Let’s Dive into VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 offers a solution for labeling in cryogenic environments, a niche but vital area. These aren’t your everyday office labels; these are designed to withstand extreme temperatures and maintain their integrity. For anyone working with samples in liquid nitrogen or ultra-low freezers, reliable labeling is paramount for organization and accurate data management.
My career in tactical gear led me into supporting roles for field research teams, which required extreme sample preservation. The issue was always maintaining clear, readable labels in the harshest cold conditions, especially with the inherent risk of frost and condensation. I was looking for a system that would offer consistency, durability, and ease of use – properties many “cryo” label products lack.
Unboxing the VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 , I was immediately struck by the simple, practical design. The labels come on laser sheets, which promises easy printing using standard office equipment. The material felt sturdy and the adhesive backing gave an impression of reliable adhesion.
Compared to other cryo label products I’ve used, these seemed more user-friendly and less prone to jamming in the printer. Some competitor labels are either too thin or too thick, causing issues with printer feeding. The VWR labels felt like a good compromise.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The promise of a reliable labeling solution for cryogenic storage, especially at this price point, was exciting. Whether they would live up to the extreme conditions of liquid nitrogen remained to be seen.
Real-World Testing: Putting VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 in our lab, applying them to sample vials and racks destined for long-term storage in liquid nitrogen (-196°C). Some samples went into a -80°C freezer as well. The initial application was smooth, the labels adhered well to both glass and polypropylene vials.
The labels performed surprisingly well under both conditions. After an initial freeze and thaw cycle to simulate potential real-world scenarios, the print remained legible, and the labels stayed firmly attached. Many cheaper labels would peel or smudge in similar circumstances.
Using the labels was straightforward. Printing with a standard laser printer was easy, and the label material didn’t curl or jam. The label’s strip format made it easy to apply to the small diameter vials we used in the lab.
One initial surprise was the slight stiffness of the label material. It wasn’t a significant issue, but it did make wrapping the labels around very small vials slightly more challenging, requiring a bit more care.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of use, the VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 labels continued to hold up well. Samples stored in liquid nitrogen and -80°C freezers showed no significant degradation of the labels. Print remained clear, and adhesion remained strong.
There were minimal signs of wear and tear, even on vials that were frequently handled. The labels’ protective coating appeared to offer good resistance to scratching and abrasion. This is crucial in a high-throughput lab environment where samples are constantly being moved and accessed.
Maintenance was simple – essentially non-existent. The labels didn’t require any special treatment or cleaning. Their resistance to chemicals and solvents used in the lab was an added bonus.
Compared to my previous experience with cryo labels that peeled off, smudged, or became brittle, the VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 exceeded expectations. The improved durability and ease of use saved time and reduced the risk of sample misidentification.
Breaking Down the Features of VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4
Specifications
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 features white labels in strip format, measuring 67 mm in width and 25 mm in height. These labels are designed for racks and boxes used in cryogenic storage. The specified temperature range extends from -196°C to +121°C.
The labels come on laser sheets (215.9 x 279.4 mm), with 30 labels per page and 20 sheets per box, totaling 600 labels. The Advantech Manufacturing product is specifically designed for liquid nitrogen and ultra-low freezer applications. This makes it suitable for labs, research facilities, and any environment requiring long-term preservation of samples at extremely low temperatures.
These specifications are crucial because they define the label’s suitability for cryogenic storage. The wide temperature range ensures the labels remain intact and legible under extreme conditions. The laser-printable format offers convenience and efficiency in labeling processes.
Performance & Functionality
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 performs its job effectively, providing a reliable and durable labeling solution for cryogenic storage. The labels adhere well, resist extreme temperatures, and maintain print legibility. Its consistent performance is a considerable advantage.
The strength lies in its ability to withstand cryogenic conditions without compromising label integrity. A minor weakness, as previously mentioned, is the slight stiffness, which can make wrapping very small vials a tad more challenging. However, it is easily addressed with practice and doesn’t overshadow its overall performance.
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 meets expectations and provides reliable label performance in cryogenic environments.
Design & Ergonomics
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 features a simple, functional design optimized for its intended purpose. The white color provides good contrast for black print. The strip format is convenient for labeling vials and racks.
The build quality is satisfactory. The materials used feel durable, and the adhesive backing provides a secure bond. There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using these labels.
Durability & Maintenance
The labels are expected to last for extended periods under cryogenic conditions, based on initial testing and observations. Their protective coating and strong adhesive contribute to long-term durability.
The labels require minimal maintenance. Their chemical resistance makes them easy to clean and maintain if necessary. Their inherent durability minimizes the need for frequent replacements.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, its laser-printable format allows for complete customization of the printed information.
The labels are compatible with any standard laser printer. The ability to use various fonts, barcodes, and logos makes it adaptable to different labeling requirements.
Pros and Cons of VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4
Pros
- Exceptional adhesion: Stays firmly attached even after repeated freeze/thaw cycles.
- Laser-printable convenience: Easy to print using standard office equipment.
- Wide temperature range: Performs reliably from -196°C to +121°C.
- Durable and long-lasting: Resists wear, tear, and chemical exposure.
- Clear and legible print: Maintains readability even under extreme conditions.
Cons
- Slight stiffness: Can be a little challenging to wrap around very small vials.
- Price: While cost-effective in the long run, the initial purchase price may be higher than standard labels.
Who Should Buy VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4?
Perfect for research scientists, lab technicians, and anyone working with samples in cryogenic storage. These labels are ideal for pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, hospitals, and universities. Anyone who needs reliable, durable labeling in extreme cold environments will benefit from using the VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4.
Who should skip this product? Those who only need labels for room temperature or standard freezer storage (-20°C) may find these labels overkill. Less expensive, general-purpose labels would suffice.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality laser printer for optimal print clarity and durability. A label applicator can also be beneficial for high-volume labeling.
Conclusion on VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4
The VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 offers a reliable and durable labeling solution for cryogenic storage. Its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, maintain print legibility, and adhere firmly to various surfaces makes it an excellent choice for demanding environments. For Advantech Manufacturing, this is a quality product.
The price of $103.99 is justified by the long-term benefits of reduced sample misidentification and increased efficiency. Investing in these labels is a smart decision for any organization that relies on cryogenic storage.
I would personally recommend the VWR Vwr Label Cryo Strip Rack Cs20 VWR-C4 to anyone in need of reliable cryo labels. Its performance, durability, and ease of use make it a valuable asset in any lab or research facility. Invest in reliable labeling and eliminate costly errors – you won’t regret it!