Object Details
user
Genentech, Inc.
maker
Curtin Matheson Scientific, Inc.
Description (Brief)
This microforge was used at Genentech, a biotechnology company.
Laboratory technicians use microforges to heat and shape glass in order to create very small, delicate instruments for work with living cells under a microscope. This model was designed to “provide seven different basic operations for transforming fine capillary tubing, solid glass rods, and various fusible materials into an endless variety of micro-tools.” These micro-tools typically come in the form of extremely fine needles, pipettes, or hooks. They are used to manipulate or inject living cells under a microscope.
The need for the microforge developed after the invention of the micromanipulator, a tool designed to hold and manipulate tools under a microscope with a precision greater than that of the human hand.
Sources:
Curtin Scientific Company. “mini-maker!” Southwest Retort 22:9, May 1970. http://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc111167/m1/24/
Institut Pasteur “Pierre de Fonbrune.” http://www.pasteur.fr/infosci/archives/fnb0.html
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of Genentech
date made
about 1970
ID Number
2012.0198.61
accession number
2012.0198
catalog number
2012.0198.61
maker number
V58092
model number
MF-67
serial number
46590
Object Name
microforge
Physical Description
metal (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 14 1/4 in x 11 in x 17 1/2 in; 36.195 cm x 27.94 cm x 44.45 cm
overall: 14 3/4 in x 19 in x 11 in; 37.465 cm x 48.26 cm x 27.94 cm
used
United States: California, South San Francisco
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Biological Sciences
Biotechnology and Genetics
Science & Mathematics
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1428213