What You Should Know About the Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL
My workspace, a chaotic yet organized confluence of outdoor gear, workshop tools, and a modest home lab setup, recently faced a small but critical void: a reliable way to precisely transfer small volumes of liquids. After a frustrating attempt to use an inferior, non-sterile syringe for a delicate assay, I found myself searching for a solution that offered both accuracy and a reasonable level of cleanliness, leading me to the Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL. This specific model promised a 5 ml capacity with a Luer-Lok connection, packaged in a bulk 100-pack, which immediately appealed to my practical, cost-conscious side. While I briefly considered generic, unbranded options, their lack of clear specifications and the potential for manufacturing inconsistencies pushed me towards a more established name. Unboxing revealed individually packaged syringes, a detail that offered immediate reassurance about their intended use and handling. My first impression was one of quiet competence; the plastic felt robust, and the plunger action was smooth, hinting at a job well done.
Real-World Testing: Putting Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for these syringes was my home lab bench, where I needed to precisely measure and dispense small quantities of reagents for experimental mixtures. I also utilized them in my workshop for applying adhesives and lubricants to delicate mechanisms, and even for diluting essential oils for personal use. During these varied tasks, the Luer-Lok connection proved invaluable; it securely attached to various needles and dispensing tips, eliminating the worry of accidental disconnection. The smooth plunger movement allowed for controlled aspiration and dispensing, a critical factor when working with viscous fluids or when exact measurements were paramount. I encountered no immediate issues or surprises, and the syringes performed as expected right out of the bag.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use across different applications, these Air-Tite units have held up admirably. I’ve refilled some of them more than a dozen times with various substances, from water-based solutions to slightly more viscous oils, and the seals remain tight with no signs of leakage. The clear markings on the polypropylene barrel have remained legible, even after incidental contact with workshop solvents. For my lab work, the cleanliness of the bulk packaged units was a significant advantage, minimizing the risk of contamination compared to less controlled packaging. Maintenance is essentially non-existent, as these are largely intended for single-use or limited reuse, though I’ve found them perfectly capable of multiple cycles for non-critical tasks. Compared to the disposable syringes I’ve used in the past, these Air-Tite models offer a noticeable step up in material quality and consistent plunger action.
Breaking Down the Features of Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL
Specifications
The Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL boasts a 5 ml capacity, a standard volume that strikes a good balance between precision and practical utility for many tasks. Its construction features a polypropylene barrel, known for its chemical resistance and clarity, which allows for easy visual confirmation of fluid levels and absence of air bubbles. The crucial Luer-Lok connection is a highlight, providing a secure screw-on interface for needles or other attachments, preventing accidental detachment. These syringes come in a bag/100 bulk packaging, offering a cost-effective solution for those who require them in quantity. The catalog number 89174-502 and supplier number ABC5LL help in identifying this specific configuration. The designated type, SPECIMEN COLLECTION- TUBES/NEEDLES, implies a certain standard of manufacturing, though their versatility extends well beyond this.
The 5 ml capacity is ideal for tasks requiring moderate volumes, like preparing small batches of solutions in a lab or applying specific amounts of lubricant in a mechanical setting. The Luer-Lok connection is a critical feature for anyone who has experienced the frustration of a slip-tip syringe detaching during use; it provides a confidence-inspiring click and twist that ensures a secure fit. For users who go through syringes regularly, the 100-pack bulk offering significantly reduces the per-unit cost compared to smaller packs, making it an economical choice for consistent usage. The polypropylene barrel is also a notable point; it’s generally more robust and less prone to cracking than some other plastic alternatives, and its transparency is key for accurate volume readings.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary function, the Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL performs exceptionally well. Drawing and dispensing liquids are smooth and consistent, thanks to the well-fitted plunger and the lack of significant friction. The Luer-Lok connection ensures that whatever is attached stays attached, a point of immense practical value when precision is key. I experienced no issues with the plunger sticking or skipping, even after repeated use with different fluid viscosities.
The main strength of this particular syringe lies in its reliable Luer-Lok system and the consistently smooth plunger action. These two features combined make it a joy to use for applications demanding accuracy. A minor point for consideration, though not a significant weakness, is that the markings, while clear, are standard and not heavily reinforced; very aggressive cleaning or prolonged exposure to certain harsh chemicals might eventually affect them. However, for its intended use and price point, the performance is more than satisfactory, meeting and often exceeding expectations for a bulk-packaged laboratory supply.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these syringes is functional and straightforward, prioritizing utility over aesthetic flourishes. The polypropylene barrel feels sturdy, and the volume markings are clearly printed and easy to read under good lighting. The plunger moves with a satisfying smoothness, indicating good manufacturing tolerances and a well-lubricated seal.
Its ergonomics are, by nature, dictated by its function. The plunger is easy to grip and manipulate with one hand, allowing for precise control during both aspiration and dispensing. The Luer-Lok fitting itself is well-machined, making it easy to thread onto needles or adapters without cross-threading. There’s no learning curve involved; it’s an intuitive tool that is ready to use straight out of the bag. The overall build quality feels robust for its intended purpose, projecting a sense of reliability.
Durability & Maintenance
As primarily disposable items, the “durability” of these syringes is relative to their intended single or limited-use application. For non-critical tasks where sterilization isn’t paramount, I’ve found that these units can withstand multiple uses without immediate degradation of performance. The polypropylene barrel is resistant to minor bumps and drops that might occur on a lab bench or workshop floor.
For typical laboratory or workshop use, they are designed for convenience and are effectively maintenance-free. If reusing for non-critical applications, a simple rinse with appropriate solvent or distilled water is usually sufficient. However, it’s crucial to remember their intended use for sterile applications; once compromised, their sterility is lost. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points with the few I’ve reused, but I would be cautious about using them for critical sterile procedures beyond their initial intended use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL itself is not typically sold with accessories like needles in this bulk configuration. However, the Luer-Lok connection is a universal standard, meaning it is highly compatible with a vast array of Luer-Lock needles, tips, and various adapters available on the market. This compatibility is a significant advantage, allowing users to customize their setup for specific tasks, whether that’s a fine gauge needle for delicate injections or a blunt tip for fluid transfer. The ability to easily source and attach different needle types or specialized dispensing tips greatly enhances the utility of these syringes for diverse applications.
Pros and Cons of Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL
Pros
- Secure Luer-Lok Connection: Ensures a tight and reliable seal with needles and tips, preventing leaks and accidental detachments.
- Smooth Plunger Action: Offers precise control for accurate aspiration and dispensing of fluids.
- Clear Volume Markings: The 5 ml barrel features easily readable graduations for accurate measurements.
- Cost-Effective Bulk Packaging: The 100-pack bag provides excellent value for frequent users.
- Durable Polypropylene Barrel: Offers good chemical resistance and robustness.
Cons
- Needles Not Included: This bulk pack typically does not come with attached needles, requiring separate purchase.
- Limited for Sterile Medical Use: While clean, these are not always pre-sterilized for critical medical applications without further validation or specific sterile-packaged variants.
- Standard Markings: Markings are functional but may wear over time with excessive or harsh reuse.
Who Should Buy Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL?
This Air-Tite model is an excellent choice for individuals and professionals working in home laboratories, workshops, or even for precise DIY projects. It’s ideal for anyone needing to accurately measure and transfer small volumes of liquids for tasks such as preparing chemical solutions, applying precise amounts of adhesives or lubricants, or even diluting essential oils for crafts. The 100-pack bulk makes it particularly suitable for educational institutions, research facilities, or hobbyists who go through a significant number of syringes.
Those who should perhaps look elsewhere are medical professionals requiring guaranteed sterile, individually packaged units for direct patient administration, unless they are procuring specific medical-grade sterile versions. Individuals needing extremely large volumes for single use might also find a larger capacity syringe more efficient. For those working with very aggressive solvents that could degrade polypropylene over extended contact, alternative materials might be considered. A highly recommended complementary item would be a variety pack of Luer-Lock needles of different gauges and lengths to suit your specific application needs.
Conclusion on Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL
The Air-Tite Syringe 5ml Luer Lock Bag/100 ABC5LL is a highly practical and well-executed product that delivers on its promise of reliable fluid transfer. The Luer-Lok connection is a standout feature, offering security and peace of mind for anyone who has struggled with less secure fittings. Combined with its smooth plunger action and the clear, durable polypropylene barrel, these syringes provide excellent performance for a multitude of non-critical lab, workshop, and craft applications. At a price point that makes the 100-pack bulk option incredibly economical, the value proposition is strong, especially when considering the consistent quality across the bag. I would readily recommend these syringes to anyone in need of a dependable, accurate, and cost-effective solution for handling small liquid volumes, provided they are aware that needles are typically purchased separately and that their suitability for primary sterile medical use should be carefully considered based on specific institutional requirements.