Let’s Dive into Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes
The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes is a specialized accessory designed for the Boekel benchtop cooler unit. This insert is tailored to securely hold six 20mm tubes, maintaining a consistent temperature environment, crucial for sensitive biological and chemical samples. As someone who has spent years in the field, I know how important it is to maintain the integrity of samples in the lab, especially when dealing with time-sensitive experiments.
My work frequently involves maintaining cell cultures at very specific temperatures. Temperature fluctuations can ruin weeks of work and thousands of dollars of reagents. I needed a reliable, consistent cooling solution that was compact enough for my limited bench space, so when I saw the Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes, it seemed like a perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, the insert felt solid and well-made. The fit and finish was clean, and the material felt durable enough to withstand daily use. It’s a relatively simple design, but the precision of the tube cutouts immediately gave me confidence in its ability to maintain consistent thermal contact.
I considered options like ice baths and larger refrigerated incubators. But ice baths are messy and inconsistent, and the large incubators take up too much valuable bench space and consume a lot of energy. The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes, in combination with the base cooler unit, seemed like the ideal balance of precision, compactness, and efficiency.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. It seemed like a well-designed piece of equipment that could solve a real problem for me. Now, it was time to put it to the test and see if it lived up to its promise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes in my cell culture lab. The insert was placed inside the Boekel benchtop cooler unit, pre-set to 4°C. I then loaded six 20mm tubes containing temperature-sensitive reagents into the insert.
I monitored the temperature of a control tube using a calibrated thermocouple. The system was subjected to ambient lab temperatures which fluctuated slightly throughout the day. I was particularly interested in how quickly the insert could recover temperature after a brief opening of the cooler lid.
The insert proved easy to use, requiring no specific setup. The tubes were held securely, and the temperature remained consistently within the cooler’s specified range, quickly returning to the setpoint after brief disturbances. This level of performance was exactly what I needed for reliable sample preservation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes continued to perform reliably. There were no noticeable signs of wear and tear. The anodized aluminum finish remained pristine despite constant handling and occasional exposure to spills.
The insert required minimal maintenance; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth kept it clean. In contrast to using ice buckets, which require constant monitoring and replenishment of ice, this solution was virtually maintenance-free. The Boekel system drastically improved my workflow and reduced the risk of sample degradation.
Compared to my previous makeshift cooling methods, the Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes was a significant upgrade. Its consistent temperature control and ease of use have streamlined my research process, making it an invaluable tool in my lab.
Breaking Down the Features of Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes
Specifications
The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes is specifically designed to accommodate six 20mm diameter tubes. It’s constructed from anodized aluminum for optimal thermal conductivity and durability. The specified temperature range, dictated by the base unit, is 4°C to ambient.
- Description: Holds Six 20 mm Tubes
- Unit: Each
- Temperature Range: 4°C to ambient
- Temperature Accuracy: ±0.5°C from setpoint
- Overall Dimensions: 24.8W x 28.6D x 18.4H cm (This refers to the base unit, not just the insert itself.)
- Weight: 4.5 kg (10 lbs.) (This refers to the base unit, not just the insert itself.)
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the insert’s ability to maintain precise and consistent temperatures. The aluminum construction ensures rapid heat transfer, while the precise tube dimensions guarantee optimal thermal contact. The temperature accuracy of ±0.5°C is crucial for sensitive biological reactions and reagent stability.
Performance & Functionality
The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes excels at maintaining consistent temperatures for 20mm tubes within the Boekel benchtop cooler. Its tight tolerances and efficient heat transfer guarantee optimal temperature control. This is vital for experiments requiring stable thermal conditions.
A key strength lies in its ability to rapidly stabilize temperature after disturbances. It quickly returns to the setpoint after the cooler lid is opened and closed. A potential weakness could be the fixed number of tube slots. Users requiring different tube sizes or quantities would need additional inserts.
It far exceeds my expectations. It maintains consistent temperature far better than using ice, and saves substantial time. The convenience and reliability make it a valuable addition to the lab.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes has a simple, functional design. It is constructed of anodized aluminum, providing excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. The insert is lightweight and easy to handle.
The user-friendliness is outstanding. There’s virtually no learning curve; simply insert the tubes. The precise fit of the tubes minimizes any potential for wobble or instability, ensuring safe handling of valuable samples.
Durability & Maintenance
The anodized aluminum construction ensures longevity and resistance to corrosion. It should last for many years with proper care. Cleaning is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to remove any spills or contaminants.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes is primarily designed as a tube holder within the Boekel cooler. It does not feature extensive customization options on its own. Its compatibility with the base Boekel cooler allows for temperature adjustments.
Other block inserts are available from Boekel to accommodate different tube sizes and vessel types. This modularity adds versatility. Using different block inserts in the same base unit is a great way to maximize its utility.
Pros and Cons of Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes
Pros
- Consistent and precise temperature control, essential for sensitive samples.
- Durable anodized aluminum construction ensures long-term reliability.
- Easy to use, with no complex setup or programming required.
- Low maintenance, simplifying workflow and reducing downtime.
- Compact design saves valuable bench space.
Cons
- Limited to six 20mm tubes; not flexible for different sizes or quantities without purchasing additional inserts.
- Requires the base Boekel benchtop cooler unit for operation; cannot function independently.
Who Should Buy Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes?
Perfect for researchers, lab technicians, and medical professionals who require precise temperature control for 20mm tubes. It’s especially useful in cell culture, molecular biology, and pharmaceutical labs. Anyone working with temperature-sensitive reagents will appreciate the consistent performance and ease of use.
Those who need to accommodate a wide variety of tube sizes and vessel types without additional inserts should skip this product. The fixed configuration may not be suitable for labs with highly variable needs. A must-have accessory would be additional block inserts for different tube sizes.
Conclusion on Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes
The Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes is a valuable accessory for any lab needing precise temperature control for 20mm tubes. Its consistent performance, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. The Manufacturer, Boekel, has created a dependable tool.
At $199.99, the price is justified by its ability to maintain sample integrity and improve workflow efficiency. The consistent temperature and reduced maintenance provide excellent value.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Boekel Benchtop Cooler 110020 Block Inserts Holds Six 20 Mm Tubes to anyone seeking a reliable and efficient cooling solution. Upgrade your lab’s capabilities today!