Let’s Dive into Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 from Barnstead International isn’t your everyday piece of gear; it’s a specialized tool designed for a very specific, and often critical, application: dispensing ultrapure water in laboratory settings. This remote dispenser allows for the convenient and contamination-free delivery of purified water at a distance from the main water purification system. It boasts a unique design aimed at minimizing dead volume, ensuring the dispensed water maintains its purity.
My journey to finding the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 started with a persistent problem in our lab: limited space around our NANOpure Diamond system and the inconvenience of constantly reaching over sensitive equipment to access the dispensing valve. We needed a solution that would allow us to dispense water easily and safely at different workstations within the lab. After researching various options, the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 stood out due to its specified compatibility with our existing system and its promise of maintaining water purity.
Unboxing the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 revealed a thoughtfully designed piece of equipment. The coiled tubing immediately impressed me with its flexibility and space-saving design. The dispenser itself felt solid and well-constructed, indicative of the quality Barnstead products are known for.
We considered several alternatives, including simpler manual dispensers and systems with integrated remote dispensing arms. However, the Barnstead unit’s promise of minimal dead volume and seamless integration with our NANOpure Diamond system ultimately swayed our decision. Other options seemed either less reliable in maintaining water purity or less convenient to use.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; it seemed like a robust solution to our problem, but I was eager to see how it performed in a real-world lab environment. The price tag of $1999.00 certainly set a high expectation for performance and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 to the Test
First Use Experience
We installed the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 in our analytical chemistry lab, connecting it to our existing NANOpure Diamond ultrapure water system. The lab environment presents a variety of potential contaminants, making the integrity of the water dispensed critically important. We needed to dispense ultrapure water for preparing standards, rinsing glassware, and performing sensitive analyses like HPLC.
The dispenser performed flawlessly, delivering a consistent stream of ultrapure water at the desired flow rate. The coiled tubing proved incredibly useful, allowing us to easily reach various workstations without moving the entire water purification system. Initially, we were concerned about potential contamination introduced by the tubing, but rigorous testing showed no degradation in water quality compared to water dispensed directly from the NANOpure Diamond unit.
There was a slight learning curve in familiarizing ourselves with the optimal dispensing technique to minimize splashing and ensure accurate volume delivery. However, after a few practice runs, the process became intuitive and efficient. No major issues arose during the initial setup and use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 has proven to be a reliable and indispensable asset in our lab. It has withstood the daily demands of a busy analytical chemistry environment without any signs of degradation or performance decline. Its durability is a testament to its construction.
The dispenser requires minimal maintenance; we periodically wipe down the exterior with a lint-free cloth and flush the tubing with ultrapure water to prevent biofilm formation. The materials used in construction appear resistant to chemical corrosion and degradation. This contrasts with some cheaper alternatives that we’ve used in the past, which often exhibit signs of wear and tear after only a few months.
Compared to our previous method of dispensing water directly from the purification unit, the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 has significantly improved our workflow efficiency and reduced the risk of contamination. It has exceeded our expectations in terms of convenience, reliability, and purity maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981
Specifications
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 is designed for use with Barnstead EASYpure* line feed and NANOpure* DIamond* water purification systems. Its defining feature is the ability to dispense water up to 8 feet away from the main unit. This allows for flexible placement of the dispenser within the lab.
The design virtually eliminates any dead volume within the dispensing pathway. This ensures that the dispensed water retains its high purity levels, free from contaminants. The coiled tubing is designed for ease of use and minimal space consumption.
Performance & Functionality
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 excels at providing convenient and contamination-free access to ultrapure water. The dispenser reliably delivers water with a consistent flow rate and purity. The key strength lies in its ability to maintain the quality of the ultrapure water throughout the dispensing process.
However, a potential weakness could be the fixed length of the tubing; while 8 feet is suitable for many applications, some labs might require a longer reach. There’s no readily apparent way to extend or modify the tubing without potentially compromising the system’s integrity. Overall, the dispenser meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 features a robust and ergonomic design. The materials used are chemically resistant and designed for long-term durability in a laboratory environment. The dispenser is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
The coiled tubing design is both space-saving and user-friendly. The dispensing nozzle is comfortable to hold and provides precise control over the water flow. There is a slight learning curve to understand the ideal dispensing technique, but it is minimal.
Durability & Maintenance
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 is built to last, utilizing high-quality materials and construction techniques. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Regular flushing with ultrapure water is essential to prevent biofilm buildup, and the exterior should be cleaned regularly to remove any potential contaminants.
Repairing the unit may require specialized knowledge and Barnstead-specific parts. Preventative maintenance is crucial to ensure the longevity of the system. The robust design and quality materials enhance the unit’s durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 comes with the necessary hardware for connecting it to compatible Barnstead water purification systems. It includes the coiled tubing and the dispensing nozzle. Currently, there aren’t any readily available customization options offered directly by Barnstead.
However, the unit is compatible with standard laboratory tubing fittings, which could potentially allow for some degree of customization, though this could compromise water purity. Users should carefully consider the implications of modifying the system before making any changes. Third-party accessories are typically not recommended.
Pros and Cons of Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981
Pros
- Convenient remote dispensing of ultrapure water up to 8 feet away.
- Maintains water purity by minimizing dead volume.
- Durable construction designed for long-term use in laboratory environments.
- Easy to install and use with compatible Barnstead water purification systems.
- Improves workflow efficiency and reduces contamination risk.
Cons
- High price point (around $1999.00) may be a barrier for some labs.
- Limited customization options directly from the manufacturer.
- Fixed tubing length might not be suitable for all lab layouts.
Who Should Buy Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981?
Perfect for: analytical chemistry labs, molecular biology labs, pharmaceutical research facilities, and any environment where ultrapure water is essential and space is limited. Those seeking a reliable, low-contamination solution for dispensing ultrapure water.
Who should skip this product? Labs with ample space around their water purification system, labs with very tight budgets who can make do with manual dispensing, or labs that don’t require extremely high levels of water purity.
Must-have accessories or modifications? An in-line filter at the dispensing nozzle may be a worthwhile addition for ultra-sensitive applications. Ensure compatibility with existing Barnstead systems.
Conclusion on Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981
The Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 is a high-quality, purpose-built piece of equipment that delivers on its promise of providing convenient and contamination-free ultrapure water dispensing. It’s an investment that improves workflow, minimizes contamination risks, and ensures the integrity of sensitive experiments. The design, materials, and performance justify its cost.
While the price tag may seem steep, the long-term benefits of increased efficiency and reduced contamination make it a worthwhile investment for labs that rely on ultrapure water. I would highly recommend it to any laboratory seeking a reliable and convenient remote dispensing solution. Consider the Barnstead Remote Dispenser D11981 to elevate your lab’s purity standards.