Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of tactical gear, but hear me out. This isn’t your average drinking straw; it’s precision-engineered borosilicate glass tubing designed for critical laboratory applications, and sometimes, out in the field, innovation comes from unexpected places. I’m going to tell you why this seemingly niche product caught my eye, and how, with a little creativity, it can be surprisingly useful.
My journey to Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends started with a recurring problem: water purification in remote locations. I needed a reliable, inert material for constructing a gravity-fed filtration system that wouldn’t leach chemicals or degrade over time, and the Kimax brand’s reputation for quality laboratory glassware piqued my interest. Unboxing revealed neatly bundled, precisely cut glass tubes, each 48.25 inches long, with a robust 44.5 mm outer diameter and a 2.4 mm wall thickness. The sheer number of tubes (16 per case) suggests a professional laboratory setting, but my mind immediately raced with possibilities beyond beakers and Bunsen burners.
Compared to PVC piping (a common alternative) or even specialized polymer tubing, the Kimax glass offered unparalleled chemical resistance and temperature stability. I briefly considered quartz tubing for its even higher temperature tolerance but the price point of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends made it the practical choice. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; glass in the field presents obvious fragility concerns, but the potential benefits in terms of purity and longevity were too significant to ignore. I was excited to see how it would perform in real-world scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends occurred during a week-long survival skills course in the Appalachian Mountains. I used several sections of the tubing to create a slow-drip water filter, connecting them with food-grade silicone tubing to form a vertical column filled with charcoal, sand, and gravel. The clear glass allowed me to visually monitor the filtration process and identify any clogging or contamination.
The glass performed admirably, even under less-than-ideal conditions. While the other participants struggled with murky water and questionable plastic filters, my makeshift system consistently delivered clear, odorless water. The only real challenge was protecting the glass from impacts; I carefully padded the filter system with spare clothing during transport and positioned it in a sheltered location.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of intermittent use, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends continues to perform reliably. There is no evidence of chemical leaching or degradation, even after exposure to sunlight and varying water sources. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple rinse with soapy water is sufficient to remove most debris, although care must be taken to avoid scratching the inner surface.
Compared to my previous experiences with plastic tubing, the Kimax glass offers a superior level of confidence in water purity. The added weight and fragility are undeniable drawbacks, but the peace of mind that comes with using a chemically inert material is well worth the trade-off.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Material: KG-33 Borosilicate Glass. This is critical, providing exceptional resistance to thermal shock, chemical corrosion, and mechanical stress.
- Dimensions: Approximately 44.5 mm O.D. (Outer Diameter) and 2.4 mm Wall Thickness. These dimensions strike a good balance between structural integrity and flow rate for liquid or gas transfer.
- Length: Each tube measures approximately 48.25 inches (122.6 cm) with cut ends. This standard length allows for convenient cutting and customization.
- Quantity: Sold in cases of 16 tubes. This is designed for bulk laboratory use but allows for multiple projects/applications.
- Weight: Approximately 0.480 lbs/ft. Meaning each tube weighs around 1.9 lbs. This contributes to overall stability when used in projects.
These specifications are important because they determine the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends‘s suitability for various applications, ranging from scientific experiments to DIY projects. Borosilicate glass ensures the integrity of the transported substance, while dimensions ensure structural integrity.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends performs exceptionally well in applications requiring chemical inertness and temperature resistance. It can withstand high temperatures without deformation or releasing contaminants. However, its fragility remains a significant drawback; impact resistance is low, and improper handling can lead to breakage.
The strength of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends is its purity. Where it could be improved is impact resistance (though this would likely sacrifice the inert nature of the glass). The product meets my expectations for inert fluid transfer.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends features a simple, utilitarian design optimized for functionality. The smooth glass surface is easy to clean and sterilize. The weight of the glass provides stability, though the product isn’t really meant to be held in the hand.
There is no real learning curve, but proper handling is key. This glass tubing is easily integrated with other lab equipment or silicon piping.
Durability & Maintenance
When handled with care, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends can last indefinitely. The borosilicate glass resists corrosion and degradation. Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of cleaning to prevent blockage or contamination.
Scratches should be avoided since they can weaken the glass. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends is easy to clean and can last years if treated properly.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its versatility allows for a wide range of customization options. It can be cut to specific lengths using a glass cutter, and connected to other components using silicone tubing, clamps, or custom-fabricated fittings. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends is compatible with various laboratory accessories, opening doors to a wide range of uses.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
Pros
- Exceptional chemical resistance, ensuring purity of transferred substances.
- High temperature stability, allowing use in demanding environments.
- Smooth, easy-to-clean surface, simplifying maintenance and preventing contamination.
- Versatile and customizable, adaptable to a wide range of applications.
- Durable (when handled carefully), providing long-lasting performance.
Cons
- Fragile and susceptible to breakage from impacts.
- Higher weight compared to plastic tubing.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends?
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, survivalists, or anyone needing a durable, inert material for fluid transfer or filtration systems. If you need to guarantee fluid purity, this is the go-to solution.
This product isn’t for you if you require a lightweight, impact-resistant solution. Those prioritizing convenience over absolute purity should consider other alternatives. To create the perfect water purification system, you need food-grade silicone tubing and a glass cutter (for specific sizes).
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends is a high-quality product that delivers exceptional performance in specialized applications. While the price of $1779.00 might seem steep, the benefits of chemical inertness and temperature stability justify the investment for those who need these properties.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile solution for fluid transfer, filtration, or other DIY projects. Just remember to handle it with care! If you value purity and durability in your projects, then add the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends to your cart today!