Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 Review

All About the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144: Start Here

The Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 from Kimble/Kontes are not your average laboratory glassware; they represent a versatile solution for sample storage and organization. These short form vials, crafted from durable borosilicate glass, boast a secure black phenolic molded screw cap with a polyvinyl-faced pulp liner, ensuring sample integrity. With a pack size of 144, they offer a substantial quantity for various applications, from scientific research to DIY projects.

My journey to these vials started with a need for secure and reliable storage of sensitive samples collected during fieldwork. I needed a solution that could withstand temperature fluctuations, resist chemical interactions, and maintain a reliable seal. Existing plastic containers often proved inadequate, leaking or degrading over time, impacting the integrity of my samples.

Upon unboxing the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144, I immediately noticed the robust construction. The borosilicate glass felt solid and reassuring, and the phenolic caps provided a tight, professional seal. The vials felt surprisingly uniform, indicating quality control in manufacturing.

Compared to similar products from competitors like Wheaton or DWK Life Sciences, these vials stood out due to their specific combination of short form design, phenolic cap material, and pack size. Many competitors offer similar vials but often with different cap materials or in smaller, less economical quantities. I chose the Kimble/Kontes vials for their balance of quality, quantity, and price.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I’d worked with borosilicate glass before, the phenolic caps were a new feature that I was eager to test for long-term sealing performance. I felt excited to integrate them into my workflow and evaluate their performance in real-world conditions.


Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 during a backcountry water quality assessment. I used them to collect and store water samples from various sources, from pristine mountain streams to murky pond water.

The vials performed admirably under challenging conditions, including temperature swings from near freezing at night to warm during the day, and occasional splashes with muddy water. The screw caps sealed effectively, preventing any leakage or contamination of the samples. I appreciated the convenience of the short form design, making them easy to pack and organize within my field kit.

The vials were straightforward to use, requiring no special preparation or techniques. Simply fill, screw on the cap, and label. There were no immediate issues or surprises.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 have proven remarkably reliable. They’ve been subjected to repeated temperature cycles, exposure to various chemicals, and rough handling in the field, all without any significant degradation.

The vials exhibit no signs of cracking or clouding, and the phenolic caps continue to provide a consistent seal. Minor surface scratches are inevitable with field use, but they haven’t compromised the integrity of the glass or the caps. Cleaning is straightforward, involving simple washing with soap and water, followed by air drying.

Compared to previous experiences with cheaper plastic vials, the Kimble/Kontes vials are a clear improvement. The enhanced durability, chemical resistance, and sealing capability offer greater peace of mind. They definitely outperform my previous containers.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144

Specifications

The Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 boast the following key specifications:

  • Volume: 1 dram (approximately 3.7 milliliters). This is a practical size for small-volume samples or reagents.
  • Dimensions: 15 mm O.D. x 45 mm length. The compact size makes them easy to handle and store.
  • Thread Finish: 13-425 GPI thread finish. This standardized thread allows compatibility with other similarly threaded caps.
  • Material: Borosilicate glass. Provides excellent chemical resistance and thermal stability.
  • Cap: Black phenolic molded screw cap with polyvinyl-faced pulp liner. Offers a secure and reliable seal.
  • Quantity: Pack of 144 vials. Provides ample supply for various needs.
  • Type: Short Form. This design is more stable and less prone to tipping compared to taller, narrower vials.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the vial’s performance in practical applications. The borosilicate glass ensures that the samples remain unadulterated, while the phenolic cap prevents leaks and evaporation. The compact dimensions of the vials make them easy to manage in small spaces.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 excel at their intended purpose: storing and protecting small-volume samples. The vials offer exceptional chemical resistance, preventing reactions between the glass and the contents.

Their reliability is a standout strength. The consistent seal of the phenolic caps ensures long-term storage without loss of sample due to evaporation. The short form design enhances stability, reducing the risk of spills from accidental tipping.

However, the small volume may be a limitation for applications requiring larger sample sizes. A minor improvement could be a slightly larger labeling area on the vial body. Overall, the Kimble/Kontes vials meet and often exceed expectations for reliable sample storage.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 is impressive. The borosilicate glass is thick and durable, providing confidence during handling.

The vials are lightweight and easy to grip, even with gloved hands. There is a minimal learning curve; anyone familiar with standard laboratory glassware will find them intuitive to use. The flush fit of the cap to the shoulder is aesthetically pleasing and functionally helpful.

Durability & Maintenance

The borosilicate glass construction ensures that these vials are built to last. With proper care, they can withstand years of use. Maintenance is simple, requiring only basic cleaning with soap and water.

The glass is resistant to most common chemicals, making cleaning relatively easy. Replacing the phenolic caps might be necessary after prolonged use or exposure to harsh chemicals, but the glass vials themselves are highly durable.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 come as a complete unit with the phenolic caps. The standardized 13-425 GPI thread finish allows for compatibility with other similarly threaded caps, including those made from different materials like polypropylene or Teflon.

There are no specific customization options directly offered by Kimble/Kontes, but users can apply labels to the vials for identification. Racks designed for holding small vials can also be used to organize and store the Kimble/Kontes vials. These are widely available from various laboratory supply companies.

Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144

Pros

  • Exceptional chemical resistance due to borosilicate glass.
  • Reliable and secure seal provided by the phenolic caps.
  • Durable construction ensures long-term use.
  • Convenient short form design enhances stability.
  • Economical pack of 144 provides ample supply.

Cons

  • Relatively small 1 dram volume may be limiting for some applications.
  • The phenolic caps may require occasional replacement after extended use or exposure to harsh chemicals.


Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144?

The Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 are perfect for researchers, chemists, and lab technicians who require reliable and chemically resistant containers for small-volume samples. They are also suitable for hobbyists, artists, and DIY enthusiasts who need to store and organize various materials, such as paints, solvents, or craft supplies. Anyone needing to collect and store small samples in the field, like environmental scientists or geologists, would benefit from these vials.

These vials might not be the best choice for those who require large-volume storage solutions. They are also perhaps overkill for applications where chemical resistance and long-term sealing are not critical factors.

A must-have accessory would be a vial rack for easy organization and storage. Pre-printed or blank labels are also helpful for sample identification.

Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144

In summary, the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 are a highly reliable and durable solution for small-volume sample storage. Their borosilicate glass construction and phenolic caps provide excellent chemical resistance and a secure seal, making them ideal for various applications.

The price of $169.99 for a pack of 144 is justified by the quality and reliability of the vials. The cost per vial is relatively low, making it a cost-effective solution for users who need a large quantity.

I would definitely recommend the Kimble/Kontes Vials, Borosilicate Glass, with Phenolic Screw Cap VW60910A 1 Short Form Type, Pack of 144 to anyone seeking dependable and long-lasting storage containers. Consider these vials for your research, experiments, or organization needs; you will not be disappointed!

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