What is the Function of a Pipette in a Laboratory? Leave a comment

In laboratories, a pipette is an instrument useful for transferring small amounts of liquid from one container to another. So, what is the use of a pipette? Chemical and biological labs frequently use it to measure and distribute small liquid volumes precisely. There are several kinds of pipettes available, such as glass pipettes, which are robust and usually used for exact measurements in research, and more, which you’ll learn about in this guide. Also, understand what makes a good pipette and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is a Pipette?

A pipette is an instrument used in laboratories to measure and transfer minute liquid volumes precisely. Commonly used in medical labs, biology, and chemistry, pipettes exist in many forms and sizes. When working with delicate samples or chemical reactions, reliable findings in studies depend on scientists adding or subtracting specific volumes of liquid. 

Types of Pipettes

There’s no “one-size-fits-all” with pipettes. Different types serve different purposes, and each type brings unique benefits to the lab. 

Volumetric Pipettes

Measuring a single, fixed volume of liquid calls for volumetric pipettes. Often shown on the pipette, their bulb shape and narrow neck enable them to be calibrated to produce a specified volume. Also, these pipettes are useful in analytical chemistry, and they are quite precise.

Graduated Pipettes

Graduated pipettes provide different volume measurements, unlike volumetric pipettes. Graced with gradation lines, they are flexible for varying liquid quantities. These pipettes suit tasks that don’t require absolute precision, as their accuracy level may differ from that of volumetric pipettes.

Micropipettes

Glass Micropipettes are designed for extremely small liquid volumes, often in the microliter range. They are widely used in molecular biology, biochemistry, and microbiology labs where minute amounts of liquid are required. Additionally, Micropipettes can be single-channel or multi-channel, with the latter useful in applications like plate assays.

Pasteur Pipettes

Also known as droppers, Pasteur pipettes are basic glass or plastic pipettes with a rubber bulb. Usually, they are employed for little, non-precise liquid transfers. Although not utilized for very exact measurements, they are useful in jobs requiring rapid, simple reagent mixing or transfer.

Electronic Pipettes

Electronic pipettes are perfect for continuous jobs requiring great accuracy as they automate liquid transfer. Moreover, they are particularly helpful in high-throughput labs, providing customizable quantities, uniform dispensing, and reducing user fatigue during daily sample processing.

What is the Use of Pipette? 

Most labs have pipettes, which are used in everything from high school science labs to cutting-edge research centers. Even though they have an easy job, they do a lot of important things. Here are some of the most important things that pipettes do in the lab. 

Handle liquids

Lab pipettes, both manual and computerized, are used to take out, move, and spread liquid samples. A cushion of air pulls liquid into the cylinder of an air displacement pipette, which is what most people use. Furthermore, popular positive displacement pipettes use air displacement pushed by a pump to draw in and spread the liquid.

Being precise and accurate

Scientists use pipettes to measure and give out liquid samples. The micropipettes used to measure microlitres are very precise and accurate. Both single and multi-channel devices typically have accuracy rates of <3% of the stated value. Scientists use volumetric pipettes as the gold standard for accuracy and precision when studying chemical properties and reactions.

Maintaining sample integrity

Pipettes cleanly take in, carry, and spread liquid samples. The lab’s custom-made tools make sure that the results are correct and of high quality. Additionally, modern pipettes come with removable tips to stop cross-contamination.

Protecting lab workers

Pipettes protects both Lab staff and samples. Thanks to these devices, researchers easily collect, move, and disperse liquids securely.

Decrease repetitive strain damage.

Hand RSI is one of the most prevalent job injuries for lab workers. RSI can be painful and make it harder to do your job if you don’t fix it. Automated and electronic pipettes are quick and effective, and they keep lab workers’ hands from getting hurt. Plus, multichannel pipettes help keep your hands from getting shaky when you do the same thing over and over.

How to Choose the Right Pipette for Your Lab?

This information will assist in selecting the ideal pipette for your lab:

Calculate the required volume range – First, figure out the usual volumes you would like to measure or replicate. Microscale uses like PCR or DNA sequencing call for a micropipette with microliter capacity. In contrast, graduated or volumetric pipettes might be more suitable for higher quantities.

Think through the intended precision and accuracy – Choose volumetric or electronic pipettes for jobs requiring accurate volumes, including those involving analytical chemical applications, as they offer the best precision. On the other hand, if small variances are acceptable, graded pipettes suffice.

Analyze the Frequency of Use – If you pipette liquids often, give ergonomics and simplicity of usage some thought. For regular activities, electronic pipettes—with an ergonomic grip—can help to lessen hand fatigue.

Evaluate the Liquid Type – Some liquids—such as viscous or volatile compounds—may call for particular pipettes. For instance, some pipettes handle viscous fluids like glycerol, while others suit non-corrosive or volatile compounds.

Single-channel versus Multi-channel – A multi-channel pipette lets you transfer several samples easily, therefore saving time if you are using 96-well plates or other comparable formats. In high-throughput labs, this function saves time and enhances uniformity. 

Tips for Using Pipettes Effectively

After choosing the right pipette, proper usage and maintenance are essential to ensure accuracy. Here are some glass pipette tips for effective use:

• Accurate findings depend on regular calibration, especially in high-stakes uses like clinical testing.
• Use the proper technique. To guarantee accurate readings, hold the pipette vertically and release liquid gradually, therefore avoiding air bubbles.
• Washing pipettes after every use helps avoid contamination, particularly with biological samples.
• Store pipettes straight forward to preserve long-term accuracy and avoid damage to internal systems while not in use.

Where to Purchase a Pipette?

Pipettes in the lab can accurately measure and spread liquids, which helps you avoid throwing away samples. There are many styles, sizes, and types of pipettes to help you get the accuracy you need. We have the best-graduated pipettes, volumetric pipettes, and more for you. Get in touch with us today to find out more about the Pipettes.