A Detailed Guide to Selecting the Appropriate Common Pipette Tips for Your ApplicationWhen carrying out important laboratory work that requires the precise measurement of small volumes of liquid or the transfer of that liquid, having the appropriate pipettes and pipette tips is absolutely necessary. This detailed guide will walk you through all of the most important considerations to make when choosing pipette tips based on the requirements of your particular application as well as your desired level of performance.
Listing of Contents (Table of)Material Considerations: Types of Polymers, Quality, and Sterility of the MaterialStandards for Proper Fit, Size, and Shape, Including Dimensions, Capacity, and Specialty Tips Options for Filters, Applications, and Various Types of PackagingCalibration of Pipettes Using the TipsTechnique Appropriate for PipettingConsiderations in PricingProminent Producers and ManufacturersQuestions That Are Typically AskedMaterial Considerations: Types of Polymers, Quality, and Sterility of the MaterialThe vast majority of pipette tips are constructed from polypropylene resin; however, depending on the manufacturing processes used, they may also contain additional polymers, chemicals, metals, or contaminants. Take into consideration the following significant factors:Types of Polymer: In addition to polypropylene, the tips may also contain additional polymerization agents or chemicals to assist with mold release. The dyes used to color the tips (yellow, blue) could potentially contain metals or cadmium. When it comes to quality, you should go for things like high clarity, uniformity, and the highest possible physical integrity. Tips that are flexible and ergonomic require less ejection force, which in turn reduces the risk of injuries caused by repetitive stress. Purity/sterility Many different tips are pre-sterilized and then packaged to ensure that they maintain their purity. Some can be sterilized by the user themselves. It is important to steer clear of contaminants such as endotoxins, DNA, DNase, and RNase.
Hydrophobicity is a property that is shared by the vast majority of polymers. There are some specialized coatings that reduce sample adhesion even further, which results in improved performance. Guidelines for Appropriateness of Cut, Measurement, and FormIt is essential, if you want to achieve accuracy and precision with your pipette, that you select the appropriate pipette tip size and shape. Pipettes and tips should come from the same manufacturer for the best possible fit, according to recommendation ISO 8655-2. Tips that are universal can also be used, but only with caution. Size: Standard tips can accommodate volumes ranging from 0 to 20 L, 20 to 200 L, or 200 to 1000 L. Make your decision based on the sample volume and the capacity of the pipette. Form The various shapes available for specialty tips include gel-loading, extended length, wide orifices, and graduated measurement markings. Options for Filters, Applications, and Various Types of PackagingConsider using pipette tip filters or barriers, depending on the nature of your particular application, in order to prevent the spread of aerosols and cross-contaminationipette filters allow air to pass through but stop liquid, particles, and DNA from contaminating the pipette as they pass through.
The barrier prevents any liquid from passing through the filter in its entirety
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Applications include polymerase chain reaction (PCR), molecular biology, forensics, and radioisotopes
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Filters can be used for all of these
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When dealing with strong acids or bases, use carbon filters
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The most cost-effective method of packaging is bulk bags
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racking that makes the tips easier to use for pipetting
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Less waste is produced by systems that reload
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The sterility of each individual wrap is preserved
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Calibration of Pipettes Using Tips Using tips and pipettes made by the same manufacturer eliminates the need for recalibration and ensures the best fit possible
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Recalibration is strongly recommended, however, if you choose to use a tip from a different brand in order to maintain accuracy
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When calibrating with the tips of your choice, make sure to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer
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Perform calibration on a regular basis, such as once a month or once every three months, and every time the tips are adjusted
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If you want the most accurate calibration possible, you should use calibration tools such as balances, gravimetric testing tools, or analytical scales
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Make sure that your method corresponds to the calibration, and be careful not to over- or under-pipette the solution
Technique Appropriate for PipettingIn addition to having pipettes that have been appropriately calibrated and tips of a high quality, it is essential to practice good technique in order to achieve precision and accuracy:Maintain a consistent and even pressure on the plunger, avoiding any abrupt pauses. When aspirating, keep the pipette vertical to prevent sample adhesion and contact with the pipette tip. When working with viscous liquids, it is important to pre-rinse the tip with the sample at least three times. Maintaining the tip's submersion in the sample while slowly dispensing against the vessel wall will help prevent bubble formation. To avoid contamination, change the tips after each time you transfer a sample. Considerations in PricingThe price of pipette tips can fluctuate significantly depending on the following factorsolypropylene, the material, is relatively inexpensive. Costs go up when special coatings or treatments are applied. It's possible that you'll pay more for highly precise molded tips that have undergone stringent quality control. Size: Larger tips require more material, so they are more expensive. Filters will increase the cost of the tip by roughly 10–30%. Pre-sterilized, individually packaged tips are the most expensive option because of their level of sterility.
The most cost-effective option is user-sterilized bulk bags. Premium prices are typically associated with well-known brands. The use of generic brands results in cost savings. Prominent Producers and ManufacturersThe following companies are among the most reputable and well-known producers of pipette tips:Eppendorf is a German company that manufactures a wide variety of high-quality pipette tips. Since 1957, the French company Gilson has been a pioneer in the pipetting industry. Pipette tips and other laboratory plastics can be found in Thermo Fisher Scientific's extensive online catalog. Mettler Toledo is a Swiss company that manufactures high precision pipette tips, including the Rainin and the Finnpipette. Sartorius is the market leader in Germany for laboratory instruments and supplies. Questions That Are Typically AskedThe following are some answers to frequently asked questions regarding pipette tips, including the following: Can pipette tips be autoclaved and reused? No, the majority of the tips are only intended for a single use. How frequently must pipettes undergo the calibration process? It is suggested to do so every 3–6 months. What factors contribute to the leaking of pipette tips? Problems with damage, improper fit, incorrect size, or technique; also possible.
How many times can pipette tips be used before they need to be replaced? Alter after each time you transfer a sample. What is the recommended storage time for pipette tips? About 5 years if Pipette Tips hasn't been opened, but much less than that. It is essential, if you want precise and accurate results from your application, to select the pipette tips that are best suited for it. When selecting tips for your specific laboratory needs, it is important to take into account all of the performance factors and requirements that are outlined in this section.