Let’s Dive into Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404
The Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 might not sound like the sexiest piece of tactical gear, but trust me, organization and efficiency are crucial, even in the most sterile of environments. This aluminum tube rack, designed for use within a biosafety cabinet, promises to keep your 1.5ml microcentrifuge tubes organized and readily accessible. It’s from Labconco, a name often associated with laboratory equipment, and it represents a practical solution for scientists and researchers working with small samples.
My need for this product stemmed from a growing frustration with disorganized workstations during research projects. I needed a reliable way to keep samples separate, easily identifiable, and protected within a controlled environment, making the Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 an intriguing potential solution. The initial impression was one of solid, functional design, appearing significantly more robust than the flimsy plastic racks I’ve used previously.
Compared to basic polypropylene tube racks and even some stainless steel versions, the Labconco rack stood out due to its aluminum construction and design specificity. I had previously considered building a custom rack, but the precision and cleanability of this Labconco product offered a better solution than a DIY project. My initial excitement centered around the prospect of a more organized and contamination-free workspace.
Real-World Testing: Putting Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing environment was within a Class II biosafety cabinet during a series of molecular biology experiments involving bacterial cultures. The rack immediately proved useful for organizing samples during DNA extraction and PCR setup. The 12-well configuration allowed me to stage different stages of the process efficiently.
The rack performed admirably under varying humidity levels within the cabinet, showing no signs of corrosion or instability. It was remarkably easy to insert and remove tubes, even while wearing gloves. A minor initial concern was whether the aluminum would react with certain chemicals, but no adverse reactions were observed during typical lab procedures.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of daily use, the Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 has proven to be a durable and reliable tool. There are no noticeable scratches or signs of wear, even after repeated cleaning with ethanol and bleach solutions. The rack’s robustness surpassed expectations, significantly outperforming previous plastic racks that cracked easily under similar conditions.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down with disinfectant wipes or autoclave for thorough sterilization. The ease of cleaning is a major advantage in a laboratory setting. It far outperforms the previous system of using makeshift cardboard boxes and marker labels.
Breaking Down the Features of Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404
Specifications
- Aluminum Construction: The rack is constructed from aluminum, offering excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. Aluminum is a good choice for a laboratory environment.
- 12-Well Configuration: Designed to hold twelve 1.5ml microcentrifuge tubes. This provides ample capacity for most common lab tasks.
- 10mm Tube Diameter: Each well is designed to accommodate tubes with a 10mm diameter. Ensuring a snug and secure fit.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for use in a Labconco Purifier Cell Logic Biosafety Cabinet. Potentially limiting its use in other brands of cabinets.
- Catalog Number: 97041-726: Useful for reordering and ensuring you get the correct model. Streamlining the procurement process.
- Supplier No.: 4026404: Another identifier for easy identification and ordering. Essential for maintaining consistency in the lab.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the rack’s suitability for its intended purpose. The aluminum build assures longevity and chemical resistance, while the well size guarantees a secure fit for standard microcentrifuge tubes, preventing spills and contamination.
Performance & Functionality
The Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 performs its primary function – organizing microcentrifuge tubes – exceptionally well. Tubes are held securely, preventing tipping and spills, and the rack itself is stable and does not slide easily on the cabinet surface. Its simplicity is its strength.
The rack’s greatest strength is its robust construction and ease of cleaning. A minor weakness is its limited capacity; larger experiments might require multiple racks. It certainly meets expectations and improves upon less durable, harder-to-clean alternatives.
Design & Ergonomics
The rack’s design is simple and functional. The aluminum construction feels solid and well-made, offering a sense of durability. Its weight is substantial enough to provide stability, but not so heavy as to be cumbersome.
There’s virtually no learning curve associated with using the rack. It’s a straightforward design that requires no setup or special knowledge. It embodies ease of use.
Durability & Maintenance
The aluminum construction suggests a long lifespan for this rack. It shows no signs of corrosion or degradation after prolonged exposure to common lab chemicals and cleaning agents. This rack is built to last.
Maintenance is minimal and straightforward. Regular cleaning with standard lab disinfectants is all that’s required. It is autoclavable, offering additional flexibility.
Accessories and Customization Options
No additional accessories are included with the Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404. There are no customization options available for this product. The rack is designed for a specific purpose.
It is unlikely to be compatible with accessories from other brands due to its specific design and dimensions. There is little need for customization given its intended use.
Pros and Cons of Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404
Pros
- Durable Aluminum Construction: Ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to corrosion. This is a significant advantage over plastic alternatives.
- Easy to Clean and Autoclavable: Simplifies maintenance and prevents contamination. Crucial for maintaining a sterile laboratory environment.
- Stable and Secure Tube Holding: Prevents spills and keeps tubes organized. Enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
- Specifically Designed for Biosafety Cabinets: Optimized for use in controlled environments. Ensuring compatibility and functionality.
- Simple and Functional Design: Easy to use with no learning curve. Making it accessible to all lab personnel.
Cons
- Limited 12-Well Capacity: May not be sufficient for large-scale experiments. Requiring the purchase of multiple units.
- Relatively High Price: Compared to plastic tube racks. Requiring careful consideration of the budget.
Who Should Buy Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404?
Perfect for: Molecular biologists, biochemists, microbiologists, and any researchers working with 1.5ml microcentrifuge tubes within a biosafety cabinet. Anyone seeking an organized and contamination-free workstation.
Who should skip this product? Labs on a very tight budget where plastic racks suffice. Individual users needing racks for non-critical applications or outside of a controlled environment.
Must-have accessories or modifications? None needed. It is ready to use out of the box.
Conclusion on Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404
The Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 is a well-built, durable, and functional tool for any laboratory that utilizes 1.5ml microcentrifuge tubes within a biosafety cabinet. Its aluminum construction and ease of cleaning make it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing organization and contamination control. The price is higher than basic plastic racks, but the longevity and reliability justify the cost for professional researchers.
I would personally recommend the Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 to anyone seeking a reliable and easy-to-maintain solution for organizing their samples. If you value efficiency, cleanliness, and durability, this rack is a solid choice. Invest in the Labconco Rack Microcentri 12well 1.5ml 4026404 and bring order to your benchtop!