In pipetting tasks, the filter type and size are critical factors ensuring accuracy. There is always a need for a proper assistance to make sure you are investing in the right kind of filter tips. Understanding the way the pipette works is essential before you make your purchase. Also you will obviously tend to get confused with various options you will get for these pipette.
Types of Pipettes
You will be able to find several types of pipettes available on the market today. Every kind of pipette has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the correct type of pipette for your needs is essential to ensure accurate and precise results:
1. Mechanical pipette
One of the most common types of pipettes is the mechanical pipette. Mechanical pipettes are simple to use and easy to maintain. Filter tips are also relatively inexpensive. However, they can be less accurate than other pipettes and are not recommended for use with volatile or hazardous chemicals.
2. Electronic pipette
Another common type of pipette is the electronic pipette. Electronic pipettes are more expensive than mechanical pipettes but offer greater accuracy and precision. They are also easier to use and require less maintenance. However, they can be susceptible to electrical interference and may not be compatible with all types of lab equipment.
3. Displacement pipettes
Finally, there are positive displacement pipettes. Positive displacement pipettes offer the highest accuracy and precision but are also the most expensive. They work by drawing liquid into a small chamber and then expelling it using a piston or syringe. This pipette is best suited for use with very viscous drinks or beverages containing particulates.
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Types of Filters
Different types of filter tips are used in pipetting tasks, and each style has its specific use. Depending on the application, a positive or negative displacement pipette can be used with a gel-based or non-gel-based filter tip. Filter tips are available in various pore sizes, so selecting the correct pore size for the application is essential.
- Smaller pore size should be used to prevent clogging when filtering cells or cell culture media.
- Gel-based have a layer of absorbent material that helps to prevent sample loss due to evaporation.
- Non-gel-based filter tipsdo not have this porous layer, so they are better suited for applications where sample loss due to evaporation is not a concern.
- When using a positive displacement pipette with a gel-based filter tip, it is important to wet the filter tip with the liquid being pipetted before adding the sample. This will help to prevent the gel from drying out and becoming clogged.
- When using a positive displacement pipette with a non-gel-based filter tip, it is unnecessary to wet the filter tip before adding the sample.
How to Replace Tip on a Pipette?
It’s essential to know how to properly replace the tip on a pipette to avoid cross-contamination and maintain accurate results in your experiments. Here is a guide:
- Remove the old tip from the pipette by pressing the release button and pulling it off.
- To avoid cross-contamination, dispose of the old tip in a waste container.
- Insert the new tip onto the pipette by aligning it with the tip cone and pushing it on until it clicks into place.
- Make sure the new tip is secure by gently tugging on it to ensure it’s locked in place.
- You’re ready to use your pipette with a clean tip!
This guide will help you understand the different kinds of filter tips and how they can be used to improve your pipetting accuracy. If you are a beginner you are suggested to take notes and do the research first. Then only should you opt for the filter tips accordingly.