Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72 Review

Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’m not your typical lab rat. But sometimes, even the most rugged individual needs to dabble in the delicate world of science. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72 are, at their core, laboratory equipment, but their potential applications extend far beyond the sterile environment of a research facility.

My journey to acquiring these seemingly specialized tubes began with a recurring problem: reliable, reusable containers for collecting and storing samples in the field. I was tired of flimsy plastic vials that cracked under pressure or leaked their contents, ruining precious samples gathered from remote locations. I needed something robust, chemically resistant, and capable of maintaining sample integrity during rigorous outdoor excursions.

Upon unboxing the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, my initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense quality. The glass felt substantial and durable, a far cry from the thin, disposable tubes I’d previously used. The screw caps, though unattached, appeared well-made and promised a secure seal.

I considered other options, like specialized sample containers designed for environmental testing, but these were significantly more expensive and often came in smaller quantities. Standard laboratory beakers and flasks were too bulky and lacked a secure closure. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes struck a perfect balance between utility, durability, and affordability.

Honestly, I was excited. I envisioned countless uses for these tubes – from collecting soil samples for analysis to storing small quantities of fuel for survival kits. The potential was limited only by my imagination.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first field test involved collecting water samples from a remote mountain stream during a multi-day backpacking trip. The tubes were easily packed in my gear, taking up minimal space. I carefully filled several tubes with water, ensuring the caps were tightly sealed.

Despite being jostled around in my pack for several hours, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes showed no signs of leakage. The glass remained intact, even after a minor tumble down a rocky slope. Back at camp, I appreciated the marking spot for labeling the samples, ensuring accurate identification later.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of intermittent use in various outdoor scenarios, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes have proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve used them to store everything from emergency rations of spices to small quantities of lubricants for maintaining field equipment. They are incredibly durable.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The glass remains clear and unblemished, and the rubber-lined caps continue to provide a secure seal. Cleaning the tubes is straightforward; a simple rinse with soap and water is usually sufficient.

Compared to previous experiences with less robust containers, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes have exceeded my expectations. The peace of mind knowing my samples or supplies are safely contained is invaluable.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72

Specifications

• Size: 16 x 150 mm. This size provides a good balance between capacity and portability, making them suitable for a variety of field applications.
• Volume: 20 mL. This volume is sufficient for collecting representative samples or storing small quantities of essential items.
• GPI Thread Finish: 15-415. This thread finish ensures compatibility with a wide range of caps, though the included phenolic screw caps with rubber liners are the ideal match.
• **Kimble No.:* 45066 16150. This is the unique identifier for this specific tube model from *Kimble/Kontes*, ensuring you’re getting the genuine article.
• Unit: Pack of 72. This provides a substantial quantity of tubes, suitable for both small-scale and larger projects.
• Material: KIMAX Borosilicate Glass. This glass offers excellent chemical resistance and thermal shock resistance, crucial for preserving sample integrity and withstanding temperature fluctuations.
• Caps: Phenolic Screw Caps with Rubber Liners. The rubber liners provide a secure, leak-proof seal, preventing contamination or loss of contents.
• ASTM Compliance: Designed from ASTM Specification E982, Type VI, Class A requirements. This compliance ensures that the tubes meet rigorous quality standards for laboratory glassware.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the tubes’ performance and usability in the field. The size and volume are practical for carrying in a pack, the glass ensures sample integrity, and the caps prevent leaks.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes perform their intended function exceptionally well. They reliably hold liquids and solids, resisting leaks and maintaining the integrity of their contents. Their uniform wall thickness ensures even heat transfer if used in heating or cooling applications, though this is less relevant in typical outdoor usage.

The main strength of these tubes is their robust construction and excellent sealing capabilities. A minor weakness could be the lack of pre-attached caps, requiring a bit of assembly before use, although this facilitates autoclaving. Overall, they meet and exceed my expectations for a versatile and reliable field container.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these tubes is simple and functional. The glass is clear and easy to inspect, and the marking spot provides a convenient surface for labeling. The screw caps are easy to grip and tighten, even with gloved hands.

There is no learning curve; the tubes are straightforward to use. The weight of the glass adds a sense of quality and durability, without being excessively heavy for carrying in a pack.

Durability & Maintenance

The borosilicate glass construction ensures these tubes will last for a long time, even with frequent use in harsh conditions. The only potential point of failure is the rubber liner in the caps, which may eventually degrade with repeated exposure to certain chemicals. However, the liners are replaceable.

Maintenance is simple: wash the tubes with soap and water, and sterilize them if necessary. Proper care should ensure these tubes provide years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes come with phenolic screw caps with rubber liners. While there are no specific customization options directly from Kimble/Kontes, the standard thread finish allows for compatibility with alternative caps, such as those with PTFE (Teflon) liners for more aggressive chemicals.

There are no other accessories included, but readily available laboratory labeling supplies can be used to customize the tubes for specific applications. The simplicity of the design allows for maximum flexibility in adapting them to various field needs.

Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72

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Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72?

The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes are perfect for: environmental researchers, field biologists, survivalists, serious campers, and anyone who needs reliable, reusable containers for collecting and storing samples or supplies in the field. They’re also suitable for preppers storing small quantities of crucial supplies that must be protected from environmental degradation.

These tubes might not be the best choice for: casual hikers who prioritize lightweight gear above all else, or for applications requiring extreme impact resistance. For such users, more specialized plastic containers might be preferable.

A must-have accessory is a waterproof marker for labeling the tubes. A carrying case or protective foam insert for a backpack is also recommended to prevent breakage during transport.

Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes, Reusable, with Screw Cap 45066 16150 With Rubber-Lined Caps, Pack of 72

Overall, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes are an excellent choice for anyone seeking durable, reliable, and reusable containers for field applications. While initially designed for laboratory use, their robustness and chemical resistance make them surprisingly versatile for outdoor and tactical gear purposes.

At $359.99 for a pack of 72, the price might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the quality of the materials, the durability of the construction, and the versatility of the applications, the price is justified.

I would absolutely recommend these tubes to anyone who needs reliable sample collection or storage in demanding environments. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Culture Tubes are a worthwhile investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike. Secure your samples, protect your supplies, and elevate your field game – grab a pack today!