Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled everything from high-powered rifles to specialized survival tools, but today, we’re shifting gears to examine a seemingly simple yet crucial piece of laboratory equipment: the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B. This unassuming 4-ounce clear glass bottle from Kimble/Kontes might not seem like it belongs in my usual repertoire, but its reliability and precision are essential in various field applications, from collecting water samples to storing volatile compounds during environmental assessments. Its ground glass stopper caught my eye as an indicator of its intended precision, a feature crucial for preserving sample integrity in demanding outdoor conditions.
My pursuit of the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B stemmed from the need for a reliable and inert container for collecting and storing samples during wilderness first aid training. The need for a small, robust, and chemically resistant bottle became apparent when teaching students how to prepare and store tinctures and essential oil blends under field conditions. These are often very sensitive to UV light and require chemically inert storage to maintain integrity and potency.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the quality of the glass. It felt solid and well-made, inspiring confidence. The ground glass stopper fit snugly, promising a tight seal, and the overall design was simple and functional, suggesting ease of use in a variety of settings.
I considered other options like plastic centrifuge tubes and small Nalgene bottles. However, the plastic tubes were not chemically inert enough for some applications, and the Nalgene bottles were larger than I needed. The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B, with its chemically resistant glass and compact size, seemed like the ideal choice.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if this seemingly simple bottle could live up to its promise of quality and reliability in the real world. The $319.99 price tag for a case of 144 bottles initially felt steep, but the potential for long-term use and the importance of sample integrity made it a worthwhile investment, if they perform as expected.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B during a wilderness first aid training exercise in the Cascade Mountains. The bottles were used to collect water samples from various sources for testing and to store herbal tinctures prepared on-site.
The bottles performed admirably in the varying conditions, ranging from cool, damp mornings to sunny afternoons. The ground glass stoppers provided a secure seal, preventing leaks and contamination, and the clear glass allowed for easy visual inspection of the contents. Using a sharpie to label the bottles worked well, but required a degreaser to clean later.
Using the bottles was straightforward; no specialized knowledge was required. Filling, sealing, and labeling were all easily accomplished, even with gloved hands. The bottles packed well into the kit that I use, which has room for several small bottles such as this.
One minor issue arose during the first use: the glass can become slippery when wet. This was easily addressed by drying the bottles thoroughly before handling them, or using a small piece of non-slip material around the exterior when handling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B has proven to be a reliable and durable tool. They have been used to store a variety of liquids, from essential oils to cleaning solvents, with no signs of degradation or leakage. The glass has shown no signs of etching or clouding, even after prolonged exposure to harsh chemicals.
The bottles have held up well to the rigors of field use, with only a few minor scratches on the surface of the glass. They are easy to clean with soap and water and can be sterilized in an autoclave if necessary. The stoppers have maintained a tight seal even after repeated use.
Compared to previous experiences with plastic sample containers, the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B is a clear winner. The glass provides a superior level of chemical resistance and the ground glass stoppers offer a more secure seal than the screw-top lids found on most plastic containers. It does exactly what it is expected to, and does so in a chemically inert way.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B is a clear glass bottle with a 4-ounce capacity. It features an AC (Acid) medium round shape, a ground glass stopper, and is sold in cases of 144. These bottles are made by Kimble/Kontes, a well-known manufacturer of laboratory glassware.
These specifications are important for several reasons. The clear glass allows for easy visual inspection of the contents, while the ground glass stopper provides a secure and airtight seal, preventing leaks and contamination. The 4-ounce capacity is ideal for storing small samples or reagents, and the AC medium round shape makes the bottles easy to handle and store. Chemical resistance is another critical aspect when storing potentially corrosive or chemically reactive substances.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B performs its job admirably. It provides a secure and reliable container for storing a variety of liquids. The ground glass stopper creates an airtight seal, preventing leaks and contamination, and the clear glass allows for easy visual inspection of the contents.
The bottle’s strengths lie in its chemical resistance, secure seal, and ease of use. Its primary weakness is its fragility; glass can break if dropped or subjected to sudden temperature changes. The bottles meet and exceed expectations for a laboratory-grade storage container.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B features a simple and functional design. The round shape makes it easy to handle, and the clear glass allows for easy visual inspection of the contents. The bottle is lightweight and comfortable to hold, even when full.
The bottle is user-friendly and requires no specialized knowledge to operate. Filling, sealing, and labeling are all easily accomplished. The only learning curve involves understanding the proper techniques for handling glass to avoid breakage.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B is made of durable glass that can withstand repeated use. With proper care, these bottles can last for many years.
The bottles are easy to clean with soap and water and can be sterilized in an autoclave if necessary. The ground glass stoppers should be lubricated occasionally with a small amount of grease to ensure a tight seal and prevent them from sticking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B does not come with any specific accessories, but a variety of labels can be used to identify the contents. There are no specific customization options available for these bottles.
While not specifically designed for it, the bottles are compatible with standard laboratory labeling systems and storage racks. Standard grease for ground glass joints will improve the seal and overall lifetime of these bottles.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B
Pros
- Provides a secure and airtight seal, preventing leaks and contamination.
- Made of chemically resistant glass, suitable for storing a variety of liquids.
- Clear glass allows for easy visual inspection of the contents.
- Easy to clean and sterilize.
- Durable and long-lasting with proper care.
Cons
- Glass can break if dropped or subjected to sudden temperature changes.
- Relatively expensive compared to plastic containers.
- The ground glass stopper can stick if not lubricated properly.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B?
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B is perfect for: chemists, biologists, environmental scientists, herbalists, and anyone who needs a reliable and chemically resistant container for storing liquids. It is especially well-suited for applications where sample integrity is critical.
Those who should skip this product include: individuals who need a container that is extremely impact-resistant, and are comfortable using plastic alternatives. Also, those on a very tight budget may find the cost prohibitive.
Must-have accessories or modifications include: appropriate labels for identification, grease for the ground glass stopper, and a storage rack to prevent breakage.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B
The Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B is a high-quality and reliable storage container that is well-suited for a variety of applications. Its chemical resistance, secure seal, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for anyone who needs to store liquids safely and securely.
The price of $319.99 for a case of 144 bottles may seem high, but the long-term durability and reliability of these bottles justify the cost, especially when sample integrity is paramount. If you need a chemically resistant and reliable storage container, the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B is an excellent choice.
I would personally recommend this product to anyone who needs a high-quality glass bottle for storing liquids. Invest in the Kimble/Kontes Bottle Ac Grd Cl 4OZ CS144 5810448B today and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your samples are safe and secure!