Pipette tips rack

Pipette tip rack, essential in laboratories for ensuring accuracy in liquid handling, available in various sizes and configurations.

About this subject

Pipette tips are disposable consumables essential in molecular biology, chemistry, and clinical laboratories. They fit onto pipettes to aspirate and dispense precise liquid volumes, preventing cross-contamination. Racks organize tips in a sterile and practical manner, typically in 96 or 384 well formats compatible with multichannel pipettes.

Filter tips prevent aerosol and particle passage, ideal for DNA/RNA work or hazardous samples, while non-filter tips are used in less critical applications. Polypropylene is the predominant material due to its chemical resistance and low protein adsorption. Many racks come pre-sterilized by gamma irradiation or autoclaving.

Choosing the right rack depends on volume: 10 µL, 200 µL, 1000 µL tips, among others. Universal racks fit tips from different brands, but compatibility should be verified. Ergonomics matter; tilted racks facilitate tip attachment without touching the tip, maintaining sterility.

Global brands like Eppendorf, Gilson, and Thermo Fisher dominate the market, with racks complying with ISO 8655. Polypropylene racks can be recycled, but many labs opt for safe disposal due to chemical contact. Color-coded racks aid organization by tip type or experiment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between filtered and non-filtered pipette tips?

Filter tips have a barrier that prevents aerosols and particles from entering the pipette, protecting both the pipette and the sample. They are recommended for nucleic acid work, pathogenic agents, or volatile substances. Non-filter tips are used for routine applications with low contamination risk.

Are pipette tip racks reusable?

Polypropylene racks can be reused if properly cleaned and sterilized, provided they have not been in contact with hazardous substances. However, many labs discard racks after single use for convenience and safety.

How to choose the ideal pipette tip rack?

Consider the tip volume (e.g., 10 µL, 200 µL), whether a filter is needed, compatibility with your pipette (brand and model), and if pre-sterilized racks are required. For multi-sample work, 96 or 384 well racks are ideal.