Thermo Scientific Wellwash User Manual
Thermo Scientific
Wellwash
User Manual
Rev. 1.1, Cat. No. N15777
Copyright
© 2014 Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. All rights reserved. Decon is a trademark of Decon Laboratories Limited.
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Inc. Virkon is a trademark of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affiliates. All (other) trademarks are
the property of Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. and its subsidiaries. Reproduction of the accompanying user
documentation in whole or in part is prohibited.
Disclaimer
Thermo Fisher Scientific reserves the right to change its products and services at any time to incorporate
technological developments. This manual is subject to change without prior notice as part of continuous product
development. Although this manual has been prepared with every precaution to ensure accuracy, Thermo
Fisher Scientific assumes no liability for any errors or omissions, nor for any damages resulting from the
application or use of this information. This manual supersedes all previous editions.
Remarks on screenshots
The version number displayed in screenshots may not always be the one of the currently released version.
No liability for consequential damages
Thermo Fisher Scientific shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential damages whatsoever arising out of
the use or inability to use this product.
Power failure
The system requires uninterrupted power supply in order to operate correctly. Thermo Fisher Scientific has no
responsibility whatsoever for system malfunctions arising from power failures.
Warranty
The Thermo Scientific Microplate Instrumentation products are fully guaranteed against defective parts and
materials, including defects caused by poor workmanship for a period of one year from the date of delivery.
Thermo Fisher Scientific will repair or replace defective parts or materials during the term of warranty at no
extra charge for materials and labor provided that the products were used and maintained in accordance with
instructions from Thermo Fisher Scientific. The warranty is invalid if products have been misused or abused.
For the warranty to be effective, the product must have been purchased either directly from Thermo Fisher
Scientific or from an authorized Thermo Fisher Scientific distributor. The guarantee is not transferable to a third
party without prior written approval from Thermo Fisher Scientific.
This guarantee is subject to the following exclusions:
• Any defects caused by normal wear and tear.
• Defects caused by fire, lightning, flood, earthquake, explosion, sabotage, war, riot or any other
occurrence of the character listed above.
• Refurbished products that are subject to different warranty conditions.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING BUT
NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR
PURPOSE. The seller is not liable for any loss or damage arising out of or in connection with the use of the
product or other indirect damages.
Cat. No. N15777
February 2014
(This translation corresponds to the original master document Thermo Scientific™ Wellwash™ User Manu al,
Cat. No. N15777, Rev. 1.1.)
2
About This User Manual
Intended users
The Thermo Scientific™ Wellwash™ microplate washer can be used as standalone in research and
routine-test laboratories by professional personnel.
How to use this user manual
This user manual is for the following instruments: Wellwash 1x8, Cat. No. 5165000, and Wellwash
1x12, Cat. No. 5165040. It has been written to give you the information you need to:
• Review safety precautions
• Install the Wellwash
• Navigate and edit in the Wellwash user interface
• Operate the instrument
• Make and run wash protocols
• Define wash parameters
• Perform cleaning and maintenance procedures
• Troubleshoot the instrument performance
This user manual also describes all the features and specifications of the Wellwash instrument as
well as ordering information.
Read the manual in its entirety before operating the instrument.
Keep the user manual on the CD provided for future reference. The user manual is an important part
of the instrument and should be readily available during use of the instrument. Keep the user manual
together with the instrument in case you distribute it onwards.
For more information
For the latest information on products and services, visit our websites at:
http://www.thermoscientific.com
http://www.thermoscientific.com/wellwash
http://www.unitylabservices.com
In an effort to produce useful and appropriate documentation, we appreciate any comments you may
have on this user manual to your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative.
Manufacturer
Thermo Fisher Scientific Oy
Ratastie 2, P.O. Box 100
FI-01621 Vantaa
Finland
3
Safety symbols and markings
These symbols are intended to draw your attention to particularly important information and alert you
to the presence of hazards as indicated.
Safety symbols and markings used on the Wellwash
The following symbols and markings appear on the type label and the instrument itself.
Power ON
Power OFF
Serial number
Catalog number
Date of manufacture
Consult instructions for use
WEEE symbol! This product is required to comply with the European Union’s Waste
Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2012/19/EC.
Warning and other markings used in the documentation
The following symbols and markings appear in this user manual.
Warning! Risk of electric shock.
Warning! Biohazard risk.
Warning! Risk of injury to the user(s).
Caution! Risk of damage to the instrument, other equipment or loss of performance or
function in a specific application.
Note! Marks a hint, important information that is useful in the optimum operation of the
system, or an item of interest.
4
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Wellwash Microplate Washer ........................................................ 8
Intended use .................................................................................................................................... 8
Principle of operation ....................................................................................................................... 9
Chapter 2: Installation .................................................................................................................... 10
Unpacking ...................................................................................................................................... 10
How to unpack ............................................................................................................................ 10
Checking delivery for completeness or damage .......................................................................... 10
Environmental requirements........................................................................................................ 10
Setups............................................................................................................................................ 11
Releasing the transport lock ........................................................................................................ 11
Installing the priming vessel ........................................................................................................ 12
Installing the wash head .............................................................................................................. 12
Liquid bottles and channels ......................................................................................................... 14
Connection diagram ............................................................................................................... 15
Installing the liquid bottles ...................................................................................................... 16
Foaming ................................................................................................................................. 17
Connecting the power supply cable ............................................................................................. 18
USB port for PC ............................................................................................................................. 18
Warnings and cautions ................................................................................................................... 18
Electrical ..................................................................................................................................... 18
Defects and abnormal stresses ................................................................................................... 19
Operating precautions and limitations before operation .................................................................. 19
Mechanical checks before switching on ......................................................................................... 20
Installing the aerosol cover............................................................................................................. 20
Switching on .................................................................................................................................. 21
Performing the operational check after switching on ...................................................................... 21
Settings after installation ................................................................................................................ 21
Chapter 3: Wellwash Main Parts .................................................................................................... 22
Front view ...................................................................................................................................... 22
Back view ....................................................................................................................................... 22
Side views ...................................................................................................................................... 23
Liquid system diagram ................................................................................................................... 23
USB memory device port ............................................................................................................... 23
USB PC port .................................................................................................................................. 24
Plate carrier ................................................................................................................................... 24
Wash heads ................................................................................................................................... 24
Shaker ........................................................................................................................................... 24
Chapter 4: Operating the Instrument ............................................................................................. 25
Display and keys for navigating and editing ................................................................................... 25
Menus ............................................................................................................................................ 26
Main menu ..................................................................................................................................... 27
Liquid level detection ................................................................................................................... 27
Chapter 5: Running Protocols ....................................................................................................... 28
General operating procedure for running a protocol ....................................................................... 28
Filling and emptying liquid bottles................................................................................................... 29
Starting ready-made protocols ....................................................................................................... 29
Starting a ready-made protocol with the quick keys (F1-F3) ........................................................ 29
Starting a ready-made protocol from the list ................................................................................ 30
Loading the plate ........................................................................................................................... 30
Priming the system......................................................................................................................... 32
Strip selection ................................................................................................................................ 32
Strip selection with the number keys ........................................................................................... 32
Strip selection with the Layout row .............................................................................................. 33
Starting a run ................................................................................................................................. 34
Canceling a run .............................................................................................................................. 34
5
Chapter 6: Menus, Tabs and Parameters ...................................................................................... 35
Menus ............................................................................................................................................ 35
Main menu/tab ............................................................................................................................... 35
Protocol ....................................................................................................................................... 35
Creating a protocol ................................................................................................................. 36
Creating a protocol in an optional way .................................................................................... 39
Adding new steps to protocols ................................................................................................ 40
Deleting steps from protocols ................................................................................................. 41
Head / Plate ................................................................................................................................ 42
Well ............................................................................................................................................. 42
Microplate requirements ......................................................................................................... 44
Steps ........................................................................................................................................... 44
Wash ...................................................................................................................................... 45
Aspirate .................................................................................................................................. 47
Dispense ................................................................................................................................ 48
Soak ....................................................................................................................................... 49
Prime ...................................................................................................................................... 49
Pause ..................................................................................................................................... 50
Layout .................................................................................................................................... 50
Settings menu ................................................................................................................................ 52
Prime parameters ........................................................................................................................ 52
Sensors ....................................................................................................................................... 53
Wash head configuration ............................................................................................................. 54
System ........................................................................................................................................ 55
Reports ....................................................................................................................................... 55
Maintenance menu ........................................................................................................................ 56
Clean .......................................................................................................................................... 56
Cleaning/Disinfection procedure ............................................................................................. 57
Clean wash head .................................................................................................................... 59
Soak wash head ..................................................................................................................... 60
Move wash head .................................................................................................................... 61
Empty priming vessel ............................................................................................................. 62
Calibration ................................................................................................................................... 63
Starting the calibration ............................................................................................................ 63
Active calibration .................................................................................................................... 64
Calibrate current wash head ................................................................................................... 64
Service ........................................................................................................................................ 68
Chapter 7: Exporting and Importing .............................................................................................. 69
Exporting a protocol ....................................................................................................................... 69
Importing a protocol ....................................................................................................................... 70
Exporting protocols as text files ...................................................................................................... 71
Chapter 8: Deleting ......................................................................................................................... 72
Deleting a protocol ......................................................................................................................... 72
Chapter 9: Shutdown ...................................................................................................................... 73
Shutting down ................................................................................................................................ 73
Chapter 10: Emergency Situations ................................................................................................ 74
Handling abnormal situations ......................................................................................................... 74
Chapter 11: Maintenance ................................................................................................................ 74
Regular and preventive maintenance ............................................................................................. 74
Maintenance checklist ................................................................................................................. 75
Instrument care ........................................................................................................................... 75
Cleaning of the instrument ............................................................................................................. 76
Salt deposit ................................................................................................................................. 76
Cleaning the priming vessel ........................................................................................................... 77
Cleaning the plate carrier ............................................................................................................... 77
Cleaning liquid bottles .................................................................................................................... 78
Checking the liquid level sensors ................................................................................................... 79
Autoclavation ................................................................................................................................. 79
6
Cleaning the wash head ................................................................................................................. 79
Mechanical cleaning of the wash head ........................................................................................ 80
Changing or replacing the wash head ............................................................................................ 80
Checking the liquid line .................................................................................................................. 80
Checking the residual volume ........................................................................................................ 80
Checking the dispense accuracy .................................................................................................... 80
Checking the aspirate height .......................................................................................................... 81
Manual priming .............................................................................................................................. 81
Disposal of materials ...................................................................................................................... 81
Decontamination procedure ........................................................................................................... 82
Refitting the transport lock.............................................................................................................. 83
Maintaining a system log ................................................................................................................ 84
Packing for service ......................................................................................................................... 84
Disposal of the instrument .............................................................................................................. 85
Chapter 12: Technical Specifications ............................................................................................ 85
General specifications .................................................................................................................... 85
Performance specifications ............................................................................................................ 86
Safety specifications ...................................................................................................................... 87
In conformity with the requirements ............................................................................................. 87
Chapter 13: Troubleshooting Guide .............................................................................................. 87
Error and warning codes ................................................................................................................ 87
USB memory device ...................................................................................................................... 89
Troubleshooting guide .................................................................................................................... 89
Chapter 14: Ordering Information .................................................................................................. 90
Wellwash ....................................................................................................................................... 90
List of spare parts and accessories ................................................................................................ 91
Appendix A: System Log ................................................................................................................ 92
Appendix B: Certificate of Decontamination ................................................................................ 93
7
Chapter 1: Introduction to the Wellwash Microplate
Washer
The Wellwash (Figure 1) is a microplate washer. It is designed to use a 96-well plate format in both
landscape and portrait orientation. The 96-well plates and strips are designed to be washed in 1x8 or
1x12 for mat. The instrument allows shaking. The instrument is controlled through the built-in
graphical user interface and keypad. The Wellwash can be used to wash and prepare plates for a
variety of test routines, mainly in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests.
The Wellwash is available in the following configurations:
• Wellwash 1x8 100−240V 50/60Hz (Cat. No. 5165000)
• 96-well plate washing in landscape mode
• Wellwash 1x12 100−240V 50/60Hz (Cat. No. 5165040)
• 96-well plate washing in portrait mode
Figure 1. Wellwash microplate washer
Intended use
The Wellwash is a microplate strip washer intended for automated washing of 96-well plates and
strips that meet ANSI/SBS standards.
The instrument can be used in research or routine-test laboratories by professional personnel in
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA).
As the Wellwash is part of an analyzing system for the end user, the user is responsible for validation
of the whole system to enable production of reliable and safe results. If the assay performance is
essential to the analysis, the test result has to be assured using internal quality controls or an
alternative test.
It is recommended to follow Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) during the analyzing process.
Use for self-testing is excluded.
8
Principle of operation
The Wellwash can be used to wash and prepare plates for a variety of test routines, mainly in ELISA
applications. The Wellwash (Figure 1) is a microplate strip washer for automated washing, aspiration,
dispensing and shaking of 96-well plates and strips in landscape or portrait plate orientation. The
instrument is equipped with one wash and one waste liquid bottle each with a cap, tubing and a liquid
level sensor. The Wellwash comes with a 1x8 or a 1x12 wash head. The plate carrier places the
microplate under the wash head to perform the desired operation. During priming the wash head
moves into the priming vessel to fill the liquid line from the liquid bottle to the wash head.
The 96-well plates and strips are designed to be washed with a 1x8 wash head (landscape) or a 1x12
wash head (portrait) (Figure 2). The wash head tips have both dispensing and aspiration channels. In
the washing step, the wash head aspirates continuously and descends until it reaches the bottom of
the well and the liquid is aspirated (Figure 3). In sweep mode, the wash head aspirates in two
positions of the well bottom to enable a low residual volume (Figure 4). When the wash head is in the
upper position, the desired volume is dispensed into the well (Figure 3 and Figure 4). Aspiration runs
continuously, enabling overflow dispensing of large volumes. After the first row or column has been
washed, the next row or column is moved under the wash head for washing.
Figure 2. Wash heads
Figure 3. Principle of Wash step (Normal)
Figure 4. Principle of Wash step (Sweep2)
or
9
Chapter 2: Installation
Warning! The Wellwash weighs 8 kg [17.6 lbs.] and care must be taken when lifting it.
For more information on main parts of the instrument, refer to Chapter 3: “Wellwash Main Parts”.
Unpacking
How to unpack
Move the packed instrument to its site of operation. To prevent condensation, the instrument should
be left in its protective plastic wrapping until the ambient temperature has been reached. Unpack the
Wellwash instrument and accessories carefully with the arrows on the transport package pointing
upwards. Place the instrument onto a laboratory bench.
Caution! Do not touch or loosen any screws or parts other than those specifically designated in
the instructions. Doing so may cause misalignment and will void the instrument warranty.
Retain the original packaging for future transportation. The packaging is designed to assure safe
transport and minimize transit damage. Using other packaging materials may invalidate the warranty.
Also retain all instrument-related documentation provided by the manufacturer for future use.
If you relocate your instrument or ship it for service, refer to “How to pack for service”.
Checking delivery for completeness or damage
Check the enclosed packing list against the order. Visually inspect the transport packaging, the
instrument and the accessories for any possible transport damage. If any parts are missing or
damaged, contact your local Thermo Fisher Scientific representative or Thermo Fisher Scientific Oy.
Caution! If the instrument has been mechanically damaged, ship it for service.
Environmental requirements
When you set up your Wellwash, avoid sites with excess dust, vibrations, strong magnetic fields,
direct sunlight, draft, excessive moisture or large temperature fluctuations. Make sure that:
• The working area is flat, dry, clean and vibration-proof, and leave additional room for cables,
covers, and so on.
• There is at least 10 cm of free space around the instrument on the laboratory bench for
ventilation.
• There is sufficient room behind the instrument to enable disconnecting the device.
• The ambient air is clean and free of corrosive vapors, smoke and dust.
• The ambient temperature range is between +10°C (50°F) and +40°C (104°F).
• The humidity is low so that condensing does not occur (relative humidity is between 10% and
80%, non-condensing).
Caution! Do not operate the instrument in an environment where potentially damaging liquids
or gases are present.
10
Setups
Warning! All parts of the instrument that come into contact with potentially infectious materials
must be treated as potentially infectious areas.
It is advisable to adhere to applicable safety precautions, such as the wearing of disposable
powder-free gloves, safety glasses, and protective clothing, to avoid potential infectious disease
contamination when performing cleaning procedures and also when making adjustments to the
instrument.
Caution! Leave the instrument to sit for at least three hours before installing and switching it on
to prevent condensation causing a short circuit.
Releasing the transport lock
Caution! Make sure that the transport lock has been removed and that the priming vessel, the
wash head, and the liquid bottles with tubes and liquid level detectors have been installed before
you put the instrument into operation.
1. Remove the padded packing material protecting the wash head arm and plate carrier to reveal the
transport lock and transport lock tag (Figure 5). Also remove the plastic transport protection bag.
Figure 5. Transport lock and transport lock tag
2. Unfasten the transport lock screw using the Allen key supplied (Figure 6).
Figure 6. Unfastening the transport lock
3. Keep the transport lock and tag for future relocation or transportation of the instrument.
11
Installing the priming vessel
The instrument comes with the priming vessel installed. The priming vessel is correctly installed if it
stays in place and does not move up. If the priming vessel is not installed, insert it downwards and
pull it towards yourself (Figure 7).
Figure 7. Priming vessel installation
Warning! The priming vessel may be contaminated after the instrument has been used.
Installing the wash head
The wash head is packed separately and must be installed before use. Keep the wash head package
for storage purposes. If the wash head is not used, place it first into the enclosed plastic bag and then
into the original package. The wash head supplied with the instrument is calibrated at the factory. The
wash head box includes an instrument serial number according to which it has been calibrated at the
factory. Optional wash heads must be calibrated by the user prior to use.
Warning! The wash head may be contaminated after the ins trument has been used.
Warning! Failing to connect the dispensing or aspiration tube may cause spillage.
Caution! Only use wash heads that have an identification label.
Note! Always wear disposable powder-free gloves when handling the wash heads.
Note! Do not remove the lot number sticker on the wash head.
1. The instrument is supplied with a 1x8 or 1x12 wash head depending on the model.
2. Fit the supplied wash head tightly to the tubing according to Figure 8 and Figure 9. Note the
difference in sizes.
• The larger aspiration (waste) tube is connected to the bottom hole.
• The smaller dispensing tube is connected to the top hole.
• Apply silicone grease to the O-rings of t he connectors if needed.
12
Figure 8. Available wash heads (A) as well as aspiration and dispensing tubes (B)
Figure 9. Fitting the wash head to the connectors
3. Fit the wash head onto the wash head arm with the tips pointing downwards and ensure that the
wash head moves freely up and down in the wash head arm slot (Figure 10).
Figure 10. Fitting the 1x8 wash head onto the wash h ead arm
4. Check that the wash head is properly inserted (Figure 11).
A
B
or
13
Figure 11. 1x8 wash head properly inserted
5. Check that the wash head configuration in the Settings menu corresponds to the installed wash
head.
6. If you are replacing the wash head, you must calibrate the wash head. Refer to “Calibrate current
wash head”.
7. If you are changing the wash head to another type, first change the Wash head type and then
calibrate the wash head.
Liquid bottles and channels
The Wellwash includes one standard buffer bottle (2 liters) and one waste bottle (2 liters).
The liquid channels are: A (for Buffer A) and W (for Waste).
The liquid bottles are named and the tubing is color coded to correspond to the correct buffer source
(A = blue and W = colorless) (Figure 12). Refer to “Connection diagram”.
Figure 12. Waste and liquid bottles with liquid level sensors
Caution! Do not cover the venting holes.
Caution! If foaming occurs in the waste bottle, refer to “Foaming”.
Venting holes
Intake tube with liquid filter
Sensor cable
14
Caution! Do not limit, change or remove the float position on the liquid level sensors (Figure
13).
Figure 13. Correct position of the float on the buffer bottle sensor
Smaller bottles can also be used with an optional bottle holder (Cat. No. N10820).
Caution! If a smaller size buffer bottle is used with the bottle stand, the remaining volume in
the bottle after the liquid level sensor indicates empty may be smaller than the nominal 290 ml.
Caution! Before disconnecting the tubings, prime the liquid system with air to avoid liquid
spillage.
Connection diagram
Figure 14 shows the connections of the liquid level sensor cabling and liquid bottle tubing.
Figure 14. Wellwash connection diagram
Float
15
Installing the liquid bottles
1. Fit the liquid bottle tubing to the corresponding color-coded tube connectors on the left side panel
of the instrument (Figure 15). The connectors are from left to right: W = colorless (Waste) and A
= blue (Buffer A).
Figure 15. Connecting the liquid bottle tubing
2. Connect the liquid sensor cables into the appropriate color-coded sockets on the left side panel of
the instrument (Figure 16). The sockets are from top to bottom: W (Waste) and A (Buffer A).
Figure 16. Connecting the liquid sensor cable
All the liquid bottle tubings are connected to the instrument in Figure 17.
Figure 17. Liquid bottle tubings connected to the instrument
16
Warning! Make sure that the liquid level of the waste bottle is always kept below the maximum
level indicated on the bottle to avoid potential overflow as the contents of the waste bottle is
potentially infectious.
Warning! The contents of the waste bottle is potentially infectious, so it is important to wear
protective clothing, such as disposable gloves, a laboratory coat and safety glasses, when
emptying or handling the waste bottle.
Caution! Always ensure that the liquid bottles are attached properly. Always connect the bottle
cap to the correct bottle and to the correct connector on the left side panel of the instrument.
Otherwise the wash performance may be seriously affected.
Caution! Ensure that the intake tube reaches fully down to the bottom of the liquid bottle so
that no red tubing is visible.
Caution! Check regularly that the liquid filter in the intake tube is clean. If not, replace or clean
it.
Caution! To ensure proper function, do not disconnect the sensor cables from the instrument
during operation.
Foaming
The liquid level sensor is unable to detect foam. In case of foaming:
1. Empty the waste bottle as soon as the foam level has reached the maximum filling level indicated
on the waste bottle.
2. Add a commercially available anti-foaming agent, such as silicone oil, to the empty waste bottle to
reduce foaming. Use concentrations of anti-foaming agents as recommended by the
manufacturers.
3. Consider switching to a larger waste bottle and additionally increase the concentration of antifoaming agent in the waste bottle.
4. Carefully swirl the waste bottle from time to time to improve mixing between the foam layer and
anti-foaming agent .
17
Connecting the power supply cable
Warning! Do not operate the instrument from a power outlet that has no ground connection.
Do not use a power supply cable other than the Thermo Scientific power supply cable designed
for your region.
1. Ensure that the mains (I/0) switch (Figure 18) at the right-side panel of the instrument is in the off
(0) position.
2. Connect the power supply cable to the power supply connector.
3. Connect the power supply to a correctly installed line power outlet with a grounded conductor.
Figure 18. Connecting the power supply cable
USB port for PC
It is possible to connect the instrument to an external computer for service purposes (Figure 18).
Warnings and cautions
This instrument is designed to provide full user protection. When correctly installed, operated and
maintained, it will present no hazard to the user.
The following recommendations are given for added user saf ety.
Electrical
Ensure that the power supply cable supplied with the unit is always used. If a correct type of mains
cable is not provided, use only cables certified by the local authorities.
The power plug should only be inserted into a socket outlet with a protective ground contact. Never
use an extension cable without a protective ground wire.
Warning! Only authorized technical service personnel are allowed to open the instrument.
The same precautions applicable when using any electrical equipment should naturally be observed
with this instrument.
Power supply connector
USB port for service
USB port for memory
device
Mains (I/0) switch
18
Warning! Do not touch switches or electrical outlets with wet hands. Switch the instrument off
before disconnecting it from the mains supply.
Defects and abnormal stresses
Warning! If the instrument is not functioning properly, it may create electromagnetic
perturbation, which could impair the operation of other devices or equipment in the usual
laboratory environment.
Whenever it is likely that the protection system has been impaired, the instrument should be made
inoperative and be secured against any unintended operation. Contact authorized technical service
immediately.
The protection is likely to be impaired if, for example, the instrument:
• Shows any visible damage
• Fails to perform the intended functions
• Has been subjected to prolonged storage under unfavorable conditions
• Has been subjected to severe transport stresses.
Operating precautions a nd limitations before operati on
1. Read this manual in its entirety, as it contains information necessary to ensure safe operation.
2. Always ensure that the electrical supply in the laboratory conforms to that specified on the type
label at the rear of the instrument.
3. Ensure that the bottle and wash head tubings are properly fitted. Ensure that the intake tube
reaches completely down to the bottom of the liquid bottle so that no red tubing is visible. Check
regularly that the liquid filter in the intake tube is attached and clean.
4. Fill the buffer bottle only after an installation and operational check of the system.
5. Check that there is room in the waste bottle to run the protocol or series of protocols. Empty the
waste bottle before a series of runs.
The liquid level sensor will warn if safe levels have been exceeded.
Caution! To ensure proper function, do not disable or disconnect sensors.
6. Check that a correct wash head is installed.
7. Check that the wash head configuration matches the configuration specified by the protocol.
Calibrate the wash head if not yet calibrated.
8. Ensure that the priming vessel is empty and correctly installed.
9. Fit the microplate in the correct orientation appropriate for the wash head configuration. Note that
if you do not load the microplate correctly onto the instrument, this will result in liquid spillage.
Caution! Mismatching the wash head and plate orientation may cause spillage.
10. Select the number of strips to be processed correctly. If there are strips missing on a plate,
ensure that they are not selected for processing. If there are unused wells on the strip, it is
recommended to fill unused wells with the same amount of deionized distilled water as in the
used wells.
19
Mechanical checks before switching on
Before switching the instrument on:
• Move the wash head arm up and down, and the plate carrier back and forth to ensure that they
move freely (Figure 19).
• Lift the wash head arm up and move the plate carrier under the wash head. Lower the wash head
arm, with the wash head in place, so that the tips touch the plate carrier. Then move the plate
carrier until the tips are aligned with the small circular indentations on the surface of the plate
carrier. Check that the outermost tips in the wash head are directly above the indentations to
ensure that the wash head arm is at right angle to the plate carrier.
Figure 19. Alignment check
Installing the aerosol cover
The transparent aerosol cover may be present (Figure 20) or absent during operation. The aerosol
cover primarily protects the user against biohazardous aerosols and the site against environmental
contamination. Figure 20 shows the aerosol cover being installed. The corners have magnets for
quick magnetic mounting of the cover.
Figure 20. Installing the aerosol cover
20
Switching on
Switch the instrument on. The system performs initialization tests (= self diagnostics) each time it is
switched on.
To change the preferred user interface language or the local date/time, refe r to “ Settings menu”.
Caution! Do not switch the power off or plug/unplug the USB memory device during
“Performing self diagnostics”.
Caution! Do not touch the wash head or plate carrier when the instrument is in use.
Note! Ensure that the wash head is installed.
Performing the operationa l check after switching on
Before putting the instrument into operation, perform the following operational check. For more
information, refer to “Operating the instrument”.
• Ensure that the liquid bottles are empty.
• Turn the empty buffer bottle upside down to ensure that the liquid level sensor in the bottle works
properly. The liquid level icon should be green when the buffer bottle is upside down and red
when the buffer bottle is in an upright position. The liquid level icon should be red when the waste
bottle is upside down and green when the waste bottle is in an upright position. For more
information, refer to “Liquid level detection”.
• Fill the buffer bottle completely with liquid.
• Prime the instrument to ensure that priming works; the liquid tubing is filled with liquid and is
aspirated to the waste bottle. Check for possible air leaks in the liquid system. Lift the buffer bottle
about 20 cm and ensure that the wash head tips are not dripping. For more information, refer to
“Priming the sy ste m”.
• Run a protocol, such as one of the demo protocols supplied with the instrument. The protocol
should have an aspirate, dispense, shake, and soak function to ensure an adequate sample of
functions to test the instrument’s proper operation. Check that the liquid channels and wash head
tips work properly during dispensing and aspiration.
Warning! Clogged tips may cause faulty washing performance.
Settings after installation
To change the wash head type, the preferred user interface language or the date/time, refer to
“Settings menu”.
21
Chapter 3: Wellwash Main Parts
Front view
The front view of the Wellwash instrument is shown in Figure 21.
Figure 21. Wellwash front view with accessories
Back view
The back view of the Wellwash instrument is shown in Figure 22.
Figure 22. Wellwash back view
Wash head on wash head arm
Priming vessel
Keypad
Display
Plate carrier
Transparent aerosol cover
Liquid bottles
Plate clamp
Bottle stand (option)
Power supply connector
USB port for service
USB port for memory
device
ON/OFF switch
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Side views
The side views of the Wellwash instrument are shown in Figure 23.
Figure 23. Wellwash side views
Liquid system diagram
Figure 24. Liquid system diagram
USB memory device port
The instrument is equipped with a USB port for an external memory device (Figure 23). You can
transfer wash protocols from one instrument to another of the same model with the USB memory
device.
Connectors for liquid sensor cables,
from top to bottom:
W
= colorless (Waste) and A = blue (Buffer A)
Connectors for liquid container tubes,
from left to right:
W
= colorless (Waste) and A = blue (Buffer A)
ON/OFF (I/0) switch
USB port for memory device
Left
Right
Dispense
valve
Dispense pump
Aspirate pump
Wash head
Liquid level sensor
Liquid filter
Buffer container
Waste container
Liquid level sensor
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Note! It is recommended to format the USB memory device if export or import fails. For more
information, refer to Chapter 13: “Troubleshooting Guide”.
You can check the functionality of the USB memory device by inserting it into the USB port for
memory device (Figure 23). The “WELLWASH” folder will be created.
USB PC port
The ins trument is equipped with a USB port for an external PC connection for service use (Figure 22).
Plate carrier
The plate carrier supports both portrait and landscape orientation of the 96-well plate (Figure 21). A
plate clamp is incorporated in the plate carrier to keep the plate in place during processing. A sensor
in the plate clamp senses the presence of a microplate.
Wash heads
The wash head alternatives (Figure 25) are shown below.
Figure 25. Wellwash 1x8 and 1x12 wash heads
Warning! Do not remove the wash head plugs when in use.
Caution! Only use wash heads that have an identification label.
Shaker
The linear shaker operates at three different speeds (Table 1).
Table 1. Shaking speeds
Speed designation
Speed
Low
5 Hz, amplitude 2.5 mm
Medium
10 Hz, amplitude 1.5 mm
High
15 Hz, amplitude 1 mm
Caution! The instrument is not intended for shaking purposes only. A separate microplate
shaker is available if needed (e.g. Thermo Scientific™ iEMS™ Incubator/Shaker). Refer to
www.thermoscientific.com.
1x8
1x12
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Chapter 4: Operating the Instrument
Display and keys for navigati ng a nd edi t ing
The keypad and display are shown in Figure 26.
Figure 26. Keypad and display of the Wellwash
The keys for navigating and editing are detailed below. The keys also have other functions depending
on the level in the software.
The active row is colored blue.
Use the Left, Right, Up and Down arrow keys to navigate. You can
speed up selection by holding down the arrow key.
Press the OK button to select, edit, or accept the highlighted item.
Use the F1-F3 keys to select the corresponding action from the info text
bar (Figure 26). The information on the info text bar is updated according
to the active menu. In the Main menu, the F1-F3 function keys are
reserved for protocols that you can assign to the keys for quick selection.
The instrument is shipped with three demo protocols assigned to the
keys. To assign your own protocols to the keys, press the FILE key in the
protocol list view and select Quick Key.
Press the FILE key, for example, to save the active protocol in the Main
menu. Depending on the active menu, the FILE key opens a list of actions
possible for the current protocol: New, Open, Save, Save As, Quick
Key, Export, Import and Delete.
Use the HELP key for more detailed instructions.
Press the PRIME button to prime the instrument.
PRIME, START, and
STOP buttons
Arrow keys and
OK button
Menu bar
Active row blue
Info text bar
Function keys
File and Help keys
Numeric keys with letters
and signs, also used for
column/strip selection
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Press the START button to start the execution of the currently selected
protocol.
Press the STOP button to terminate protocol execution.
Pressing the key also returns the software to the previous state.
Use the character keys to enter numerical data and text.
• The space character is found under the 1 key.
• The following special characters are found under the . / 11 key:
. – _ ‘ + ! ? % : ( )
• The µ character is found under the mno / 6 key.
The CLEAR (C / 12) key is used to delete written text or numbers.
Use the keys to select strips. Refer to “Strip selection with the number
keys”.
To write an uppercase letter, press the desired letter key repeatedly until
the capital appears.
Menus
The software includes the Main, Settings, and Maintenance menus.
The menu tree is displayed in Table 2.
Table 2. Program overview
Main
Settings
Maintenance
Protocol
Prime parameters
Clean
Head / Plate
Sensors
Calibration
Well
Wash head configuration
Service
Steps
System
Layout
Reports
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Main menu
You can specify the protocol-related parameters and manage the run of the active protocol in the
Main menu.
The Main menu contains the Protocol, Head / Plate, Well, Steps, and Layout rows, and their
parameters.
The clock on the menu bar shows the local time.
Note that the blue clock icon appears on the menu bar when Autoprime is active.
*
An asterisk in front of a protocol name means that the protocol has not yet been saved.
A yellow caution symbol on the Head / Plate row means that the current protocol has a
different wash head than the one defined in the Settings menu. Refer to “Wash head
configuration”.
See the info text bar for the required actions of the F1-F3 keys. The action text on the info text bar
changes according to the current menu.
Liquid level detection
The info text bar also shows the liquid level in the bottles (A and W). The liquid bottles have sensors
to enable liquid level detection. Fill the buffer bottle and empty the waste bottle if the red bottle icon
appears on the info text bar. Refer to “Sensors”.
Liquid level detection (LLD):
Liquid A
• icon is green when the bottle is filled with liquid
• icon is red with an exclamation mark when the bottle is nearly empty or disconnected (The
warning is activated when there is approximately 290 ml in the 2 liter wash bottle / 580 ml in
the 4 liter wash bottle.)
• icon is empty with a cross when the LLD is disabled
Waste
• icon is red with an exclamation mark when the bottle is full or disconnected
• icon is green when the bottle is not yet full
• icon is empty with a cross when the LLD is disabled
Info text bar
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Chapter 5: Running Protocols
General operating procedure for running a protocol
1. Ensure that the buffer solution in the buffer bottle A is correct and
that there is sufficient liquid for the protocol. Also ensure that the
waste bottle is not full when you begin. Ensure that the liquid level
sensors are enabled and symbols are green. Refer to “Liquid level
detection”. Ensure that the tubing is properly fitted.
The liquid levels in the bottles are monitored during runs. Follow the
color-coded icons on the info text bar. Refer to “Filling and emptying
liquid bottles”.
Ensure that the intake tube is fixed to the lowest position on the cap,
whereby no red tubing is visible above the cap, and fully immersed
in the buffer bottle.
2. Select a protocol. Refer to “Selecting a protocol”.
The selected protocol name is shown on the Protocol row in the
Main menu.
3. Ensure that the protocol parameters are correct.
4. Insert the 96-well plate to be washed onto the plate carrier and
ensure that the microplate is correctly oriented according to the
wash head configuration.
The A1 position of the plate is in the upper left corner when the 1x8
wash head is in use and in the lower left corne r for the 1x12 wash
head. Refer to “Loading the plate”.
If you are using strip plates, ensure that the individual strips are
properly attached to the plate frame.
Ensure that the plate is not covered.
5. Press the PRIME button to prime the instrument. Refer to “Priming
the system”.
6. Select the strips if they are not already selected. Refer to “Strip
selection”.
7. Press the START button.
8. The microplate is processed according to the predefined protocol.
9. Check that the liquid channels work properly during dispensing and
aspiration.
10. If you need to abort the run, press the STOP button.
11. Remove the plate after the protocol has ended.
12. Prime the instrument with distilled deionized water at the end of the
batch.
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Note! If yo u use a partial strip plate, make sure that your column/strip selection matches the
physical strips on the plate.
Note! Do not remove the plate before the end of the protocol run.
Note! It is recommended to shut down the Wellwash at the end of the day. Refer to “Shutting
down”.
Filling and emptying liquid bottles
Warning! Biohazard risk.
Caution! Before disconnecting the tubings, prime the liquid system with air to avoid liquid
spillage.
1. Disconnect the liquid bottles and fill or empty them when necessary. Refer to “Liquid level
detection”.
2. Unscrew the liquid bottle cap and fill with a suitable buffer solution.
3. Replace the liquid bottle cap and reinstall the bottles. Refer to “Liquid bottles”.
4. Always reprime the sys tem befo re runn i ng a protocol. Refer to “P riming the system”.
Starting ready-made protoc ols
You can select a protocol using the quick keys or from the protocol list and start it.
Starting a ready-made protocol with the quick keys (F1-F3)
Use the F1-F3 function keys reserved for ready-made, demo or favorite
protocols. Three default protocols may be connected to the F1-F3 keys.
You may change these protocols from Protocol > OK > FILE > Quick Key
> Set/Clear F1-F3.
F1-F3 function keys
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