Gilson Pipetman P20 Single Channel Classic Pipette User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the proper use, maintenance, and care of your Gilson Pipetman P20 Single Channel Classic Pipette. Designed for precise liquid handling in laboratory settings, this pipette offers reliability and durability. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the device.

Figure 1: Gilson Pipetman P20 Single Channel Classic Pipette. This image shows the full view of the pipette, highlighting its ergonomic design and key components.

Product Overview

The Gilson Pipetman P20 is a single-channel pipette designed for accurate and precise dispensing of liquid volumes between 2µl and 20µl. It features a robust construction with stainless-steel and PVDF components, ensuring high resistance to chemical attack and minimizing hand-warming effects during prolonged use. The unique "dry seal" technology eliminates the need for grease, guaranteeing long-term performance and air-tightness.

Key Features:

• Volume Range: 2µl to 20µl.
• Durable Construction: Made with stainless-steel and PVDF for chemical resistance.
• "Dry Seal" Technology: Ensures air-tightness without grease for consistent performance.
• Ergonomic Design: Thick PVDF body minimizes hand-warming effect.
• Reliable Performance: Ideal for clinical, research, and control laboratories.

Setup

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the pipette from its packaging. Inspect for any visible damage.
2. Tip Selection: Use high-quality, Gilson-compatible pipette tips appropriate for the 2-20µl volume range. Ensure tips are clean and free of defects.
3. Tip Attachment: Firmly attach a new pipette tip to the tip holder. Ensure a secure, air-tight seal. Do not overtighten.
4. Volume Setting: Adjust the desired volume using the volume adjustment knob. Turn the knob clockwise to decrease volume and counter-clockwise to increase volume. Ensure the volume display is clearly visible and set to the required value.

Operating Instructions

Aspiration (Forward Pipetting):

1. Depress Plunger: Press the plunger button down smoothly to the first stop.
2. Immerse Tip: Immerse the pipette tip into the liquid to be aspirated. The immersion depth should be minimal, typically 1-2 mm for volumes up to 20µl.
3. Aspirate Liquid: Slowly release the plunger button to allow the liquid to be drawn into the tip. Wait 1-2 seconds for the liquid to fully enter the tip.
4. Remove Tip: Carefully withdraw the tip from the liquid, touching it against the edge of the container to remove any excess droplets.

Dispensing:

1. Position Tip: Place the tip against the inner wall of the receiving vessel at a slight angle.
2. Dispense Liquid: Smoothly depress the plunger button to the first stop to dispense the liquid.
3. Blow-out: Continue to depress the plunger to the second stop (blow-out) to expel any remaining liquid from the tip.
4. Remove Tip: While holding the plunger at the second stop, withdraw the tip from the vessel.
5. Eject Tip: Release the plunger button and press the tip ejector button to discard the used tip into an appropriate waste container.

Reverse Pipetting (for viscous or volatile liquids):

1. Depress Plunger: Press the plunger button down smoothly to the second stop.
2. Immerse Tip: Immerse the pipette tip into the liquid.
3. Aspirate Liquid: Slowly release the plunger button to allow the liquid to be drawn into the tip. An excess volume will be aspirated.
4. Remove Tip: Carefully withdraw the tip from the liquid.
5. Dispense Liquid: Place the tip against the inner wall of the receiving vessel. Smoothly depress the plunger button to the first stop to dispense the desired volume. Do not depress to the second stop.
6. Retain Excess: The excess liquid remains in the tip.
7. Eject Tip: Discard the tip with the remaining liquid into an appropriate waste container by pressing the tip ejector button.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your Gilson Pipetman P20.

Daily Care:

• Wipe the exterior of the pipette with a soft cloth dampened with 70% ethanol or a mild detergent solution.
• Do not immerse the entire pipette in liquid.
• Ensure the tip holder is clean and free of residue.

Cleaning and Decontamination:

For thorough cleaning or decontamination, refer to the Gilson Pipetman Classic service manual or contact Gilson technical support. The PVDF components offer high chemical resistance, but always verify compatibility with cleaning agents.

Calibration:

Pipettes should be calibrated regularly, typically every 6-12 months, or more frequently depending on usage and laboratory requirements. Calibration should be performed by trained personnel using gravimetric methods or by an authorized service center.

Troubleshooting

If problems persist after attempting these solutions, please contact Gilson technical support or an authorized service provider.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Specific warranty information for the Gilson Pipetman P20 is typically provided with the product at the time of purchase or can be found on the official Gilson website. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Support:

For technical assistance, service, or calibration inquiries, please contact Gilson customer support directly. Contact details can usually be found on the manufacturer's website or in the product packaging.

Note: Unauthorized repairs or use of non-Gilson parts may void your warranty.