Microplate Washer by Berthold: The Complete Handbook to Efficient Plate Washing

Overview

Precision and productivity are essential in biomedical research, diagnostics, and laboratory automation. Berthold's microplate washer model is powerful and reliable for high throughput washing within ELISA, cell-based assays, and other micro-plate based experiments. This article seeks to expound the features, benefits, applications, and buying considerations of microplate washer by Berthold, at the same time, allowing laboratories to make informed purchasing decisions.

What is a Microplate Washer?

The microplate washer is a specific laboratory device used in washing microplates that are used in ELISA “Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay” and other types of assays that involve washing steps in between reagent changes. The washer erases all unbound materials and maintains the sample, which can eliminate interference while improving the reliability of the assay.

Why Microplate Washer by Berthold?

1. Progressive Washing Technology

As a company known for high precision lab instruments, Berthold Technologies produces microplate washers designed and built with superior technology which eliminates background noise interference and increases sensitivity for the assays.

2. Enhancement in Performance and Reliability

• Performing washes confidently and adequately achieves set targets

• Viral and bacterial contaminants are substantially reduced

• Minimized liquid residue remaining

3. Easily Crafted Interface

Novice laboratory personnel will have no problems using Berthold’s microplate washers because they are equipped with programmable settings and intuitive buttons.

4. Adjustable Washing Patterns

Individual assays have specific washing requirements. Such a microplate washer by Berthold allows customization of washing cycles, aspiration techniques, and dispense volumes to cater to various experimental needs.

5. Various Plate Types Accepted

Flexible laboratory applications are guaranteed, since most Berthold microplate washers with 384-well plates support multiple well formats like Michellin 96-well.

Important Characteristics of Berthold Microplate Washers

1. Sophisticated Washing Dispensing System With Optimum Precision

The washers are equipped with an advanced dispensing mechanism that ensures uniform reagent distribution and prevents well-to-well variation.

2. Variation of Aspiration and Dispensing Values

• With the aid of cell-based assays set aspiration speeds, cells which are in suspension do not detach from the surface of culture vessels.

• Tunable settings increase effectiveness of reagent addition.

3. Maintaining And Cleaning The Washer's Microparts Are Automatically Done

The use of periodic principles in maintenance increases the time the instrument can be used before it suffers damage due to clogging.

4. Low Residual Volume for Increased Sensitivity

Assay sensitivity is increased as a result of effective aspiration which reduces carryover effects. 

5. Robust Construction for Longevity

Durability and reliability over the years is achieved as Berthold uses high quality materials in constructing its microplate washers. 

Applications of Berthold Microplate Washers

1. ELISA “Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay”

The importance of the microplate washer is most profound in the ELISA. For this assay, accurate washing steps between reagent incubations must be ensured for it to be performed correctly.

2. Cell Based Assays

Berthold microplate washers use gentle washing mechanisms which are appropriate for washing fragile cell monolayers in culture to help avoid cell removement while achieving effective cleaning. 

3. Protein and Nucleid Acid Assays

In molecular biology, appropriate steps such as unbound probes are washed away and necessary bound reagents retained provide optimal work solutions. 

4. Bead Based Assays

washing of magnetic and non-magnetic beads is done using Berthold microplate washers. There are many microplate assays that use bead washing protocols as well.

5.High Throughput Screening (HTS)

These machines serve an important function in processes that are high throughput as they allow for rapid and uniform washing of plates.

With the help of microplate washing machines, microplates can be washed accurately within a short amount of time.

How To Select The Best Microplate Washer By Berthold?

1. Define Your Application Requirements

Decide if the washer will be used for ELISA, cell-based assays, or other applications because this will affect which options will be chosen.

2. Verify Compatibility With Microplate Formats

Check if the washer supports the commonly used plate format within your practice (96-well, 384-well, etc.).

3. Analyze Washing Effectiveness

Consider factors such as:

• Number of washing cycles

• Dispense and aspiration accuracy

• Residual liquid volume

4. Automation and Integration Features

In case your lab operates on a high-throughput basis, select a model equipped with automation and robotic features.

5. Maintenance Involvement

For models that do not require considerable manual maintenance, look for self-cleaning functions.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips

Regular Cleaning

• Carry out cleaning procedures/easy steps as frequently as needed. 

• Prevent blockage with the manufacturer’s cleaning products. 

Proper Storage

• Wash solvents must be stored appropriately in untainted and sterile containers.

• Waste containers should be regularly checked and emptied to avoid overflow.

Routine Inspections

• Inspect tubing and dispensing nozzles for obstructions. 

• Keep the washer accurate by periodically calibrating it.

Common Issues and Solutions

• Incomplete Washing – Verify whether there are blocked dispense or aspiration tubes. 

• Adjust aspiration parameters and ensure proper alignment to minimize excess residual volume. 

• Adjust the washer’s settings for more accurate results to rectify inconsistent washing. 

Conclusion

The microplate washer from Berthold delivers unbeatable washing results, which makes it an essential instrument for every laboratory that performs ELISA, cell based assays, and other microplate-based tests. The unparalleled washing technology together with the highly customizable protocols and the unrivaled reliability of Berthold Microplate Washers truly helps achieve the maximum possible accuracy and precision in the results of any assays.

Pay attention to which model you choose and take into account such features as plate format, automation, and ease of maintenance. The reputation of Berthold is associated with undoubted quality and innovative thinking, and these products will increase the productivity of the laboratory and give precise repeatable results.

By understanding the key features and benefits of Berthold microplate washers, you can make an informed decision that best suits your laboratory’s needs.