Kimble/Kontes Tube 45174-50 Review

Here’s What I Think of the Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 are not your run-of-the-mill lab tubes. These heavy-duty centrifuge tubes from Kimble/Kontes are designed for applications demanding robust performance and resistance to chemical attack. At a price point of $439.99 for a case of six, they represent a significant investment, prompting a thorough examination of their suitability and value.

My own experience with centrifuge tubes has primarily been in environmental testing and forensic science applications. I needed tubes that could withstand rigorous centrifugation and exposure to various solvents without compromising the integrity of the sample. The promise of these tubes being molded from a specialized synthetic polymer that resists chemical attack immediately piqued my interest.

Upon receiving the Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50, the first thing I noticed was their heft. They feel significantly more substantial than standard glass or polypropylene tubes. The baked enamel finish gives them a distinct feel, and the molded graduations at both ends are a welcome touch for precise measurements.

Compared to standard borosilicate glass tubes or even the more common polypropylene centrifuge tubes, these are in a different league. I chose these specifically for their purported chemical resistance, as many of the polypropylene tubes I’ve used in the past would become brittle or even crack after repeated exposure to certain organic solvents. My first impression was one of cautious optimism; they certainly felt like they could handle the abuse.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first test involved using the Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 in a simulated forensic analysis scenario. This involved extracting DNA from soil samples using a strong chaotropic salt solution, followed by centrifugation. The tubes were subjected to speeds of up to 5,000 RPM in a benchtop centrifuge.

The tubes performed admirably under these conditions. There were no signs of leakage or distortion. The graduations remained clear and legible even after several cycles of centrifugation and washing.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past several months, I’ve subjected the Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 to a wide range of tests. This includes repeated exposure to solvents such as acetone, hexane, and ethanol. I also performed freeze-thaw cycles to simulate long-term storage conditions.

The tubes have held up remarkably well. The synthetic polymer shows no signs of degradation or embrittlement. The baked enamel finish remains intact, and the molded graduations are still easily readable.

Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wash with soap and water, followed by rinsing with distilled water, is sufficient. Compared to glass tubes, these are significantly less prone to breakage. They have noticeably outperformed cheaper tubes I’ve previously used, demonstrating a clear advantage in durability and chemical resistance.

Breaking Down the Features of Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50

Specifications

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:

• Description: TUBE CENT HVY DTY 50ML 6/CS. This simply states the product’s purpose and capacity: Heavy-duty centrifuge tubes, 50mL volume, sold in cases of 6.
• Material: Specialized synthetic polymer. This is crucial, as it’s responsible for the tube’s chemical resistance and ability to withstand boiling point water.
• Finish: Baked enamel. This adds structural strength and reduces distortion.
• Graduations: Molded, on both ends of the tube. This allows for easy and accurate measurement regardless of the liquid level.
• Stoppers: Feature a single O-ring on top of the tube body and a single O-ring on the top of the handle. This creates a secure seal to prevent leakage during centrifugation.
• Packaging: Supplied in poly bags of 6 per case. This ensures cleanliness and protection during shipping.

These specifications are vital because they directly influence the tube’s suitability for demanding laboratory applications. The chemical resistance is paramount when working with aggressive solvents, while the durable construction ensures reliable performance even under high centrifugal forces. The O-ring sealed stoppers are also great at stopping leaks.

Performance & Functionality

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 excels in its primary function: safely containing and processing samples during centrifugation. They’ve demonstrated excellent resistance to leaks and breakage throughout my testing. Accuracy of graduations is excellent and dependable.

The primary strength lies in its robust construction and chemical inertness. There is an immense peace of mind from knowing the tubes will likely survive every test. A potential area for improvement would be to have etched marking spots, as label adhesives can sometimes fail in harsh chemical environments.

These tubes meet and exceed expectations. They provide a level of performance and reliability that is simply not achievable with cheaper alternatives.

Design & Ergonomics

The design is functional and straightforward. The heavy-duty construction inspires confidence. The tubes are easy to handle, and the molded graduations are clearly visible.

There is a minor drawback in that the tubes are slightly bulkier than standard glass tubes, potentially requiring adjustments to centrifuge rotor configurations. However, this is a small price to pay for the added durability.

Durability & Maintenance

These tubes are built to last. The specialized synthetic polymer and baked enamel finish provide exceptional resistance to wear and tear. The tubes are easy to clean and maintain with standard laboratory cleaning protocols.

With proper care, these tubes should provide years of reliable service. This represents a significant long-term cost saving compared to repeatedly replacing cheaper, less durable tubes.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 are relatively simple items, and customization options are limited. They come with stoppers featuring a double O-ring seal. The main customization comes in how the user labels them.

While not specifically designed for accessories, they will function in a variety of standard centrifuge rotors designed for 50mL tubes. They are not compatible with smaller tube sizes. The compatibility with standard lab equipment enhances their versatility.

Pros and Cons of Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50

Who Should Buy Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50?

These tubes are perfect for:

• Researchers working with harsh chemicals.
• Laboratories requiring high-throughput sample processing.
• Environments where sample integrity is paramount.

Those who should skip this product:

• Laboratories on a very tight budget.
• Applications where chemical resistance is not a concern.
• Users who need very small volume tubes (less than 50mL).

A must-have modification is a good labeling system designed for chemical resistance. This allows users to properly mark their samples.

Conclusion on Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50

The Kimble/Kontes Tube Cent Hvy Dty 50ML 6/CS 45174-50 is a premium product that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. The hefty price is justified by its chemical resistance, durable construction, and long lifespan. In addition to the durability, the accuracy of these tubes is extremely valuable.

While the initial investment is higher than that of standard tubes, the long-term cost savings and reduced risk of sample loss make it a worthwhile investment for demanding applications. I would highly recommend these tubes to any laboratory or research facility that prioritizes quality and reliability. If you want quality and the ability to depend on your tools, don’t hesitate.