.. _user-manual-metal-cleaning:

Cleaning and maintenance
========================

The metal holder, the metal base of the case and the stereotactic adapter rod can be autoclaved. The transparent lid, the window and all 3D-printed connector baskets cannot.

.. list-table::
   :header-rows: 1
   :widths: 28 20 22 30

   * - Part
     - Material
     - Autoclave
     - Routine cleaning
   * - Metal holder
     - Stainless steel
     - Yes
     - Glue residue: see below
   * - Case base plate
     - Anodised aluminium
     - Yes
     - Glue residue: see below
   * - Stereotactic adapter rod
     - Stainless steel
     - Yes, with the basket removed
     - Wipe clean
   * - Rod support block and adapter sleeve (blue)
     - Anodised aluminium
     - If your facility requires it
     - Wipe with 70% ethanol or oxidising disinfectant wipes
   * - Case lid and window
     - 3D printed
     - No
     - Mild soap and water
   * - Connector baskets
     - 3D-printed
     - No
     - Wipe clean; replace when worn

Before autoclaving
------------------

#. Remove the R2drive and probe from the metal holder.
#. Take the lid off the case.
#. Unscrew the window from the back of the case and set it aside with the lid.
#. Remove the anti slip rubber feet from the back of the case.
#. Remove the 3D-printed connector baskets from the case and from the stereotactic adapter.
#. Autoclave the metal holder, the case base and the adapter rod.
#. Let all parts dry fully before reassembling and storing a probe.

.. warning::

   Never autoclave the lid, the window or the 3D-printed baskets. Heat deforms them.

Regular checks
--------------

- Check the clamp screw, the panel screws and the set screws for wear before each surgery.
- Keep the moving parts of the metal holder free of glue and debris, so the clamp slides freely.

Removing glue residue
---------------------

Use short acetone exposure and a soft brush, then rinse. This works on both the stainless-steel holder and the anodised case base.

#. Remove the lid, the window and the 3D-printed baskets first. Keep acetone away from them.
#. Wet the residue with acetone on a lint-free cloth or cotton swab. Do not soak the parts; a few minutes of contact is enough.
#. Loosen the residue with a soft nylon brush.
#. Rinse with water, then dry the parts completely.

.. caution::

   Do not use metal brushes, scrapers or abrasive pads. They scratch the anodised surface and can damage the clamping faces of the holder. Exposure to acetone or other strong solvents for an extended amount of time can oxidize the metal parts.

Lid and window
--------------

The transparent lid and window are 3D printed plastic parts. Clean them by hand with mild soap and lukewarm water and a soft cloth, rinse, and let them air-dry.

- Do not use acetone or other solvents.
- To disinfect, wipe briefly with 70% ethanol and let it evaporate. Do not soak.
- Keep them out of the autoclave, dishwashers and hot-air dryers: the resin softens at much lower temperatures than metal.
- Store the case away from direct sunlight and UV lamps, which yellow clear resin over time.