Andrology Instruments for Semen Collection and Processing

Andrology instruments are specialized tools and equipment used in the collection, analysis, processing, and preservation of semen for artificial insemination.

These instruments include the artificial vagina (AV), electro ejaculator, scrotal tape, semen analyzers, cryogenic containers, and freezing units, among others.

Artificial Vagina

The artificial vagina (AV) provides the most satisfactory method of collecting semen from bulls.

AV is made from assembling of rubber cylinder, inner liner, directors cone, collection vial and insulation bag.

Electro Ejaculator

The electro ejaculator is used to collect semen by applying electrical stimulation to the ampullae and seminal vesicles.

Electro ejaculator can be used in males that are unable to copulate:

• Males that refuse to donate semen in artificial vagina, lowered sex libido or when injuries or deformities
• Bulls that are not able to mount
• Bulls that are recumbent but having good pedigree

Scrotal Tape

Scrotal tape used for measurement of scrotal circumference. Scrotal circumference is the direct measurement of testicular volume and semen quantity.

Fixed at the middle of the scrotum/broadest area to measure the circumference.

Burdizzo Castrator

Burdizzo castrator used for non-surgical castration of bulls. It made up of stainless steel and also available for buck and ram in different sizes.

Laminar Airflow Hood

Laminar airflow hood is used for sterile processing of semen samples before freezing.

Water bath is essential for maintaining temperature of the semen in the laminar airflow hood at 34°C.

These equipment is essential for maintaining quality of semen before processing.

Computer Assisted Semen Analyzer (CASA)

Computer Assisted Semen Analyzer (CASA) is a important equipment for assessing the quality of semen. The motility of the sperms cells can be measured with this equipment.

Cryogenic Storage Container

Cryogenic storage container is a liquid nitrogen (LN2) container for storing frozen semen straws and liquid nitrogen. It available in different capacities from 1 litre to 55 litres.

Two type of containers available:

1. One type for storage and transport of LN2
2. Second type for storage of straws

Liquid Nitrogen Plant

A liquid nitrogen plant is used for the production of liquid nitrogen for semen storage. Liquid nitrogen is produced from atmospheric air using a separator and compressor.

Programmable Semen Freezer

The programmable semen freezer is used for freezing semen straws and utilizes liquid nitrogen (LN₂) for the freezing process. It is available in three capacities—Microdigitcool, Minidigitcool, and Digitcool—based on the number of straws to be frozen.

Cold Handling Cabinet

Cold handling cabinet used for equilibration of semen straws before freezing. After printing, straws are arranged on freezing racks using ramp meant for Mini straws.

These racks are kept in Cold Handling Cabinet at 4- 6º C for 4-5 hours for equilibration.

The cabinet should be maintained at the prescribed temperature during this period so that sperms are not exposed to temperature fluctuation.

Photoelectric Colorimeter

Photoelectric colorimeter is an advanced form of colorimeter.

Optical density of the semen gives the concentration of the sample. It measure the percentage of light transmitted through a light absorbing media.

Equipment itself will display the final concentration, dilution rate and number of doses can be made.

Automatic Straw Filling and Sealing Machine

The automatic straw filling and sealing machine is used for filling and sealing semen straws. These machines are available in different capacities and can fill both 0.25 ml and 0.5 ml straws for freezing.

Fully Automated Autoclave

The fully automated autoclave is used for autoclaving consumables and media used in semen processing and freezing. The standard autoclaving conditions for semen processing are 121°C for 15 minutes at 15 pounds of pressure.

Electronic Weighing Balance

An electronic weighing balance is used for weighing chemicals during the preparation of semen freezing media. The weighing capacity ranges from 2 mg to 200 mg.