Let’s Dive into Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS
The Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS from Thermo Fisher Scientific (Nalge Nunc), is a 15-liter (brimful) polycarbonate vessel designed for cell culture and other biological applications. Its key features include four shoulder access ports, molded graduations, and food-grade, non-cytotoxic construction. At first glance, the price tag of $1029.00 might seem steep, but given its specialized function and material composition, it’s geared towards a specific clientele.
My own interest stemmed from needing a larger, autoclavable container for culturing beneficial bacteria for hydroponics. I was searching for a vessel that offered multiple access points for aeration, sampling, and pH adjustments, without the fragility of glass. The Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel immediately caught my eye.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the robustness of the polycarbonate. It felt significantly more substantial than other plastic containers I’ve used in the past, and the white polypropylene closures appeared well-machined and airtight. The graduated markings are clear and easy to read, crucial for accurately measuring media.
Compared to traditional glass carboys or stainless steel fermenters often used in brewing or similar applications, the Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel offers a compelling advantage in terms of weight and shatter resistance. While stainless steel is incredibly durable, it can be costly and overkill for certain applications. Glass, of course, is always a risk, especially in a lab or outdoor environment. This polycarbonate vessel seemed to strike a good balance between durability, usability, and cost (relatively speaking).
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for improved efficiency and reduced risk of breakage. However, the true test would come with actual use and exposure to different environmental factors.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use involved culturing Bacillus subtilis in a nutrient broth. I set up the vessel in my controlled-environment grow tent, which simulates outdoor conditions but with greater control over temperature and humidity. I used two of the four access ports for aeration, one for pH monitoring, and the last for sampling.
The vessel performed admirably. The ports allowed for easy connection of tubing and sensors. I found that the polypropylene closures created a tight seal, preventing contamination and maintaining a consistent environment within the vessel. The graduated markings were incredibly helpful for tracking media levels during the culture process. There were no issues or surprises during the initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being exposed to fluctuations in temperature and humidity within the grow tent. The polycarbonate material remains clear and has not shown any signs of clouding or degradation.
Maintenance is straightforward. The smooth interior surface is easy to clean with standard laboratory detergents. The vessel is also autoclavable, which is a significant advantage for sterilization purposes. Compared to previous experiences with less durable containers, the Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel has significantly outperformed my expectations. It feels like a professional-grade piece of equipment that is built to last.
Breaking Down the Features of Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS
Specifications
- Description: CULTURE VESSEL PC W/PORTS. This clearly states the intended purpose and material of the vessel.
- Unit: Each. It is sold as a single unit.
- Capacity, Brim: 15 L (4 gal.). This is the total volume the vessel can hold when filled to the very top.
- Capacity, Working: 12 L (3.2 gal.). This is the recommended maximum volume for practical use, leaving headspace for aeration or mixing.
- Capacity, Dimensions: 42.9H x 28.9O.D. cm (167/8 x 113/8“). This provides the height and outer diameter of the vessel, essential for determining if it fits within the intended workspace.
- Closures, Top: 100 mm. This specifies the diameter of the main opening at the top of the vessel, influencing the types of closures or accessories that can be used.
- Closures, Side: 38-430. This defines the thread size and type for the four shoulder access ports, dictating the compatibility of fittings and connectors.
These specifications are critical because they determine the suitability of the vessel for specific applications. The capacity dictates batch sizes. The port sizes determine what kind of sensors and tubes can be connected.
Performance & Functionality
The Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel excels at its intended purpose: providing a sterile and controlled environment for cell culture. The four access ports are a game-changer, allowing for multiple connections without compromising the integrity of the vessel. This enhances its utility in various culture methods.
The vessel’s main strength is its durability and versatility. The polycarbonate construction ensures long-term use. The shoulder ports make it easy to connect multiple devices for monitoring and control. An area for improvement could be an integrated stand or mounting system to prevent accidental tipping.
It exceeded my expectations due to its robust construction and well-thought-out design.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The polycarbonate material feels strong and resistant to impacts. The vessel is lightweight, making it easy to move and handle, even when filled with liquid.
The design is user-friendly. The graduated markings are easy to read. The access ports are conveniently located on the shoulders of the vessel. There is no real learning curve associated with its use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel is designed for long-term use. The polycarbonate material is resistant to chemicals and physical stress. It is autoclavable, allowing for repeated sterilization without degradation.
Maintenance is simple. The smooth interior surface is easy to clean. Polycarbonate is also relatively resistant to staining, making it ideal for culturing pigmented organisms.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product comes with white polypropylene closures for the top and side ports. Customization options are primarily focused on the types of fittings and connectors used with the access ports. There isn’t much else to customize directly on the vessel.
The Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel is compatible with a wide range of tubing, sensors, and other accessories from various brands. This flexibility makes it easy to integrate into existing laboratory or experimental setups.
Pros and Cons of Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS
Pros
- Durable Polycarbonate Construction: Offers excellent shatter resistance and chemical compatibility.
- Multiple Access Ports: Four shoulder access ports allow for versatile connections of tubing, sensors, and other equipment.
- Autoclavable: Can be repeatedly sterilized for contamination-free culturing.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to handle and move.
- Food Grade Resins, USP Class VI Compliance: Suitable for various biological applications requiring high purity.
Cons
- High Price: At $1029.00, the price can be prohibitive for smaller operations or hobbyists.
- Polycarbonate Limitations: While durable, polycarbonate may not be compatible with all chemicals or solvents.
Who Should Buy Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS?
Perfect for: Research laboratories, biopharmaceutical companies, universities, and larger-scale hydroponics facilities requiring sterile and controlled culture environments. Ideal for those needing multiple access points for monitoring and control.
Who should skip this product? Hobbyists, small-scale hydroponics growers, or anyone who doesn’t require the specific features of multiple access ports and autoclavability. Simpler and cheaper containers may suffice.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A stable stand or mounting system is highly recommended to prevent accidental tipping. Sterilizing-grade tubing and connectors are essential for maintaining a sterile environment.
Conclusion on Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS
The Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel with Ports 2600-0012 Culture Vessel Pc W/PORTS is a high-quality, versatile container designed for demanding cell culture and biological applications. Its durable construction, multiple access ports, and autoclavability make it a valuable asset for research and industrial settings.
The price is a significant factor to consider. However, for those who need its specific features, the investment is justified. The added convenience and security of the ports make it worth the price.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who requires a robust and versatile culture vessel with multiple access points. If you are serious about maintaining a sterile and controlled environment, look no further. Invest in quality, and this Nalge Nunc NALGENE Culture Vessel won’t let you down.