Let’s Dive into Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 are designed for demanding laboratory applications, specifically those requiring high-speed centrifugation and chemical resistance. These tubes, manufactured by Nalge Nunc, are constructed from polypropylene copolymer, known for its robustness and inertness. Their key features include a 30mL nominal volume (32mL actual), autoclavability, and the ability to withstand up to 50,000 g in refrigerated centrifuges, making them a staple in many research and clinical settings.
I encountered a critical need for these tubes when our existing polycarbonate centrifuge tubes began showing signs of degradation after repeated autoclaving. We needed a reliable, chemically resistant, and autoclavable solution for preparing samples for protein precipitation and nucleic acid extraction. The listed chemical resistance and high g-force rating of the Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 made them an appealing choice.
Upon unboxing, the tubes felt sturdy and well-made, with a contact-clear finish that allowed for easy visual inspection of the contents. The polypropylene screw closures appeared robust, providing a tight seal. My initial assessment was positive, but the true test would be their performance in the centrifuge and their resistance to harsh solvents.
I was also considering Corning’s polypropylene centrifuge tubes and Eppendorf’s conical tubes. However, the Nalge Nunc tubes stood out due to their specific geometry optimized for Oak Ridge rotors and their stated superior chemical resistance compared to polycarbonate options we previously used. The price point, while higher, seemed justified given the promised durability and reliability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The build quality seemed excellent, and the specifications aligned perfectly with our laboratory’s needs. Now, it was time to put them through their paces.
Real-World Testing: Putting Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing involved using the Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 to prepare blood samples for protein analysis. The tubes were subjected to centrifugation at 10,000 g for 15 minutes in a refrigerated centrifuge at 4°C. This process is crucial for separating serum from red blood cells.
The tubes performed flawlessly; there were no leaks, and the caps remained securely fastened throughout the centrifugation. The contact-clear material allowed for easy visualization of the separated layers, making it simple to aliquot the serum. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 handled the cold temperatures and high g-forces without any issues.
There were no surprises after the first use, only satisfaction. The tubes were easy to handle, and the screw caps provided a confident seal. The clear material allowed for quick inspection and identification of samples, eliminating any confusion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 continued to perform reliably. We’ve used them for a variety of applications, including DNA extraction, RNA purification, and solvent-based lipid extraction. The tubes consistently withstood the harsh chemical environments and high-speed centrifugation.
Durability has been impressive; even after repeated autoclaving cycles, the tubes show no signs of degradation, cracking, or deformation. The polypropylene copolymer material resists the attack of solvents like ethanol, isopropanol, and chloroform, which are commonly used in our lab protocols. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 are clearly built to last.
Maintaining these tubes is incredibly easy. After use, they are simply rinsed with distilled water, washed with a mild detergent solution, and then autoclaved. The polypropylene material doesn’t retain any residues or stains, making cleaning a breeze. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 significantly outperform our previous polycarbonate tubes in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
These Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 have exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and reliability. They have become an essential part of our lab’s workflow.
Breaking Down the Features of Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10
Specifications
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 offer several key specifications:
- Nominal Volume: 30 mL: This refers to the approximate volume the tube is designed to hold.
- Actual Volume: 32 mL: The true maximum capacity of the tube, providing a bit of extra headspace.
- Diameter x Length: 25.5 x 101.4 mm: These dimensions ensure compatibility with Oak Ridge centrifuge rotors.
- Material: Polypropylene Copolymer: Provides excellent chemical resistance and autoclavability.
- Maximum g-force: 50,000 *g: Allows for high-speed centrifugation in refrigerated units.
These specifications are vital for ensuring the tubes can withstand the rigors of laboratory use, particularly high-speed centrifugation. The chemical resistance of the polypropylene copolymer is crucial for handling a variety of solvents and reagents without degradation. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 provide reliable results in various applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 perform exceptionally well in their intended function. The high g-force rating ensures samples can be efficiently separated without tube failure. The leak-proof screw caps provide peace of mind during centrifugation, preventing sample loss and potential contamination.
The main strength of these tubes lies in their robust construction and chemical resistance. They consistently perform without issues, even after repeated use and autoclaving. A potential area for improvement could be a slightly wider opening for easier pipetting access. Overall, the Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 meet and exceed expectations for centrifuge tubes.
Design & Ergonomics
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 feature a simple, functional design. The contact-clear material makes it easy to visually inspect the contents. The tubes are lightweight and comfortable to handle, even when filled.
There is virtually no learning curve associated with using these tubes. They are straightforward and intuitive. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 offer ease of use and a simple design.
Durability & Maintenance
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 are built for long-term use. The polypropylene copolymer is highly resistant to cracking, deformation, and chemical degradation. With proper care and maintenance, these tubes should last for years.
Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward. The tubes can be autoclaved repeatedly without any loss of performance. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 offer years of reliable use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 come as a pack of 10 tubes with polypropylene screw closures and retained silicone gaskets. While there aren’t many customization options available for centrifuge tubes, you can purchase sealing cap assemblies separately (NALGENE 21010-002 series). These offer an extra layer of protection against leaks, especially when working with hazardous materials.
These tubes are compatible with standard Oak Ridge centrifuge rotors, making them versatile for a wide range of applications. The standard caps are more than adequate for most applications.
Pros and Cons of Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10
Pros
- High Chemical Resistance: The polypropylene copolymer material withstands a wide range of solvents and reagents.
- *High *g-force Rating: Capable of withstanding up to 50,000 g in refrigerated centrifuges.
- Autoclavable: Can be repeatedly autoclaved without degradation, ensuring sterility.
- Leak-Proof Design: Polypropylene screw closures with silicone gaskets provide a secure seal.
- Contact-Clear Material: Allows for easy visual inspection of sample contents.
Cons
- Relatively High Price: More expensive than some alternative centrifuge tubes.
- Limited Customization Options: Few aftermarket accessories are available besides sealing caps.
Who Should Buy Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10?
The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 are perfect for researchers, laboratory technicians, and clinicians who require reliable, chemically resistant centrifuge tubes for high-speed centrifugation. These tubes are ideal for applications such as protein precipitation, nucleic acid extraction, and solvent-based lipid extraction. Anyone working with demanding samples or requiring repeated autoclaving will benefit from the durability and performance of these tubes.
Individuals who are on a very tight budget or who only need centrifuge tubes for basic, low-speed applications may find these tubes to be overkill. Cheaper alternatives might suffice for simpler tasks. These Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 are very strong, but there are cheaper options available for certain use-cases.
A must-have accessory would be the sealing cap assemblies (NALGENE 21010-002 series) for added leak protection, especially if working with hazardous or valuable samples. Using a proper centrifuge rotor designed for Oak Ridge tubes is also essential for optimal performance and safety.
Conclusion on Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10
Overall, the Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 are an excellent choice for demanding laboratory applications. The high chemical resistance, autoclavability, and ability to withstand high g-forces make them a reliable and durable option. While the price is higher than some alternatives, the long-term performance and reduced risk of sample loss justify the investment.
The price is justified when considering the long-term value and the cost of potential sample loss due to tube failure. The Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 have been proven to be worth the investment.
I would personally highly recommend these tubes to any lab professional who values quality, reliability, and durability in their centrifuge tubes. They are a valuable tool for any research or clinical setting. Invest in the Nalge Nunc Oak Ridge Centrifuge Tubes, Polypropylene Copolymer, NALGENE 3139-0030, Pack of 10 and experience the difference for yourself!