Let’s Dive into Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12
The Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 might not be the most glamorous piece of gear I’ve reviewed, but its importance in various fields, from laboratory work to even some survival applications, can’t be overstated. These humble rubber bulbs, manufactured by Walter Stern, are designed to fit onto pipettes and other liquid handling devices, allowing for precise and controlled aspiration and dispensing of fluids. The 2ML capacity is a common size, suitable for a range of applications, and the pack of 12 ensures you have a ready supply on hand. As someone who’s spent years handling delicate equipment in unpredictable outdoor environments, I appreciate reliable and cost-effective solutions, and that’s what initially drew me to these bulbs.
My need for these bulbs stemmed from a project involving water testing in remote locations. I required a dependable and inexpensive solution for extracting precise samples for analysis. The obvious alternative was a more expensive electronic pipette, but the need for battery power in the field made it impractical.
Upon unboxing the Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12, I was struck by their simplicity. They’re small, lightweight, and made of a beige-colored latex rubber. The material felt pliable and seemed like it would create a good seal on a pipette. The build quality appeared consistent across all 12 bulbs in the pack, with no obvious defects or irregularities.
I considered several other options before settling on these, including silicone bulbs and pre-filled pipettes. Silicone bulbs tend to be more expensive, and the pre-filled pipettes create unnecessary waste. The Walter Stern bulbs offered the best balance of cost, reusability, and precision for my needs. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; they seemed well-made for their intended purpose, but the true test would be in real-world application.
Real-World Testing: Putting Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 during a water sampling expedition in the Cascade Mountains. The primary goal was to collect stream water samples for pH and heavy metal analysis. The weather was typical for the region: damp, with intermittent rain and a temperature hovering around 50°F (10°C).
The bulbs performed remarkably well under these conditions. They provided a secure and airtight fit on the glass pipettes I was using. This allowed for precise extraction of 2ML samples, even with slightly shaky hands due to the cold. The latex material maintained its pliability even in the damp environment.
There was a slight learning curve in terms of mastering the suction and release pressure. Too much pressure and liquid would be drawn too quickly, potentially contaminating the sample. After a few practice runs, however, I was able to achieve consistent and accurate sample collection. No significant issues arose during this initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of continuous use, the Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 has proven to be surprisingly durable. Despite repeated exposure to water, dirt, and occasional rough handling, the bulbs have maintained their integrity. I have noticed slight discoloration on some of the bulbs, but this hasn’t affected their performance.
Maintaining the bulbs is relatively straightforward. A quick rinse with distilled water after each use is sufficient to remove any contaminants. It’s important to avoid harsh chemicals or solvents, as these can degrade the latex material. These have noticeably outperformed similar generic rubber bulbs I’ve used in the past, which tended to crack and lose their elasticity after only a few uses.
Breaking Down the Features of Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12
Specifications
The Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall utility:
- Capacity: 2mL. This is the volume of liquid the bulb is designed to draw and dispense.
- Material: Latex Rubber. Latex provides good elasticity and a reliable seal.
- Color: Beige. The beige color is standard for this type of bulb.
- Bore Size: 6mm. This refers to the inner diameter of the opening that connects to the pipette.
- Diameter: 18mm. The overall diameter of the bulb.
- Style: A. Denotes a specific shape and design of the bulb.
- Length: 45mm. The overall length of the bulb.
- Pack Size: 12. Supplied as a pack of twelve individual bulbs.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the bulb’s compatibility with different pipettes and its ease of use. The 2ML capacity is ideal for small volume measurements, while the 6mm bore size ensures a secure fit on most standard pipettes. The latex construction guarantees flexibility and a tight seal.
Performance & Functionality
The Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 performs its primary function—aspirating and dispensing liquids—reliably and consistently. The bulb provides sufficient suction to draw the specified volume of liquid without excessive squeezing. The release is also controlled, allowing for precise dispensing drop by drop.
Its strength is its simplicity and dependability; it’s a low-tech solution that works consistently. The main weakness is that latex can degrade over time, especially with exposure to certain chemicals. These meet my expectations for a basic rubber bulb, and perform considerably better than no-name brands.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 is straightforward and functional. The bulb is shaped for easy grip and comfortable squeezing. The latex material is soft and pliable, making it easy to manipulate.
These are generally user-friendly. However, users with latex allergies should use caution or consider alternative materials.
Durability & Maintenance
While latex is not the most durable material, the Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 appears to be well-constructed. With proper care and storage, it should last for a reasonable amount of time. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only rinsing and air-drying after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 doesn’t come with any specific accessories. Its primary function is to attach to a pipette or similar instrument. There are no inherent customization options.
These are compatible with any standard pipette that accommodates a 6mm bore size. Users can choose different pipettes based on their specific application needs.
Pros and Cons of Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12
Pros
- Cost-effective: An inexpensive solution for liquid handling.
- Reliable Performance: Provides consistent suction and dispensing.
- Durable: Holds up well under repeated use.
- Easy to Maintain: Requires minimal cleaning.
- Pack of 12: Ensures you have a ready supply on hand.
Cons
- Latex Material: May cause allergic reactions in some users.
- Degradation: Latex can degrade over time, especially with chemical exposure.
Who Should Buy Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12?
The Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 is perfect for:
- Lab technicians and researchers needing a simple, reliable solution for liquid handling.
- Field scientists collecting water or soil samples.
- Educators conducting science experiments.
- Hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts working with small volumes of liquids.
This product is not ideal for:
- Individuals with latex allergies.
- Applications requiring extremely high levels of precision and control, where electronic pipettes may be more suitable.
A must-have accessory is a selection of high-quality glass or plastic pipettes that are compatible with the 6mm bore size of the bulbs.
Conclusion on Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12
In summary, the Walter Stern Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12 200-2A Bulb Rubber 2ML Pk 12, Pack of 12 is a reliable and cost-effective solution for basic liquid handling needs. While it may not be the most advanced piece of equipment, its simplicity, durability, and consistent performance make it a valuable tool for various applications. The price of $25.99 for a pack of 12 is certainly justified, considering the quality and longevity of these bulbs.
I would personally recommend these bulbs to anyone seeking a dependable and affordable option for aspirating and dispensing small volumes of liquids. If you’re working in a lab, conducting field research, or simply need a reliable way to transfer liquids, these bulbs are an excellent choice. So, go ahead and stock up on these essential lab tools – you won’t be disappointed!