Let’s Dive into Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case isn’t exactly the kind of item that gets your pulse racing at first glance, but for anyone working in labs, bioprocessing, or even specialized outdoor applications requiring fluid transfer, it’s the unsung hero of reliable and contamination-free operation. Manufactured by NALGENE, a name synonymous with quality labware, this tubing promises high purity and dependable performance. It’s more than just a tube; it’s a critical component ensuring the integrity of your work.
My journey to discover the Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing stemmed from a persistent problem in my research lab: inconsistent and unreliable fluid transfer. We were using standard PVC tubing for transferring sensitive biological samples, and the leaching of plasticizers was becoming a significant concern, skewing our results and costing us valuable time and resources. The search for a phthalate-free, autoclavable, and chemically inert solution led me directly to NALGENE.
Unboxing the Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case, the first thing that struck me was the substantial coil length – 50 feet in a single case. The tubing felt remarkably flexible and smooth, with a translucent appearance confirming the purity of the silicone. The build quality seemed exceptionally high, a testament to NALGENE’s reputation for producing robust and reliable lab equipment.
Before settling on this, I considered Tygon tubing and Masterflex platinum-cured silicone tubing. Tygon, while versatile, still contains trace amounts of plasticizers that could potentially leach. Masterflex offered similar performance characteristics, but the Nalge Nunc provided a comparable level of purity and performance at a more cost-effective price point.
My initial reaction was relief coupled with cautious optimism. I was excited to finally have a solution that addressed our contamination concerns, but also aware that the true test would be in its long-term performance and durability in our demanding lab environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case to the Test
First Use Experience
I first put the Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing to use in our cell culture lab, specifically for transferring sterile media and reagents. It was integrated into our peristaltic pump system for dispensing precise volumes of nutrient solutions to cell cultures. The tubing performed flawlessly, maintaining a consistent flow rate without any noticeable kinks or restrictions.
The platinum-cured silicone exhibited excellent chemical resistance, handling various solvents and solutions without degradation. Even after repeated autoclaving cycles, the tubing retained its flexibility and integrity. The ease of use was a major benefit; the tubing was easy to cut and connect to fittings, creating a secure and leak-proof system.
Initially, I was concerned about potential adhesion of proteins to the silicone surface, but after several runs, I observed minimal protein binding, making cleaning and sterilization straightforward.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of continuous use in various applications – from bioprocess manufacturing to research experiments – the Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has withstood repeated exposure to harsh chemicals and high temperatures without showing any signs of cracking or discoloration. Its durability is truly impressive.
The tubing is incredibly easy to clean and maintain. A simple flush with deionized water and sterilization via autoclaving are sufficient to maintain its purity. Compared to our previous experiences with PVC tubing, the Nalge Nunc tubing significantly reduces the risk of contamination and maintains its performance over extended periods.
Based on my experience, the Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing has far exceeded my expectations, solidifying its place as a crucial component in our lab operations.
Breaking Down the Features of Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case
Specifications
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case boasts impressive technical specifications crucial for demanding applications. Key features include:
- Material: NALGENE 50 platinum-cured silicone elastomer, ensuring high purity and minimal leaching. This is critical for applications where contamination is a major concern.
- Dimensions: I.D. x O.D. = 1/2 x 11/16 inches, Wall Thickness = 3/32 inches. These dimensions are ideal for a range of fluid transfer applications.
- Length: Supplied in 50-foot coil lengths, offering ample material for various setups. This provides flexibility and reduces the need for frequent replacements.
- Pressure Rating: Max. Pressure of 10 psig @ 23°C (73°F) and 6 psig @ 160°C (320°F). This ensures safe operation within specified temperature and pressure ranges.
- Durometer Hardness: Shore A, 50, providing a balance between flexibility and durability. This prevents kinking while maintaining structural integrity.
- Compliance: Complies with USDA, USP Class VI, and 3A standards. This confirms the tubing’s suitability for use in food, beverage, and pharmaceutical applications.
These specifications directly impact the performance by ensuring the tubing can withstand demanding conditions, maintain fluid purity, and provide a consistent flow rate.
Performance & Functionality
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing excels in its core function: reliable and contamination-free fluid transfer. The silicone material is chemically inert, preventing any interaction with the transported fluid.
Its flexibility allows it to be easily integrated into complex systems, while its durability ensures long-term performance without degradation. While the pressure rating is relatively low (10 psig), it’s sufficient for most laboratory and bioprocessing applications. It meets and exceeds expectations by providing a consistent and dependable solution for fluid transfer.
Design & Ergonomics
The tubing’s design is simple yet effective. Its translucent nature allows for visual inspection of the fluid being transferred, which is useful for detecting air bubbles or contaminants. The flexible nature of the silicone makes it easy to handle and manipulate. There’s essentially no learning curve involved; it’s as straightforward as any tubing can be.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing is built to last. Its resistance to chemicals, temperature extremes, and repeated sterilization cycles ensures a long service life. Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving flushing with appropriate cleaning solutions and periodic autoclaving.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing is designed for compatibility with a wide range of standard fittings and connectors. It can be easily integrated with peristaltic pumps, valves, and other fluid handling equipment. While it doesn’t come with any specific accessories, its versatility means it can be customized to fit virtually any application. Common customization involves cutting the tubing to specific lengths and attaching appropriate fittings.
Pros and Cons of Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case
Pros
- Platinum-cured silicone ensures high purity and minimal leaching, critical for sensitive applications.
- Complies with USDA, USP Class VI, and 3A standards, making it suitable for food, beverage, and pharmaceutical use.
- Excellent chemical resistance and autoclavability ensure long-term durability and easy maintenance.
- Flexible and easy to handle, allowing for seamless integration into various systems.
- Consistent performance and reliability minimize downtime and ensure accurate results.
Cons
- Relatively low-pressure rating (10 psig) may limit its use in high-pressure applications.
- Higher cost compared to standard PVC tubing, although the long-term benefits justify the investment.
Who Should Buy Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case?
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing is perfect for:
- Research laboratories: Essential for transferring sensitive biological samples, reagents, and media without contamination.
- Bioprocess manufacturing: Ideal for use in biopharmaceutical production, ensuring product purity and regulatory compliance.
- Food and beverage industry: Suitable for transferring liquids in food processing and beverage production due to its compliance with industry standards.
- Pharmaceutical industry: Used in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes where purity and sterilization are paramount.
Who should skip this product? Anyone looking for tubing solutions for high-pressure applications where 10 psig is insufficient.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality fittings and connectors are essential for creating secure and leak-proof connections. A peristaltic pump is beneficial for precise fluid dispensing.
Conclusion on Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case
The Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing, NALGENE 8060-0190, Case is a worthwhile investment for anyone prioritizing purity, reliability, and durability in fluid transfer applications. While the initial cost may be higher compared to standard PVC tubing, the long-term benefits of reduced contamination, consistent performance, and extended service life more than justify the price.
I personally recommend this tubing without hesitation. Its superior performance and compliance with stringent industry standards make it an indispensable component in any laboratory or manufacturing environment. Don’t compromise on the integrity of your work—invest in the Nalge Nunc 50 Platinum-Cured Silicone Tubing and experience the difference.