Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles represent a cornerstone in any laboratory setting requiring reliable and durable storage for liquids. These 1000mL borosilicate glass bottles are designed for repeated use, autoclaving, and general chemical storage, making them an essential item for researchers, technicians, and even hobbyists. Their simplicity and robustness make them a go-to solution, but are they truly the best option available?
My foray into the world of laboratory bottles wasn’t born out of pure scientific curiosity, but rather a practical need for long-term storage of specialized cleaning solutions I concoct for maintaining sensitive optical equipment. Traditional plastic containers proved unsuitable due to chemical interactions and degradation, necessitating a more inert and durable alternative. The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles emerged as a promising solution, lauded for their chemical resistance and autoclavability, crucial for ensuring the purity of my solutions.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of understated quality; the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX bottles felt reassuringly solid and the glass was visibly clear and free of imperfections. The smooth, stippled construction eliminated any sharp edges, suggesting careful attention to detail. The molded finger grips on these 1000mL bottles also add a layer of usability that I immediately appreciated.
I initially considered other borosilicate bottle brands like Pyrex and Corning, as well as some high-density polyethylene (HDPE) options. Ultimately, I chose the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX bottles primarily for their proven track record and availability, as well as the fact that they are autoclavable which gives them a wider range of uses. The option to purchase compatible caps with PTFE-faced silicone liners also swayed my decision, offering added protection against leaks and chemical contamination.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive; the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles exuded a sense of quality and reliability that instilled confidence in their ability to safely store and preserve my sensitive solutions. While seemingly mundane, these bottles promised to be a crucial component in maintaining the integrity of my work, and that was undeniably exciting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved storing a concentrated citrus-based cleaning solution, known for its corrosive properties, in one of the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX bottles. The bottle was placed in a temperature-controlled storage unit mimicking the fluctuating conditions of a typical field environment where some of my gear is stored. The bottles performed admirably, showing no signs of degradation or leakage after a week of exposure.
The glass remained perfectly clear, and the solution’s integrity was uncompromised. The wide mouth of the bottle also made filling and dispensing the solution relatively effortless. There was no time needed to get used to these bottles, as they are just bottles.
The only initial observation was the absence of pre-applied labels or markings, requiring me to manually label each bottle for identification purposes. This wasn’t a major issue, but it did add a minor step to the preparation process.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX bottles have proven to be exceptionally durable and reliable. They have withstood repeated washing, sterilization cycles in an autoclave, and exposure to a range of chemicals without any noticeable wear or degradation. The glass has remained crystal clear, and the integrity of the stored solutions has been consistently maintained.
There were no signs of degradation of the glass itself. The exterior is easy to clean, with standard lab cleaners being more than sufficient.
In comparison to previous experiences with lower-quality plastic containers that often leached chemicals or cracked under stress, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX bottles have far surpassed my expectations. Their robustness and chemical resistance have provided peace of mind, knowing that my solutions are safely stored and uncontaminated.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles boast several key specifications that contribute to their performance and utility. The 1000mL (33.8 oz.) capacity is ideal for storing larger volumes of liquids, while the 38-430 GPI thread finish ensures compatibility with a wide range of caps and closures. Constructed from borosilicate glass, these bottles offer exceptional chemical resistance and thermal stability, making them suitable for autoclaving and high-temperature applications.
The bottles lack graduations, and the Kimble Chase No. is 61100A 1000, which aids in reordering and identification. The absence of graduations may be a drawback for some applications requiring precise measurements directly from the bottle, but the clear glass facilitates accurate viewing of contents.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The borosilicate glass ensures the purity of stored materials by preventing leaching and chemical reactions. The robust construction allows for repeated use and sterilization without compromising the bottle’s integrity. The standard thread finish provides flexibility in cap selection, enabling users to customize the bottles to their specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles excel in their primary function: safe and reliable storage of liquids. The borosilicate glass ensures no chemical interaction with the stored media.
These bottles are easy to use and clean. They meet my expectations and I’d recommend them to anyone looking for borosilicate laboratory bottles.
The main strength of these bottles lies in their chemical inertness and durability. A potential weakness is the lack of graduations for direct volume measurement, requiring the use of separate measuring devices.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles is simple yet functional. The materials used, borosilicate glass, provides chemical resistance.
The molded finger grips on the 1000mL size are a welcome addition. There isn’t a learning curve to use these, as they’re just bottles.
Durability & Maintenance
Constructed from high-quality borosilicate glass, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX bottles are built to last. These bottles are easy to clean and maintain, withstanding repeated washing and sterilization cycles.
Based on my experience so far, I anticipate these bottles lasting for many years with proper care. Minimal maintenance is required, primarily consisting of regular cleaning and inspection for any signs of damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles are compatible with a range of accessories, including various caps and closures. The product description notes that black phenolic caps and MICROLINK polypropylene caps are available separately*. The *welded PTFE-faced silicone liner* on the MICROLINK caps is particularly noteworthy.
Compatibility with accessories from other brands depends on the GPI thread finish (38-430). Many aftermarket caps and closures adhering to this standard should be compatible. This flexibility allows users to customize the bottles to their specific requirements, such as adding dispensing spouts, airtight seals, or specialized caps for specific chemicals.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles
Pros
- Exceptional chemical resistance due to borosilicate glass construction, ensuring the purity of stored materials.
- Durable and robust design, capable of withstanding repeated autoclaving and high-temperature applications.
- Wide mouth opening for easy filling and dispensing of liquids.
- Standard 38-430 GPI thread finish, compatible with a wide range of caps and closures.
- Molded finger grips for improved handling and balance, particularly useful with the larger 1000mL size.
Cons
- Lack of graduations makes it difficult to measure volume directly within the bottle.
- Glass construction makes them more susceptible to breakage compared to plastic alternatives.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles?
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles are perfect for anyone requiring reliable and chemically inert storage for liquids. This includes laboratory researchers, technicians, chemists, and even serious hobbyists. Anyone working with sensitive materials, corrosive chemicals, or requiring sterilization capabilities will benefit from these bottles.
Those who need precise volume measurements directly from the bottle should seek graduated alternatives. Individuals prone to dropping or mishandling glass containers may also want to consider more durable plastic options.
While the bottles themselves require no essential modifications, purchasing compatible caps with PTFE-faced silicone liners is highly recommended for long-term storage. Labeling the bottles clearly is also crucial for organization and identification.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles, Kimble Chase 61100A 1000 Plain Bottles offer a reliable and durable solution for storing liquids in a laboratory or similar environment. Their chemical resistance, robust construction, and compatibility with various accessories make them a versatile and valuable asset. While the lack of graduations may be a drawback for some, the overall quality and performance justify the price.
I would personally recommend these bottles to anyone seeking a dependable and long-lasting storage solution. The peace of mind knowing that my solutions are safely stored and uncontaminated is well worth the investment. If you need a reliable and chemically inert storage container, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Media/Laboratory Bottles are an excellent choice.