Let’s Dive into Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent years evaluating equipment designed to withstand the harshest conditions. However, sometimes, the most crucial gear isn’t designed for the field but for the lab; enter the Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144. These vials, manufactured by Wheaton, are designed for handling and storing sensitive materials such as reagents, vaccines, and chromatography samples.
My search for these vials stemmed from a project involving long-term storage of custom-blended essential oils for wilderness first-aid kits. I needed a reliable, inert, and autoclavable container that wouldn’t degrade the oils or contaminate them over time. The promise of borosilicate glass and a design suited for freeze-drying made these vials an obvious contender.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the uniformity and clarity of the vials. They felt substantial, reassuringly weighty for their size, and the glass was visibly free of imperfections. The shrink-wrapped modules further instilled confidence in their cleanliness and handling during manufacturing.
I considered using standard glass vials from a local supplier and plastic centrifuge tubes. However, the glass vials lacked the blowback feature for freeze-drying, and the plastic tubes raised concerns about potential leaching of chemicals into the oils. The Wheaton vials seemed the best fit for my requirements.
My first impression was one of quiet satisfaction. These aren’t flashy or exciting, but they exude an understated confidence and reliability that’s essential for scientific applications. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential they held to solve my storage problem effectively.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved using the vials to store a variety of liquids, including distilled water, ethanol, and my custom essential oil blends. I subjected them to various temperatures, ranging from freezing (-10°C) to warm (40°C), simulating potential storage conditions in the field. The vials were also tested for leakage and seal integrity after repeated opening and closing.
The vials performed exceptionally well under all tested conditions. There was no noticeable degradation of the essential oils, and the vials remained leak-proof, even after multiple freeze-thaw cycles. The smooth, consistent threads made opening and closing easy, even with gloved hands.
I was initially concerned about the vials shattering at freezing temperatures. However, the borosilicate glass proved remarkably resilient and resistant to thermal shock. There were no unexpected issues, and the vials exceeded my expectations in terms of their robustness and chemical inertness.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Wheaton Serum Vials continue to perform flawlessly. There have been no signs of degradation, cracking, or discoloration. The vials have proven to be highly durable and reliable, maintaining their integrity even with repeated use and cleaning.
The borosilicate glass has shown exceptional resistance to scratching and clouding, even after repeated washing with laboratory-grade detergents. Maintaining these vials is incredibly easy; a simple wash with soap and water, followed by autoclaving, is sufficient to keep them clean and sterile. Their robust design has given me no cause for concern.
In comparison to previous experiences with cheaper glass vials, the Wheaton vials are in a different class altogether. They offer superior chemical resistance, durability, and overall reliability. Their consistent quality and performance make them an invaluable asset for any application requiring sterile and reliable storage.
Breaking Down the Features of Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144
Specifications
The Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144 boast several critical specifications. These specifications are crucial for those who require reliable storage solutions.
- The vials have a volume of 10 mL, providing ample space for various liquids and samples.
- The mouth I.D. x O.D. is 13 x 20 mm, ensuring compatibility with a range of stoppers and closures.
- Their dimensions are Dia. x H, 24 x 50 mm, making them compact and easy to store.
- The vials are made from borosilicate glass, renowned for its chemical resistance and thermal stability.
- Each case contains 144 vials, making it an economical choice for larger projects.
These specifications translate directly to practical benefits. The borosilicate glass minimizes the risk of contamination or degradation of the stored materials, providing a significant advantage over standard glass or plastic alternatives. The 10 mL volume is suitable for most small-scale storage needs, and the consistent dimensions ensure compatibility with standard laboratory equipment. The blowback feature and bottom radius caters specifically to freeze-drying applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Wheaton Serum Vials excel in their primary function: the safe and reliable storage of sensitive materials. The glass’s inert nature prevents any interaction with the contents, preserving their integrity over extended periods. The vials are easy to fill, seal, and handle, making them ideal for laboratory and field applications.
The main strength is their consistent quality and reliability. One area that could be improved is the inclusion of stoppers or caps, as these need to be purchased separately. The vials exceed expectations for storing sensitive materials under variable conditions.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple and functional. The vials are easy to grip and manipulate, even with gloved hands. The weight of each vial strikes a balance between sturdiness and ease of handling, further contributing to user comfort and convenience.
These vials have a negligible learning curve. Their user-friendly design is straightforward, and operation is intuitive. The vial’s design lends itself well to repeated cycles.
Durability & Maintenance
The borosilicate glass construction ensures excellent durability, resisting cracking and breaking under normal use. With proper care, the vials should last for years, making them a cost-effective investment. They’re built for longevity.
The vials are easy to clean and sterilize. Autoclaving and washing with laboratory-grade detergents have no adverse effect on the glass. Their robust construction and inert nature make them easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wheaton Serum Vials don’t come with many accessories, but their design is compatible with a variety of stoppers, caps, and labels. The 13 x 20 mm mouth is compatible with standard stoppers. They are specifically designed for this.
These vials can be customized with labels for easy identification. Furthermore, the clear glass allows for easy visual inspection of the contents. These vials integrate seamlessly with existing lab setups, especially with those from Wheaton.
Pros and Cons of Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144
Pros
- Exceptional chemical resistance: The borosilicate glass ensures that the vials won’t react with or contaminate stored materials.
- High thermal stability: The vials can withstand a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for diverse applications, including freeze-drying.
- Consistent quality: The vials are uniformly manufactured and free from defects, ensuring reliable performance.
- Easy to clean and sterilize: The smooth glass surface is easy to clean and can be autoclaved for sterile applications.
- Versatile application: Suitable for storing reagents, vaccines, essential oils, and chromatography samples.
Cons
- Stoppers/caps not included: These must be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost.
- Glass construction: While durable, glass is still susceptible to breaking if dropped or mishandled.
Who Should Buy Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144?
The Wheaton Serum Vials are perfect for: laboratory researchers, pharmaceutical companies, cosmetic formulators, and anyone needing reliable storage of sensitive materials. They are essential for those in the science and research fields.
Anyone looking for cheap and disposable vials should skip this product. It’s an investment in quality and reliability, not a disposable item. The right stoppers or caps are a must-have.
Conclusion on Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144
The Wheaton Serum Vials, Borosilicate Glass, Wheaton 223686 Clear Vials, Case of 144 are a testament to Wheaton’s commitment to quality and reliability. While the price of $219.99 might seem steep, the superior performance and long-term durability justify the investment. This is especially true when protecting valuable or sensitive substances.
I would wholeheartedly recommend these vials to anyone needing a reliable and inert storage solution. Their exceptional chemical resistance, thermal stability, and ease of use make them an invaluable asset in any laboratory or field setting. Invest in quality, protect your samples, and experience the peace of mind that comes with using Wheaton vials.