Reducing the cost of consumables used for ABI 310 genetic analyzer

We have looked into the cost of vial, septa, and capillaries delivered by the manufacturer of the instrument ABI 310 genetic analyzer (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA). We have found that there is a possibility to reduce the cost of consumables sixfold from $900 to approximately $140 per 1000 samples. This has been achieved by reusing the septa, using standard PCR tubes and by purchasing capillaries from the manufacturer. We have estimated the cost of the consumables from price lists from Norwegian suppliers (Table 1). The costs are based on Norwegian Kroners and converted to USD by current exchange rates; prices do not include V.A.T. Tubes. The sample tubes delivered by Applied Biosystems to be used in the analysis racks are consumables that can be replaced by conventional 500l PCR tubes. The only adjustment needed is to remove the tube caps. Septa. Reuse of septa introduces a problem of contamination with PCR products. We demonstrate a simple and easy method for removal of possible contaminants from the septa. Fluorescein-labeled PCR products were exposed to UVc for 1, 6, and 11 min, respectively. The PCR products were thereafter analyzed by capillary electrophoresis instrument de