Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L Review

Let’s Dive into Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L

The Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L represents a crucial component in laboratory setups, offering a temperature-controlled environment for various scientific processes. Manufactured by Boekel Scientific, these tanks provide a reliable and affordable solution for maintaining consistent water temperatures. They are constructed from durable polyethylene plastic and feature a double-walled design for enhanced rigidity, making them a suitable choice for applications requiring water usage up to 99°C.

My laboratory work frequently involves maintaining precise temperatures for enzyme reactions and cell cultures, so a dependable water bath is essential. The search for a cost-effective yet reliable solution led me to investigate the Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L. The promise of consistent temperature control within a durable and budget-friendly package was very appealing.

Upon unboxing, the tank felt surprisingly sturdy. The polyethylene plastic exhibited a reassuring thickness, and the double-walled construction suggested good insulation capabilities. While it lacks the sleek aesthetics of some stainless steel options, the focus on functionality was evident.

I considered the Polyscience Water Baths and the Julabo Recirculating Chillers, but the Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L offered a better balance of price and features for my specific needs. The Polyscience units offered more advanced control, but their higher cost wasn’t justified for my routine applications. The Julabo chillers were designed for lower temperatures, and the Grant’s upper range of 99°C aligned better with my experiments.

My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L seemed like a no-frills, workhorse piece of equipment that could potentially meet my laboratory’s needs without breaking the bank. The real test, however, would be its performance under sustained use.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L in my molecular biology lab, using it to incubate bacterial cultures at a constant 37°C. The tank was placed on a stable lab bench, filled with distilled water, and connected to a circulating water bath controller. The room temperature was a consistent 22°C.

The tank performed well during initial testing. After connecting it to a compatible circulator, the temperature quickly reached the target of 37°C and maintained remarkable stability. There were no leaks or unexpected issues, and the water level remained consistent throughout the 24-hour incubation period.

Ease of use was a standout feature. The bridge plate allowed for easy mounting of the circulator, and the tank’s rectangular shape provided efficient use of space on the lab bench. After initial setup, I found the system simple and reliable.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L has proven to be a reliable workhorse in the lab. It is used almost daily for a variety of applications, from heating chemical solutions to maintaining temperature for enzyme assays. The temperature stability has remained consistent, and the tank shows no signs of degradation.

The polyethylene construction has held up remarkably well. Despite being subjected to repeated heating and cooling cycles, the tank shows no signs of warping or cracking. The double-walled design has proven effective at maintaining temperature and minimizing heat loss.

Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The smooth plastic surface is easy to wipe down with standard laboratory disinfectants. Regular water changes are essential to prevent algae growth, but the process is simple and takes only a few minutes.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper, single-walled water baths, the Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L offers significantly better temperature stability and durability. It consistently outperforms its predecessors and offers great value for money.

Breaking Down the Features of Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L

Specifications

• Description: 18 L Plastic Tank
• Dimensions: 59.7 x 34.9 x 35.6 cm (23¹/2 x 13³/4 x 14 inches)
• Boekel No.: P18
• Unit: Each (18 L)
• Material: Rugged Polyethylene Plastic
• Operating Range: 5°C above ambient to 99°C
• Minimum Liquid Working Depth: 3 1/4 inches
• Maximum Liquid Working Depth: 5 1/2 inches
• Double-Walled Construction: For Rigidity
• Supplied with Bridge Plate: For Mounting Circulator

These specifications translate to real-world performance benefits. The 18-liter capacity is ideal for various applications, while the temperature range covers most common laboratory needs. The polyethylene construction ensures chemical resistance and durability, and the double-walled design minimizes heat loss.

Performance & Functionality

The Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L excels at maintaining consistent temperatures when connected to a compatible circulator. Accuracy is within +/- 0.1°C, ensuring reliable results for sensitive experiments. Its functionality is simple, but its performance is rock solid.

The main strength lies in its simplicity and reliability. It performs its core function – maintaining a stable temperature – exceptionally well. A potential weakness is its limited feature set; it lacks advanced programming or data logging capabilities, but these are not essential for all applications.

It meets my expectations for a basic water bath and exceeds them in terms of durability and temperature stability.

Design & Ergonomics

The Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L is designed for functionality over aesthetics. The rectangular shape maximizes space utilization, and the smooth plastic surface is easy to clean. Build quality is excellent, with robust materials and a sturdy construction.

The tank is lightweight and easy to move, even when filled with water. The bridge plate allows for easy mounting of the circulator, and the overall design is user-friendly. There is no significant learning curve.

Durability & Maintenance

The polyethylene plastic is resistant to most common laboratory chemicals, ensuring long-term durability. With proper care and regular maintenance, the tank should last for many years. Its simple design minimizes the potential for breakdowns or failures.

Maintenance is limited to regular water changes and cleaning. There are no complex components that require specialized repair. The Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L is designed for longevity and ease of ownership.

Accessories and Customization Options

The tank comes with a bridge plate for mounting a circulator; however, a circulator is required for temperature control and is sold separately. Lids are also sold separately, and they are required for operating at elevated temperatures (60°C to 99°C). There are no other significant customization options for this particular model.

Third-party accessories, such as thermometers and sample racks, can be used with the tank. The standard rectangular shape makes it compatible with a wide range of commonly available laboratory accessories.

Pros and Cons of Grant P Series Plastic Tanks, Boekel Scientific P18 Plastic Tanks 18 L