Cathryn, I have all 3 B/R recyclers,  one dedicated to xylenes, one
dedicated to alcohol and the formalin one.  We estimated payback on partial
usage based on calculations from 6 weeks to be 18 mos for all three.  Actual
usage payback is less than a year.  The new enclosed systems for xylenes and
alcohol are a breeze compared to the "potboilers".  The xylenes become more
pure with recycling.  (the Sakura slipper may not like that for it needs the
impurities in commercial xylenes to make the tape stick).  Glass slippers
like it fine for the refractive indices of the mounting media and the
xylenes will be more transparent.  The alcohol return is 95% (ours is
sometimes 96.6%!)  We use a hydrometer for the alcohol.  The formalin return
is becoming consistent with usage.  We were told it would begin to routinely
be in the 10% range for recovery (9-12% is acceptable).  Only need to
rebuffer.  Yes, you do re-assay the formalin with an Anatech kit to
determine the % recovery.
    I know you only asked about the xylenes.  However, I encourage you and
others to consider the whole picture for total benefit to you, to the
community, to the environment and at great cost savings for your
employer/institution.  We felt it was an environmentally responsible way to
do business plus the mandates that various areas of the country are
developing about our hazardous wastes....sharon osborn,  BLOC-WERX, South
San Francisco.

-----Original Message-----
From: Cathryn H. Dolinar <DOLINAR.CATHRYN@Igate.Abbott.Com>
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu <histonet@pathology.swmed.edu>
Date: Wednesday, September 01, 1999 4:03 PM
Subject: Xylene recycler


>
>Our lab is interested in either leasing or buying a xylene recycler. We
>would like some information from people who are currently using one or
>perhaps have in the past used one.
>What system have people used?  Is it cost effective?  Time consuming?
>Likes and dislikes?
>Any and all information would be greatly appreciated.
>
>Thank you,
>
>Cathy
>
>
>