Category: Lab Equipment

Total control is essential in a laboratory setting, with several tests and experiments relying on precision in various fields for optimal results. There is perhaps no better example of total control than a lab incubator, then. It’s a specialized piece of equipment that provides biological samples with a stable, controlled environment. It allows you to regulate temperature, humidity, and even CO2 levels. Because of these vital functions, incubators are essential in cell culture, microbiology, pharmaceuticals, medical diagnostics, and environmental science.

If you’re not familiar with the ins and outs of these crucial pieces of equipment, read on for all the details.

What Is a Lab Incubator?

Essentially, an incubator can create the ideal environment a sample needs to achieve a chemical reaction. Through this simulated environment, proper studies can take place without being interrupted by outside factors.

Various types of incubators exist, all designed for certain functions

• Standard: The most common version, used for general microbial growth

• CO2: Vital in cell culture research that necessitates specific conditions in the atmosphere

• Refrigerated: Used for samples that require low temperatures

• Shaking: These provide constant motion in addition to temperature control in order to keep samples evenly mixed

How Does a Laboratory Incubator Work?

A lab incubator works by simulating any possible environment within its specs. In these environments, humidity, temperature, and gas composition are tightly controlled. Climate is kept constant through high-tech heating and cooling systems, and sensors monitor the climate to ensure it’s kept intact. This prevents unwelcome hot or cold spots that could damage samples.

Within the chamber where samples are stored, you’ll generally find shelves and racks designed to remain sturdy and maximize available space. Glass doors and data logging systems allow for sample monitoring without needing to remove them from the device.

Incubator Uses

There are various incubator uses across scientific disciplines.

• Microbiology: The growing and maintaining of fungal and bacterial cultures for research and diagnostic purposes

• Cell Biology: Supporting mammalian cell growth in order to study things like cancer, genetics, and tissue engineering

• Medical and Pharmaceutical Research: Diagnostic development, drug testing, and vaccine research is the primary focus

• Environmental Research: The study of water, soil, and plant samples in order to gain an understanding of ecological systems and the environmental factors related to them

Essentially, incubators have a place across a wide range of scientific fields. Without them, research would be much more difficult and time-consuming.

Why a Laboratory Incubator Is Essential

It’s difficult to stress enough the importance of a lab incubator. Not only are they incredibly versatile, but they’re reliable and consistent when utilized for scientific experimentation. They allow for results that are reproducible if uniform conditions are maintained.

Additionally, incubators offer a high level of protection for scientific samples that are delicate and prone to contamination. By controlling the environment these samples are kept in, you can keep contaminants out and minimize the risk of causing physical damage. In essence, controlled experiments would be nearly impossible without the help of a laboratory incubator.

High Quality Incubators at BaneBio

In many ways, a lab incubator is the backbone of countless scientific advancements. It allows researchers to maintain optimal sample conditions while they grow, test, and study them. And for all the impressive technology the field of science has access to these days, it’s only getting better. Advancements driven by smart monitoring systems, automation, and sustainable design are part of a bright future for the field of science.

If you’re in need of replacement or additional lab incubators, look no further than BaneBio—the home of the scientific supermarket. We offer new and used equipment that’s been tested and certified for use.

To browse our full selection of equipment beyond incubators, take a look at our products page. We also have an eBay storefront that boasts an abundance of products that will complement your scientific research.

Further questions? We’re happy to start a conversation! Get in touch with us today!

Efficiency is key in the world of science. There’s a lot to get done, and we can’t expect a vast array of scientific breakthroughs to happen without the help of various technologies. One such technology is none other than the microplate reader. Designed with precision in mind, it can measure chemical, biological, and physical reactions within microplates. This makes it an invaluable tool in life sciences, environmental research, and pharmaceutical development.

Whether you’re performing research on drug compounds or monitoring cell growth, it’s important to understand this technology so you can get the most out of it. In this blog, we’ll go over it all!

What is a Microplate Reader?

Also known as a plate reader, this lab device can detect—and quantify—events within microplate wells. These wells can number anywhere from 6 to 1,536, so efficiency and speed are needed here. There are various tests that can be performed by these plate readers, such as:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA)
• Protein and nucleic acid quantification
• Cell viability and proliferation assays
• Kinetic studies

With the aid of these readers, throughput and consistency benefit greatly in data collection procedures.

Product recommendation: Tecan Plate Reader

Key Components

There are several core components of a plate reader that determine its function and versatility:

• Optical System: This detection system varies based on the type of assay being observed—absorbance, fluorescence, or luminescence.

• Microplate Format: Compatibility is possible with a variety of formats, including 6-well, 24-well, 96-well, 384-well, and 1536-well. This allows for the scaling of assays depending on throughput requirements and sample volume.

• Detection Technologies: Many advanced plate readers have multiple modes of detection, kinetic capabilities, and temperature control. Some even have built-in shaking mechanisms. These features provide several options for complex experimental protocols.

Different Types

There are two main categories of microplate reader—single-mode and multi-mode.

Single-Mode Readers

These only allow for one kind of detection (an absorbance microplate reader, for example).They’re suitable for labs that have specific, repetitive assay needs, and they are generally much more affordable than multi-mode readers.

Multi-Mode Readers

Multi-mode readers (such as the Molecular Devices iD3 Micro Plate Reader SpectraMax) offer multiple modes of detection in a single device. They’re a great option for laboratories that have a diverse array of assays or require flexibility for changing research needs.

Common Types of Plate Readers

• Absorbance Microplate Reader: Used for colorimetric assays such as ELISA

• Fluorescence Reader: For DNA/RNA quantification as well as cell-based assays

• Luminescence Reader: Used in ATP quantification and reporter gene assays

• Multi-Mode: Versatile systems that can be used for various detection methods

Common Applications in Laboratories

Several scientific fields benefit from these plate readers. Some of the more common applications are:

• Life Sciences Research

• • • ELISA for detecting antigens and antibodies
    • Quantification of proteins and nucleic acids

• Drug Discovery

• • • High-throughput screening
    • Biochemical and cell-based assay response monitoring

• Cell-Based Assays

• • • Measuring cell proliferation, signaling pathways, or cytotoxicity

• Environmental Monitoring

• • Detecting toxins in water, air, and soil samples

Benefits of Using a Microplate Reader

There are plenty of positives to using a microplate reader. For one, they offer high-throughput analysis thanks to their ability to run hundreds of samples at once. Not only is this an impressive quantity, but precision and accuracy are not sacrificed as a result.

Manual errors are reduced and workflows are streamlined with minimal operation intervention. This frees up valuable time that can be devoted to focusing on human-reliant tasks, making plate readers an essential fixture in an analytical laboratory environment.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Reader

There are a few key factors you should keep top-of-mind when you’re comparing different plate readers.

• Application Needs: What types of assays—ELISA, fluorescence-based—do you need to run?

• Plate Formats: What are your throughput requirements? Larger plates allow for the reading of higher sample volumes.

• Budget and Scalability: Single-mode readers are perfect for labs focused on one type of assay need, while a multi-need laboratory may need to spend more money to acquire a multi-mode device. 

• Software Compatibility: Make sure you choose a reader that’s compatible with your related equipment.

Conclusion

At BaneBio, we offer a vast array of readers—such as the Tecan plate reader. Whether you’re looking for single- or multi-mode readers, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for here. For further questions or to make a purchase for your laboratory, get in touch with us today!

When it comes to lab work, the handling of liquids is a process that needs to be done with maximum precision and safety at all times, whether you’re conducting routine tests or handling highly volatile compounds. Part of this handling is measurement and transfer. How do you make sure this is done with absolute precision? This is where the automatic pipette comes into play. It’s an indispensable tool that helps scientists immensely, streamlining workflow and mitigating human error.

In this blog, we’ll go over exactly what it is, how it works, and how your lab can benefit from its use.

What Is an Automatic Pipette?

Much more precise than a manual pipette, an auto pipette aspirates and dispenses highly precise amounts of liquid on a consistent basis, with minimal manual input required. Whereas a manual version relies on human dexterity, its automatic counterpart utilizes mechanical and electronic functions to maximize precision and speed on a consistent basis.

There are various types of automatic pipettes that are ideal choices for a variety of work types.

• Single-Channel: Used to transport liquid one channel at a time. This is a common type, used in most general lab environments.
• Multi-Channel: This allows for simultaneous dispensing through multiple channels, which is ideal for high-throughput tasks.
• Electronic: These have various electronic functions that can be programmed by the user. Digital displayed and motorized dispensing allows for incredibly accurate control.

Key Components

When you understand the basic components of an automatic pipette, you can use and maintain it properly. Let’s go over the primary parts:

• Plunger/Button Mechanism: This feature initiates aspiration and dispensing. Note that electronic models may have programmable buttons in place of a plunger.
• Tip Ejector: A mechanism that allows the user to dispose of tips without touching them.
• Digital Volume Display: Exclusive to electronic pipettes, this displays vital information such as target volume.
• Disposable Pipette Tips: Vital for preventing cross-contamination. These should be disposed of after one use.

How Does an Automatic Pipette Work?

An auto pipette functions by utilizing air or positive-displacement mechanisms. If you’re operating one, here is the general process:

• Adjust the volume dial, or input it on the digital display if you’re using an electronic pipette.
• Place a sterile tip on the end of the pipette. This tip will be disposed of when you’re finished.
• Press the plunger to the first stop, place the tip into the liquid, and release to draw the proper amount of liquid.
• Place the tip into the opening of the target container and press the plunger. This will dispense the liquid.

Air displacement is one of two main operation mechanisms, using an air cushion that sits between the piston and the liquid. Positive displacement, on the other hand, sees the piston contact the liquid directly, which minimizes evaporation and improves performance with volatile and viscous liquids.

Benefits of Using Automatic Pipettes

There are various advantages to using an automatic pipette in your lab, such as:

• Enhanced Accuracy and Repeatability: The possibility of human error and variability is kept to a minimum.
• Improved Ergonomics: Less force is required, which mitigates strain on the hand and reduces injuries from repetitive stress.
• Increased Efficiency: Automation greatly speeds up workflows, which leads to high productivity. This is especially useful in high-volume lab environments.

Lab Applications

There are several scientific disciplines that lend themselves to the use of an auto pipette. For example, it’s an invaluable tool in clinical diagnostics where patient samples and reagents need to be handled with the utmost care. In pharmaceutical research, dosing requires maximum precision, which can’t be achieved consistently through the use of a manual pipette. In the field of molecular biology and chemistry, there are various uses—a primary one being in PCR, ELISA, and titration, in which exact measurements are vital to the research.

Find the Perfect Automatic Pipette at BaneBio

The importance of the auto pipette in a laboratory cannot be understated. It’s a vital tool in many types of research and lab procedures, offering maximum precision and efficiency. Your researchers will save valuable time through their use, freeing them up to focus on tasks that require more manual processes.

If your laboratory doesn’t yet have these pipettes, we know the perfect place to get them. Get in touch with BaneBio and stock up on these vital tools!

A laminar flow cabinet (or hood) is an essential addition to any laboratory that needs to prioritize contamination control. It helps maintain a sterile environment that serves various research endeavors—handling sensitive electronic components, conducting microbiological research, prepping pharmaceuticals, and more.

Not all of these cabinets are the same, though. Choosing between the two main configurations can have a significant impact on the efficiency, comfort, and safety of your work. So here’s the big question: Does your lab need a vertical laminar flow hood or a horizontal laminar flow hood? The answer depends on a few factors, which we’ll get into in this blog.

What Is a Laminar Flow Cabinet?

First off, let’s take a look at what this kind of cabinet is, as well as the purpose it serves. It’s essentially a workspace that’s designed to protect samples from contamination by using a constant flow of uninterrupted, filtered air. The air passes through a HEPA filter, sweeping away any airborne contaminants before they can reach vulnerable samples.

These cabinets are versatile in their applications, from electronics and optics manufacturing to medical labs and pharmaceutical compounding. These are all environments in which microscopic contaminants can post a risk to safety and results.

Vertical Laminar Flow Hood

Vertical cabinets draw air from above the unit, pushing it downward through the HEPA filter and creating a vertical flow of air across the work surface.

Benefits include:

• Enhanced safety for powders or aerosols: Because of the downward direction of the air, particles are generally being pushed away from the user’s face, thus offering more protection when working with airborne materials.

• Compact design: Counter space needs to be optimized in a lab environment, allowing enough space for equipment to sit and research to take place. A vertical hood helps you make good use of space when you only have so much to work with.

Common applications include:

• Pharmaceutical compounding
• Cell culture and microbiology labs
• Environments that deal with hazardous airborne particles

Horizontal Laminar Flow Hood

Rather than moving air downward, a horizontal laminar flow cabinet pulls it through a HEPA filter situated at the back of the unit. It then pushes the air horizontally across the work surface in the direction of the user.

Benefits include:

• Reduced turbulence on work surfaces: Thanks to the airflow being smoother and overall more consistent, delicate or static-sensitive components are more protected in a horizontal laminar flow cabinet.

• Improved user comfort: Because the air is flowing away from the user’s face, horizontal cabinets are ideal for longer work sessions thanks to increased comfort.

Common applications include:

• Medical device assembly
• Handling of electronic and optical equipment
• Laboratory environments that require gentle, uniform airflow

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing

If you’re having trouble choosing between a horizontal and vertical cabinet, there are some key considerations that should make the decision a bit easier.

• The nature of your work: Are you frequently dealing with biohazards, sterile preparations, or volatile substances? If so, consider this: Vertical cabinets are ideal for hazardous or powder-based materials, while cleaner, more-sensitive operations will go more smoothly with a horizontal hood.

• Space and layout: If your lab has limited space, a laminar flow cabinet that stands vertically is likely the better option.

• User comfort and workflow: If you’re looking for a more ergonomic user experience—especially when working for long periods of time—a horizontal cabinet is your best bet.

• Regulatory compliance: Make sure the unit you choose aligns with industry standards and guidelines. As an example: USP <797> and <800> for sterile compounding.

Which Laminar Flow Cabinet is Right for You?

When it comes down to it, the best laminar flow cabinet depends on the applications you wish to use it for, your comfort preferences, and workspace constraints. If you want to prioritize safer handling of powders and biohazards, as well as space efficiency, a vertical cabinet is ideal. On the other hand, if you’re working with clean, non-hazardous materials that demand smooth airflow and ergonomic setups, a horizontal cabinet is likely the better choice.

Make Your Choice

Choosing the right laminar flow cabinet for your needs is more than a simple technical decision—it’s about safety, productivity, and compliance. All of these things are contributing factors in your laboratory’s success, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully. By understanding the differences between vertical and horizontal cabinets, your decision will be more informed and you can set yourself up for success.

If you still need some help making your selection—or if you’re ready to pull the trigger on a purchase—the team at BaneBio is ready to help you in the process. Get in touch with us today!

Biological Safety Cabinets—or BSCs—are unsung heroes of the laboratory. They’re not as exciting as microscopes or centrifuges, but they’re vital components of scientific safety, nonetheless. They play a role in protecting not only laboratory personnel, but also the samples within the lab and the environment overall. But as with any other equipment type, not every biosafety cabinet is created equal; there are types, applications, maintenance practices, and more to take into consideration. In this blog, we want to take a look at all the options so you might be better informed when it’s time to purchase one for your own lab.

Biosafety Cabinet Types

Class I Biological Safety Cabinet

These provide environmental and personnel protection, but be warned that they don’t safeguard their actual contents. The primary role of a Class 1 cabinet is to prevent exposure to hazardous aerosols.

Some common applications include handling of biological materials that post low or moderate risk, procedures that include aerosol-generating processes, and the protection of lab employees working with non-sterile substances.

Class II Biological Safety Cabinet

This is where you’ll find the most variety. A combination of HEPA filtrations and controlled airflow results in the protection of people, the environment, and the product.

• Class II, Type A1: 70% of the air within these cabinets is recirculated, making it suitable for low-risk operations.
• Class II, Type A2: This is similar to A1, the main difference being greater inward air velocity. As a result, it’s much more suitable for handling hazardous agents.
• Class II, Type B1: Type B1 expels 60% of its air, making it a good choice for any work that involves biological hazards and other volatile chemicals.
• Class II, Type B2: This is a fully exhausted system that doesn’t allow any recirculation. It’s highly recommended when dealing with high-risk pathogens and toxic chemicals.

Regardless of subtype, a class II biological safety cabinet is an essential part of microbiology and pharmaceutical labs. It allows for the safe manipulation of infectious agents, cell-culture research, viral studies, and the preparation of sterile products.

Class III Biological Safety Cabinet

If you’re looking for the highest possible level of containment, you should be prioritizing class III cabinets. They operate as fully enclosed units with glove ports, and are meant for handling the most hazardous biological materials—including Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) pathogens.

Typically, class III cabinets are found serving the following industries and areas of research:

• High-containment labs and bioweapons research
• Highly infectious virus studies, such as research into Ebola
• The development of vaccines and biopharmaceutical manufacturing

Common Biological Safety Cabinet Uses

To say these cabinets are important to several fields of research may be an understatement. In many cases, proper research can’t be conducted without them. Their common applications are plenty, but here are the primary uses:

• Infectious agent containment in microbiology and virology
• Drug formulation within the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries
• Diagnostic procedures in clinical and hospital laboratories
• COVID-19 testing and research

Maintenance and Best Practices

With so many substances being handled within these cabinets, a bit of maintenance is to be expected. Here’s a short rundown of the bases you should be covering.

Regular Cleaning and Decontamination

Make sure you’re cleaning every surface with the appropriate disinfectants, such as 70% ethanol and bleach solutions. Do this before and after use. When cleaning is complete, autoclave or safely dispose of any contaminated waste materials.

Importance of Annual Certification

To ensure that your biosafety cabinet meets all industry standards (and functions properly), an annual certification is necessary. The tests involved in this certification include airflow validations, containment efficiency, and HEPA filter integrity checks.

Proper Airflow Management

When choosing a spot for your cabinet, ensure you allow plenty of space near the airflow grills to maintain circulation. In addition, train all personnel to follow proper hand and arm movement techniques to prevent turbulence.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If you’re experiencing issues with your biosafety cabinet, here are some troubleshooting tips we suggest:

• Low Airflow Alarms: Ensure no filters are clogged and inspect the blower motor.
• HEPA Filter Saturation: Stick to a timely schedule of filter replacements for optimal airflow. Manufacturer guidelines should detail how frequently filters need to be changed.
• Inconsistent Air Velocity: Minimize external airflow disturbances (like HVAC changes).

Choosing the Right Biosafety Cabinet for Your Needs

Before you make a final decision on which cabinet to purchase, you should carefully consider your research needs.

• Work Type: Do you require protection for your people, the environment, your product, or a combination of the three?
• Containment Level: It’s vital to get a biological safety cabinet that can handle the biosafety level (BSL-1 to BSL-4) of the substances you’ll be working with.
• Lab Space and Configuration: Make sure you have enough space in your laboratory for the cabinet to have a permanent placement.
• Regulatory Compliance: Make sure you adhere to standards set by OSHA, CDC, and NSF.

A Laboratory Necessity

The biosafety cabinet is an essential tool for any laboratory researching hazardous biological agents. By familiarizing yourself with different cabinet types, biosafety levels, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed purchase for your lab’s needs. Whether you’re in the market for biosafety cabinets or you have some you need to sell, get in touch with us at BaneBio—the Scientific Supermarket.

Throughout the ages, fire has been both friend and foe to humankind. We need it, and we want it around, but only at specific times and in specific places. The laboratory is one of those places where there’s probably more chance of the unwanted variety than most, given that so much of the work there is done with flammable materials. But unwanted fire isn’t just a concern for laboratories. In medical facilities and industrial settings, the safe storage of flammable materials is equally crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring the well-being of employees. Flammable storage refrigerators are specifically engineered to safely store volatile substances, maintaining controlled environments that minimize risks. In today’s blog, we’ll explore in-depth how to go about choosing the right kind of storage refrigerator for your particular needs.

Key Considerations

Compliance With Regulations

The first step in selecting a refrigerator like this is ensuring compliance with relevant safety regulations. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) have set forth guidelines that govern the storage of flammable materials. OSHA requires that flammable liquids be stored in approved containers and cabinets. NFPA provides specific classifications for the storage of flammable liquids, including recommendations on the type of refrigeration unit to use. Understanding these regulations will go a long way toward keeping your facility compliant and keeping potential hazards at bay.

Storage Capacity

Before purchasing a flammable storage refrigerator, assess the volume of flammable materials you need to store. This requires a thorough inventory of your current stock, as well as your best estimate of future needs. Choosing the right size is crucial; a unit that’s too small may be overcrowded, while a unit that’s too big may lead to excessive energy costs. Do your best to find a refrigerator that accommodates your current inventory with room for growth.

Temperature Control

Consistent and reliable temperature control is vital in a storage refrigerator. Flammable materials often require specific temperature ranges to maintain their integrity and prevent dangerous reactions. As such, look for refrigerators that offer precise temperature settings and stable performance, ensuring that your materials are stored safely. Additionally, consider models with built-in temperature alarms that notify you of any fluctuations outside of acceptable ranges.

Explosion-Proof Features

A good flammable storage refrigerator is also an explosion proof refrigerator. This means it will have a spark-free interior and sealed electrical components, to reduce the risk of ignition of whatever flammable material you’re storing inside of it. When selecting a flammable storage refrigerator, then, make sure it’s also an explosion proof refrigerator—meeting the necessary explosion-proof standards to protect against hazards associated with volatile materials.

Durability & Material

Durability is another critical factor in choosing a flammable storage refrigerator. Look for models constructed from sturdy materials that can withstand harsh environments. Corrosion-resistant materials are essential, especially in settings where spills may occur or humidity levels are high. A durable refrigerator will enhance safety and extend the lifespan of your unit.

Additional Features to Look For

When evaluating flammable storage refrigerators, consider additional features that enhance usability and safety:

• Adjustable Shelving
  Flexible shelving options allow you to customize the interior space to fit different container sizes, maximizing storage efficiency and making the most of your investment.
• Lockable Doors
  Security is paramount when storing hazardous materials. Lockable doors help prevent unauthorized access, protecting your inventory and potentially even your facility.
• Alarms and Monitoring Systems
  Advanced refrigerators may include alarm systems that alert you to temperature fluctuations or door openings, providing an added layer of security and peace of mind.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

When choosing a flammable storage refrigerator, be aware of common mistakes that can lead to safety hazards:

• Using Standard Refrigerators for Flammable Materials
  A big no-no. Standard refrigerators are not designed to handle the risks associated with flammable materials. Always use a specialized refrigerator for this highly specialized job.
• Ignoring Certification Labels and Testing
  Due your due diligence. Always check for certification labels that confirm compliance with safety standards. Units that are not certified may pose significant risks.

Keep Fire Where It Belongs: Elsewhere

No matter where it pops up, unwanted fire is, well, unwanted. You can’t keep the world safe, but you can keep your laboratory, medical facility, or industrial space safe. Choosing the right flammable storage refrigerator is crucial for maintaining a safe environment when volatile materials are involved. By considering factors such as regulatory compliance, storage capacity, temperature control, explosion-proof features, and durability, you can make an informed decision that protects your employees and your assets. For tailored advice, make sure you work with suppliers who specialize in such storage solutions. At BaneBio, we’re always ready to provide insights and recommendations to ensure you select the best refrigerator for your needs.

There’s so much lab equipment that does so much essential work for us. Pipettes. Clean benches. Microscopes. Scales. The list goes on. But while it’s all equipment we couldn’t do without, we probably take much of it for granted nonetheless. Add the centrifuge to this not-so-humble list. By using centrifugal force to harness the power of gravity, these machines efficiently and effectively separate components of different densities, enabling scientists and researchers to isolate cells, proteins, nucleic acids, and other materials for further study. As the choice of machine significantly impacts the accuracy of lab procedures, the importance of selecting the right type can’t be overstated. Today, we’ll walk you through the key considerations for choosing a centrifuge machine that offers the perfect range of capabilities for your lab’s work.

Key Considerations

1. Speed (RPM) and G-Force Requirements

Centrifuge speeds are measured in revolutions per minute, or RPM. The faster the spin speed, the more centrifugal force, or g-force, generated. Different laboratory applications call for different spin speeds/g-force. Understanding the requirements for the samples you need to analyze will help you select a machine capable of delivering the appropriate performance.

2. Sample Size and Capacity

The volume of your samples is another critical consideration for selecting the right centrifuge machine. They come in various sizes, each designed to accommodate different sample capacities. Assessing your typical sample sizes will guide you toward the right model.

3. Type of Sample

The nature of the samples being processed is equally important to selecting the right machine. Blood, cells, proteins, and other materials may require different spin speeds and time settings, making it crucial to choose a centrifuge tailored to your lab’s specific needs.

4. Specialized Applications

Certain labs focus on specialized applications, whether clinical, research, or industrial. Take the time to think through all the work your lab does on a regular basis. Understanding those needs will help you select a lab centrifuge that meets its very specific demands.

Common Types of Centrifuges

1. Microcentrifuges

Microcentrifuges are compact machines ideal for handling small-volume samples ranging from 0.2 to 2 mL. They are commonly used for DNA/RNA processing and cell fractionation, making them a staple in molecular biology laboratories.

2. Benchtop Centrifuges

Benchtop centrifuges are versatile and space-saving, suitable for medium-capacity samples in routine lab work. They offer a balance between performance and size, making them a popular choice for a wide range of laboratory settings.

3. High-Speed Centrifuges

A high-speed centrifuge is designed to generate high RPM, making it capable of processing large-volume samples. This kind of machine is particularly useful in biochemistry and molecular biology applications, where separation efficiency is paramount.

4. Ultracentrifuges

As the name suggests, ultracentrifuges operate at ultra-high spin speeds, allowing for the separation of minute particles, such as viruses and proteins. These devices are essential for advanced research applications, where precision and reliability are critical.

5. Refrigerated Centrifuges

Refrigerated centrifuges offer users temperature control, making them suitable for sensitive samples that require specific temperatures. They are commonly used in clinical and biochemistry laboratories, where maintaining sample integrity is crucial.

Choosing the Right Machine for Your Lab

1. Matching the Model to Your Lab’s Needs

Evaluate your lab’s requirements, including sample types, volumes, and the desired outcomes of your experiments. This assessment will help in narrowing down your model options.

2. The Importance of Scalability and Future-Proofing

Consider not only your current needs but also potential future applications. Investing in a centrifuge that offers scalability can save costs and accommodate evolving research demands.

3. Tips on Budget Considerations and Maintenance

Budgeting is an important aspect of selecting laboratory equipment. Ensure you factor in both the initial purchase price and long-term maintenance costs. Additionally, consult with manufacturers about service options to ensure the longevity of your lab centrifuge.

The Right Supplier, the Right Equipment

In the field of science, where so much important work is done on so many levels, it’s unwise to take anything for granted, including the equipment that allows professionals like you to properly carry out their work. As such, choosing the right centrifuge for your laboratory is essential for achieving optimal results across all of your experiments. By understanding the key factors—such as speed, sample size, and application type—you can make an informed decision that will suit your needs now and into the future. BaneBio is always ready to help labs make informed decisions on a wide range of equipment, including centrifuges. Contact us today!

Scientific work can’t thrive without the proper equipment. It directly impacts work quality and efficiency, as well as safety. With the right tools, you can achieve optimal research outcomes, streamline your workflows, and maintain safety for all lab personnel. With that in mind, let’s go over what to consider when crafting your laboratory equipment list.

Key Considerations for Choosing Common Lab Equipment

No matter what you’re buying or who you’re buying from, making a purchase without a plan is likely to come back and bite you. With that said, let’s go over a few things to consider before buying.

Understanding Your Needs

To start, take stock of the needs of your lab. What type of research do you conduct? What samples do you work with, and what volume do you handle on a daily basis? Different fields and samples may require special equipment, so assessing those needs is crucial to making smart purchases.

Additionally, you have to keep available lab space in mind. While it would be great to fit all the best equipment into your lab, sometimes square footage limits what you can bring in. The supplies you choose should fit comfortably in your space, while still allowing you room to move around and conduct research. Measure the available space within your lab and keep it top of mind so you can optimize while shopping (we can help with that).

Evaluating Performance and Features

Capacity, throughput, and precision are all important factors in determining how effective a piece of equipment will be. After all, if it can’t handle your workload, it’s not worth purchasing. Analyze these performance points thoroughly to ensure they meet your standards.

But those things aren’t all you should keep in mind. Any workplace is destined to fail if safety isn’t a priority, and that’s especially true of a laboratory where you’ll be experimenting, testing, and analyzing. No item on your laboratory equipment list should have a poor safety rating. Make sure it complies with regulations and standards.

Budget and Long-Term Value

Before clicking “purchase” on your laboratory equipment list items, ask yourself: “Will this benefit me in the long-run?” If the answer is “no,” you should look for something better suited to your needs. The up-front cost of most pieces of equipment is an investment, so having confidence that it will pay itself off is crucial to your lab’s success.

It isn’t just the initial fee that you should factor in, though. Even the best equipment will require maintenance from time to time, and maintenance means money. Opting for a tool that is reliable and requires minimal maintenance is key to its longevity and that of your funds. Another thing that could keep your costs low is energy usage. If a microscope you’ve had your eye on requires a small power plant to run, you should probably look elsewhere.

Future-Proofing Your Lab

Making sure your equipment lasts is an important consideration, but it’s about more than that. Will it remain useful if your lab expands and your operations grow? Where does it fit in if you implement all new research methods? The scalability and upgradability of the things you use day to day and year to year are a crucial aspect of any growing lab, so craft your lab equipment list with that in mind.

Best Practices for Selecting and Using Lab Equipment

Not all equipment is created equally. If it were, we wouldn’t have nearly as many options (because what would be the point?). That’s why you should do proper research when crafting your laboratory equipment list. 

Research and Comparison

Read reviews and compare features across different brands and models. These, along with any peer recommendations you can solicit, will give you great insights on the real-world performance and reliability of the equipment you’re considering. If you have any questions on choosing the best option for you, we’re always happy to help you out!

Engaging with Suppliers

If you get your information straight from the experts who want you to succeed, you’re more likely to get accurate information on your potential purchases. Engage directly with the suppliers for detailed specifications and features, and request a demo so you can see the tools in action.

What’s even more valuable than a company who makes a good product is one that offers quality post-purchase support as well. When you have competent people helping you troubleshoot, the road to a resolution will be a short one.

Maintenance and Calibration

As we discussed before, routine maintenance and calibration are crucial for keeping everything in great condition. Setting a consistent schedule rather than waiting until you experience a breakdown will save you loads of trouble throughout the lifetime of your equipment.

That said, the less troubleshooting you have to do, the better. Proper cleaning and upkeep can go a long way towards ensuring optimal performance of any item on your laboratory equipment list. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines so you don’t accidentally cause damage.

Safety and Efficiency Tips

Have we mentioned that safety is important? Well, we’re going to harp on it again, because it should be mandatory in any lab. When it comes to your equipment, establishing solid lab safety rules for both operation and maintenance means your lab personnel are protected.

As for actually using the equipment, a well-trained staff could increase productivity and efficiency tenfold. Make sure they’re all on the same page in terms of best practices, cleaning, and of course, safety.

Conclusion

Building an ideal laboratory equipment list is no small feat, but it’s worth it. By analyzing your needs, doing proper research, setting a maintenance schedule, and establishing lab safety rules, you can make great purchases and get the most out of them for years to come.

If you’re wondering where you can find the largest selection of laboratory equipment from all the big brands, look no further than BaneBio. They call us the Scientific Supermarket for good reason. We even have an Ebay store, if you want to see our full stock. So reach out and let’s get your laboratory properly outfitted!