Bio-Rad Mini-PROTEAN® Tetra Handcast Systems - Manual (Page 3)

Section 1
Introduction
The Model 485 Gradient Former is primarily used to construct reproducible linear and
exponential polyacrylamide gradient gels. It has a 175 ml capacity, making it ideal for
preparation of up to 12 identical Mini-PROTEAN
® 3 gradient gels. It can also be used to
prepare PROTEAN II gels.
The mixing (labeled "light") and reservoir (labeled "heavy") chambers have identical
dimensions. The outlet from the mixing chamber leads into a multi-casting chamber. The
exponential piston is available as an accessory; it is used to fix the volume in the mixing
chamber to produce concave or convex exponential gradients.
Figure 1.1 Model 485 Gradient Former, major parts
1.1 Specifications
Overall size 10 cm x 10 cm x 16 cm (W x L x H)
Weight 500 g
Capacity 40–175 ml
Materials of construction
Body Machined from an acrylic block
Valve stem Delrin ®
Stopcock Plastic
Piston Delrin
Tubing Tygon ® 1/8” ID
1
Exponential piston
Mixing chamber
(light)
Reservoir chamber
(heavy)
Luer taper coupling
Valve stem
Y-connector
Stopcock
Tubing
Multi-casting
Chamber