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Thermo Scientific F1-ClipTip
Single Channel
Multichannel
Instructions for Use
User Manual
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This product complies with the European Union Directive 98/79/EC, and it is marked with
a CE marking.
When the product is used in applications related to the Directive 98/79/EC, read the
additional information enclosed in the product package or contact the manufacturer at
info.pipettes@thermofisher.com to ensure correct and safe use.
The CE mark covers the system containing the CE marked F1-ClipTip pipette and the CE
marked ClipTip pipette tips.
Product specifications are subject to change without prior notice. ClipTip is a registered
trademark of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and its subsidiaries.
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CONTENTS
1. INTRODUCTION 4
2. PACKAGE 5
3. MAIN ILLUSTRATION 5
4. SAFETY 6
5. OPERATION 7
6. CALIBRATION AND ADJUSTMENT 9
7. MAINTENANCE 11
8. STERILIZATION 16
9. TROUBLESHOOTING 17
10. APPENDICES 18
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1. Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of a Thermo Scientific® F1-ClipTip® pipette!
The F1-ClipTip is a general purpose air displacement micropipette. Its intended use is for aspirating
and dispensing liquids.
The F1-ClipTip features an innovative interlocking tip interface technology that locks the tip in place
ensuring secure tip attachment and preventing tips from being displaced in the middle of pipetting.
F1-ClipTip operates only with ClipTip
®
tips. For improved ergonomics, tips are attached and ejected
using minimal application pressure. 0.1-2 µl and 10 µl based pipette models use ‘Snap and Lip’ seal
tips.
The F1-ClipTip product offering covers a volume range from 0.1 µl to 1000 µl and includes variable and
fixed volume single channel pipettes as well as multichannel pipettes. The convenient color coding*
system facilitates to identify the correct ClipTip by volume for use.
F1-ClipTip Variable Volume Single Channel
Cat. no. Description Volume range Increment Color Compatible
code ClipTip
4641310N F1-ClipTip 0.1-2 µl 0.1–2 µl 0.002 µl pink ClipTip 12.5 Ext
4641320N F1-ClipTip 1-10 µl 1–10 µl 0.02 µl pink ClipTip 12.5 Ext
4641180N F1-ClipTip 2-20 µl 2–20 µl 0.02 µl pink ClipTip 20
4641190N F1-ClipTip 5-50 µl 5–50 µl 0.1 µl violet ClipTip 50
4641200N F1-ClipTip 10-100 µl 10–100 µl 0.2 µl yellow ClipTip 200
4641210N F1-ClipTip 20-200 µl 20–200 µl 0.2 µl yellow ClipTip 200
4641220N F1-ClipTip 30-300 µl 30–300 µl 1 µl orange ClipTip 300
4641230N F1-ClipTip 100-1000 µl 100–1000 µl 1 µl blue ClipTip 1000
F1-ClipTip Fixed Volume Single Channel
Cat. no. Description Volume range Color code* Compatible ClipTip
4651280N F1-ClipTip 10 µl 10 µl dark blue ClipTip 12.5 Ext
4651200N F1-ClipTip 20 µl 20 µl dark blue ClipTip 20
4651210N F1-ClipTip 25 µl 25 µl dark blue ClipTip 50
4651220N F1-ClipTip 50 µl 50 µl dark blue ClipTip 50
4651230N F1-ClipTip 100 µl 100 µl dark blue ClipTip 200
4651240N F1-ClipTip 200 µl 200 µl dark blue ClipTip 200
4651250N F1-ClipTip 250 µl 250 µl dark blue ClipTip 300
4651260N F1-ClipTip 500 µl 500 µl dark blue ClipTip 1000
4651270N F1-ClipTip 1000 µl 1000 µl dark blue ClipTip 1000
* color coding does not apply to fixed models
F1-ClipTip Multichannel
Cat. no. Description Channels Volume Increment Color Compatible
range code ClipTip
4661210N F1-ClipTip 8-ch 1–10 µl 8 1–10 µl 0.02 µl pink ClipTip 12.5 Ext
4661120N F1-ClipTip 8-ch 5–50 µl 8 5–50 µl 0.1 µl violet ClipTip 50
4661130N F1-ClipTip 8-ch 10–100 µl 8 10–100 µl 0.2 µl yellow ClipTip 200
4661140N F1-ClipTip 8-ch 30–300 µl 8 30–300 µl 1 µl orange ClipTip 300
4661220N F1-ClipTip 12-ch 1–10 µl 12 1–10 µl 0.02 µl pink ClipTip 12.5 Ext
4661160N F1-ClipTip 12-ch 5–50 µl 12 5–50 µl 0.1 µl violet ClipTip 50
4661170N F1-ClipTip 12-ch 10–100 µl 12 10–100 µl 0.2 µl yellow ClipTip 200
4661180N F1-ClipTip 12-ch 30–300 µl 12 30–300 µl 1 µl orange ClipTip 300
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1 Pipetting and volume adjustment button
2 Adjustable finger rest
3 Tip ejector
4 Volume display
5 Space for personal ID tag
6 Tip fitting
7 Tip sealing O-ring
8 Color coding
2. Package
The F1-ClipTip package contains the following items:
1. F1-ClipTip pipette
2. Service tool
3. Multichannel service tool
4. Tip fitting tool
5. Bag of grease 1g (Order No. 3300200)
6. Instructions for Use
7. Calibration certificate / Warranty Certificate
8. O-ring Order No. 2214930 Single Channel Pipette (Scp) 300 (3 pcs)
Order No. 2215540 Scp 1000 (3 pcs)
Order No. 2214920 Multichannel Pipette (Mcp) (12 pcs)
3. Main Illustration
F1-ClipTip
F1-ClipTip
F1-ClipTip
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3.1 . Materials
The F1-ClipTip is made of mechanically durable and chemically resistant materials.
For waste disposal instructions, contact your local environmental agency. For more information,
contact us at info.pipettes@thermofisher.com.
Aggressive substances can damage the pipette or pipette parts. Check for material
compatibility before using organic solvents and aggressive chemicals.
ClipTip pipette tips are made of natural color virgin polypropolyene. The tips feature a hydrophobic
surface, which effectively prevents liquid retention. ClipTips pipette tips come in multiple packaging
options including racks and reload packs, in sterile and non-sterile versions. ClipTip tips are also available
with a filter and are certified free of human DNA, RNase, DNase, ATP and endotoxin contamination.
The material used in F1-ClipTip pipettes and ClipTip tips are as follows:
F1-CLIPTIP PIPETTES
Material
External surfaces of the upper parts:
ABS/PC acrylonitrilebutadienstyrene/polycarbonate
PA polyamide
PEI polyetherimide
Foil
Exterior and interior of lower parts:
PEI polyetherimide
PA polyamide
PVDF polyvinyldenfluoride
EPDM ethylene-propylene-diene rubber
FVM fluorosilicone rubber
Steel stainless steel
PPSU Polyphenylsulfone
CLIPTIP TIPS
Tip PP polypropylene
Filters PE polyethylene
4. Safety
Cautions are marked with this symbol .
4.1. Intended use
The intended use of the device is to transfer liquids in the volume range of 0.1 µl to 1000 µl.
The F1-ClipTip pipette and ClipTip tip are designed as a component of an analyzing system for an end
user, who is responsible for validating the system to ensure reliable and safe results.
Damage to health
Follow general procedures for hazard prevention and safety instructions; e.g. wear
protective clothing, eye protection and gloves.
For use and waste disposal of hazardous (e.g. radioactive and potentially infectious) material,
follow the safety instructions and general laboratory practice.
The pipette and tips are not intended for in vivo use. Do not use the pipette for pipetting any liquid
to be injected into a human body.
Do not eject the tip towards anybody.
The F1-ClipTip is to be used by trained personnel with required laboratory skills. The instructions for
use must be read prior to and during the use of the device (pipette and tip). The F1-ClipTip pipette can
be used between +4°C and +40°C.
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Incorrect dispensing results
Performance may vary due to:
a. pipetting method (forward pipetting technique recommended)
b. temperature (air, liquid, vessel, pipette, and tip)
c. pressure
d. humidity
e. operator, e.g. thumb movement, pipetting angle
f. liquid density, viscosity and vapor pressure
g. type of tip
If the pipetting performance is critical to the outcome of a specific application, the result has to
be assured with an alternative test, and if this is not an option, by duplicate testing.
The possibility of an incorrect volume delivery during pipetting cannot be entirely mitigated.
To avoid inaccurate dispensing and/or leakage, check that the tip is properly attached to
the pipette.
When rotating the volume adjustment button, do not exceed the volume range of the pipette.
Otherwise the pipette may be damaged or affect pipetting performance.
Pipetting performance cannot be guaranteed if the tip is reused.
Choose only a tip and pipette with matching color coding.
Disposal of the Materials
Follow laboratory and country-specific procedures for the disposal of biohazardous or radioactive
waste. Refer to local regulations for the disposal of infectious material.
Warning The tips can be potentially infectious. Dispose of all used disposable tips as biohazardous
waste.
Warning Decontaminate the pipette before disposal.
For waste disposal instructions, contact your local environmental agency. For more information,
please contact us at info.pipettes@thermofisher.com
Regarding the original packaging and packing materials, use the recycling operators known to you.
For more information, contact your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.
5. Operation
Cautions for incorrect operation
For optimum performance, make sure that the tips, pipette and solution are at the same
temperature.
Before you begin your actual pipetting, fill and empty the tip three to five times with the
solution that you will be pipetting.
Push and release the pipetting button slowly at all times particularly when working with high
viscosity liquids. Never allow the pipetting button to snap back.
Do not hold the pipette horizontally or upside down when there is liquid inside the tip. Sample
liquid may enter the pipette, which will affect the pipetting performance and may damage
the pipette.
Operate the pipetting button gently. If it is quickly released, sample liquid may enter the pipette,
which will affect the pipetting performance and may damage the pipette.
Follow the guidance in the “Thermo Scientific Good Laboratory Pipetting Practices” brochure to
minimize the risk of repetitive strain injury (RSI).
5.1 ID-tag
You can mark the pipette ID-tag with your initials, pipetting
application or calibration date. Remove the pipette’s module to
replace the tag. Mark the label and slide the tag together with
the holder back to its slot (Picture 1).
Picture 1
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5.2 Adjusting the finger rest
The finger rest supports the position of the pipette on the
index finger, enhancing ergonomics. The finger rest can be
adjusted by rotating it 60 degrees in both directions from the
center position (Picture 2). Usually right-handed operators
turn it left (counter clockwise) to achieve the best possible
position for the thumb to eject the tip.
5.3 Setting the delivery volume
1. Set the delivery volume using the volume adjustment
button on the top of the pipette (Picture 3). Pull the
button to activate the volume setting.
2. To increase the delivery volume, turn the button
counterclockwise. To decrease the delivery volume,
turn it clockwise.
3. Lock the volume by pushing the button down.
4. Check the volume on the display.
NOTE! Do not set volumes outside the pipette´s specified
volume range. Using excessive force to turn the volume
adjustment button outside the range may jam the
mechanism and eventually damage the pipette.
5.4 Tip attachment
0.1-10µl models
0.1-2 μl and 10 μl pipette models use ‘Snap and Lip’ seal tips. The tip has small
incorporated protrusions that snap on the tip fitting flange, ensuring secure tip
attachment with little force. The flexible plastic lip design seals the tip against
the tip fitting.
1. To attach the tip, guide the pipette into a ClipTip in a rack and press until
the tip is attached. The tip is attached when it snaps over the tip fitting
flange. Do not use excessive force when attaching the tips as thedevice
requires minimum attachment force. (Picture 4a)
2. Lift the pipette.
3. If the tip is not attached, repeat Steps 1 and 2.
20-1000µl modes
1. To attach the tip, guide the pipette into a ClipTip in a rack and
press with light force until the tip is attached. A delicate click sound
will indicate that the tip is attached. The tip is attached when the
clips* (Picture 4b) are locked to the tip fitting.
Do not use excessive force when attaching the tips as the device
requires minimum attachment force.
2. Lift the pipette.
3. If the tip is not attached, repeat Steps 1 and 2.
Incorrect use of tips
Use only ClipTip tips with an F1-ClipTip pipette.
Check that all clips are locked to ensure tip sealing.
ClipTip tips are designed for single use only.
To ensure sterility and purity of tips check that the package is unbroken.
Check that the tip is complete and unbroken. Check for foreign particles in the tip.
Check that the filter tips have filters in place and that each filter is unbroken and not tilted.
5.5 Aspirating and dispensing liquid
1. Fill a suitable vessel with the liquid to be dispensed.
2. Depress the pipetting button to the first stop (Picture 5).
3. Dip the tip under the surface of the liquid in the reservoir to a depth of about 1 cm
and slowly release the button.
Picture 4b
*
Picture 2
+
1
2
Picture 3
Picture 4a
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Withdraw the tip from the liquid by moving
it against the edge of the reservoir to
remove excess liquid.
4. Deliver the liquid by gently depressing the
button to the first stop. After a delay of
about one second, continue to depress the
button all the way to the second stop. This action
will empty the tip.
5. Withdraw the tip by moving it against the edge of
the target container.
Ensure proper functioning of 2-20µl single channel and 5-50µl pipettes
The F1-ClipTip 2-20µl single channel pipette and 5-50µl pipettes utilize an innovative super blow-out
piston technology to ensure efficient liquid delivery with small volumes. In pipettes with the super
blow-out piston three separate movements are observed (Picture 6) when the plunger is pressed
down to dispense liquid:
1. Primary plunger movement – delivers the set volume amount
2. Blow-out – additional phase to dispense residual liquid
3. Super blow-out – enhances the effectiveness of blow-out
When the pipette is not used for a period of time, the plunger movement may become stiff due to
hardening of grease. In rare cases this can affect the functionality of the super blow-out piston,
which can become temporarily jammed. To ensure proper functionality it is recommended to press
the plunger several times to the final stop (step 3 in picture) before dosing the sample liquid. This
releases the piston and re-distributes the lubricant.
NOTE! If the super blow-out piston is jammed, increased force might be required to release it. Ensure
that plunger moves to the down position (Picture 6).
For more information about different pipetting techniques, check the Good Laboratory Pipetting
Guide online.
5.6 Tip ejection
To release the tip, point the pipette at a suitable waste receptacle and press the tip ejector with
your thumb.
6. Calibration and Adjustment
6.1 Factory calibration limits
F1-ClipTip pipettes are factory calibrated and adjusted to give the volumes as specified with distilled
or deionized water using the forward pipetting technique. Manufacturer specifications are shown on
the pipette calibration certificate and in Appendix 2. The pipette should be recalibrated for use with
any tip type not named on the Calibration Certificate.
Cautions for calibration and pipette adjustment
It should be noted that the use of different pipetting techniques may affect the calibration
results. The pipettes are constructed to permit re-adjustment for other pipetting techniques,
types of tips, or liquids of a different temperature or viscosity.
1 2 3 4
Picture 5
Plunger in down position
Plunger in up position
Picture 6
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The performance of a new and serviced pipette must be checked and documented.
The manufacturer’s specifications should be used as guidelines and the user should establish
acceptable imprecision and inaccuracy performance limits (ISO 8655).
The user determines the performance and applicability of the pipette and tip combination
for a particular application and determine the required interval for performance checking.
Before starting the actual dosing, pre-rinse the tip with the liquid by filling and emptying the
tip three to five times to improve accuracy and precision.
6.2 Test conditions and equipment
An analytical balance must be used. The scale graduation value of the balance should be chosen
according to the selected test volume of the pipette:
Volume range Readable graduation
under 10 µl 0.001 mg
10–100 µl 0.01 mg
above 100 µl 0.1 mg
The test liquid is deionized distilled “grade 3” water in compliance with ISO 3696. Tests are done in a
draft-free room at a constant (±0.5°C) temperature between 15°C to 30°C. The relative humidity must
be above 50%. Especially with volumes under 50 µl, air humidity should be as high as possible to reduce
the effect of evaporation loss. Special accessories, such as an evaporation trap, are recommended.
6.3 Procedure to check calibration
The pipette is checked at maximum volume (nominal volume) and minimum volume (or 10% of the
maximum volume). A new tip is first pre-wetted three to five times and a series of ten pipettings
is done at both volumes. A pipette is always adjusted according to the delivery of the selected
volume. Use of the forward pipetting technique is recommended. The maximum permissible errors
are valid for the forward pipetting method. It is recommended to use the ISO8655 calibration limits in
Appendix 3 or user-defined specifications.
Procedure:
1. Do 10 pipettings at the minimum volume (or 10% of the maximum volume).
2. Do 10 pipettings at the maximum volume.
3. Calculate the inaccuracy (A) and imprecision (CV) of both series.
4. Compare the results to the limits.
If the calculated results are within the selected limits, the adjustment of the pipette is correct.
Pipette adjustment
Adjustment is done only for one volume. The recommended adjustment volume is the minimum
volume or 10% of the maximum volume.
1. Fit the service tool (Picture 7) into the openings of the
calibration nut at the top of the handle.
2. Turn the service tool clockwise to increase, or
counterclockwise to decrease the volume.
3. After adjustment, check the calibration according to
the instructions above.
Formulas for calculating results
Conversion of mass to volume
V = (w + e) x Z V = volume (µl)
w = weight (mg)
e = evaporation loss (mg)
Z = conversion factor for µl/mg conversion
Evaporation loss can be significant at low volumes. To determine mass loss, dispense water into the
weighing vessel, note the reading and start a stopwatch. Check and note down how much the reading
decreases during 30 seconds (e.g. 6 mg = 0.2 mg/s).
Compare this to the pipetting time from taring to reading. Typically , the pipetting time might be 10
seconds and the mass loss is then 2 mg (10 s x 0.2 mg/s in this example). If an evaporation trap or lid
on the vessel is used, the correction of evaporation is usually unnecessary.
Picture 7
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The factor Z is for converting the weight of the water to volume at the test temperature and pressure.
A typical value is 1.0032 µl/mg at 22°C and 95 kPa. See the conversion table in Appendix 1.
Inaccuracy (systematic error)
Inaccuracy is the difference between the dispensed volume and the selected volume of a pipette.
A = V - V
0
A = inaccuracy
V = mean volume
V
0
= nominal volume
Inaccuracy can be expressed as a relative value: A% = 100% x A / V
0
Imprecision (random error)
Imprecision refers to the repeatability of the pipettings. It is expressed as standard deviation (S) or
coefficient of variation (CV)
S = standards deviation
V = mean volume
n = number of measurements
Standard deviation can be expressed as a relative value: CV = 100% x S / V
7. Maintenance
Cautions for incorrect maintenance
The pipette should be regularly serviced according to the instructions for use.
The pipette performance and functioning must be checked after maintenance.
Aggressive substances can damage the pipette or pipette parts. Check for material
compatibility before using organic solvents and aggressive chemicals.
Use only original Thermo Scientific spare parts and ClipTip tips.
Avoid excess grease. Use only the grease provided with the pipette.
Annual pipette usage varies significantly among laboratories, and the types of substances being
aspirated and dispensed also vary tremendously among laboratories. In order to maintain proper
care of the pipette, it is the laboratory’s responsibility to develop a proper maintenance program
that meets its specific needs and requirements.
When the F1-ClipTip is not in use, make sure it is stored in an upright position. We recommend
a pipette stand for this purpose.
When shipping the device for service or inspection, make sure that it is completely free of
chemical, biological, or radioactive contamination.
7.1 Daily maintenance
The pipette should be checked at the beginning of each day for dust and dirt on its outside surfaces.
Particular attention should be paid to the tip cone. To clean the pipette, we recommend wiping it with
a napless cloth wetted with 70% ethanol.
Leakage test
A leakage test can be performed at any time. It is recommended to be carried out after maintenance
or autoclaving.
Pre-wet the tip three to five times with water.
Aspirate a nominal volume of water into the tip.
Place the pipette on a stand or keep it firmly in your hand.
Wait for 20 seconds.
If a drop falls within 20 s, the pipette is leaking.
If the pipette leaks, see Chapter 9: “Troubleshooting” for possible reasons and solutions.
7.2 Periodic maintenance
The maintenance procedure starts with the disassembly of the pipette.
F1-ClipTip O-rings 5.1 are wearing parts. It is recommended to replace O-rings regularly to
ensure proper sealing. Always replace the O-rings if they are worn or damaged.
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