclave at 121°C for
20 minutes. Sterilization under other conditions may cause
damage to the pipettor. It is recommended to:
• Unscrew the shaft nut slightly prior to sterilization and
re-tighten after autoclaving.
• Set the locking ring in upper (unlocked) position prior
to sterilization.
• Sterilize the pipettors in autoclave with an initial vacuum
and drying cycle.
• After sterilization, the pipettor should be dried and cooled
to room temperature.
The precision of the results should not alter if the pipetting
process and autoclaving are carried out as described in this
manual. Because a slight change in the accuracy of the
dosage may occur, it is recommended to:
• Check the calibration of the pipettor after the initial rst,
third, and fth autoclaving cycles and then after every
10 autoclaving cycles.
Ultra Violet (UV) Sterilization
The pipettors are UV resistant. However, the recommended
distance from the radiation source to the exposed element
should be not less than 50 cm. Prolonged and very intense
UV exposure can cause discoloration of pipettor parts
without effecting their performance.
11. Troubleshooting
If you notice an improper pipettor operation, identify
the cause and eliminate the fault. Follow the instructions
in the sequence provided. Replacement of parts should
be required only occasionally and should not occur under
normal pipettor use.
ProblemCauseSolution
Decrease the speed
of pressing the
pipettor pushbutton.
Replace the tip with
a new one.
Droplets of
liquid remain
in the pipet
tip.
The pipet tip is emptied
too fast.
The pipet tip wettability
has increased due to
extensive use.
ProblemCauseSolution
Immerse the tip
deeper according to
the instructions.
Press the pipettor
rmly.
Replace the tip with
a new one.
Press the pipet tip
rmly.
Clean the shaft or
replace it with a new
one.
Disassemble the
shaft set; wash the
shaft, the plunger and
the seal (Section 10:
Cleaning). Replace the
elements with new
ones if necessary.
Apply a small amount
of lubricant onto
the plunger and
reassemble the set
in the correct order.
Unscrew the shaft
set, wash the parts.
Replace the elements
with new ones if
necessary. Apply
a small amount
of lubricant on
the plunger and
reassemble the set
in the correct order.
Droplets
of air appear
in the liquid
aspirated
into the pipet
tip.
The pipettor
incorrectly
aspirates
the liquid
or the liquid
drops out
from the tip.
Uneven
work of the
pipetting set,
the pipetting
pushbutton
gets blocked.
The pipet tip immersion
is too shallow.
The pipet tip is incorrectly
pressed onto the pipettor
shaft.
The tip is damaged or worn
out due to extensive use.
The pipettor tip is
incorrectly pressed onto
the pipettor shaft.
The shaft surface is
damaged or contaminated
at the sealing site.
The plunger or the seal is
damaged due to prolonged
aspiration of aggressive
liquids.
The inside of the pipettor is
contaminated.
No lubrication on the
sealing elements.
The inside of the pipettor
is contaminated due to
aspiration of aggressive
substances.
The inside of the pipettor
is contaminated due to the
liquid entering the pipettor.
No lubrication on the
sealing elements,
e.g. after repeated
autoclaving procedures.
Liquid with properties
other than water (density,
viscosity).
The volume adjustment
knob used in the “CAL”
mode.
Calibrate the pipettor
using the liquid which
is to be pipetted.
Calibrate the pipettor
according to Section 9.
If the problem continues after carrying out the above steps,
contact your Corning representative.
Before returning the pipettor, please ensure the pipettor
is completely free of any chemical, radioactive, or
microbiological contamination which could pose a threat
during transport and repair.
12. Spare Parts
Contact Corning Customer Service to inquire about
availability of spare parts. Pipettor model and name of the
part required should be specied.
NOTE: The replacement of the plunger requires conducting
the calibration procedure according to Section 9.
Corning Incorporated (Corning) warrants that this product
will be free from defects in material and workmanship for
a period of three (3) years from date of purchase. CORNING
DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESSED
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY OR OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. Corning’s sole obligation shall be to repair or
replace, at its option, any product or part thereof that
proves defective in material or workmanship within the
warranty period, provided the purchaser noties Corning
of any such defect. Corning is not liable for any incidental
or consequential damages, commercial loss or any other
damages from the use of this product.
This warranty is valid only if the product is used for its
intended purpose and within the guidelines specied in the
supplied instructions manual. This warranty does not cover
damage caused by accident, neglect, misuse, improper
service, natural forces or other causes not arising from
defects in the original material workmanship. This warranty
does not cover the PTFE seal, O-ring, or shaft. Claims for
transit damage should be led with the transportation
carrier.
In the event this product fails within the specied period
of time because of a defect in material or workmanship,
contact Corning Customer Service at: USA/Canada
1.800.492.1110, outside the U.S.+1.978.442.2200, visit
www.corning.com/lifesciences, or contact your local
support ofce.
Corning Customer Service will help arrange local service
where available or coordinate a return authorization
number and shipping instructions. Products received
without proper authorization will be returned. All items
returned for service should be sent postage prepaid in
the original packaging or other suitable carton, padded to
avoid damage. Corning will not be responsible for damage
incurred by improper packaging. Corning may elect for
onsite service for larger equipment.
Some states do not allow limitation on the length of
implied warranties or exclusion or limitation of incidental
or consequential damages. This warranty gives you specic
legal rights. You may have other rights which vary from state
to state.
No individual may accept for, or on behalf of Corning, any
other obligation of liability, or extend the period of this
warranty.
For your reference, make a note of the model number, serial
number, date of purchase, and supplier here.
Warranty/Disclaimer: Unless otherwise specied, all
products are for research use only. Not intended for use in
diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Corning Life Sciences
makes no claims regarding the performance of these
products for clinical or diagnostic applications.
Corning Incorporated
Life Sciences
836 North St.
Building 300. Suite 3401
Tewksbury. MA 01876
t 800.492.1110
t 978.442.2200
f 978.442.2476
www.corning.com/lifesciences
For additional product information or technical information,
visit www.corning.com/lifesciences or call 800.492.1110.
Outside the United States, call 1.978.442.2200 or contact