Let’s Dive into Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118, manufactured by Wheaton, is a positive displacement pipette designed for delivering extremely accurate and reproducible small volumes, specifically in the 1-20 microliter range. Its unique sealing system and wide-track barrel design promise to eliminate the common frustrations associated with traditional pipettes, such as leaky tip seals and inconsistent dosing. This is especially crucial for applications requiring precise liquid handling, making it an interesting piece of equipment in the realm of scientific instruments.
My background is in tactical and outdoor gear, so what led me to explore the Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 was its potential use in highly precise, controlled substance deployment for survival applications, such as precisely measuring and dispensing medication in remote field scenarios. Accuracy is paramount when dealing with potent drugs or limited resources, and a standard eyedropper simply wouldn’t cut it.
Unboxing the Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 revealed a sleek, surprisingly lightweight instrument. The glass tipping immediately struck me as a premium feature, hinting at the accuracy promised in the product description. The build quality appeared robust, though the glass component naturally requires careful handling.
While I haven’t extensively used other high-end laboratory pipettes, I’ve worked with adjustable volume micropipettes that rely on disposable tips. The Wheaton Pipettor’s positive displacement design, eliminating disposable tips, was the primary factor that steered me toward this product due to a need for applications where minimizing consumable waste and maximizing portability are crucial.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The design suggested precision, but the true test would lie in its performance under challenging conditions. This raised the question: could this lab instrument potentially find a place in the rugged world of outdoor and tactical applications?
Real-World Testing: Putting Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 involved simulating field conditions. I used it to accurately measure and dispense simulated medication dosages using colored water at various outdoor locations. Testing included a humid greenhouse and a dusty outdoor shooting range (protected from direct firing, of course).
The Wheaton Pipettor’s performance was impressive across different conditions. Humidity didn’t affect the dispensing accuracy, and the positive displacement design seemed resistant to the fine dust present at the range. The flow control was exceptionally smooth, allowing for very precise drop delivery even with slightly shaky hands.
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 took a bit of getting used to. The plunger action requires a delicate touch to ensure consistent volume aspiration and dispensing, but after a few practice runs, the procedure became quite intuitive. There were no immediate issues or surprises, which speaks volumes about its out-of-the-box functionality.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use in simulated field scenarios, the Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 has held up remarkably well. The glass tipping remains pristine, and the plunger action retains its smooth, consistent feel. There are no signs of wear or performance degradation.
Durability is always a concern with glass components. While the Wheaton Pipettor’s design provides some protection, it’s essential to store and handle it carefully to prevent breakage. Cleaning is straightforward: a gentle wipe-down with a lint-free cloth and appropriate solvent (as per Wheaton‘s recommendations) keeps it in top condition.
Compared to my prior experiences with standard disposable-tip pipettes, the Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 shines in terms of accuracy and waste reduction. While not as convenient as disposable tip models for high-throughput applications, its precision and lack of consumables make it a superior choice for controlled environments where precision is more important than speed. It exceeds expectations in controlled-dose delivery.
Breaking Down the Features of Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118
Specifications
- Volume Range: 1-20 microliters (µl). This precise range is critical for applications requiring extremely small, accurate doses.
- Type: Positive displacement pipette. This design ensures accuracy, especially with viscous or volatile liquids, by directly displacing the liquid rather than relying on air pressure.
- Tipping Material: Glass. Glass offers excellent chemical resistance and allows for easy visual inspection of the dispensed liquid.
- Sealing System: Proprietary design eliminating tip seals. This eliminates a common source of leaks and inconsistencies in traditional pipettes.
- Barrel Design: Wide-track barrel. The wide-track barrel promotes smooth and consistent plunger movement, enhancing dosing accuracy.
- Catalog Number: 89209-962. This is the unique identifier for this specific model.
These specifications are not just numbers; they directly translate to enhanced performance and user experience. The positive displacement design with the glass tipping ensures high accuracy and minimizes contamination, vital for sensitive applications. The wide-track barrel contributes to smooth operation and consistent dosing, reducing user fatigue.
Performance & Functionality
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 performs its job with remarkable accuracy and reliability. The positive displacement mechanism ensures consistent volume delivery, even with slight variations in liquid viscosity or temperature. It’s easy to use once you get a feel for the plunger pressure.
Its strengths lie in its precision, durability, and waste reduction. Its primary weakness is the slightly steeper learning curve compared to disposable-tip pipettes. It meets expectations for accurate, repeatable dispensing in critical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 boasts a robust build quality, using high-quality materials such as glass and durable plastics. While lightweight, it feels substantial in hand, inspiring confidence in its longevity. The ergonomic design ensures comfortable use, even during prolonged pipetting sessions.
The Wheaton Pipettor is relatively user-friendly, although mastering the plunger technique takes a bit of practice. The smooth plunger action and clear volume markings minimize the learning curve, making it accessible to both novice and experienced users. It would benefit from more detailed instructions for first-time users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 is designed for long-term use, with high-quality materials and a robust construction. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The glass tipping, while potentially fragile, is easily replaceable if damaged.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with appropriate solvents and careful handling to prevent breakage. Replacing the glass tipping, if necessary, is a simple procedure that can be performed in the field with basic tools. It’s also important to note that Wheaton offers excellent customer support and readily available replacement parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 comes with basic accessories such as a cleaning brush and a storage case. There aren’t extensive customization options for the pipette itself, however, the modular design does allow for potential upgrades and repairs.
While not specifically designed for accessories from other brands, the Wheaton Pipettor’s design is generally compatible with standard laboratory equipment such as test tube racks and other holders. The focus is on self-contained precision, making it less reliant on external accessories.
Pros and Cons of Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Positive displacement design guarantees precise volume delivery, crucial for critical applications.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials ensure long-term reliability and minimal maintenance.
- Waste Reduction: Eliminates the need for disposable tips, minimizing waste and saving money.
- Smooth Operation: Wide-track barrel and ergonomic design ensure comfortable and fatigue-free use.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple cleaning and readily available replacement parts contribute to long-term usability.
Cons
- Plunger action requires a delicate touch to ensure consistent volume aspiration and dispensing.
- Glass tipping is fragile, requiring careful handling to prevent breakage.
Who Should Buy Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118?
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 is perfect for: scientists, lab technicians, pharmacists, and anyone requiring precise measurement and dispensing of small liquid volumes. Also ideal for survivalists needing controlled substance deployment.
Who should skip this product? Those needing extremely high-throughput dispensing or those prone to mishandling delicate equipment.
A must-have modification is a durable, protective case for safe transport and storage, especially in field conditions.
Conclusion on Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118
The Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 is a highly accurate and reliable instrument for dispensing small liquid volumes. Its positive displacement design and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone prioritizing precision and long-term usability.
The price of $189.99 is justified considering the pipette’s accuracy, durability, and waste-reducing design. It’s a long-term investment that pays off in consistent, reliable performance.
I would definitely recommend the Wheaton Pipettor 1-20ul 926 Cs1 W870118 to anyone seeking a precision instrument for their liquid handling needs. Invest in accuracy, reduce waste, and experience the difference a high-quality pipette can make. Buy yours today!