Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15
As a seasoned professional dealing with outdoor and tactical gear for over a decade, I’ve learned to appreciate precision and reliability, even in seemingly mundane tools. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15 are not your average piece of gear; they’re instruments of scientific precision, capable of impacting various fields, from environmental testing to resource extraction. Kimble Chase is a well-known brand, and their KIMAX line is recognized for quality laboratory glassware.
I was searching for a reliable and accurate method to separate sediment from water samples collected in the field during a recent environmental survey. My team needed a portable, robust, and easy-to-read solution. I considered cheaper plastic alternatives, but knowing the importance of accurate measurements, I wanted something with reliable graduation marks and chemical resistance.
Upon receiving the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes, my first impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The glass felt thick and durable, reassuring me that these wouldn’t easily crack under field conditions. The conical bottom seemed perfectly shaped for efficient sediment settling, and the graduation marks were crisp and clear.
Compared to standard plastic centrifuge tubes, the KIMAX tubes felt far more robust and precise. Compared to other glass tubes, the ground glass stopper seemed more secure and would prevent spills. The Kimble Chase 45153 15 tubes stood out due to their graduation markings and the inclusion of the ST glass stopper, which is not always standard in similar products.
I was immediately excited to put these tubes to the test, envisioning the accuracy and reliability they promised to bring to my fieldwork. My initial feeling was not disappointment but one of assurance that I had invested in the right tool for the job.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes during a water quality assessment project along the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest. I needed to collect water samples and quickly determine the amount of sediment present. The tubes were transported within padded hard cases to prevent any breaking.
The tubes performed admirably, even in the challenging environment of blowing sand and occasional rain. The conical bottom design efficiently collected sediment, allowing for easy volume reading, but the caution not to centrifuge with the stopper in place was a definite issue. Using the tubes required some extra care to keep the tubes balanced in the centrifuge since the conical bottoms made them more unstable than flat-bottomed alternatives.
The tubes were incredibly easy to use, and the graduated markings made precise measurements straightforward in the field. There were no issues with chemical reactions or leaching of the glass into the samples, as one might encounter with cheaper plastic tubes.
After the first use, there were no major surprises, except the realization that the glass stoppers, while effective, were a bit cumbersome to handle with gloved hands. Even so, I knew the glass construction would be far easier to clean than plastic.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use in the field, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes have proven their worth as a reliable tool. They have been exposed to various environmental conditions, including temperature fluctuations, UV radiation, and occasional jostling during transport.
The tubes have shown no signs of significant wear and tear, aside from some minor scratches on the exterior glass from handling in rough conditions. The glass has proven resistant to cracking, and the graduations remain clear and legible.
Cleaning and maintenance have been surprisingly easy. The glass is easy to wash, and the stoppers can be cleaned separately to prevent contamination. I can run them through the autoclave in the lab without worry.
Compared to my previous experiences with plastic centrifuge tubes, the KIMAX tubes offer far superior accuracy, durability, and ease of cleaning. They consistently outperform plastic tubes, providing more reliable results and reducing the risk of contamination.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes possess several key specifications that are critical to their performance and overall usability:
- Volume: 15mL – This capacity is ideal for small-volume sample analysis and precise sediment separation.
- Stopper Size: 13 – The stopper size ensures a secure fit to prevent leakage and contamination, critical for accurate results.
- Dimensions: 17 x 136 mm (O.D. x L) – These dimensions make the tubes compatible with standard centrifuge equipment and easy to handle in the field.
- Graduated in 0.1 mL increments – The fine graduation enables accurate readings and quantification of sediment or other separated components.
- Kimble Chase No.: 45153 15 – Provides a unique product identification for easy reordering and referencing of product specification information.
- Material: KIMAX borosilicate glass – Provides superior chemical resistance, thermal shock resistance, and mechanical strength compared to standard glass.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and longevity of the tubes. The borosilicate glass ensures that the tubes can withstand extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals without degrading or affecting the sample.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes excel in their primary function of separating components within a liquid sample. The conical bottom allows for efficient settling and collection of sediment, while the clear graduation markings enable precise volume measurement.
The main strength of the tubes is their accuracy and chemical inertness, ensuring reliable and uncontaminated results. One weakness lies in their fragility compared to plastic alternatives, requiring careful handling. Another is the prohibition of using the tubes with the stopper in place during centrifugation.
These tubes meet and often exceed expectations for scientific-grade centrifuge tubes. The accurate graduation, durable glass, and tight-fitting stoppers contribute to their overall superior performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes boast a design that is both functional and ergonomic. The borosilicate glass construction feels solid and well-made, providing confidence in its durability.
The clear graduation markings are easy to read, even under low-light conditions, minimizing the risk of reading errors. However, the glass stoppers can be a bit slippery when handling with wet gloves.
There is a minimal learning curve associated with these tubes. Their design is straightforward and intuitive, even for those with limited laboratory experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes are built to last, provided they are handled with reasonable care. The borosilicate glass is resistant to cracking and shattering under normal use conditions.
The tubes are incredibly easy to clean and maintain, requiring only soap, water, and a brush for most applications. The chemical resistance of the glass allows for the use of strong cleaning agents without damaging the tubes.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes do not come with many accessories, but their design is compatible with standard laboratory equipment. The main accessory is the ST (Standard Taper) glass stopper, which is included with the tubes.
While customization options are limited, the tubes can be used with various centrifuge rotors and racks. They are also compatible with marking pens and labels for sample identification. Be sure to use markers that are safe for lab equipment and resistant to the chemicals used in your analysis.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy: The clear graduation markings and precise dimensions ensure accurate measurements.
- Superior durability: The borosilicate glass construction provides excellent resistance to cracking and shattering.
- Excellent chemical resistance: The glass is inert and does not react with most chemicals, preventing sample contamination.
- Easy to clean and maintain: The smooth glass surface is easy to wash and sterilize.
- Reliable stopper: The ST glass stopper provides a secure seal to prevent leakage and contamination.
Cons
- Fragility: Glass is inherently more fragile than plastic, requiring careful handling.
- Cost: These tubes are significantly more expensive than plastic centrifuge tubes.
- Stopper caution: Centrifugation with the stopper in place is not recommended.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15?
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes are perfect for:
- Environmental scientists and field researchers: For accurate water and soil sample analysis.
- Laboratory technicians: For precise chemical and biological sample separation.
- Brewers and distillers: For sediment and yeast separation.
These tubes might not be ideal for:
- Individuals on a tight budget: Cheaper plastic alternatives may suffice for less demanding applications.
- Situations where extreme durability is paramount: Glass is more prone to breakage than plastic.
A must-have accessory is a good quality test tube rack or centrifuge rotor that is compatible with the tube dimensions.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes with ST Glass Stopper, Conical-Bottom, Graduated, Kimble Chase 45153 15
In summary, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes are a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and chemical resistance in their sample analysis. While the price point is higher than plastic alternatives, the superior performance and durability justify the cost for professional applications.
The borosilicate glass construction and precise graduation markings ensure accurate results, while the secure ST glass stopper prevents contamination. The only significant drawback is the fragility of glass compared to plastic.
I would highly recommend the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes to anyone needing reliable and accurate sample separation. If precision and chemical inertness are paramount, these tubes are the best choice. So, invest in quality, invest in accuracy, invest in Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Centrifuge Tubes.