Let’s Dive into Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190
The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 are essential tools in modern laboratories for storing and managing chemical and biological samples. Manufactured by Corning, these plates are designed for automation, solvent resistance, and long-term storage, making them vital for high-throughput screening and library management. Their U-bottom wells and polypropylene construction offer compatibility with a range of solvents and temperatures, ensuring sample integrity over time.
My journey to these plates started when our lab needed a more reliable solution for archiving a growing library of synthesized compounds. We were using standard microplates, but solvent compatibility and long-term storage concerns led us to seek out specialized library storage plates. The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 seemed like the ideal fit.
Unboxing these plates revealed a sturdy, well-designed product. The plates felt rigid and durable, promising resistance to warping and damage during automated handling. The white writing patches were also a thoughtful addition, providing ample space for labeling and barcoding.
Compared to standard polystyrene microplates and even some other polypropylene plates we considered, the Corning Falcon plates offered a clear advantage in solvent resistance and well volume. Some cheaper options lacked the same level of rigidity, while others had smaller well volumes, limiting their utility for our specific applications. The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190, while pricier, seemed like the investment would pay off in terms of reliability and longevity.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The plates looked promising, but the true test would be in their performance with our library of compounds and under the rigors of automated handling. I was excited to see if they would live up to their reputation for reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 to the Test
First Use Experience
The first use involved transferring a subset of our DMSO-solubilized compounds into the Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 using our automated liquid handling system. This system utilizes robotic arms to precisely deliver small volumes of liquid to each well in the plate. The plates performed flawlessly.
We subjected them to a temperature cycling experiment (-20°C to room temperature) to simulate real-world storage conditions. Even after multiple cycles, there were no signs of cracking or warping. The ease of use with our automated system was also a major plus. The plates fit perfectly into the robotic grippers and were accurately positioned for liquid dispensing.
There were no immediate issues or surprises, which was exactly what we were hoping for. The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 seemed to be living up to the hype.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 have proven to be remarkably reliable. We’ve subjected them to repeated freeze-thaw cycles, solvent transfers, and automated handling without any degradation in performance.
The plates show no signs of wear and tear, even after being used in our robotic system on a daily basis. The polypropylene material remains resistant to solvents, and the well integrity has been consistently maintained. Maintenance is minimal.
Compared to our previous experiences with less robust plates, these Corning Falcon plates are a significant upgrade. They have drastically reduced the risk of sample loss or contamination, saving us valuable time and resources. The improved solvent resistance and durability of the Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 make them well worth the initial investment.
Breaking Down the Features of Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190
Specifications
The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 feature a U-Bottom well shape, which is ideal for maximizing liquid recovery and mixing. This design minimizes dead volume and ensures efficient sample retrieval.
With a working well volume of 250 µL, these plates provide ample space for storing a variety of chemical and biological samples. This is crucial for applications where sample volume is limited.
The polypropylene construction provides exceptional solvent resistance, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of chemicals, including DMSO. This is especially important for storing chemical libraries and compound screening.
These plates are specifically designed to be automation-compatible, facilitating seamless integration with robotic liquid handling systems. This reduces manual errors and increases throughput.
The white writing patches on the plates allow for easy labeling and barcoding, streamlining sample tracking and organization. Accurate labeling is essential for maintaining data integrity in high-throughput experiments.
These specifications matter because they directly influence the plate’s performance in critical laboratory applications. The U-bottom shape, working well volume, solvent resistance, automation compatibility, and writing patches all contribute to the plate’s overall usability and reliability.
Performance & Functionality
The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 perform exceptionally well in their intended role. They provide a reliable and robust platform for storing and managing chemical and biological samples.
Their primary strength lies in their compatibility with automation and their resistance to solvents. This ensures that samples remain intact and readily accessible. The only potential weakness might be the higher price point compared to standard microplates.
The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 meet and exceed expectations. They have consistently delivered reliable performance in our laboratory.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the polypropylene material feeling both durable and chemically inert. The weight is appropriate for automated handling, and the plates are easy to grip and manipulate manually when necessary.
The design is user-friendly, with features like the white writing patches simplifying the labeling process. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using these plates.
Durability & Maintenance
These plates are designed to last for an extended period, even with frequent use. They are resistant to cracking, warping, and chemical degradation.
Maintenance is straightforward, typically involving simple cleaning with appropriate solvents. The polypropylene material is easy to clean.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 do not come with many accessories, as they are designed to be used in conjunction with existing laboratory equipment. However, they are compatible with a variety of lids and sealing mats.
These plates are compatible with standard robotic liquid handling systems and other automation equipment. They work well with a wide range of commercially available barcode labels.
Pros and Cons of Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190
Pros
- Exceptional Solvent Resistance: The polypropylene construction ensures compatibility with a wide range of solvents, including DMSO, preventing sample degradation.
- Automation-Friendly Design: These plates integrate seamlessly with robotic liquid handling systems, increasing throughput and reducing manual errors.
- Durable and Long-Lasting: The robust construction withstands repeated freeze-thaw cycles and solvent transfers without cracking or warping.
- U-Bottom Wells for Maximum Recovery: The U-bottom shape minimizes dead volume and ensures efficient sample retrieval.
- Convenient Labeling: The white writing patches provide ample space for labeling and barcoding, streamlining sample tracking and organization.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 are more expensive than standard polystyrene microplates.
- Limited Accessories: The plates themselves do not come with many accessories; lids or sealing mats must be purchased separately.
Who Should Buy Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190?
The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 are perfect for: researchers in chemistry, biology, and drug discovery; laboratories involved in high-throughput screening; and facilities managing large chemical or biological libraries. They are also a great fit for any lab needing reliable long-term storage solutions.
Who should skip this product? If you only need microplates for short-term storage of aqueous solutions, and automation is not a concern, then cheaper polystyrene plates might suffice. However, for demanding applications requiring solvent resistance, automation compatibility, and long-term reliability, the Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 are the superior choice.
Must-have accessories or modifications? Consider purchasing compatible sealing mats or lids to further protect samples from evaporation and contamination. High-quality barcode labels are also essential for efficient sample tracking.
Conclusion on Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190
In summary, the Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 are a worthwhile investment for any laboratory requiring robust, reliable, and automation-compatible storage solutions. Their solvent resistance, durability, and well design make them ideal for long-term sample management.
The price is justified by the plates’ superior performance and the reduction in sample loss or contamination. They are a mission-critical piece of lab equipment.
I would highly recommend these plates to any researcher or laboratory professional seeking to improve their sample storage capabilities. The Corning Falcon 96-Well Library Storage Plates, Polypropylene, 351190 are an essential tool for modern science. Invest in your lab’s future – get yours today!