Microscope Maintenance and Care Tips
Created on 09.09
I. Daily Basic Maintenance: Must-do After Each Use (5-10 Minutes)
1. Lens Cleaning
- Tools: Use special lens cleaning paper (avoid regular tissues or cotton swabs); for stubborn stains, use dedicated lens cleaner;
- Steps: Blow off surface dust with a rubber bulb syringe → dip cleaning paper in cleaner and wipe in a spiral motion from the center outward → wipe again with dry cleaning paper to remove residue;
- Notes: Mark the position when removing eyepieces for cleaning to avoid misinstallation; screw on lens caps after using objectives; for long-term storage (over 1 week), remove objectives and store them in a special storage case.
2. Mechanical Component Inspection
- Focus Knobs: If stuck, wipe dust from the gaps; apply 1-2 drops of special lubricating oil weekly (avoid regular engine oil);
- Stage: If misaligned or stuck, clean foreign objects (e.g., slide fragments); apply a small amount of lubricating oil to the stage rails;
- Nosepiece: Rotate until a "click sound" confirms proper positioning; apply graphite powder for minor wear; seek after-sales replacement for severe wear.
3. Power and Light Source Maintenance
- Optical Microscope Light Sources: Avoid continuous use of LEDs exceeding 4 hours; dim the light before turning off; replace halogen lamps only after cooling (wear gloves to prevent fingerprints) and use the same model;
- Electron Microscope Power Supply: Turn off in the order of "sample chamber → vacuum system → main power"; do not unplug directly; ensure the power socket has grounding (resistance ≤4Ω).
II. Type-Specific Maintenance: Optical Microscopes vs. Electron Microscopes
1. Optical Microscopes (Including Digital, Fluorescence, Polarizing Models)
- Fluorescence Microscopes: Store excitation blocks in the dark (covered with black cloth); turn off excitation light after use; clean lenses immediately if fluorescent dyes spill on them;
- Digital Microscopes: Avoid frequent on/off cycles for the camera; cover the camera interface with a dust cap after use; if color cast occurs, clean the lens or calibrate white balance via software;
- Polarizing Microscopes: Adjust polarizers gently; if polarization effect weakens, loosen screws to align (field of view is darkest during crossed polarization).
2. Electron Microscopes (TEM/SEM)
- Environment Control: Maintain the laboratory at constant temperature (20-25℃), constant humidity (40%-60%), and dust-free; clean the floor weekly and replace air filters monthly in dust-prone areas; place dehumidifiers in high-humidity areas;
- Vacuum System: Check vacuum pump oil level daily (clear oil, between MIN and MAX); test for leaks at interfaces weekly with soapy water; evacuate vacuum for 3 hours weekly during long-term storage (over 2 weeks);
- Electron Gun: Wear lint-free gloves when replacing filaments; calibrate focus after installation; shut down immediately if abnormal current occurs.
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