Let’s Dive into VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V might seem like a small, unassuming piece of lab equipment, but don’t let its size fool you. This comb, manufactured by VWR, is a critical component for gel electrophoresis, a cornerstone technique in modern molecular biology. Its precision and reliability directly impact the quality and interpretability of experimental results, making it a vital tool for researchers and lab technicians alike.
My journey to the VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V stemmed from a need for consistent and reproducible well formation in our lab’s mini vertical gel system. We were experiencing issues with uneven well depths using our old combs, leading to skewed band migration and unreliable data in our protein electrophoresis experiments. I needed a comb that would provide uniform well dimensions for accurate sample loading and separation.
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V arrived neatly packaged, and my initial impression was that of a meticulously crafted piece. The comb felt solid, and the 1mm thickness seemed perfectly calibrated for the gel size we routinely use. The build quality exuded professionalism, hinting at the precision engineering I was hoping for.
We had been using a generic comb from a different supplier, as well as a homemade comb crafted in-house from spare acrylic. The generic comb lacked the consistent well depth of the VWR offering, while the homemade one was prone to warping and inconsistent well widths. I chose the VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V because I trusted the VWR brand’s reputation for quality and precision in lab supplies and I hoped it would provide much needed consistency.
I was excited and cautiously optimistic. The price point was higher than our previous generic combs, but the potential for improved data quality and reduced experimental errors made it seem like a worthwhile investment if it delivered on its promise of precision and reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V was in a standard SDS-PAGE experiment to separate and visualize proteins from a cell lysate. I performed the electrophoresis in a standard, commercially available mini vertical gel electrophoresis apparatus that is common in biological laboratories. The lab environment was temperature controlled at 22°C with standard humidity levels.
The comb performed flawlessly. The wells formed were perfectly uniform in depth and width, allowing for precise and even sample loading. Even under slightly moist conditions in the casting apparatus, the comb created clean, crisp wells.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. The comb slid smoothly into the gel mold, creating consistent wells without any fiddling or adjustments. There were no surprises; the comb performed exactly as expected.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use (approximately 3-4 times per week), the VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of warping, cracking, or any other degradation.
The comb remains as durable as it was on day one, exhibiting no noticeable wear and tear despite repeated use and cleaning. The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V is cleaned with distilled water and occasionally a mild detergent to remove any residual acrylamide. It requires minimal maintenance and is easy to clean after each use.
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V significantly outperforms our previous combs. Band migration is now much more consistent, leading to more reliable and reproducible results, a welcome change in our research endeavors.
Breaking Down the Features of VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V
Specifications
- Description: VWR COMB 10 WELL 1MM PAGE. This clearly defines the comb as having 10 wells, each 1mm thick.
- Well Number: 10 wells. The ten well configuration is ideal for many standard electrophoresis experiments allowing you to run multiple samples on the same gel.
- Thickness: 1mm. This thickness is crucial for determining the volume of sample that can be loaded into each well, directly impacting band visibility and resolution.
- Material: Likely a durable plastic polymer, although the exact material is not specified. The material’s rigidity and resistance to warping are essential for maintaining consistent well dimensions.
These specifications are critical because they directly influence the accuracy and reproducibility of gel electrophoresis. Consistent well dimensions ensure equal sample loading, leading to accurate comparisons of band intensities and molecular weights.
Performance & Functionality
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V excels in its primary function: creating uniform and consistent wells for gel electrophoresis. The comb ensures that each well is identical, leading to reliable sample loading and accurate band migration.
The primary strength of the comb is its ability to produce consistent wells, which is critical for quantitative analysis of protein or nucleic acid samples. The only improvement I can imagine would be if VWR offered versions with different well shapes (e.g., round, rectangular) for specialized applications. The comb meets and exceeds expectations, providing a level of consistency and reliability that our previous combs lacked.
Design & Ergonomics
The comb’s design is simple and functional, making it easy to handle and insert into the gel mold. The material used feels sturdy and well-made, contributing to its durability and longevity.
The comb is user-friendly with no learning curve. Its straightforward design makes it easy to integrate into existing gel electrophoresis protocols.
Durability & Maintenance
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V is constructed from a durable material that appears capable of withstanding years of regular use. The robust construction suggests that the comb will last for a significant period, making it a worthwhile investment.
The comb requires minimal maintenance, primarily consisting of rinsing with distilled water after each use. It’s easy to clean and requires no specialized tools or procedures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V doesn’t come with any accessories. As a standalone comb, it does not lend itself to significant customization.
However, its compatibility with standard mini vertical gel systems means it can be used with a wide range of commercially available electrophoresis equipment and accessories. This standard compatibility ensures its versatility in various laboratory setups.
Pros and Cons of VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V
Pros
- Consistent well dimensions: Ensures accurate and reproducible sample loading.
- Durable construction: Provides long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Easy to use and maintain: Simplifies the gel electrophoresis workflow.
- Improved data quality: Minimizes errors and improves the accuracy of experimental results.
- Compatibility: Works seamlessly with standard mini vertical gel systems.
Cons
- Relatively high price: More expensive than generic combs.
- Limited customization: No options for different well shapes or configurations.
Who Should Buy VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V?
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V is perfect for researchers, lab technicians, and students who perform gel electrophoresis regularly and require consistent, reliable results. It is also ideal for labs focusing on quantitative protein or nucleic acid analysis, where accurate sample loading is essential.
This comb might not be necessary for labs that only occasionally perform gel electrophoresis or those with very tight budgets who can tolerate inconsistent results. Labs should invest in a high-quality gel casting stand to complement the precision of the comb.
Conclusion on VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V
The VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V is a seemingly simple yet vital tool for any lab performing gel electrophoresis. Its precision, durability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking reliable and reproducible results.
While the price is higher than generic alternatives, the improved data quality and reduced experimental errors justify the cost. I would highly recommend the VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V to anyone looking to upgrade their gel electrophoresis workflow. Invest in the VWR Comb 10 Well 1MM Page E2110-10-1-V and experience the difference precision engineering can make in your research!