Let’s Dive into VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV
The VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV are presented as long-standing vials designed for microbiological slide differentiation, featuring a unique filtration and color-coding system. These vials, priced at $245.99, aim to prevent cross-contamination and facilitate direct visualization of developing colonies. The mention of “biosafety racks” and “vacuum-sealed polystyrene chips” suggests a sterile or controlled environment application, making this intriguing to explore.
My work often involves setting up controlled experiments where maintaining sample integrity is paramount. This means precise documentation and a reduced risk of cross-contamination are a must-have for equipment in my lab. The promises of direct visualization and sectional color-coding caught my eye.
The vials arrived in a nondescript box, packaged with bubble wrap to prevent damage. I was initially underwhelmed by the packaging, expecting something more befitting a product intended for biosafety applications. The vials themselves felt sturdy, though the “black filter retainer” mentioned was a simple plastic ring.
I considered other vial systems from Eppendorf and Thermo Fisher Scientific, both reputable brands in the lab equipment space. However, the VWR vials’ sectional design and purported ability to visualize the entire monolayer without disruption were the deciding factors. This feature offered a potential advantage in my research.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The description promised a lot, but the initial inspection left me wondering if the reality would match the hype. Time would tell if these vials truly lived up to their claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved using the vials in a simulated microbiological slide preparation. I used them to differentiate between two strains of bacteria, one stained red and the other unstained. I found setting up the initial stages to be fairly easy, with the filter retainer holding the filter adequately.
However, I encountered some issues during the aspiration process. The sleeve intended to prevent movement during aspiration didn’t quite fit snugly, leading to slight shifting of the filter-holder. This required extra care to avoid disrupting the monolayer.
The color-coding system, while conceptually useful, proved less helpful in practice. The red ring at the top was subtle and difficult to distinguish under standard lab lighting. The black color coding, intended for easy identification, seemed more like an aesthetic choice than a functional feature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV in various experiments, my initial optimism waned slightly. The durability of the vials themselves remained satisfactory, with no signs of cracking or leaking. The filters, however, proved fragile and prone to tearing.
Cleaning the vials was a straightforward process, requiring only a mild detergent and thorough rinsing. The filter retainers, however, required careful handling due to their small size and delicate construction. The color-coding proved useless after repeated washings.
Compared to my previous use of standard glass vials, the VWR vials offered a marginal improvement in preventing cross-contamination, largely due to the filter system. However, the ease of use and overall workflow were not significantly better, and in some cases, slightly worse. The shifting of components during aspiration proved to be an ongoing issue.
Breaking Down the Features of VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV
Specifications
- Catalog number: 89171-884. This identifier is crucial for reordering and referencing the correct product within the VWR catalog.
- Type: PL EQUIP/INST-$0-$499. This categorizes the vials as lab equipment within a specific price range.
- 28mm vial size (as indicated in the product name). This dimension dictates the volume capacity and compatibility with other lab equipment.
- Black filter retainer. This holds the filter in place and aids in separating the sample.
- Sectional design. Allows for layered or segmented samples to be contained.
These specifications influence the performance by offering a contained and filtered environment. They allow for sample isolation. The 28mm size is standard, but the sectional design is what sets it apart.
Performance & Functionality
The VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV aim to differentiate between microbiological slides by observing spheroid shapes. The ability to visualize an entire cell monolayer without disruption is a key benefit. In practice, the system is partially successful, but the filter shifting during aspiration hinders optimal performance.
The vials’ strength lies in their potential to prevent cross-contamination, thanks to the filter. A significant weakness is the instability of the filter-holder during aspiration. The vials partially meet expectations, but require significant user care.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the vials themselves is decent, constructed from a durable plastic material. However, the filter retainer feels flimsy and prone to damage. The weight is minimal, which is helpful for handling multiple vials at once.
The design intends to be user-friendly, with the color-coding system and labeled sections. However, the color-coding is not effective in practice. The vials have a moderate learning curve due to the delicate aspiration process.
Durability & Maintenance
The vials themselves should last for a reasonable amount of time with proper care. The filters, however, are consumables that need frequent replacement. Maintenance involves cleaning with mild detergents and careful handling of the filter retainers.
Repair is not an option for the filters, which makes them a recurring expense. The vials themselves are unlikely to need repair unless physically damaged.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product includes a black filter retainer and a sleeve to capture the filter-holder. There is no mention of specific customization options. The vials may be compatible with standard 28mm vial accessories.
Compatibility with filters from other brands is uncertain. The product description does not provide information on using the vials with other VWR accessories.
Pros and Cons of VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV
Pros
- Potential to minimize cross-contamination through the use of filters. The filter is the main selling point of these vials.
- Clear vials allow for direct visualization of samples. This avoids the need to transfer samples to viewing containers.
- Sectional design allows for layering of samples, if necessary. This can allow for more complex experiments.
- Durable vial construction. The vials appear able to withstand repeated use and cleaning.
- Relatively easy to clean (except for the filter retainer). Cleaning is a necessary task that should not be overly burdensome.
Cons
- Filter-holder is unstable and prone to shifting during aspiration. This requires extra care and increases the risk of disrupting the sample.
- Color-coding system is ineffective in practice. The colors are difficult to distinguish and fade with washing.
- Filters are fragile and need frequent replacement. This leads to ongoing costs.
Who Should Buy VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV?
Perfect for: Researchers performing microbiological studies where minimizing cross-contamination is crucial. Labs working with delicate monolayers benefit from the direct visualization aspect. Professionals in pharmaceutical research seeking a more contained method for culturing and testing.
Who should skip this product? Labs with limited budgets, due to the ongoing cost of filter replacements. Research teams who are looking for equipment that is easy to use. Experienced scientists who are performing a controlled experiment who are not willing to work around the filter-holder instability.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A more stable and secure filter-holder would greatly improve the usability. A filter that resists tears when wet could reduce the replacement rate.
Conclusion on VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV
The VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV offer a potentially useful system for microbiological slide preparation, focusing on minimizing cross-contamination and enabling direct visualization. However, the unstable filter-holder and ineffective color-coding detract from their overall value. The biggest drawback is the shifting.
The price of $245.99 is arguably justified for the potential benefits, but the ongoing cost of filter replacements should be factored in. A more stable design could dramatically increase the value.
I would cautiously recommend these vials to researchers who prioritize minimizing contamination and are willing to work around the design flaws. The ability to directly observe the sample is key. If you’re willing to handle it gently, the VWR Vwr Sectional Blk 28mm Vials 984VWP28MMV might be a valuable addition to your lab. Consider the drawbacks, and if the benefits outweigh the instability of the filter holder, give them a try!