Breaking Down My First Experience with the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12, manufactured by Kimble/Kontes, are a laboratory staple. These aren’t your everyday coffee mugs; they’re precision instruments designed for safe and accurate handling of chemicals and other substances.
As a seasoned gear specialist, my initial encounter with laboratory equipment might seem out of place. However, my line of work often involves DIY projects, from custom lubricants for firearms to developing specialized cleaning solutions for tactical gear. I needed reliable and chemically resistant containers, and that is why I sought out these beakers. The promise of durable borosilicate glass and the double scale markings caught my attention.
Unboxing the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 was an exercise in careful handling. Each beaker was individually wrapped and nestled securely in the packaging, a testament to the care taken to prevent breakage during shipping. The glass felt substantial, not flimsy, and the markings were crisp and clear.
Compared to some generic labware I’ve encountered, the KIMAX beakers felt significantly more robust. I’ve used plastic containers and cheaper glass alternatives before, but the chemical resistance and heat tolerance of borosilicate glass are essential for some of my more demanding applications. These seemed a step above the rest. My initial excitement was tempered by a healthy respect for glassware and the need to handle them with care.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first use of the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 was in creating a custom bore cleaner for my precision rifles. I needed to mix several solvents and degreasers in precise ratios, and the double scale markings provided the accuracy I required.
The beakers performed flawlessly even when mixing highly reactive compounds. The pouring spout was effective in preventing spills, even when transferring liquids into small containers. There were no immediate issues or surprises, which speaks to the quality of the glass and the clear, easy-to-read graduations.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of frequent use, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 have proven to be incredibly durable. Despite regular exposure to harsh chemicals and frequent washing, there are no signs of etching, clouding, or degradation of the markings.
I have accidentally knocked a beaker over once or twice (luckily empty), and it survived without chipping or breaking. Cleaning is a breeze; the smooth glass surface resists staining and is easily sanitized. Compared to my previous experiences with less robust glassware, these KIMAX beakers have significantly exceeded my expectations in terms of both durability and reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its utility and reliability. These beakers have a capacity of 30 mL, making them ideal for smaller-scale mixing and storage.
The graduation range is 5-25 mL, with a graduation interval of 10 mL, allowing for reasonably precise measurements. Made of KIMAX KG-33 borosilicate glass, these beakers are known for their excellent chemical resistance and thermal stability. The product’s Kimble No. is 14000 30 and they are sold as a pack of 12. The uniform wall thickness is designed to resist breakage, and the higher rim offers added protection against chipping.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 is to safely and accurately hold and measure liquids. The low form design provides stability and minimizes the risk of tipping, an essential feature when working with potentially hazardous substances.
The double scale allows for easy reading of measurements from different angles. While the graduation interval of 10 mL is not suitable for extremely precise measurements, it is adequate for most general-purpose mixing and dilution tasks. The performance is excellent, meeting and even exceeding my expectations for small-volume chemical handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 is simple yet effective. The borosilicate glass construction gives the beakers a premium feel, and their relatively light weight makes them easy to handle.
The pouring spout is well-designed, allowing for controlled pouring and minimizing drips. There is a slight learning curve, however, mostly related to general best practices for handling laboratory glassware. Even with gloves on, the beakers offer a secure and comfortable grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The KIMAX KG-33 borosilicate glass is the key to the long-term durability of these beakers. The glass is resistant to thermal shock, chemical attack, and mechanical stress.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only thorough washing with soap and water or appropriate cleaning solvents. With proper care, these beakers should last for many years, making them a worthwhile investment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 are primarily designed for standalone use and do not come with specific accessories. However, they are compatible with a wide range of standard laboratory equipment, such as stirring rods, hot plates, and various types of lids and stoppers.
You can buy lids separately to cover them and store the solution. The industry-standard design means they can be used with accessories from various manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12
Pros
- Excellent chemical resistance, thanks to the KIMAX KG-33 borosilicate glass. This is critical for handling aggressive solvents and acids.
- Durable construction ensures they can withstand regular use and accidental bumps without breaking.
- Clear double scale markings allow for easy and reasonably accurate measurements.
- Easy to clean and maintain, resisting stains and chemical residue.
- The low form design enhances stability and reduces the risk of spills.
Cons
- The 10 mL graduation interval is not ideal for applications requiring high-precision measurements.
- Glassware, by its nature, is vulnerable to breakage if subjected to extreme force or temperature shock.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12?
These Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 are perfect for anyone who requires reliable and chemically resistant containers for small-volume mixing and storage. This includes amateur chemists, DIY enthusiasts mixing custom lubricants or cleaning solutions, and even professionals in laboratories.
Individuals who need extremely precise measurements or require containers for large volumes might find these beakers too limited. If you want to mix gallons of something, this beaker is not for you. A magnetic stirrer and stir bar would be a must-have accessory for anyone doing extensive mixing with these beakers.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12
In summary, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Brand Griffin Beakers, Low Form, Double Scale, Borosilicate Glass 14000 30, Pack of 12 are a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking durable and reliable small-volume labware. At $147.99 for a pack of 12, the price is justified by the quality of the KIMAX KG-33 glass and the overall construction.
I would definitely recommend these beakers to anyone who values safety, accuracy, and longevity in their lab equipment. If you’re looking for a step up from consumer-grade mixing containers, buy these!