Oil on back focal plane of objective

[Gary Laevsky]

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Hi All,

Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope.  No
smear from the side.

Thanks.

--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310

[John Oreopoulos]

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I've never experienced it myself, but if it's a spring-loaded objective barrel, oil can potentially leak through the gap between the spring-loaded section and the outside barrel and make it's way down through the objective - maybe. This is why I wipe oil off objectives as soon as I'm done using them. Hard to imagine any other way oil could get there, unless maybe oil dropped onto the nosepiece at the base of the objective? Or maybe someone removed the objective to clean it and accidentally set it down on a surface with oil? In any case, it should be fine to clean it off it it's only on the outside surface of the bottom lens of the objective.

Sending good vibes your way,

John Oreopoulos




On 2016-04-04, at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope.  No
> smear from the side.
>
> Thanks.
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310

[mmodel]

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Oil can sometimes leak inside objectives, especially on those with anti-shock... - not sure what it's called, when the central part can move up and down. We once had to throw away one quite expensive piece. It helps to wipe objectives after use.
Mike

________________________________________
From: Confocal Microscopy List <[hidden email]> on behalf of Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
Sent: Monday, April 4, 2016 5:48 AM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Oil on back focal plane of objective

*****
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*****

Hi All,

Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope.  No
smear from the side.

Thanks.

--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310

[Oshel, Philip Eugene]

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I've noticed the same thing.
Discarding the grumpy usual, on the basis of not having "people like
that" using the confocals, the only thing I can think of is minute
pinholes in the mounting cement allowing the oil to soak through - by
gravity if on on inverted microscope, or capillary action if on an upright.

Phil

On 04/04/2016 05:48 , Gary Laevsky wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope.  No
> smear from the side.
>
> Thanks.
>

--
Philip Oshel
Microscopy Facility Supervisor
Biology Department
024C Brooks Hall
Central Michigan University
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859
[phone]

[Guy Cox-2]

This would seem to be physically impossible on a BF objective - the oil would have to levitate!  So I suppose we are talking about a phase objective - but one really shouldn't use a phase objective for confocal imaging.  Having said that I have to agree with the interpretation - if you must use an inverted microscope it is crucial not just to clean the oil off after use, but to then remove the objective and store it tip down until it's next needed.  That way anything that has leaked in gets a chance to leak out again.  What's more, I think I (or maybe Ellie Kable) posted the same message some 15 years ago .....

                                                           Guy

Guy Cox, Honorary Associate Professor
School of Medical Sciences

Australian Centre for Microscopy and Microanalysis,
Madsen, F09, University of Sydney, NSW 2006

-----Original Message-----
From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Philip Oshel
Sent: Monday, 4 April 2016 10:27 PM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

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*****

I've noticed the same thing.
Discarding the grumpy usual, on the basis of not having "people like that" using the confocals, the only thing I can think of is minute pinholes in the mounting cement allowing the oil to soak through - by gravity if on on inverted microscope, or capillary action if on an upright.

Phil

On 04/04/2016 05:48 , Gary Laevsky wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me
> if there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the
> back focal plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an
> inverted scope.  No smear from the side.
>
> Thanks.
>

--
Philip Oshel
Microscopy Facility Supervisor
Biology Department
024C Brooks Hall
Central Michigan University
Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859
[phone]

[Gary Laevsky]

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Hi All,

To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and ended
up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
edge, right?

This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.

I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
malicious act.

Best,

gary

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
wrote:

> Hi All,
>
> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope.  No
> smear from the side.
>
> Thanks.
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310
>

--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310

[Jordan Becker]

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*****

Hey,

What about inexperienced or rushed hands? Oil on a finger accidentally
grazing the bottom of the rear lens when placing/installing or removing the
objective? Unless it's clearly a drop...is it a smudge/print shape?

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 9:39 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and ended
> up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
> edge, right?
>
> This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
>
> I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
> malicious act.
>
> Best,
>
> gary
>
> On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
>
> > Hi All,
> >
> > Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> > there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back
> focal
> > plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope.  No
> > smear from the side.
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > --
> > Best,
> >
> > Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> > Nikon Center of Excellence
> > Dept. of Molecular Biology
> > Washington Rd.
> > Princeton University
> > Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > (O) 609 258 5432
> > (C) 508 507 1310
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310
>

[Zdenek Svindrych-2]

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*****


Hi.
To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's more
likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't forget to
apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in your
manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not necessary to
unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front lens
seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably full of oil
and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test whether it performs
well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it for you (and ask how much
it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for you for
free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.

I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary action,
and oil is not superfluid...

Good Luck!

zdenek


---------- Původní zpráva ----------
Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
Komu: [hidden email]
Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

"*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
*****

Hi All,

To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and ended
up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
edge, right?

This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.

I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
malicious act.

Best,

gary

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
wrote:

> Hi All,
>
> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope. No
> smear from the side.
>
> Thanks.
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310
>

--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310"

[David Claypool]

*****
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http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
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*****

To All,

This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.

If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil to run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective. Over time enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can find its way between the inner lens elements.

The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been crashed into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This can cause the seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and the immersion oil will find its way into the objective.  

Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer, but not under warranty.

I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change it regularly.

David J. Claypool
Digital Imaging Product Manager
Micro Video Instruments
Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
Cell: 603-809-5342
[hidden email]

> On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
>
> Hi.
> To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's more
> likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't forget to
> apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in your
> manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not necessary to
> unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front lens
> seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably full of oil
> and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test whether it performs
> well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it for you (and ask how much
> it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for you for
> free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
>
> I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary action,
> and oil is not superfluid...
>
> Good Luck!
>
> zdenek
>
>
> ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> Komu: [hidden email]
> Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
>
> "*****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and ended
> up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
> edge, right?
>
> This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
>
> I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
> malicious act.
>
> Best,
>
> gary
>
> On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
>
>> Hi All,
>>
>> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
>> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
>> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope. No
>> smear from the side.
>>
>> Thanks.
>>
>> --
>> Best,
>>
>> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
>> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
>> Nikon Center of Excellence
>> Dept. of Molecular Biology
>> Washington Rd.
>> Princeton University
>> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
>> (O) 609 258 5432
>> (C) 508 507 1310
>
>
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310"

[Gary Laevsky]

*****
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http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
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*****

Ok, I'm going with oil leaking down the side of the barrel, and the trail
disappeared (I would have xpected to see the trail).

Thanks for the clarity, and restoration.

Best,

Gary

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 11:15 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
>
> Hi.
> To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's more
> likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't forget to
> apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in your
> manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not necessary to
> unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front lens
> seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably full of oil
> and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test whether it performs
> well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it for you (and ask how much
> it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for you for
> free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
>
> I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary action,
> and oil is not superfluid...
>
> Good Luck!
>
> zdenek
>
>
> ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> Komu: [hidden email]
> Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
>
> "*****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and ended
> up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
> edge, right?
>
> This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
>
> I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
> malicious act.
>
> Best,
>
> gary
>
> On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
>
> > Hi All,
> >
> > Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> > there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back
> focal
> > plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope. No
> > smear from the side.
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > --
> > Best,
> >
> > Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> > Nikon Center of Excellence
> > Dept. of Molecular Biology
> > Washington Rd.
> > Princeton University
> > Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > (O) 609 258 5432
> > (C) 508 507 1310
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310"
>

--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310

[Craig Brideau]

*****
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*****

I still stand by my recommendation of cloth hair scrunchies on the
objectives. It catches any oil drips running down the side of the objective
on inverted scopes. It won't save you from oil leaking into the
spring-loaded tips but it at least keeps it from soaking into the optics
under the objective. You can even use them for color coding!
http://previews.123rf.com/images/belchonock/belchonock1108/belchonock110800172/10220322-hair-scrunchies-on-brown-background-Stock-Photo.jpg

Craig Brideau

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 9:31 AM, David Claypool <[hidden email]> wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> To All,
>
> This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on
> inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.
>
> If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe
> with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil to
> run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective. Over time
> enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can find its way
> between the inner lens elements.
>
> The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been crashed
> into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This can cause the
> seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and the immersion oil
> will find its way into the objective.
>
> Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer, but
> not under warranty.
>
> I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the
> objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change it
> regularly.
>
> David J. Claypool
> Digital Imaging Product Manager
> Micro Video Instruments
> Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
> Cell: 603-809-5342
> [hidden email]
>
> > On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >
> > *****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> >
> > Hi.
> > To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's more
> > likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't forget
> to
> > apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in your
> > manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not necessary to
> > unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> > But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front lens
> > seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably full of oil
> > and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test whether it performs
> > well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it for you (and ask how
> much
> > it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for you
> for
> > free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
> >
> > I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary
> action,
> > and oil is not superfluid...
> >
> > Good Luck!
> >
> > zdenek
> >
> >
> > ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> > Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> > Komu: [hidden email]
> > Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> > Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
> >
> > "*****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> > Hi All,
> >
> > To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and
> ended
> > up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
> > edge, right?
> >
> > This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
> >
> > I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
> > malicious act.
> >
> > Best,
> >
> > gary
> >
> > On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> > wrote:
> >
> >> Hi All,
> >>
> >> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
> >> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back
> focal
> >> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope. No
> >> smear from the side.
> >>
> >> Thanks.
> >>
> >> --
> >> Best,
> >>
> >> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> >> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> >> Nikon Center of Excellence
> >> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> >> Washington Rd.
> >> Princeton University
> >> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> >> (O) 609 258 5432
> >> (C) 508 507 1310
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Best,
> >
> > Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> > Nikon Center of Excellence
> > Dept. of Molecular Biology
> > Washington Rd.
> > Princeton University
> > Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > (O) 609 258 5432
> > (C) 508 507 1310"
>

[Christian Elowsky]

Craig,

You just made my day, if not month with this suggestion!

Thank you!

Christian



-----Original Message-----
From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Craig Brideau
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 11:54 AM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
*****

I still stand by my recommendation of cloth hair scrunchies on the objectives. It catches any oil drips running down the side of the objective on inverted scopes. It won't save you from oil leaking into the spring-loaded tips but it at least keeps it from soaking into the optics under the objective. You can even use them for color coding!
http://previews.123rf.com/images/belchonock/belchonock1108/belchonock110800172/10220322-hair-scrunchies-on-brown-background-Stock-Photo.jpg

Craig Brideau

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 9:31 AM, David Claypool <[hidden email]> wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> To All,
>
> This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on
> inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.
>
> If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe
> with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil
> to run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective.
> Over time enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can
> find its way between the inner lens elements.
>
> The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been
> crashed into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This
> can cause the seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and
> the immersion oil will find its way into the objective.
>
> Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer,
> but not under warranty.
>
> I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the
> objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change
> it regularly.
>
> David J. Claypool
> Digital Imaging Product Manager
> Micro Video Instruments
> Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
> Cell: 603-809-5342
> [hidden email]
>
> > On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >
> > *****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> >
> > Hi.
> > To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's
> > more likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence
> > "don't forget
> to
> > apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in
> > your manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not
> > necessary to unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> > But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front
> > lens seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably
> > full of oil and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test
> > whether it performs well, or ask the vendor whether they can check
> > it for you (and ask how
> much
> > it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for
> > you
> for
> > free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
> >
> > I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary
> action,
> > and oil is not superfluid...
> >
> > Good Luck!
> >
> > zdenek
> >
> >
> > ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> > Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> > Komu: [hidden email]
> > Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> > Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
> >
> > "*****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> > Hi All,
> >
> > To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective,
> > and
> ended
> > up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from
> > the edge, right?
> >
> > This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
> >
> > I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this
> > was a malicious act.
> >
> > Best,
> >
> > gary
> >
> > On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky
> > <[hidden email]>
> > wrote:
> >
> >> Hi All,
> >>
> >> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to
> >> me if there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of
> >> the back
> focal
> >> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted
> >> scope. No smear from the side.
> >>
> >> Thanks.
> >>
> >> --
> >> Best,
> >>
> >> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> >> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility Nikon Center of Excellence
> >> Dept. of Molecular Biology Washington Rd.
> >> Princeton University
> >> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> >> (O) 609 258 5432
> >> (C) 508 507 1310
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Best,
> >
> > Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> > Nikon Center of Excellence
> > Dept. of Molecular Biology
> > Washington Rd.
> > Princeton University
> > Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > (O) 609 258 5432
> > (C) 508 507 1310"
>

[Craig Brideau]

*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
*****

Glad you liked it! Just remember to change them periodically, they can get
quite messy over time!

Craig

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 11:11 AM, Christian Elowsky <[hidden email]>
wrote:

> Craig,
>
> You just made my day, if not month with this suggestion!
>
> Thank you!
>
> Christian
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]]
> On Behalf Of Craig Brideau
> Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 11:54 AM
> To: [hidden email]
> Subject: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
>
> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> I still stand by my recommendation of cloth hair scrunchies on the
> objectives. It catches any oil drips running down the side of the objective
> on inverted scopes. It won't save you from oil leaking into the
> spring-loaded tips but it at least keeps it from soaking into the optics
> under the objective. You can even use them for color coding!
>
> http://previews.123rf.com/images/belchonock/belchonock1108/belchonock110800172/10220322-hair-scrunchies-on-brown-background-Stock-Photo.jpg
>
> Craig Brideau
>
> On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 9:31 AM, David Claypool <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> > *****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> > To All,
> >
> > This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on
> > inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.
> >
> > If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe
> > with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil
> > to run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective.
> > Over time enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can
> > find its way between the inner lens elements.
> >
> > The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been
> > crashed into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This
> > can cause the seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and
> > the immersion oil will find its way into the objective.
> >
> > Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer,
> > but not under warranty.
> >
> > I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the
> > objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change
> > it regularly.
> >
> > David J. Claypool
> > Digital Imaging Product Manager
> > Micro Video Instruments
> > Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
> > Cell: 603-809-5342
> > [hidden email]
> >
> > > On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
> > >
> > > *****
> > > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> > posting.
> > > *****
> > >
> > >
> > > Hi.
> > > To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's
> > > more likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence
> > > "don't forget
> > to
> > > apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in
> > > your manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not
> > > necessary to unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> > > But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front
> > > lens seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably
> > > full of oil and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test
> > > whether it performs well, or ask the vendor whether they can check
> > > it for you (and ask how
> > much
> > > it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for
> > > you
> > for
> > > free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
> > >
> > > I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary
> > action,
> > > and oil is not superfluid...
> > >
> > > Good Luck!
> > >
> > > zdenek
> > >
> > >
> > > ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> > > Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> > > Komu: [hidden email]
> > > Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> > > Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
> > >
> > > "*****
> > > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> > posting.
> > > *****
> > >
> > > Hi All,
> > >
> > > To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective,
> > > and
> > ended
> > > up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from
> > > the edge, right?
> > >
> > > This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
> > >
> > > I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this
> > > was a malicious act.
> > >
> > > Best,
> > >
> > > gary
> > >
> > > On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky
> > > <[hidden email]>
> > > wrote:
> > >
> > >> Hi All,
> > >>
> > >> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to
> > >> me if there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of
> > >> the back
> > focal
> > >> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted
> > >> scope. No smear from the side.
> > >>
> > >> Thanks.
> > >>
> > >> --
> > >> Best,
> > >>
> > >> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > >> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility Nikon Center of Excellence
> > >> Dept. of Molecular Biology Washington Rd.
> > >> Princeton University
> > >> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > >> (O) 609 258 5432
> > >> (C) 508 507 1310
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > --
> > > Best,
> > >
> > > Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > > Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> > > Nikon Center of Excellence
> > > Dept. of Molecular Biology
> > > Washington Rd.
> > > Princeton University
> > > Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > > (O) 609 258 5432
> > > (C) 508 507 1310"
> >
>

[Eric Griffis]

I second this suggestion. They are cheap, easy to replace, and effective. Plus, when you change them, you can display the sodden old ones to show users that they are putting too much oil on the objectives. If you're still getting oil infiltration with these in place, you know you need some remedial user training.

Eric


Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression
College of Life Sciences
University of Dundee
MSI/WTB/JBC Complex
Dow Street
Dundee DD1 5EH
United KIngdom

[phone]
[hidden email]<mailto:[hidden email]>
http://www.lifesci.dundee.ac.uk/groups/eric_griffis/GriffisLab/index.html



On 4 Apr 2016, at 17:54, Craig Brideau <[hidden email]<mailto:[hidden email]>>
 wrote:

*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
*****

I still stand by my recommendation of cloth hair scrunchies on the
objectives. It catches any oil drips running down the side of the objective
on inverted scopes. It won't save you from oil leaking into the
spring-loaded tips but it at least keeps it from soaking into the optics
under the objective. You can even use them for color coding!
http://previews.123rf.com/images/belchonock/belchonock1108/belchonock110800172/10220322-hair-scrunchies-on-brown-background-Stock-Photo.jpg

Craig Brideau

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 9:31 AM, David Claypool <[hidden email]> wrote:

*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
*****

To All,

This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on
inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.

If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe
with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil to
run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective. Over time
enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can find its way
between the inner lens elements.

The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been crashed
into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This can cause the
seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and the immersion oil
will find its way into the objective.

Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer, but
not under warranty.

I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the
objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change it
regularly.

David J. Claypool
Digital Imaging Product Manager
Micro Video Instruments
Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
Cell: 603-809-5342
[hidden email]

On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:

*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
posting.
*****


Hi.
To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's more
likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't forget
to
apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in your
manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not necessary to
unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front lens
seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably full of oil
and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test whether it performs
well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it for you (and ask how
much
it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for you
for
free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.

I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary
action,
and oil is not superfluid...

Good Luck!

zdenek


---------- Původní zpráva ----------
Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
Komu: [hidden email]
Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

"*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
posting.
*****

Hi All,

To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and
ended
up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
edge, right?

This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.

I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
malicious act.

Best,

gary

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
wrote:

Hi All,

Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back
focal
plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope. No
smear from the side.

Thanks.

--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310



--
Best,

Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
Nikon Center of Excellence
Dept. of Molecular Biology
Washington Rd.
Princeton University
Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
(O) 609 258 5432
(C) 508 507 1310"



The University of Dundee is a registered Scottish Charity, No: SC015096

[Quintanar, Loren]

I doubt this was an intentional act by someone. I understand from Zeiss reps and other sources that oil leakage into the objective barrel usually happens over time. However, I can imagine that a LOT of oil getting into the side crevices would show up in the bottom lens fairly quickly, but I cannot imagine someone would go out of their way to pour oil into the side crevices (Unless they are a knowledgeable microscopy bandit that knows how to damage lenses on purpose).

We use little hair "scrunchies" to catch excess oil on our inverted microscopes as well (I even rotate colors to celebrate relevant Holidays). Besides regularly cleaning the front lenses after use, I usually take off the scrunchies about once a week and thoroughly soak/wipe them with 95% ethanol. Maybe once a month I replace them, as they do get nasty. I am sometimes surprised by the translucence of the oil that makes its way on the side of the objective. Even if I see no oil "trail," I can usually feel the oil.

I rarely let oil sit on a lens for more than a few hours (i.e. avoid overnight oil sitting). As always, the best way to prevent any damage is to regularly remind users that they need way less oil than they think!

It seems possible that there could be invisible damage in/around the front lens, which caused the oil to leak in. Then again, I have a hard time wrapping my head around how it got to the bottom lens and possibly surpassing other optics inside.

Loren

-----Original Message-----
From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Christian Elowsky
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 10:12 AM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

Craig,

You just made my day, if not month with this suggestion!

Thank you!

Christian



-----Original Message-----
From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of Craig Brideau
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 11:54 AM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

*****
To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
*****

I still stand by my recommendation of cloth hair scrunchies on the objectives. It catches any oil drips running down the side of the objective on inverted scopes. It won't save you from oil leaking into the spring-loaded tips but it at least keeps it from soaking into the optics under the objective. You can even use them for color coding!
http://previews.123rf.com/images/belchonock/belchonock1108/belchonock110800172/10220322-hair-scrunchies-on-brown-background-Stock-Photo.jpg

Craig Brideau

On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 9:31 AM, David Claypool <[hidden email]> wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> To All,
>
> This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on
> inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.
>
> If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe
> with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil
> to run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective.
> Over time enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can
> find its way between the inner lens elements.
>
> The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been
> crashed into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This
> can cause the seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and
> the immersion oil will find its way into the objective.
>
> Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer,
> but not under warranty.
>
> I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the
> objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change
> it regularly.
>
> David J. Claypool
> Digital Imaging Product Manager
> Micro Video Instruments
> Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
> Cell: 603-809-5342
> [hidden email]
>
> > On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:
> >
> > *****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> >
> > Hi.
> > To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's
> > more likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence
> > "don't forget
> to
> > apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in
> > your manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not
> > necessary to unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> > But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front
> > lens seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably
> > full of oil and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test
> > whether it performs well, or ask the vendor whether they can check
> > it for you (and ask how
> much
> > it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for
> > you
> for
> > free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
> >
> > I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary
> action,
> > and oil is not superfluid...
> >
> > Good Luck!
> >
> > zdenek
> >
> >
> > ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> > Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> > Komu: [hidden email]
> > Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> > Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
> >
> > "*****
> > To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> > http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> > Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your
> posting.
> > *****
> >
> > Hi All,
> >
> > To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective,
> > and
> ended
> > up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from
> > the edge, right?
> >
> > This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
> >
> > I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this
> > was a malicious act.
> >
> > Best,
> >
> > gary
> >
> > On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky
> > <[hidden email]>
> > wrote:
> >
> >> Hi All,
> >>
> >> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to
> >> me if there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of
> >> the back
> focal
> >> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted
> >> scope. No smear from the side.
> >>
> >> Thanks.
> >>
> >> --
> >> Best,
> >>
> >> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> >> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility Nikon Center of Excellence
> >> Dept. of Molecular Biology Washington Rd.
> >> Princeton University
> >> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> >> (O) 609 258 5432
> >> (C) 508 507 1310
> >
> >
> >
> > --
> > Best,
> >
> > Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> > Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> > Nikon Center of Excellence
> > Dept. of Molecular Biology
> > Washington Rd.
> > Princeton University
> > Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> > (O) 609 258 5432
> > (C) 508 507 1310"
>

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[Ralf Palmisano]

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Hi,

I am not cynical and I don't mean to be mean to anyone here. I will just
name facts, eventually ask a "rhetorical" question and leave the rest up
to you.

- A nice solitary drop on the backfocal plane of an inverted microscope
can physically only happen, if the turret is not being used for quite a
while.
Was this the case?
- If no smear is on the outside, it must have been making its way
through the objectives inner parts and lenses.
- If the oil went down the outside, no matter what better how long you
wait, there will always be a smear trail. Only just not if you have not
used it for about a year or two.
Did you?
- How does one realise there is a drop of oil on the backfocal plane?
I would guess because a user or member of staff realises you only get a
a distorted image, whatever you do?
- If such an amount of oil leaks through the inner parts of an objective
lens you will already realise a visible impairment of your light passing
through the objective lens long before oil getting to the back focal
plane, also quite early leading to a distorted image.
Unless all your users are blind or have no clue what they are imaging or
looking at.
You can easily check the front lens of an objective using a stereo or
simple zoom microscope.
If it leaked through the anti-shock you always easily can feel that the
anti-shock is no longer moving smoothly - apart from the fact you
managed to get solid dirt in there.

Therefore you have to strongly consider some maleficent user in your
facility.

In about 17 years of running four different imaging facilities, with
probably more than a thousand users, I have experienced much worse
deliberately taken action by some weird, disappointed or mistreated by
their PIs users.

That is my unconvenient expertise.

--
Ralf Palmisano
Head - Optical Imaging Centre Erlangen

Hartmannstr. 14
91052 Erlangen, Germany
[phone] (Office)
[phone] (Secretary)
[phone] (Fax)

www.oice.uni-erlangen.de

[mcammer]

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*****

We have not had a problem with oil getting inside an objective so that it compromises resolution.  However, it can get on the outside of the inner barrel and run down inside the microscope body where it gets on dichroics, other glass surfaces, or onto microschips where is destroys them  We've also had problems with salty water (PBS? Media?) dripping inside the scopes and destroying mechanical parts.
=========================================================================
 Michael Cammer, Microscopy Core & Skirball Institute, NYU Langone Medical Center
                      Cell:  914-309-3270     ** Office: Skirball 2nd Floor main office, back right **
          http://ocs.med.nyu.edu/microscopy & http://microscopynotes.com/

-----Original Message-----
From: Confocal Microscopy List [mailto:[hidden email]] On Behalf Of David Claypool
Sent: Monday, April 04, 2016 11:32 AM
To: [hidden email]
Subject: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective

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*****

To All,

This is a somewhat common problem with oil immersion objectives on inverted microscopes and is not limited to any one brand or manufacturer.

If excess oil is not removed after using the objective m(a simple wipe with lens tissue will suffice), gravity will eventually cause the oil to run down the spring loaded front lens barrel into the objective. Over time enough oil will build up in the objective, so that it can find its way between the inner lens elements.

The other scenario is if the front lens of the objective has been crashed into a specimen holder or the underside of a x-y stage. This can cause the seal around the front lens to develop a microcrack and the immersion oil will find its way into the objective.  

Either of the above damage is usually repairable by the manufacturer, but not under warranty.

I have seen people use a piece of a pipe cleaner wrapped around the objective to catch the excess oil, but you need to remember to change it regularly.

David J. Claypool
Digital Imaging Product Manager
Micro Video Instruments
Office: 800-875-2041 x5221
Cell: 603-809-5342
[hidden email]

> On Apr 4, 2016, at 11:16 AM, Zdenek Svindrych <[hidden email]> wrote:
>
> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__lists.umn.edu_cgi-
> 2Dbin_wa-3FA0-3Dconfocalmicroscopy&d=CwIFBA&c=j5oPpO0eBH1iio48DtsedbOB
> Gmuw5jHLjgvtN2r4ehE&r=oU_05LztNstAydlbm5L5GDu_vAdjXk3frDLx_CqKkuo&m=0_
> k5e3G-Hn49IB14k9dJGFlZc5DXSvZO_7gzJFinUEk&s=UVMjVrVCxdXrHEXBV1-fiyUfB4
> zfb6efRryqxjLCy08&e= Post images on
> https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.imgur.com&d=CwIFBA&c=j5oPpO0eBH1iio48DtsedbOBGmuw5jHLjgvtN2r4ehE&r=oU_05LztNstAydlbm5L5GDu_vAdjXk3frDLx_CqKkuo&m=0_k5e3G-Hn49IB14k9dJGFlZc5DXSvZO_7gzJFinUEk&s=yfwCDBdHQKzrvPQtmK0Le5aEHd2TxzRDXAi69udTgs8&e=  and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
>
> Hi.
> To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's
> more likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't
> forget to apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like
> that in your manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's
> not necessary to unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front
> lens seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably
> full of oil and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test
> whether it performs well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it
> for you (and ask how much it would cost!). If you have service
> contract, they might do it for you for free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
>
> I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary
> action, and oil is not superfluid...
>
> Good Luck!
>
> zdenek
>
>
> ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> Komu: [hidden email]
> Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
>
> "*****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__lists.umn.edu_cgi-
> 2Dbin_wa-3FA0-3Dconfocalmicroscopy&d=CwIFBA&c=j5oPpO0eBH1iio48DtsedbOB
> Gmuw5jHLjgvtN2r4ehE&r=oU_05LztNstAydlbm5L5GDu_vAdjXk3frDLx_CqKkuo&m=0_
> k5e3G-Hn49IB14k9dJGFlZc5DXSvZO_7gzJFinUEk&s=UVMjVrVCxdXrHEXBV1-fiyUfB4
> zfb6efRryqxjLCy08&e= Post images on
> https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=http-3A__www.imgur.com&d=CwIFBA&c=j5oPpO0eBH1iio48DtsedbOBGmuw5jHLjgvtN2r4ehE&r=oU_05LztNstAydlbm5L5GDu_vAdjXk3frDLx_CqKkuo&m=0_k5e3G-Hn49IB14k9dJGFlZc5DXSvZO_7gzJFinUEk&s=yfwCDBdHQKzrvPQtmK0Le5aEHd2TxzRDXAi69udTgs8&e=  and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and
> ended up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail
> from the edge, right?
>
> This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
>
> I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was
> a malicious act.
>
> Best,
>
> gary
>
> On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky
> <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
>
>> Hi All,
>>
>> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me
>> if there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the
>> back focal plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an
>> inverted scope. No smear from the side.
>>
>> Thanks.
>>
>> --
>> Best,
>>
>> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
>> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
>> Nikon Center of Excellence
>> Dept. of Molecular Biology
>> Washington Rd.
>> Princeton University
>> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
>> (O) 609 258 5432
>> (C) 508 507 1310
>
>
>
> --
> Best,
>
> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
> Nikon Center of Excellence
> Dept. of Molecular Biology
> Washington Rd.
> Princeton University
> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
> (O) 609 258 5432
> (C) 508 507 1310"

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=================================

[Dan Focht]

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*****

This is not a solution but it is an example of how a misunderstanding
can foul up a scope.
In the early 80s I was called to a major hospital dept. of immunology to
check out a Zeiss Photo 3 fluorescence scope.
Okay, okay, it was before the digital age, I know!
The reason the scope did not work and would not form an image was that a
new user was told to use the "immersion scope" to read TB slides.
The FNG (fabulous new guy) dumped an entire bottle of immersion oil into
the camera port!!!
It ended up that the new guy did not understand English well enough to
understand how to use the scope.
That's a true story and a sad example of what can happen to a scope in a
lab.

Dan



On 4/4/2016 11:15 AM, Zdenek Svindrych wrote:

> *****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
>
> Hi.
> To me it seems very unlikely someone would do that on purpose. It's more
> likely that some greenhorn user misunderstood the sentence "don't forget to
> apply oil to the oil immersion objective" or something like that in your
> manual (I'm sure you don't specifically note that it's not necessary to
> unscrew the objective from the turret to do that :-).
> But seriously, if the oil got inside the objective through the front lens
> seal and found its way to the last lens, the lens is probably full of oil
> and can't be fixed. You may try to clean it and test whether it performs
> well, or ask the vendor whether they can check it for you (and ask how much
> it would cost!). If you have service contract, they might do it for you for
> free, you might even be covered by some sort of warranty.
>
> I doubt oil could get there from the lens threads through capillary action,
> and oil is not superfluid...
>
> Good Luck!
>
> zdenek
>
>
> ---------- Původní zpráva ----------
> Od: Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> Komu: [hidden email]
> Datum: 4. 4. 2016 10:39:50
> Předmět: Re: Oil on back focal plane of objective
>
> "*****
> To join, leave or search the confocal microscopy listserv, go to:
> http://lists.umn.edu/cgi-bin/wa?A0=confocalmicroscopy
> Post images on http://www.imgur.com and include the link in your posting.
> *****
>
> Hi All,
>
> To be clear, if oil was leaking down the barrel of the objective, and ended
> up on the center of the back focal plan, there would be a trail from the
> edge, right?
>
> This was a solitary drop on the center of the back.
>
> I'm trying to find someone that will correct me from thinking this was a
> malicious act.
>
> Best,
>
> gary
>
> On Mon, Apr 4, 2016 at 5:48 AM, Gary Laevsky <[hidden email]>
> wrote:
>
>> Hi All,
>>
>> Trying not to be cynical here, but, can anybody please explain to me if
>> there is a way for a drop of oil to end up on the center of the back focal
>> plane of an objective (oil immersion objective) on an inverted scope. No
>> smear from the side.
>>
>> Thanks.
>>
>> --
>> Best,
>>
>> Gary Laevsky, Ph.D.
>> Director, Confocal Imaging Facility
>> Nikon Center of Excellence
>> Dept. of Molecular Biology
>> Washington Rd.
>> Princeton University
>> Princeton, New Jersey, 08544-1014
>> (O) 609 258 5432
>> (C) 508 507 1310
>>
>
>

--
Dan Focht Bioptechs Inc. V: [phone] www.bioptechs.com