Rotary microtome cryostat CM1950

electricfor histologyfor research

Overview
The Leica CM1950 cryostat with DualEcoTec cooling is designed for routine and advanced frozen-sectioning work in clinical and research histology labs. It integrates an efficient refrigerant system, a roomy cryocabinet and workflow-oriented layout to handle multiple specimens and accessories.

Enhanced cooling
The DualEcoTec cooling system delivers faster cool-down and improved temperature stability for both the cryochamber and specimen head, ensuring consistent operating conditions during extended sectioning sessions.

Fast freezing of histology specimens
Specimen discs with deep grooves and a flat stem surface enable rapid freeze-down on the freezing shelf. Two integrated Peltier quick-freeze stations provide one-touch rapid freezing to stabilize fresh tissue and speed throughput.

Stable cool air circulation
The combined DualEcoTec and CryoZone systems create a stable cool air zone around specimen, blade and anti-roll guide, helping maintain critical component temperatures for reproducible sectioning.

Reproducible frozen section quality
Leica blade and knife holders support a wide range of samples, including large or hard specimens. The CE blade holder accepts high- and low-profile disposable blades and can be shifted laterally to use the full blade length. Optional CNZ knife holders accommodate reusable knives. Leica DB80 disposable blades are validated for use with the CM1950 blade holder.

Reduced environmental impact
The CM1950 with DualEcoTec uses refrigerant R290 (IPCC6 GWP: 0.02) for a very low global warming potential and is engineered for improved energy efficiency (manufacturer reports up to 50% lower power consumption versus previous CM1950 models).

Ergonomics
Optimized device height, off-center microtome positioning, armrest and knee-space design, adjustable footrest and compatibility with height-adjustable chairs support ergonomic standing and seated workflows.

Configurations

• STANDARD: 1491950STEU — chamber cooling, specimen cooling, UV-C light, premium blade holder
• VACUUM: 1491950VCEU — chamber cooling, specimen cooling, UV-C light, vacuum extraction system, premium blade holder
• VACUUM/MOTOR: 1491950VMEU — chamber cooling, specimen cooling, UV-C light, vacuum extraction system, motorized sectioning, premium blade holder
• Regional variants: 1491950STUS, 1491950VCUS, 1491950VMUS, 1491950STJP, 1491950VCJP, 1491950VMJP

Notes
Intended for In Vitro Diagnostic Use (as stated by the manufacturer).

Technical specifications

• Cooling: Chamber temperature range: -5°C to -35°C (adjustable in 1 K increments); Chamber cool down time from ambient: < 2 h (230V/50Hz and 120V/60Hz versions); Specimen head temperature range: -10°C to -50°C; Freezing shelf lowest temperature: -42°C (at chamber temp. -35°C)
• Quick-freeze / Freezing stations: Quick-freeze stations temperature: -59°C (at chamber temp. -35°C); Number of freezing stations: 15 + 2 quick-freeze stations; Refrigerant type: R290 (IPCC6 GWP: 0.02)
• Sectioning: Section thickness range: 1 to 100 µm; Trimming thickness range: 10 to 40 µm (clinical mode) and 1 to 600 µm (research mode); Electronic coarse feed: Single: 20 µm; Slow: 300 µm/s; Fast: 900 µm/s
• Mechanical sectioning: Vertical stroke: 59 mm; Specimen retraction: 20 µm (can be switched off); Maximum specimen size (WxHxD): 80 x 50 x 25 mm
• Dimensions & weight: Overall device size (W x D x H): 700 x 850 x 1215 mm (without handwheel); 835 x 850 x 1215 mm (with handwheel); Working height: 1025 mm (armrest) / 900 mm (handwheel); Weight: Max. 172 kg with accessories