Axygen® PlateMax™

Semi-automated Plate Sealer

A Corning Brand

Instruction Manual

Catalog Numbers:
HS-1120
HS-1230
Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.1 Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.2 Symbols and Conventions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.3 Safety Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

1.4 Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2.0 Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2.1 Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

2.2 Display Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

2.3 Unit Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3.0 Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3.1 Set the Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3.2 Set the Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3.3 Using Plate Adapters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3.4 Using the Seal Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

3.5 Sealing a Plate. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

3.6 Accessing and Cleaning the Heating Platen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

3.7 Power Save Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

4.0 Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

4.1 Error Codes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

5.0 Limited Warranty. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

6.0 Equipment Disposal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

 1.0 Introduction
1.1 Overview
The Axygen® PlateMax™ semi-automated plate sealer is used for heat sealing of a wide variety of microplates to store
samples, prevent evaporation, and minimize contamination.
It thermally bond seals and foils to a wide variety of microtiter, cell culture, PCR, and deep well plates. The digital
temperature and timer control allows user selection of parameters for combinations of plates and seals.
A plate sensing system allows the plate sealer to provide uniform force, transferring heat evenly to the sealing surface
whether using shallow PCR plates or deep well plates.

1.2 Symbols and Conventions

CAUTION: This symbol refers you to important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions within
the product Instruction Manual. Failure to heed this information may present a risk of damage or injury to
persons or equipment.

CAUTION: To avoid accidental bodily harming or burning be very careful touching the metal parts of the unit.
It can be very hot after it is used at high temperatures. Allow the metal parts to cool down before handling.

1.3 Safety Information

This instruction manual contains important operating and maintenance instructions which must be read, understood, and
followed by the product user. Failure to use this product according to this instruction manual may degrade or defeat the
protection normally provided by this product. Read this instruction manual prior to product use.

Personal Injury
 Do not use this product in a manner other than as stated in the Operating Conditions section of this
manual as the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
 This product is designed for use in laboratory environments by persons knowledgeable in safe laboratory
practices.
 Always wear safety glasses and other appropriate protective equipment when operating this product.

Electric Shock
 This product must be connected to a grounded power outlet for safe functioning.
 Use only the power cord supplied with the product.
 The power cord is the device available for full disconnect from mains input.
 Position the product for use so that the power cord can be easily disconnected without having to move the
product.
 Disconnect the power cord before moving or cleaning the unit.

Product Damage
 Keep the product dry and clean.
 Do not immerse the product in liquid for cleaning.
 These units are not explosion- or spark-proof.
 Do not operate this product near volatile or flammable materials.

Instruction Manual | 1
1.4 Specifications

Dimensions (W x D x H) 6.75 x 12.75 x 14.25 in. (17.1 x 32.4 x 36.2 cm)

Weight 27 lbs. (12 kg)
Sealing Temperature Off, 100°C to 190°C (increments of 1.0°C)
Temperature Accuracy ±1.0°C
Temperature Uniformity ±1.0°C
Sealing Time 0.5 to 10 sec. (increments of 0.1 sec.)
Compatible Plate Materials  PP (Polypropylene)
 PS (Polystyrene)
Compatible Plate Types  Standard assay plates
 Deep well storage plates
 PCR plates: skirted, semi-skirted, non-skirted
Maximum Plate Height 1.77 in. (4.5 cm)
Compatible Sealing Film Types  Foil polypropylene laminate
 Film types: Clear polyester-polypropylene laminate
 Clear polymer
 Thin clear polymer
 Foil laminate
 Foil
Electrical Requirements
HS-1120 120V ±10%, 50/60 Hz, 450W, 3.15A
HS-1230 230V ±10%, 50/60 Hz, 450W, 2A
Overvoltage Category Category II
Environmental Conditions 15°C to 30°C, ≤80% RH
Storage Temperatures 0°C to 60°C

The Axygen® PlateMax™ semi-automated plate sealer is designed to be safe at least when operated under the following
conditions:
 Indoor use
 Altitude up to 2,000 meters
 Pollution Degree 2
Product should be placed on a flat surface at least 12 in. (30.5 cm) from walls, 48 in. (122 cm) from ceilings, and 12 in.
(30.5 cm) from other equipment.

2.0 Getting Started

2.1 Installation
1. Unpack the instrument carefully and place on a level stable surface that can withstand its weight. Do not block
ventilation openings on the back.
2. Remove and identify all components from the box.
 Power cord
 Seal frame
 Plate sealer
 PCR plate adapter block for 96- or 384-well microplates
 Support block for storage plates
 Instruction manual
3. Remove the protective plastic bag and any protective film.
4. Plug the power cord into the back of the instrument, and plug the other end into a properly rated outlet. Confirm the
voltage rating listed on the instrument is properly labeled to 110V or 230V as required.
5. Always use PPE, gloves, eye-wear, etc. accordingly to your experiment protocols’ requirements.
6. Switch the main power to ON.
7. The front control panel display will illuminate.

2 | AXYGEN PLATEMAX SEMI-AUTOMATED PLATE SEALER

2.2 Display Overview

1. SEAL TEMP: Indicates sealing platen temperature.

2. SEAL TIME: Displays sealing time.
3. STATUS: Shows Heating, Cooling, Ready or Error states.

2.3 Unit Overview

1. Display: Shows platen temperature, sealing time, and unit status.

2. Mode Button: Selects parameter (Sealing temperature or Sealing time) to
be changed using the rotary encoder.
3. Control Knob: Used to edit parameter settings by rotating left or right.
4. Seal Button: Used to initiate the sealing process. Can also be used to cancel
sealing before the drawer is closed.
5. Status Indicator Light: Light will illuminate.
Red: Unit not at set temperature.
Green: Unit is ready.
6. Open/Close: Opens or closes the drawer.
7. Motorized Drawer: Opens for plate insertion or extraction. Open/Close
button allows for opening and closing.

1. Ventilation Slots: Provides cool air to electronics while allowing excess heat
to escape.
2. Main Power Switch: Turns the unit On/Off.
3. Mains Power Connection: Grounded input power connector.
4. Fuse Drawer: Main fuse.

Instruction Manual | 3
 3.0 Operation
After installing the unit, you will need to power it up using the power switch in the back, then choose your sealing settings.
NOTE: The Axygen® PlateMax™ plate sealer should be used only with microplates and seals that are designed for heat
sealing. It is the user’s responsibility to confirm that the consumables being used are appropriate for the application.
Proper heat sealing of microplates requires the proper temperature and time settings. Contact your consumable
manufacturer for recommended time and temperature parameters.
It is commonly required to try different temperature and sealing time settings to optimize the sealing of different types
of plates. Many polypropylene plates and sealing films seal well using a sealing temperature of 165°C and sealing time of
4.5 seconds.

3.1 Set the Temperature

 Press the Mode button until the Seal Temp text is flashing. Use the control knob to adjust the display to the desired
temperature.
 Press the control knob or wait 10 seconds to set the selected temperature.
When a temperature is set above the current temperature of the heating platen, the display will show Heating and the
Status indicator LED above the door will flash red.
When the temperature of the heating platen reaches the set temperature, the display will show Ready, and the indicator
LED will be a steady green.
NOTE: It is recommended to leave the drawer closed, and without a sample plate on the drawer while the platen is
heating up. This will allow the unit to heat to the set temperature more quickly.

3.2 Set the Time

 Pressing the Mode button until the Seal Time text is flashing. Use the control knob to adjust the display to the desired
sealing time.
 Press the control knob or wait 10 seconds to set the selected time.

3.3 Using Plate Adapters

Corning ships adapters for optimal sealing of certain multiwell plate configurations.

 Axygen PlateMax adapter for sealing assay and PCR  Axygen PlateMax support block for assay and
microplates storage plates
One side (96 holes) accommodates 96-well microplates A thin block that is designed to support the center
and the other side accommodates 384-well PCR portion of assay and storage plates.
microplates.

96-well microplate side 384-well microplate side Support block

3.4 Using the Seal Frame

A sealing frame is provided with the unit to assist in securing the thermal seal in proper position prior to sealing the
plate. This ensures proper positioning of the seal and prevents any curling or undesired movement of the thermal seal
prior to the sealing process.
After loading the plate and placing the seal on top of the plate, the frame is then lowered over the thermal seal and
onto the plate. Tabs at either end of the frame secure the thermal seal in place. There are 4 metal posts around the plate
which serve as indexing points for the frame.

1. Rubber handles: Provides insulated handling points for the frame.

2. Tabs: Secures the thermal seal in place.
3. Indexing points: Fits around metal posts on the plate drawer.

4 | AXYGEN PLATEMAX SEMI-AUTOMATED PLATE SEALER

3.5 Sealing a Plate
Based on the type of seal and plate being used, select the time and temperature using the Mode button and control knob.
Consult the seal manufacturer for recommended settings. If the plate you are using will require an adapter, place it into
the recessed area in the middle of the drawer. This will prevent the adapter from shifting position during sealing.
Next, position your plate on top of the adapter or directly in the drawer. Confirm that the plate is centered and flat. Then,
lay the thermal seal on top of the plate, being sure that it is centered.
NOTE: Make sure the seal is placed with the sealing side down on the plate. If the seal is placed upside down, it will stick
to the hot platen, and this will require cleaning of the platen (see Accessing and Cleaning the Heating Platen).
Once the thermal seal is placed, place the seal frame on top to
prevent the seal from shifting position. Depending on the settings
chosen, the unit may require some time before the heating platen has
reached the desired temperature. After the settings are entered and
the status light is green, the unit is ready for sealing.
Keep hands and fingers clear of the drawer, and press the Seal button.
The drawer will close automatically, the plate will be sealed, and the
drawer will open for removal of the seal frame and plate.
Sealing a Plate
1. Set the Sealing temperature and time.
2. Insert the Adapter (if required).
3. Place the plate in the drawer.
4. Place the seal on top of the plate.
5. Place the sealing frame on top of the seal.
6. Press Seal when the light is green – drawer will close, seal the
plate, and drawer will open automatically.
7. Remove the sealing frame.
8. Remove the sealed plate.

3.6 Accessing and Cleaning the Heating Platen

In the event that a seal becomes stuck to the heating platen, the following steps will allow you to clean the platen.

CAUTION: Be sure to turn the unit Off, and unplug it from the power source before attempting to clean the
platen.

CAUTION: The heating platen can reach temperatures in excess of 190°C. Allow the unit to cool for at least
1 hour before attempting to clean the platen.

Cleaning the Heating Platen

1. Open the drawer of the unit.
2. Power the unit down and unplug it.
3. Allow to cool for at least 1 hour.
4. Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the retaining
screw for the access door.
5. Remove the access door.
6. Clean the platen by hand using a plastic putty knife. Alcohol
may be used to remove any residue. NOTE: Do not use a metal
tool (i.e., screwdriver) to scrape the platen as this could gouge
the surface.
7. Replace the access door and screw.

Instruction Manual | 5
3.7 Power Save Mode
If the unit is left On but inactive for long periods, it will enter a power saving mode. These modes are described below.

Display Time Frame Temperature

STND_BY 1 hour of inactivity 60°C
PWRSAVE 3 hours of inactivity after entering STND_BY mode Ambient (heater Off)

4.0 Troubleshooting
Error Possible Cause Solution
Plates not sealing correctly. Insufficient sealing time. Check with the sealing film manufacturer for
Sealing temperature is too low. recommended sealing time and temperature.

Top of the plate is not flat. Turn the plate 180°, and reseal.
Sealing film is curling and Temperature difference and electrostatic Use the sealing frame to secure the seal in
moving out of position. charge affecting the seal. place.
Sealing film is sticking to Foreign material stuck to the platen. Follow the procedure for cleaning the heating
platen. platen.

4.1 Error Codes

Code Possible Cause Solution

Error 1 Tray motor or switch failure. Reboot the unit.
Error 2
Error 3 Heater motor or switch failure.
Error 4
Error 5 Heater is not working or temperature sensor (PT-1000) failure.
Error 6 Heater PCBA failure.
Error 8 Heater is not working or temperature sensor (PT-1000) failure.
Error 9 Safety door/housing switch was activated during drawer operation.
Foreign object is stuck between the tray door and the tray plate. Turn Off the unit. Remove the foreign
object, and reboot the unit.

6 | AXYGEN PLATEMAX SEMI-AUTOMATED PLATE SEALER

 5.0 Limited Warranty
Corning Incorporated (Corning) warrants that this product will be free from defects in material and workmanship for a
period of two (2) years from date of purchase. CORNING DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER WARRANTIES WHETHER EXPRESSED OR
IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR OF FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
Corning’s sole obligation shall be to repair or replace, at its option, any product or part thereof that proves defective in
material or workmanship within the warranty period, provided the purchaser notifies Corning of any such defect. Corning is
not liable for any incidental or consequential damages, commercial loss or any other damages from the use of this product.
This warranty is valid only if the product is used for its intended purpose and within the guidelines specified in the
supplied instruction manual. This warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, neglect, misuse, improper service,
natural forces or other causes not arising from defects in original material or workmanship. This warranty does not cover
motor brushes, fuses, light bulbs, batteries or damage to paint or finish. Claims for transit damage should be filed with
the transportation carrier.
In the event this product fails within the specified period of time because of a defect in material or workmanship, contact Corning
Customer Service at: USA/Canada 1.800.492.1110, outside the U.S. +1.978.442.2200, visit www.corning.com/lifesciences, or
contact your local support office.
Corning’s Customer Service team will help arrange local service where available or coordinate a return authorization
number and shipping instructions. Products received without proper authorization will be returned. All items returned
for service should be sent postage prepaid in the original packaging or other suitable carton, padded to avoid damage.
Corning will not be responsible for damage incurred by improper packaging. Corning may elect for onsite service for
larger equipment.
Some states do not allow limitation on the length of implied warranties or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages. This warranty gives you specific legal rights. You may have other rights which vary from state
to state.
No individual may accept for, or on behalf of Corning, any other obligation of liability, or extend the period of this
warranty.
For your reference, make a note of the serial and model number, date of purchase, and supplier here.

Serial No. ___________________________________________ Date Purchased ________________________________________

Model No. __________________________________________ Supplier______________________________________________

6.0 Equipment Disposal

According to Directive 2012/19/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 4 July 2012 on waste
electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), this product is marked with the crossed-out wheeled bin and
must not be disposed of with domestic waste.
Consequently, the buyer shall follow the instructions for reuse and recycling of waste electronic and electrical
equipment (WEEE) provided with the products and available at www.corning.com/weee.

Instruction Manual | 7
Warranty/Disclaimer: Unless otherwise specified, all products are for research use or general laboratory use only.*
Not intended for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. Not for use in humans. These products are not intended to
mitigate the presence of microorganisms on surfaces or in the environment, where such organisms can be deleterious
to humans or the environment. Corning Life Sciences makes no claims regarding the performance of these products for
clinical or diagnostic applications. *For a listing of US medical devices, regulatory classifications or specific information on
claims, visit www.corning.com/resources.
Corning’s products are not specifically designed and tested for diagnostic testing. Many Corning products, though not
specific for diagnostic testing, can be used in the workflow and preparation of the test at the customers discretion.
Customers may use these products to support their claims. We cannot make any claims or statements that our products are
approved for diagnostic testing either directly or indirectly. The customer is responsible for any testing, validation, and/or
regulatory submissions that may be required to support the safety and efficacy of their intended application.

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