CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 Review

Why I Chose the CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12: A Hands-On Review

The CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 are an essential for any lab needing organized cryogenic sample storage. Horizon Scientific, the Manufacturer, offers a simple, cost-effective solution for managing precious samples. This review delves into my experience with these dividers, examining their design, durability, and real-world utility in a demanding research environment.

For years, I’ve battled the chaos of disorganized freezer boxes. Identifying specific samples felt like an archaeological dig, costing precious time and risking sample integrity. The CryoPro dividers promised a structured solution, and I was eager to see if they lived up to the claim.

Unboxing the CryoPro dividers revealed a no-frills, functional design. The fiberboard felt sturdy enough for its intended purpose, and the precision-cut 100-cell grid was immediately appealing. My initial impression was that these were simple, practical tools built for efficiency.

I considered other options, like plastic dividers, but ultimately chose the CryoPro Fiberboard Dividers for their cost-effectiveness and space-saving design. Some labs use custom-printed grids, but the CryoPro’s pre-made cells offered an immediate solution without the lead time or higher expense. The sheer quantity, a pack of 12, sealed the deal, providing enough to standardize several freezer boxes.

I was cautiously optimistic. They seemed well-made for fiberboard, but the real test would be their performance in the harsh environment of a -80°C freezer. Would they warp, disintegrate, or, worse, contaminate samples? Time would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first use of the CryoPro dividers was in organizing a collection of cell culture samples destined for long-term storage. I placed the dividers into standard 5×5 inch cryogenic boxes. Each of the 100 cells was perfect for accommodating standard 1.5ml and 2.0ml cryovials.

The dividers performed admirably even in the cold conditions while working at the lab bench. The cells remained rigid, preventing the vials from shifting during the transfer to the freezer. I noted that the fit was snug, preventing any unwanted movement within the box.

Using these dividers was intuitive and immediately improved my lab workflow. Locating specific samples became significantly easier, reducing the time spent with the freezer door open. There were no unexpected issues or surprises with the first use; the dividers did exactly what I expected them to do.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the CryoPro dividers continue to hold up well. They’ve endured repeated freeze-thaw cycles without showing any significant signs of degradation.

The fiberboard has maintained its structural integrity, with no warping or bending observed. Routine maintenance involves simply wiping away any spills with a dry cloth and ensuring the boxes remain free of frost buildup. Compared to previous attempts at sample organization using makeshift solutions, these dividers are a vast improvement in terms of durability and convenience.

Breaking Down the Features of CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12

Specifications

The CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 boast the following key specifications:

• Description: 100-Cell divider for cryogenic storage boxes. This ensures efficient organization of a large number of samples.
• Dimensions: 12.7 x 12.7 x 2.5 cm (5 x 5 x 1 inches). This standardized size guarantees compatibility with most standard cryogenic storage boxes.
• Unit: Pack of 12. The bulk packaging provides ample supply for organizing multiple boxes and sample sets.
• Material: Durable fiberboard with moisture-repellant coating. The coating is vital for protecting against freezer condensation and extending the lifespan of the dividers.

These specifications are crucial for reliable sample storage. The dimensions guarantee a snug fit within standard boxes, preventing sample shifting. The moisture-repellant coating protects against the degradation that can occur in cryogenic environments.

Performance & Functionality

The CryoPro dividers excel at their primary task: organizing and protecting cryogenic samples. They provide a rigid grid that prevents vials from tipping or sliding within the freezer box.

Their greatest strength is their simplicity and ease of use. No assembly is required; just drop them into a compatible box and begin organizing. However, the fiberboard construction is their main weakness, and are susceptible to damage from excessive moisture. These dividers perfectly meet expectations for basic cryogenic sample organization.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is purely functional. The fiberboard is lightweight, and the grid provides clear visual separation between samples.

The dividers are undeniably user-friendly. The learning curve is nonexistent; anyone can immediately improve their sample organization with these dividers.

Durability & Maintenance

The CryoPro dividers are reasonably durable for fiberboard. The moisture-repellant coating extends their lifespan, but excessive moisture will lead to degradation.

Maintenance is minimal. Wiping away spills and preventing frost buildup is usually sufficient. Replacement is straightforward; simply swap out the old divider with a new one from the pack.

Accessories and Customization Options

The CryoPro dividers are primarily a standalone product, and no accessories are included. There are no customization options available from the Manufacturer.

However, the CryoPro dividers are compatible with any standard 5×5 inch cryogenic storage box. They can be used with various vial sizes, though they are optimized for 1.5ml and 2.0ml vials.

Pros and Cons of CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12

Who Should Buy CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12?

The CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 are perfect for:

• Researchers in academic and industrial labs who need affordable and efficient sample organization.
• Biobanks and biorepositories storing large collections of biological samples.
• Clinical labs managing patient samples for diagnostic testing and research.

These dividers are not suitable for labs requiring autoclavable storage solutions or those dealing with extremely hazardous materials requiring specialized containment.

A must-have accessory is a good labeling system for the cryovials themselves, to fully leverage the organized grid provided by these dividers. Clear labeling prevents misidentification and ensures accurate sample tracking.

Conclusion on CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12

The CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 are an excellent solution for budget-conscious labs that need to organize cryogenic samples effectively. They provide a simple, functional, and affordable way to manage large collections, though their fiberboard construction has limitations.

At $33.99 for a pack of 12, the price is more than justified given the time saved and reduced risk of sample misidentification. I would absolutely recommend these dividers to any lab seeking a practical and cost-effective organizational tool.

Take control of your freezer space and order the CryoPro Storage Boxes and Dividers PK-A3-100 Fiberboard Dividers 100-Cell, Pack of 12 today! You won’t regret it.