Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case represents a crucial piece of laboratory equipment designed for accurate liquid dispensing. Manufactured by Kimble/Kontes, these burets feature a Schellbach design to enhance meniscus visibility and a PTFE stopcock for precise flow control, making them a staple in analytical chemistry. The fact that they are sold as a case suggests a need for multiple units, often found in larger labs or educational settings.
My journey to this product stemmed from a need for increased precision in volumetric titrations. My old burets were inconsistent and difficult to read, leading to unreliable results. I was specifically searching for Class B certified burets with PTFE stopcocks due to their chemical resistance and ease of maintenance.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the sturdy packaging, ensuring no breakage during transit. The Kimax borosilicate glass felt robust and well-crafted. The PTFE stopcocks moved smoothly, indicating good quality control.
Compared to cheaper, no-name burets I’ve used in the past, the Kimble/Kontes burets felt like a significant upgrade. I also considered the BrandTech brand burets, known for their accuracy, but the Kimble/Kontes offered a better balance of price and features for my specific needs. Another contender was Pyrex, but the Schellbach feature of the Kimax ultimately won me over.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have reliable burets but also aware that glassware can be fragile and requires careful handling. The promise of increased accuracy and easier maintenance was definitely appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case in my lab, performing acid-base titrations for quality control purposes. The titrations involved various chemicals, including hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and potassium permanganate. The lab environment was climate-controlled, but occasional spills and splashes are inevitable.
The burets performed admirably under these conditions. The Schellbach stripe made reading the meniscus much easier than with standard burets, reducing parallax error. The PTFE stopcock allowed for fine-tuned control over the titrant flow, enabling precise endpoint determination.
The burets were relatively easy to use, even for my less experienced lab assistants. The smooth action of the stopcock and clear markings on the glass made the process intuitive. There were no significant issues after the first use, though one buret did require a slight adjustment of the stopcock to prevent minor leakage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case have proven to be remarkably reliable. The glass remains clear and resistant to staining from the various chemicals used. The PTFE stopcocks continue to operate smoothly without any signs of degradation.
There has been minimal wear and tear, aside from minor scratches on the outer surface of the glass. The graduations remain clear and legible. Cleaning the burets is straightforward – simply rinsing with distilled water after each use and occasionally using a mild detergent.
Compared to my previous burets, which required frequent recalibration and stopcock replacement, the Kimble/Kontes burets offer significantly improved performance and longevity. The accuracy and ease of use have greatly streamlined my titration process. They exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case
Specifications
- Cap., mL: 50 – This refers to the total volume the buret can hold and dispense, making it suitable for a variety of titration volumes.
- Grads., ml: 0.10 – The buret is graduated in 0.10 mL increments, allowing for relatively precise measurements.
- Length, mm: 738 – The overall length of the buret impacts its stability and ease of use within a laboratory setting.
- Cap Size, mm: 16 – This likely refers to the size of the top opening, influencing ease of filling and compatibility with accessories.
- Kimble* No.: 17150F-50 – This is the specific product code for easy identification and reordering.
- Unit: Case – The burets are sold as a case, typically containing a specific number of units (not specified).
- Class B: Indicates a specific tolerance level for accuracy; Class B burets have a wider tolerance than Class A.
- Schellbach Design: Incorporates a white band with a blue stripe to enhance the visibility of the meniscus.
- Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock: Provides precise flow control and chemical resistance.
These specifications are crucial for accurate titrations. The 0.10 mL graduation allows for reasonable precision, while the Schellbach design minimizes reading errors. The PTFE stopcock ensures smooth, controlled dispensing of the titrant, and the Class B designation means the accuracy is sufficient for most routine laboratory applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case performs its job exceptionally well. The accuracy is within acceptable limits for Class B glassware. The stopcock provides precise control, and the Schellbach design significantly enhances meniscus visibility.
The buret’s strengths lie in its ease of use, accuracy, and durable construction. A minor weakness is that Class B burets have a wider tolerance than Class A. They do meet my expectations for routine laboratory work.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case features a functional and straightforward design. The borosilicate glass is sturdy and chemically resistant, while the PTFE stopcock is smooth and easy to operate. The weight is balanced, and the buret feels comfortable to hold and use.
There is a minimal learning curve associated with using these burets. The design is intuitive and easy to understand. The Schellbach stripe significantly improves meniscus reading accuracy.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case should last for many years. The borosilicate glass is resistant to chemical attack, and the PTFE stopcock is designed for long-term use. Regular cleaning with distilled water and occasional use of a mild detergent is sufficient for maintenance.
The stopcock may require occasional lubrication with a PTFE-compatible grease. Replacement stopcocks are readily available if needed. They are easy to maintain and repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case typically comes with a KIM-KAP dust cap. Customization options are limited, but one could consider adding a magnetic stirrer below the titration vessel for improved mixing. There aren’t many viable accessories, as it is a pretty streamlined piece of equipment.
The burets are compatible with standard buret clamps and stands. PTFE stopcock grease is also a common accessory to ensure smooth operation. Consider an automatic titrator for further automation.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case
Pros
- Enhanced meniscus visibility with the Schellbach design for increased accuracy.
- PTFE stopcock for precise flow control and chemical resistance.
- Durable borosilicate glass construction for long-term reliability.
- Easy to clean and maintain, reducing downtime.
- Sold as a case, providing multiple units for busy labs.
Cons
- Class B accuracy may not be sufficient for highly demanding applications.
- Glassware is susceptible to breakage if handled carelessly.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case?
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case is perfect for chemistry labs, quality control labs, and educational institutions. They are ideal for anyone performing routine titrations and requiring accurate liquid dispensing. These burets are well-suited to training young scientists.
Those requiring extremely high accuracy (e.g., research-grade analysis) should consider Class A burets instead. Users prone to accidents might prefer burets made of more durable materials like plastic. They are a poor choice for field work.
Must-have accessories include a buret stand, buret clamp, and a wash bottle for rinsing. An automatic titrator might be a worthwhile investment for high-throughput labs. A good quality magnetic stirrer is also ideal.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case is a reliable and accurate piece of laboratory equipment. The Schellbach design and PTFE stopcock make titrations easier and more precise. The durable construction ensures long-term use.
The price is justified considering the quality and accuracy of the burets. The case format provides multiple units, making it a cost-effective solution for larger labs. They have enhanced my titration capabilities tremendously.
I would personally recommend the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Schellbach Burets, Class B, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock 17150F-50, Case to anyone seeking reliable and accurate burets for routine laboratory work. Upgrade your lab today and experience the difference!