Different Pipette Tips

Sep 23, 2022

Universal and dedicated pipette tips with functions such as aerosol barriers, scales and ergonomics are described in this article.
 
Pipette tips with filters
Non-blocking, blocking as well as filter tips are designed for different conditions. Barrier-free pipette tips are designed for routine laboratory work; however, if you are removing substances that could contaminate the pipette, for example, bacteria, viruses, volatile, corrosive, or viscous chemicals, you need to consider using barrier pipette tips to protect the pipette and sample.
 
Pipette tips with or without filters
For many non-sensitive applications, you can use pipette tips with filters, pipettes with barriers free or standard pipette tips. Typically, laboratories use these tips for agarose gels, isolate plasmid DNA, and other similar applications. Barrier-free pipette tips are a mainstay in any lab and are usually the less expensive.
 
These tips come in bulk, pre-packed. They are put on a shelf that you can easily put them into a box. You can easily reuse your shelf but avoid the trouble of loading a bulk tip. Although bulk pipette tips are not sterile, you can sterilize them and their storage boxes or shelves in an autoclave.
 
Aerosol barrier pipette tips 
An aerosol barrier pipette tip, also known as a filter pipette tip, is equipped with a filter on the end of the pipette tip. The filter protects pipettes from aerosols and inhaling volatile or viscous solutions into the barrel, all of which can contaminate and damage the pipette. These tips are usually pre-sterilized and DNase/RNase free. However, only certain high-end pipette tips provide a true sealing barrier. Most filters only slow the flow of liquid into the pipette.
 
Filtration barriers make them a choice for sensitive applications, for example, qPCR. The barrier prevents PCR contamination by preventing sample residue in the pipette, which will provide you with more reliable results. Also, remember to run your PCR positive and negative controls to look for sample residues.
 
In addition, the filter pipette tip is good for newbies. Contamination of the pipette tip occurs when a new lab member accidentally sucks fluid into the pipette. It is much easier and more cost-effective to throw away the tip than to send the entire pipette to be serviced because of the liquid in the piston.
 
Pipette tips with low residue and absorption
No matter which pipette tip you choose, a low residual rate is a key feature. Pipette tips with low residue are exactly what the name suggests - retaining little liquid. If you've ever looked at a standard pipette tip, you've probably seen a little bit of liquid left behind after the operation. Pipette tips with little residue can make this happen less because they have a hydrophobic plastic additive that prevents liquid from sticking to the inside of the pipette tip.
 
Pipette tips with nice but not essential features
Additional functionality is usually included in the standard and barrier pipette tips. These features can help maintain accuracy and even prevent injury. Although none of these are necessary, they are good features for pipette tips.
 
Pipette tips with ergonomic skills
Performing repetitive tasks such as pipetting can damage joints and lead to repetitive stress injury (RSI). A pipette tip with ergonomics required low insertion and spring forces can reduce the risk of RSI. In other words, this function can be adapted very well. 
 
Considering costs when choosing pipette tips
For most products, you get what you pay for. A well-made, properly installed pipette tip is essential for accuracy, precision, and easy use. The investment in high-quality pipette tips specially developed for optimal performance is well worth it, unless you are OK with precision micropipettes not being accurate. For other features such as grading marks and obstacles, you should consider whether the added features are worthy. If there is an additional cost, select a pipette tip with these features when the lab requires it. For example, barrier pipette tips are more expensive than non-barrier pipette tips. Therefore, you may want to reserve barrier pipette tips for sensitive applications where contamination could disrupt your experiments and use sterile, non-barrier pipette tips for others. Pipettes and pipette tips work together to achieve accurate measurements. I hope these tips can help you choose a pipette tip with better results for you.
 

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About the author
Teresa
Teresa
Teresa is a skilled author specializing in industrial technical articles with over eight years of experience. She has a deep understanding of manufacturing processes, material science, and technological advancements. Her work includes detailed analyses, process optimization techniques, and quality control methods that aim to enhance production efficiency and product quality across various industries. Teresa's articles are well-researched, clear, and informative, making complex industrial concepts accessible to professionals and stakeholders.
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