Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 Review

How the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 Performed Under Pressure

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100, a specialized piece of laboratory equipment from Kimble/Kontes, is designed for determining free water and sediment in distillate fuels. Its pear-shaped, borosilicate glass construction and precise graduations set it apart in a field where accuracy is paramount. This isn’t your everyday tactical gear, but in certain industrial and research contexts, it’s just as critical as a reliable knife or a precise scope.

My journey with the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 began during a consulting gig I took with a small, independent fuel testing lab. They were struggling with inconsistent results in their sediment and water analysis, and I was brought in to assess their protocols and equipment. Their existing equipment was older and showing its age.

Unboxing the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 revealed a surprisingly elegant piece of lab equipment. The borosilicate glass felt robust yet delicate, and the black ceramic graduations were crisp and easy to read. The included pennyhead glass stopper fit snugly, suggesting a good seal for accurate testing.

While I didn’t have directly comparable centrifuge tubes on hand, I had experience with similar graduated cylinders and beakers. The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 immediately stood out due to its specialized pear shape, designed to concentrate sediment at the bottom for easier reading. This feature alone distinguished it from generic labware.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While not inherently “exciting” in the traditional sense, the meticulous construction and thoughtful design suggested a tool that could significantly improve the lab’s accuracy and efficiency. The price tag of $999.99 for a pack of two definitely raised the stakes.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 to the Test

First Use Experience

The primary testing ground for the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 was the fuel testing lab. I used it to analyze various distillate fuel samples, including diesel, jet fuel, and heating oil. The lab environment was climate-controlled, but I did simulate different conditions by varying the fuel temperature to observe any impact on sediment settling.

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 performed admirably in these tests. The clear graduations made accurate readings straightforward, and the pear shape effectively concentrated the sediment for easy quantification. I found the tube easy to handle, even with gloved hands.

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 required minimal adjustment. The shape and graduations were intuitive. However, the glass construction required careful handling to avoid breakage, a factor that needed to be emphasized with the lab technicians.

There were no significant issues in the first few uses. The pennyhead stopper provided a reliable seal, preventing sample loss during centrifugation. The only surprise was the relatively thin glass near the top of the tube, requiring extra caution when inserting and removing the stopper.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of daily use, the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 tubes held up remarkably well. There were no signs of degradation or discoloration of the glass. The black ceramic graduations remained crisp and legible.

The borosilicate glass proved to be surprisingly durable, withstanding repeated centrifugation cycles without any cracks or chips. However, one tube did suffer a hairline fracture after being accidentally knocked against a metal centrifuge component. This reinforced the need for careful handling and proper storage.

Cleaning was relatively simple, requiring only soap and water. However, the narrow neck of the tube made it difficult to scrub the interior thoroughly, necessitating the use of specialized brushes. The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 tubes consistently outperformed the lab’s older, less precise glassware. The improved accuracy and ease of use led to more consistent and reliable test results.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100

Specifications

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• 100ml capacity: This volume is ideal for accurately measuring sediment and water in distillate fuels, as specified in ASTM D2709. This capacity is appropriate for the standard test methodologies.
• Pear-shaped design: This shape concentrates sediment at the bottom of the tube, making it easier to read and quantify. This is a major advantage over cylindrical tubes.
• Borosilicate glass construction: This material is resistant to thermal shock and chemical attack, ensuring durability and accuracy. Borosilicate glass is critical for consistent volume measurements.
• Black ceramic graduations: These provide clear and easy-to-read volume markings, even with dark or opaque fuel samples. This allows for precise measurement.
• Pennyhead glass stopper: This provides a secure seal to prevent sample loss during centrifugation. This ensures all of the sediment and water can be measured.
• ASTM D2709 compliance: Conforms to the American Society for Testing and Materials standard for determination of water and sediment in fuel oils. This ensures the results are reliable and comparable to other labs.
• Dimensions: Length: 160mm, Diameter: 58mm. Appropriate dimensions to fit within a standard centrifuge.

These specifications are crucial for accurate and reliable fuel analysis. The pear shape and precise graduations enable accurate sediment measurement, while the borosilicate glass ensures durability and chemical resistance. The inclusion of a stopper ensures no loss of sample, and compliance to ASTM standards is a must-have for any lab working with fuel testing.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 excels in its intended role of determining free water and sediment in distillate fuels. It provides accurate and repeatable results, making it a valuable tool for quality control and compliance testing.

Its strengths lie in its precise graduations, effective sediment concentration, and durable construction. The main weakness is its fragility; the glass is susceptible to breakage if mishandled. The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 definitely exceeds expectations compared to generic labware.

Design & Ergonomics

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 features a simple, functional design. The borosilicate glass feels substantial, although care is still needed. The tube is comfortable to hold and manipulate, even with gloved hands.

The design is very user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. The graduations are clear and easy to read. The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 is primarily designed for lab technicians who are already familiar with the procedures for determining sediment and water content.

Durability & Maintenance

With careful handling, the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 should last for years. The borosilicate glass is resistant to most chemicals, but it is susceptible to breakage from impacts.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only routine cleaning with soap and water. Specialized brushes may be needed to clean the narrow neck of the tube. Kimble/Kontes provides good quality products, so replacement parts should be easily found.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 comes with a pennyhead glass stopper. There are no specific customization options for the tube itself.

However, it is compatible with standard centrifuge equipment designed for 100ml tubes. Kimble/Kontes offers various centrifuge accessories.

Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100

Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100?

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 is perfect for: independent fuel testing labs that require accurate and reliable sediment and water analysis; quality control departments in refineries and fuel distribution companies; and research facilities conducting fuel studies. Anyone adhering to ASTM D2709 standards will also require this tube.

This product is not ideal for: hobbyists or individuals with limited budgets; labs that only occasionally perform sediment and water analysis; and situations where extreme durability is a primary concern.

A must-have accessory is a set of appropriately sized cleaning brushes for the narrow neck. A compatible centrifuge is also required.

Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 is a specialized but highly effective tool for determining free water and sediment in distillate fuels. Its precise design and durable construction contribute to accurate and reliable results.

While the price of $999.99 for a pack of two may seem steep, it is justified for labs that require compliance with ASTM D2709 and demand the highest levels of accuracy. The Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 will perform very well for you if your field of work includes fuel testing and analyses.

I would definitely recommend the Kimble/Kontes Tube Centrfg Goetz 100ML PK2 45220 100 to any lab seeking to improve the accuracy and reliability of their fuel analysis. If you’re serious about fuel testing, this is a worthy investment!