Embedding System

Histology embedding systems are used to infiltrate and embed tissue specimens in paraffin wax, creating a firm block that can be sectioned on a microtome for microscopic examination. A reliable embedding system is fundamental to producing high-quality tissue sections in any histology or pathology laboratory.

At Hurst Scientific, we supply histology embedding systems and related consumables to pathology laboratories, hospitals, and research facilities across Australia.

What Does a Histology Embedding System Do?

After tissue processing, specimens must be embedded in a support medium — typically paraffin wax — to allow thin sections to be cut. An embedding system provides a heated paraffin reservoir to dispense molten wax, a cold plate to rapidly solidify the wax block, and a work surface to position the tissue correctly within the embedding mould before the wax sets.

Precise positioning of the tissue at the embedding stage is critical to ensuring the correct tissue orientation for sectioning and downstream diagnostic interpretation.

Key Components of an Embedding System

• Heated paraffin wax dispenser with temperature control
• Cold plate for rapid wax solidification
• Embedding moulds (base moulds) in a range of sizes
• Forceps warmer to maintain instrument temperature during embedding
• Embedding cassettes to carry tissue through processing and embedding

Frequently Asked Questions

What temperature should paraffin wax be dispensed at? Paraffin wax is typically dispensed at 60–65°C, slightly above its melting point, to ensure it flows freely without overheating the tissue. Always follow the wax manufacturer’s recommendations for optimal working temperature.

What embedding moulds do I need? Embedding mould selection depends on specimen size. Standard base moulds are available in a range of sizes from small biopsy moulds through to larger moulds for surgical specimens. Hurst Scientific stocks a range of embedding moulds to suit routine histology workflows.

Do you supply paraffin wax for embedding? Yes. We supply embedding wax and paraffin compounds suited to routine histology. Contact our team for details on wax formulations available.

Can embedding systems be serviced in Australia? Please contact our team to discuss service and maintenance options for embedding equipment.

Order Embedding Systems Online

Hurst Scientific supplies histology embedding systems and consumables to pathology labs, hospitals, and research institutions across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. Browse our range below or contact our team for a quote.