If you are working in a molecular biology lab, you surely know that it is one of the most essential tools needed to visualize RNA and DNA bands during the gel electrophoresis process. It is also used for viewing nucleic acids when they are stained with dyes like SYBR Green or ethidium bromide. Undoubtedly, the UV transilluminator is one of the most significant devices needed for research conducted in the field of genetics. Naturally, it needs adequate maintenance for better accuracy and to extend the life of the equipment.
Components of a UV transilluminator
Before you get into the maintenance act and understand how to keep it functioning reliably and effectively, here is looking into the components f the system:
The UV transilluminator is one of the basic devices used in life science laboratories for visualising proteins and target DNAs. It works by emitting high levels of UV radiation through a viewing surface. Usually, polyacrylamide and agarose gels and DNA becomes more clearly visible soon after the electrophoresis process. Thanks to the power of UV lamps. The gels can be directly placed on the equipment and the wavelength needs to vary based on the application. Here is delving into the key components of the system:
· UV lamp
The UV lamp is the primary source of light and emits UV radiation needed to excite flurophores present in the sample.
· Surface plate
The surface plate refers to the acrylic or glass surface used for placing the gel
· Filters
Transilluminators have filters that allow light with only specific wavelengths to pass through the sample.
· Cooling system
The cooling system is needed to disperse the heat that the UV lamps generate. It helps prevent the system from becoming overheated.
Each component of the transilluminator requires proper care and maintenance and cleaning so that the equipment functions efficiently.
Maintenance tips for UV transilluminators
Let us delve into the maintenance tips needed for proper care of UV transilluminators:
1. Cleaning the surface plate
The surface plate of this equipment is where the gel is placed for visualising the samples. Naturally, this area needs to be cleaned as unclean plates are most likely to be contaminated and may obstruct the UV light and affect the outcome negatively. With regular cleaning, you can rub off the buildup of the stains generated y SYBR Green and ethidium bromide. Besides, the stained area also attracts dust and lowers the performance of the equipment.
2. Inspection and replacement of UV lamps
If you are a first-time user of a UV transilluminator, you may not know that the UV lamps tend to lose intensity and may become ineffective. That way, the quality of images and the final outcome may also degrade. That is why laboratories must have well-placed system for regular inspection of UV lamps. It is through inspection that you will come to know when and how to replace the bulbs. Here are the signs that will help you decide whether or not to replace the bulbs:
· Lack of consistency
When pockets of the transilluminator turn bleak compared to the other areas, it reveals that there is a severe lack of consistency in the distribution of light. Light tends to become uneven due to malfunctioning in the device.
· No intensity
The transilluminator aims to facilitate gel viewing during the electrophoresis process. Now, when the images turn faint and are hardly recognisable, you need to realise that the lamp is losing its original strength. After all, when the samples become hard to fathom, the outcome of the gel electrophoresis process falls flat.
· Damaged or cracked bulbs
When you notice a physical damage to UV lamps, the condition needs to be addressed immediately. You must replace the bulb to avoid safety risks and level up the performance.
3. Cleaning the cooling system
The fan or the cooling system of your UV transilluminator needs to undergo regular cleaning as it regulates the heat that the device generates. Here is how:
· Cleaning the vents
Debris and dust may clog the fan ad obstruct the airflow severely. Using a small brush to clean the vents regularly keeps the system functioning accurately.
· Inspection of the fan
Check whether the fan is functioning appropriately. If it is not, the transilluminator may stop functioning abruptly.
· Inspect for overheating
Is the equipment becoming overheated? When you find it too hot to touch, chances are that it might b due to overheating. Make sure the cooling system functions properly and prevents the device from becoming overheated.
When you are not using the UV transilluminator in the laboratory, try to store it in a dry or clean area. Besides, you must ever keep a heavy object on the top as it may cause extensive mechanical stress. From replacement of the UV lamp to cleaning the fan vents, maintaining the device is essential. You need to follow the abovementioned tips to ensure that the tool functions appropriately in the laboratory. To buy new laboratory equipment from a reliable manufacturer, look forward to IGene Labserve for top-grade devices.
No comments:
Post a Comment