Beyond Specs: Living with the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 is more than just laboratory glassware; it’s a precision instrument vital for accurate liquid dispensing in demanding environments. This buret, crafted by Kimble/Kontes, a renowned name in scientific equipment, promises reliability and accuracy, essential for repeatable results. Featuring a 500mL capacity, 5mL graduations, and a straight bore PTFE stopcock, it appears to be a robust tool built for serious analytical work. Let’s dive into what makes this dispensing buret potentially worth its price tag of $599.99.
My work as an outdoor and tactical gear specialist often involves analyzing product performance in various environmental conditions. This requires preparing precise solutions for testing fabrics, coatings, and materials, and my old buret just wasn’t cutting it anymore. I needed something with greater capacity and finer control for accurate dispensing of treatment and testing chemicals.
Unboxing the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Buret was a surprising experience. The buret was securely packaged in a separate polybag, ensuring it arrived intact. The glass felt substantial, and the PTFE stopcock moved smoothly, suggesting quality craftsmanship.
Compared to the cheap, generic burets I’ve used in the past, the KIMAX feels like a significant upgrade. Cheaper burets often suffer from inconsistent flow rates and leaking stopcocks, leading to inaccurate measurements. The KIMAX’s promised reliability and chemical resistance were major selling points for me, as was its larger capacity than the 250 mL units I had been using.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The price is definitely high, but if the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 delivers on its promise of precision and durability, it will be a worthwhile investment. The proof, however, would be in the pudding – time to put this thing to work.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place in my workshop, where I routinely prepare solutions for testing the water resistance of various fabrics and coatings. I needed to prepare a series of diluted solutions of a water-repellent compound for analyzing its efficacy on different materials. The KIMAX buret was put to use dispensing precise amounts of the concentrated compound into deionized water.
The buret performed admirably, even under slight environmental variations. The ambient temperature and humidity fluctuate somewhat in my workshop, but the KIMAX’s accuracy seemed unaffected. The PTFE stopcock provided excellent control over the flow rate, allowing me to dispense even small volumes with precision.
Using the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 was surprisingly straightforward. The graduations were clear and easy to read, and the stopcock was smooth and responsive. No learning curve was required.
My first issue was a small air bubble getting trapped below the stopcock. I had to carefully invert the buret to dislodge it, but after that, it was smooth sailing. This is not necessarily unique to the KIMAX line; it is just something that happens with burets in general.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 continues to perform reliably. It has become an indispensable tool in my workshop. The KIMAX has processed dozens of different test chemicals and has stood up to repeated cleaning.
The buret shows no signs of wear and tear. The borosilicate glass is robust and resistant to scratching, even after repeated handling. The PTFE stopcock remains smooth and leak-free.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple. The KIMAX cleans easily with soap and water. I occasionally lubricate the PTFE stopcock with a small amount of silicone grease to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous burets, the KIMAX is in a different league. It offers superior precision, reliability, and durability. It has significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of my testing procedures.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500
Specifications
- Capacity: 500 mL. This large capacity allows for the preparation of larger solution volumes, reducing the need for repeated refills.
- Graduations: 5 mL. These coarse graduations make it best suited for larger volume dispensing with an accurate final meniscus.
- Length: 646 mm. The length provides an easy to read scale.
- Tolerance: ±2.5 mL. The tolerance is the most crucial specification to understand.
- Stopcock: Straight bore PTFE. PTFE (Teflon) is chemically inert and resistant to most solvents, making it ideal for a wide range of applications.
These specifications directly translate into enhanced performance. The borosilicate glass ensures chemical compatibility and durability. The PTFE stopcock provides precise control over the flow rate and eliminates the risk of contamination.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 excels at accurately dispensing liquids. Its large capacity and precise stopcock make it easy to prepare solutions with confidence. The straight bore stopcock provides a slightly less granular control than a needle valve, but at the cost of reduced throughput of chemicals.
The main strength is its accuracy and reliability. The only real weakness is the potential for air bubbles to get trapped in the stopcock. Overall, it has far exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The KIMAX buret is well-designed and easy to handle. The borosilicate glass feels solid and substantial, and the buret is well-balanced. The shape is familiar and traditional.
The KIMAX is easy to use, even for those with limited experience. The graduations are clear and easy to read, and the stopcock is smooth and responsive. There is a slight learning curve associated with managing the meniscus.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 is built to last. The borosilicate glass is resistant to chemical attack and thermal shock. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with soap and water is all that’s required. The PTFE stopcock may need occasional lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 comes with a KIM-LOK* tip and PTFE stopcock. There are no specific customization options offered by Kimble/Kontes for this particular model.
However, the buret is compatible with standard laboratory stands and clamps, allowing for easy integration into existing setups. A PTFE filter can be attached using the loop in the stem.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Provides precise liquid dispensing for reliable results.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality borosilicate glass for long-lasting performance.
- Chemically Resistant: PTFE stopcock withstands a wide range of chemicals.
- Large Capacity: The 500mL volume is great for large batches.
- Easy to Use: Clear graduations and smooth stopcock make operation simple.
Cons
- High Price: The $599.99 price tag may be prohibitive for some users.
- Air Bubble Issues: Air bubbles can sometimes become trapped in the stopcock.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500?
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 is perfect for researchers, quality control technicians, and anyone who requires accurate liquid dispensing in a laboratory or industrial setting. It is best for situations requiring a larger volume of dispensed fluid.
Those who only need occasional dispensing or who are on a tight budget may want to consider a cheaper alternative. The larger 5mL graduation increments also make it unsuitable for some trace work.
A good laboratory stand is a must-have accessory. Additionally, a small bottle of silicone grease for lubricating the stopcock will help ensure smooth operation.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Dispensing Burets, Straight Bore PTFE Stopcock, Kimble Chase 17080F 500 is a high-quality instrument that delivers on its promise of accuracy and reliability. While the price is steep, the durability and performance justify the investment for those who demand the best.
The KIMAX is a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize accuracy and reliability. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who needs a dependable dispensing buret. If you’re serious about your results, this is the buret to buy.