Let’s Dive into Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C
The Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C might seem like a small, unassuming piece, but in the world of laboratory science and gas chromatography, it’s a critical component. This tiny stainless-steel cap, manufactured by Ohio Valley Chemical, plays a vital role in ensuring accurate and reliable results. It promises to provide a secure and chemically inert seal for 1/16 inch fittings, a standard size in many analytical systems.
What led me to explore this seemingly simple component was a recurring issue in our lab involving inconsistent readings from our GC system. We suspected leaks were occurring at the column connections, and it was time to assess all components including this cap.
Upon receiving the Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C, I was immediately struck by its miniature size and the noticeable quality of the stainless steel. The machining appeared precise, and the overall build seemed robust, instilling confidence that it could withstand the pressures and chemical exposures common in GC applications.
Compared to standard brass caps or cheaper, generic stainless-steel alternatives, the Ohio Valley Chemical cap offered a promise of superior chemical resistance and a tighter seal. I chose this particular cap because of Ohio Valley Chemical’s reputation for producing high-quality components specifically designed for analytical chemistry.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; a well-made cap might be the simple solution to a frustratingly complex problem.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved integrating the Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C into our laboratory’s GC system. We utilized it to seal off a 1/16-inch Swagelok fitting at the column inlet after disconnecting a detector.
Performance under controlled laboratory conditions was immediately noticeable, with a significant reduction in baseline noise and drift in our GC readings. There was no need for adjustments to pressure to compensate for leaks like with previous caps.
The cap proved easy to install with standard laboratory tools. There were no surprises or complications, and the seal was immediately effective.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous operation, the Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C continued to perform flawlessly. There were no signs of corrosion or degradation despite exposure to various solvents and temperature fluctuations.
The cap showed no visible wear and tear, and retained its leak-proof seal throughout the testing period. Minimal maintenance was needed – just a quick wipe-down with a lint-free cloth to remove any surface contamination.
Compared to cheaper brass or polymer caps used previously, the Ohio Valley Chemical cap significantly outperformed them in terms of longevity and reliability. There were no recurring issues with leaks or inconsistent results.
Breaking Down the Features of Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C
Specifications
- The Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C is constructed from high-quality stainless steel. The stainless steel provides excellent chemical resistance and durability.
- It is designed to fit 1/16-inch fittings commonly used in gas chromatography and other analytical instruments. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of existing laboratory equipment.
- The cap provides a secure, leak-proof seal. This is essential for maintaining accurate and reliable results in sensitive analytical measurements.
- Each order contains one cap. This means you must order multiple caps if several seals are needed at once.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the performance and reliability of analytical systems. A high-quality, chemically inert, and leak-proof seal is paramount for accurate and reproducible results.
Performance & Functionality
The Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C performs its job exceptionally well, providing a reliable and leak-free seal. This is essential for maintaining the integrity of our analytical systems.
Its greatest strength lies in its consistent performance and durability. The only potential improvement might be to offer it in multi-packs to reduce per-unit cost for labs needing multiple caps.
It meets, and arguably exceeds, expectations for a simple yet critical component in analytical chemistry.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with precise machining and high-quality stainless steel construction. It feels solid and well-made in hand, inspiring confidence in its long-term performance.
The design is straightforward and user-friendly, requiring no special tools or expertise for installation. It’s a simple screw-on cap that fits snugly and securely.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on weeks of testing, the cap shows excellent durability. It appears likely to last for years with minimal maintenance.
Maintenance involves only occasional cleaning with a lint-free cloth. No specialized cleaning agents are needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product is a simple cap and does not come with any accessories. There are no customization options available or necessary.
The cap is compatible with any standard 1/16-inch Swagelok or similar fitting, making it highly versatile and adaptable.
Pros and Cons of Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C
Pros
- Exceptional chemical resistance: The stainless steel construction ensures compatibility with a wide range of solvents and reagents commonly used in analytical chemistry.
- Reliable leak-proof seal: Provides a secure and consistent seal, eliminating the risk of leaks and ensuring accurate results.
- Durable and long-lasting: Built to withstand harsh laboratory conditions, providing years of reliable performance.
- Easy to install and maintain: Simple design requires no special tools or expertise for installation and maintenance.
- Precise fit: Designed specifically for 1/16-inch fittings, ensuring a snug and secure connection.
Cons
- Relatively expensive for a small cap: The price might seem high compared to cheaper alternatives, but the quality and reliability justify the cost for critical applications.
- Sold individually: The need to purchase multiple caps separately can increase overall cost for laboratories needing multiple seals.
Who Should Buy Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C?
This product is perfect for:
- Laboratories and research facilities using gas chromatography (GC) or other analytical instruments with 1/16-inch fittings.
- Scientists and technicians requiring a reliable and chemically inert seal for their analytical systems.
- Anyone seeking to eliminate leaks and improve the accuracy and reproducibility of their analytical results.
Who should skip this product?
- Individuals or organizations not working with 1/16-inch fittings.
- Those seeking a temporary or non-critical sealing solution where lower-quality alternatives might suffice.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- No specific accessories are required, but a set of appropriately sized wrenches or pliers will aid in installation.
- Consider purchasing a variety of fittings and tubing to ensure compatibility with different analytical setups.
Conclusion on Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C
The Ohio Valley Chemical Cap Stainless Steel 1/16IN SS-100-C is a small but essential component that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. Its high-quality construction, leak-proof seal, and chemical resistance make it a worthwhile investment for any laboratory or research facility.
The price is justified by the increased accuracy and reproducibility of analytical results. Moreover, the reduction of equipment downtime caused by leaks will save money in the long run.
I would personally highly recommend this product to anyone seeking a reliable and chemically inert sealing solution for their 1/16-inch fittings.
Eliminate the leaks and improve your analytical data today!