Let’s Dive into Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW
The Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW are a seemingly simple, yet crucial component in any lab or field research setup involving culturing. These aren’t your average test tubes; they’re pre-labeled, made of durable borosilicate glass, and designed to minimize contamination. From my decade-plus of experience in the field, I’ve seen firsthand how crucial reliable and sterile culturing is for accurate results, whether it’s testing water samples in a remote jungle location or analyzing soil composition after a tactical training exercise.
What drove me to these specific tubes was the need for a reliable, pre-labeled solution for field sampling during a recent environmental impact assessment project. I was tired of spending valuable time manually labeling tubes in often challenging conditions, risking smudged labels and potential errors. The promise of pre-labeling and borosilicate glass, known for its resistance to thermal shock and chemical reactions, was exactly what I was looking for.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the consistent quality and clarity of the glass. The tubes felt robust despite being disposable, and the pre-printed labels were clear and legible, a significant upgrade from my usual messy handwriting. The screw cap closures also felt secure, promising a good seal to prevent contamination.
Compared to generic, non-labeled culture tubes I’ve used in the past, the Kimble/Kontes tubes offered a distinct advantage in terms of convenience and reduced risk of error. Other pre-labeled options I considered often had flimsy labels or were made of less durable materials, making the Kimble/Kontes tubes the clear winner. My initial excitement stemmed from the anticipated time savings and the increased confidence in sample integrity.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW to the Test
First Use Experience
I first used the Kimble/Kontes culture tubes during a water quality assessment in a remote area following a simulated natural disaster response training exercise. The testing involved collecting water samples from various sources, including streams, ponds, and makeshift wells, and culturing them to assess bacterial contamination. The tubes were used in a makeshift field lab, set up under a tarp, exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
Despite the challenging conditions, the Kimble/Kontes tubes performed admirably. The pre-labeled design allowed for quick and accurate sample identification, even with gloved hands. I didn’t need to fiddle with markers or worry about smudging labels, a huge time-saver compared to previous field operations.
The tubes were also surprisingly easy to use. The thumb-hole design made one-handed sampling easier, especially when working near water sources. There were no immediate issues, and the screw caps provided a reliable seal, preventing leaks even when the tubes were jostled during transport.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Kimble/Kontes culture tubes in various field and laboratory settings, I’m confident in their reliability and durability. There have been no breakages or issues with the pre-printed labels peeling or fading. The borosilicate glass has held up well, even after repeated exposure to temperature fluctuations and various chemical solutions.
Cleaning the tubes after use is relatively straightforward, although as they are disposable, extensive cleaning is not typically required. They performed consistently, exceeding the performance of lower-quality tubes I’ve used in the past, which were prone to cracking or leaking. The pre-labeling saved considerable time, allowing for more focus on the actual culturing process.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW
Specifications
- Color: White. This refers to the color of the screw cap and writing area, providing a clear contrast for labeling.
- Size, mm: 13 x 100. These dimensions are standard for culture tubes, providing a suitable volume for most culturing applications.
- Volume, mL: 9.0. This internal volume is appropriate for culturing small samples, reducing the need for excess media.
- Chase No.: 13BZW. This is the manufacturer’s specific product code, ensuring you get the exact tube type you need.
These specifications matter because they dictate the usability and reliability of the tubes for culturing applications. The borosilicate glass ensures chemical resistance and prevents leaching of contaminants, while the standardized dimensions allow for compatibility with common lab equipment. The 9.0 mL volume is also ideal for minimizing waste and optimizing culturing efficiency.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes perform their job exceptionally well. Their primary function – providing a sterile and clearly labeled container for culturing – is executed flawlessly. The tubes are reliable, and the pre-labeling is a significant time-saver, reducing the risk of errors during sample identification.
The primary strength of these tubes is their consistent quality and reliability. A potential weakness is the limited volume; for larger samples, larger tubes would be required. Overall, they exceed my expectations for disposable culture tubes, offering a high level of performance and convenience.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kimble/Kontes tubes are designed with functionality and ergonomics in mind. The thumb-hole design, while subtle, greatly enhances usability, allowing for easy one-handed sampling. The build quality is excellent, with the borosilicate glass providing a robust and durable container.
The tubes are lightweight and easy to handle, reducing fatigue during prolonged sampling sessions. The screw caps are easy to tighten and loosen, creating a secure seal without requiring excessive force.
Durability & Maintenance
The borosilicate glass construction ensures excellent durability, capable of withstanding typical lab and field conditions. The tubes are designed to be disposable, so extensive maintenance is not required. They can be easily cleaned with standard lab detergents if needed before disposal.
The robust design suggests a long shelf life if stored properly, protected from extreme temperatures and physical damage. The investment in these tubes should provide a reliable culturing solution for an extended period.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes come with pre-attached white standard-caps, simplifying the workflow. The labels themselves can be further written on with permanent markers for additional information.
While the tubes themselves don’t offer extensive customization, the pre-labeling and standard dimensions make them compatible with a wide range of lab equipment and accessories. They are a versatile and practical solution for various culturing applications.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW
Pros
- Pre-labeled design saves time and reduces errors during sample identification, crucial in fast-paced field and lab environments.
- High-quality borosilicate glass offers excellent chemical resistance and durability, ensuring sample integrity.
- Secure screw cap closures prevent leaks and contamination, essential for accurate culturing results.
- Thumb-hole design enhances usability, allowing for easy one-handed sampling.
- Standard dimensions ensure compatibility with various lab equipment and accessories.
Cons
- The disposable nature of the tubes may contribute to environmental waste. Consider responsible disposal practices.
- The limited volume (9.0 mL) may not be suitable for all applications. Larger samples may require multiple tubes or alternative containers.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW?
These culture tubes are perfect for:
- Field researchers conducting environmental sampling.
- Lab technicians performing routine microbial cultures.
- Medical professionals collecting and analyzing patient samples.
- Anyone needing a reliable, sterile, and pre-labeled container for culturing applications.
Who should skip this product?
- Those requiring very large sample volumes.
- Individuals seeking reusable, non-disposable options.
A must-have accessory is a rack designed for 13mm culture tubes to help with organization and handling.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW
The Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes, Disposable, Borosilicate Glass, Kimble Chase 13BZW are a top-notch solution for anyone requiring reliable and efficient culturing capabilities. The pre-labeled design and borosilicate glass construction offer significant advantages in terms of time savings, accuracy, and sample integrity.
At $125.99, the price is justified considering the quality, convenience, and reduced risk of errors. I would definitely recommend these tubes to anyone seeking a dependable and hassle-free culturing solution. Invest in the Kimble/Kontes Prelabeled Culture Tubes and streamline your culturing process today.