Microtome Blade FAQ

Which microtomes and cryostats do GDxDORCO blades fit?

GDxDORCO blades fit manual, semi-automated, and fully automated rotary microtomes, and cryostats, that use a standard low-profile or high-profile disposable blade holder. If your holder takes low-profile blades, use 35L. If it takes high-profile blades, use 35H. You do not need a new holder. GDxDORCO blades are not intended for sliding microtomes, vibratomes, or ultramicrotomes.

What is the difference between 35L and 35H?

35L is the low-profile blade (Product No. 021-1302-1035) for precision sectioning of hard and soft tissue. 35H is the high-profile blade (Product No. 021-1302-1036), with added rigidity for dense, challenging tissue. Both come 50 blades per box and 10 boxes per case.

Is GDxDORCO a new microtome blade or a rebrand?

GDxDORCO is a newly developed microtome blade, not a rebrand of an existing one. GD GROUP and DORCO spent 1,628 days on a single product category: the disposable microtome blade. Series 35 blades combine a Diamond Hard Coating, sub-zero treatment, two-layer polishing, and a patent-pending Blades Leveling Substrate in the dispenser.

What does the Diamond Hard Coating do?

The Diamond Hard Coating has 2.1 times the nano-hardness of standard Cr coatings. A harder coating keeps the cutting edge crisp where it meets the block, so the blade slices tissue cleanly.

How do I get a free microtome blade sample?

U.S. laboratories can request a free dispenser of 10 blades on the Sample Request page. Tell us your microtome or cryostat model and we confirm holder fit before we ship. A Histopun sticker pack ships with every sample.

Will the first sections feel different?

Usually, yes. A new edge can cut warm paraffin differently from the blade you know. The cards in your sample kit show you how to adjust.

How many blocks can one blade cut?

It varies with tissue, block, and technique, so we do not state a fixed number. The most reliable answer comes from running the sample on your own blocks.

How much do GDxDORCO microtome blades cost?

Pricing is quoted per laboratory. Request a quote and we reply within one business day.

How do I order, and is there a minimum order?

Order by the box (50 blades) or by the case (10 boxes). There is no case minimum. Most labs start with a free sample, then request a quote, then open an account.

How fast is shipping?

97+% of shipments are delivered within two business days.

Where can U.S. labs buy GDxDORCO blades?

FIXUP Biochemical Inc. (FBC) sells GDxDORCO microtome blades directly to U.S. laboratories and is the only U.S. source. Contact sales@gddorco-usa.com or (360) 230-8540.

Are GDxDORCO blades made under a certified quality system?

Yes. GDxDORCO blades are manufactured under an ISO 13485 certified quality management system and are in use in 41 countries.