The Final Word on the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of outdoor gear, but trust me, for certain survival situations, this stuff is invaluable. Made by Kimble/Kontes, a trusted name in laboratory supplies, this glass tubing offers a unique blend of durability and utility that can be surprisingly useful in the field.
What led me to this? It was a survival course where we had to build a water purification system from scratch using only found materials. I needed a reliable material to create a siphon and connect makeshift filters. My initial thought was “glass tubing? In the wilderness?”
Unboxing the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, I was immediately impressed by the heft and clarity of the glass. The medium wall thickness gives it a reassuring sturdiness, and the cut ends were surprisingly clean. Compared to using flimsy plastic tubing, or trying to carve out natural alternatives, this seemed like a game-changer for its specific uses.
I considered using standard PVC piping, but that’s not always safe for potable water. I also thought about copper tubing, but that’s much harder to manipulate without specialized tools. My first impression was a mix of curiosity and intrigue – I was excited to see how this lab staple would perform in a rugged, outdoor environment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test involved building a rudimentary water filter system near a stream during a week-long survival exercise. The KIMAX glass tubing was essential for creating a siphon to draw water through layers of charcoal, sand, and cloth within a large container. It was surprisingly easy to work with, and the rigid structure held its shape perfectly, even when submerged.
The tubing performed admirably in wet conditions, showing no signs of degradation or clouding. The cut ends, while not polished, provided a secure connection point when coupled with makeshift rubber tubing scavenged from old tires. There were no immediate issues; the glass held up perfectly, and the water flowed cleanly through the makeshift filter.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of consistent use during the survival course, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing remained in excellent condition. There were no noticeable scratches or chips despite being handled roughly and exposed to varying temperatures. Cleaning was straightforward; a simple rinse with purified water was sufficient to remove any sediment buildup.
The tubing proved to be far more durable than I initially anticipated. Previously, I had relied on less robust materials like plastic bottles or flexible tubing, which often failed under pressure or developed leaks. The KIMAX tubing not only outperformed these alternatives but also gave me a greater sense of confidence in the water purification system’s reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
Specifications
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends boasts some important specifications. It has an approximate Outside Diameter (O.D.) of 44.5 mm and a Wall Thickness of 2.4 mm, providing a good balance of strength and flow capacity. This tubing is made from Kimax KG-33 borosilicate glass, known for its low coefficient of expansion and high resistance to chemical attack.
With an approximate weight of 0.480 lbs/ft and a Kimble Chase No. of 80400 134, it’s clear this tubing is designed for professional use. These specs are significant because they directly impact the tubing’s ability to withstand thermal stress and exposure to various chemicals, crucial when filtering potentially contaminated water.
Performance & Functionality
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing excels at its intended job. Its rigidity and chemical resistance ensure a consistent and reliable flow, whether used for siphoning, creating connections in a filtration system, or even constructing improvised lab equipment in a survival situation. It’s strong enough to withstand rough handling but lightweight enough to be carried in a pack.
While primarily designed for laboratory applications, this tubing’s durability and inertness make it surprisingly versatile for outdoor applications. The only real limitation is its fragility compared to metal or reinforced polymer tubing. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations in situations where a rigid, chemically resistant conduit is needed.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is simple yet effective. The Kimax glass is clear and allows for easy visual inspection of the fluid passing through, and the cut ends facilitate secure connections. The medium wall thickness provides a good balance between strength and ease of cutting or shaping (with the right tools, of course).
It’s not the most ergonomic product, but it is inherently functional. There’s no real learning curve, other than understanding the properties of glass and how to handle it safely. The weight is manageable, and the smooth surface is easy to clean.
Durability & Maintenance
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing is surprisingly durable for glass, thanks to the borosilicate composition. It can withstand significant temperature changes without cracking, and it resists corrosion from most chemicals. With proper care, it can last for years.
Maintenance is simple. A rinse with clean water is usually sufficient, and if necessary, it can be sterilized with boiling water or a chemical solution. Just avoid harsh abrasives that could scratch the surface.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its versatility opens up numerous customization possibilities. It can be connected to other tubing using rubber stoppers or clamps, and it can be shaped or cut with specialized glassworking tools. It’s compatible with a wide range of laboratory and industrial fittings.
While not designed for direct integration with commercial outdoor gear, the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing’s adaptable nature means it can be integrated into custom-built systems for water purification, distillation, or other survival needs. Just remember to prioritize safety when working with glass in the field.
Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
Pros
- High chemical resistance makes it safe for handling potable water and various other fluids.
- Durable borosilicate glass withstands thermal shock and physical stress surprisingly well.
- Rigid structure allows for reliable siphoning and consistent flow.
- Clear glass permits easy visual inspection of contents.
- Versatile for DIY projects in survival and laboratory settings.
Cons
- Fragile compared to metal or polymer tubing.
- Requires specialized tools for cutting and shaping.
- Not ideal for high-pressure applications.
Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends?
This product is perfect for survivalists, bushcrafters, and anyone interested in building their own water purification or distillation systems. It’s also well-suited for educators who need durable and chemically resistant tubing for science demonstrations.
This tubing might not be ideal for casual campers or hikers who prioritize lightweight gear above all else. If you’re not comfortable handling glass or don’t have a specific need for its unique properties, there are lighter and more durable alternatives available. A must-have accessory would be a small glass cutter and some protective gloves to safely manipulate the tubing in the field.
Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends
The Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing, Medium Wall, Kimble Chase 80400 134 Cut Ends is a surprisingly valuable tool for specialized outdoor applications. While the price of $1779.00 may seem steep for tubing, it’s important to recognize that it’s sold in case quantities. If you have a need for multiple pieces of high quality glass tubing, this is a solid option.
While it’s not a mainstream piece of survival gear, its chemical resistance, durability, and rigidity make it an excellent choice for building custom water purification or distillation systems. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who’s serious about self-reliance and prepared to handle glass with care.
So, if you’re looking to elevate your survival skills and build reliable, custom systems, give the Kimble/Kontes KIMAX Glass Tubing a try. You might be surprised at how useful it can be.