Friday, 22 November 2024

How to Effectively Use the Water Bath in the Laboratory for Optimal Results?

 


A shaking water bath is used for mixing and agitating samples in a water bath under controlled temperature. Compared to other types of incubators, water baths transfer heat more quickly and effectively. Moreover, heat loss can also be minimised even when the enclosure of the incubator stays open. Therefore, the equipment is ideal for all those applications that require quick incubation with minimal temperature changes.

The water bath shaker is the right choice for moving liquids as they come with the shaking control. With continued shaking, the liquid-grown cells mix with air and the heating element stays submerged in water and maintains the temperature at a constant range.

What are the uses of water baths?

What is the purpose of using water baths in laboratories? Well, the primary usage of the equipment is heating the samples in a laboratory. The samples containing flammable chemicals when heated in an open flame are exposed to risks of combustion.

Water bath shaker are appropriate for moving the samples and keeping them in consistent motion during the heating stage. A majority of these devices are ideal for heating samples that stay at a temperature between five to ninety-nine degrees Celsius. For heating anything beyond 100 degrees Celsius, sand or silicone bath is ideal.

How does the water bath work?

You are familiar with the shaking bath and how it maintains temperature consistency when samples are heated but here is how exactly the device functions:

·         The equipment has a temperature sensor which transfers the temperature of the water to the resistance value

·         The control signal or the output regulates the heat power in an efficient manner for the heating tube

While performing these functions, the temperature in the water bath stays constant.


Tips to set up the water bath

Before heating the samples, you need to prepare the water bath adequately so that it functions appropriately to meet your needs. Here is how you need to set up the water bath:

·         When preparing the laboratory shaker, you need to fill it up with distilled water to the desired level

·         Once the container is filled, you can switch the device on and set the temperature on the temperature controller

·         Allow the water to reach the desired temperature level and the time take will depend on how much is your desired level of heat

·         Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the water and if it is at the desired level, you can then start working with the water bath

Things to keep in mind when using the water bath

Using the water bath shaker is easy. All you can do is follow the lab equipment guide at first to get surer about the mechanism. That way, you can prevent damaging the samples or compromise their integrity. Read below to understand the basic steps you need to follow when using shaking water baths:

·         Keep the surrounding area clean and dry

·         Plug the device to a power supply

·         Check the temperature of the water and ensure that it reaches the desired level and cover the heating element

·         Switch on the device and set the temperature control to the desired level

·         Wait for the thermostat to attain enough heat

·         As soon as the heating mechanism begins, insert the samples inside carefully while the temperature sensor maintains regulate the temperature when the device is in use

·         After using the water bath, you need to remove the samples and switch off the device

Summarising shaking water bath

Here is the synopsis of shaking water bath:

·         It allows samples to shake continuously for  long time under controlled temperature conditions due to precisely-controlled shaking features

·         Due to continuous shaking, the liquid grown cell culture mixes with the air and boosts cell growth

·         Temperature can be easily adjusted due to the high-precision control

·         The flask holding clamps act as accessories and gabled lid prevents the condensate to drip on to the sample directly

·         The other features include a user-friendly keypad for easy operation and streamlined bath drains

Water bath uses

What are the major water bath uses? Read below to know more:

1.      It helps in improving the solubility of substances that are not easily soluble

2.      It is used for melting substances and heating the laboratory reagents

3.      The device is used for heating flammable substances that might be exposed to combustion in open flame

4.      It is extensively used for cell culture in laboratories

Every standard laboratory is equipped with water bath and they are not only used for heating samples but perform so many other options. So, if you need to get one to fulfil your needs, connect with IGene Labserve, one of the leading laboratory equipment manufacturers. Explore the equipment here https://www.igenels.com/ before you buy.

Thursday, 7 November 2024

3 Essential Maintenance Tips to Maximise the Life and Efficiency

If you are working in a molecular biology lab, you surely know that it is one of the most essential tools needed to visualize RNA and DNA bands during the gel electrophoresis process. It is also used for viewing nucleic acids when they are stained with dyes like SYBR Green or ethidium bromide. Undoubtedly, the UV transilluminator is one of the most significant devices needed for research conducted in the field of genetics. Naturally, it needs adequate maintenance for better accuracy and to extend the life of the equipment.

Components of a UV transilluminator

Before you get into the maintenance act and understand how to keep it functioning reliably and effectively, here is looking into the components f the system:

The UV transilluminator is one of the basic devices used in life science laboratories for visualising proteins and target DNAs. It works by emitting high levels of UV radiation through a viewing surface. Usually, polyacrylamide and agarose gels and DNA becomes more clearly visible soon after the electrophoresis process. Thanks to the power of UV lamps. The gels can be directly placed on the equipment and the wavelength needs to vary based on the application. Here is delving into the key components of the system:

·         UV lamp

The UV lamp is the primary source of light and emits UV radiation needed to excite flurophores present in the sample.

·         Surface plate

The surface plate refers to the acrylic or glass surface used for placing the gel

·         Filters

Transilluminators have filters that allow light with only specific wavelengths to pass through the sample.

·         Cooling system

The cooling system is needed to disperse the heat that the UV lamps generate. It helps prevent the system from becoming overheated.

Each component of the transilluminator requires proper care and maintenance and cleaning so that the equipment functions efficiently.

Maintenance tips for UV transilluminators

Let us delve into the maintenance tips needed for proper care of UV transilluminators:

1.      Cleaning the surface plate

The surface plate of this equipment is where the gel is placed for visualising the samples. Naturally, this area needs to be cleaned as unclean plates are most likely to be contaminated and may obstruct the UV light and affect the outcome negatively. With regular cleaning, you can rub off the buildup of the stains generated y SYBR Green and ethidium bromide. Besides, the stained area also attracts dust and lowers the performance of the equipment.

2.      Inspection and replacement of UV lamps

If you are a first-time user of a UV transilluminator, you may not know that the UV lamps tend to lose intensity and may become ineffective. That way, the quality of images and the final outcome may also degrade. That is why laboratories must have well-placed system for regular inspection of UV lamps. It is through inspection that you will come to know when and how to replace the bulbs.  Here are the signs that will help you decide whether or not to replace the bulbs:

·         Lack of consistency

When pockets of the transilluminator turn bleak compared to the other areas, it reveals that there is a severe lack of consistency in the distribution of light. Light tends to become uneven due to malfunctioning in the device.

·         No intensity

The transilluminator aims to facilitate gel viewing during the electrophoresis process. Now, when the images turn faint and are hardly recognisable, you need to realise that the lamp is losing its original strength. After all, when the samples become hard to fathom, the outcome of the gel electrophoresis process falls flat.

·         Damaged or cracked bulbs

When you notice a physical damage to UV lamps, the condition needs to be addressed immediately. You must replace the bulb to avoid safety risks and level up the performance.

3.      Cleaning the cooling system

The fan or the cooling system of your UV transilluminator needs to undergo regular cleaning as it regulates the heat that the device generates. Here is how:

·         Cleaning the vents

Debris and dust may clog the fan ad obstruct the airflow severely. Using a small brush to clean the vents regularly keeps the system functioning accurately.

·         Inspection of the fan

Check whether the fan is functioning appropriately. If it is not, the transilluminator may stop functioning abruptly.

·         Inspect for overheating

Is the equipment becoming overheated? When you find it too hot to touch, chances are that it might b due to overheating. Make sure the cooling system functions properly and prevents the device from becoming overheated.

When you are not using the UV transilluminator in the laboratory, try to store it in a dry or clean area. Besides, you must ever keep a heavy object on the top as it may cause extensive mechanical stress. From replacement of the UV lamp to cleaning the fan vents, maintaining the device is essential. You need to follow the abovementioned tips to ensure that the tool functions appropriately in the laboratory. To buy new laboratory equipment from a reliable manufacturer, look forward to IGene Labserve for top-grade devices.

Tuesday, 29 October 2024

Principle of: PCR Cabinet Hood

 


A PCR cabinet, also known as a PCR hood, is a specialized laboratory workstation designed to maintain a sterile environment essential for PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) processes. It prevents cross-contamination by filtering air particles and providing a UV decontamination system, ensuring accurate DNA amplification without interference from contaminants. Ideal for sensitive molecular biology procedures, the PCR cabinet safeguards samples and enhances result reliability, making it indispensable in research and diagnostic labs.

Saturday, 26 October 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to High-Speed Centrifuge Safety

 

If you are a researcher working in the laboratory, you are sure to spot a high speed cooling centrifuge. Now, the device is extensively used for spinning samples and separating the components. With different models of centrifuges comprising highly functional rotors, spinning has been made easier and the turnaround time of sample preparation has reached at an all time high.

However, incorrect use of centrifuges poses safety risks and leads to ghastly accidents. Often, the rotor breaks apart the sample container and cause injuries to the operator. Apart from this, the leakage of liquids from the container may cause skin irritation or lead to buns when it comes into contact with the user. Research reveals that most of centrifuge accidents happen due to erroneous usage of the equipment.

Listed below are safety considerations one needs to follow within the laboratory settings when using the high speed cooling centrifuge device.

  1. Examining the equipment before use

The buckets and rotor of the device may corrode when they are constantly exposed to aggressive chemicals, moisture, and salts. If you overlook the corroded state of components, it may eventually lead to small holes on areas of cracks and scratches. Precisely, corrosion in any part of the device must be seriously dealt with or it may make the device unsafe for operation in the laboratory.

You need to check the entire unit before operation, especially the rotor and a trained technician needs to be deployed for this purpose. The rotors need to undergo proper inspection and checking due to repeated use.

  1. Use the centrifuge on a level surface

Experts recommend that a majority of lab devices need to be placed on a level surface. However, when it comes to a lab centrifuge, it is essential to place it on a flat surface. The reason is that an uneven surface may cause imbalance in the rotor. Centrifuge devices are designed on the principle that the direction of the gravity aligns with the rotor axis. Therefore, if you don’t place it on an even surface, it will fail to attain the balance even before the tubes are properly loaded. So, if you don’t want to throw the device out of balance, it may be potentially harmful for the device itself as well as the operators.

  1. Checking the speed and load tolerance

No matter which model of the high speed cooling centrifuge is being used, the manufacturer mentions the maximum load tolerance and the speed in the manual. If you disregard the capacity of the device and use higher load than what is recommended for the device, it may cause malfunction in the rotor. Even if the load is increased, the speed needs to remain intact or adjusted based on the instructions mentioned in the manual. In case, the material inside the container precipitates, one needs to consider the density gradient of the precipitate.

  1. Examine the tubes

The tubes used within the centrifuge device are rated based on chemical resistance, temperature, and speed. You need to find out whether they are compatible with the settings and application. They need to fit the settings of the high speed cooling centrifuge. Furthermore, the tubes need to undergo thorough checking as the slightest breakage error may cause them to break during operation. Make sure to check the O-rings, adapters, and caps to ensure that they are in proper condition. If you notice any imperfection in any part of the tube or the entire unit, consider it unsafe for operation.

Tips to follow before, during and after operation of the centrifuge


 

The high speed at which the centrifuge device operates increases the chances of injuries when it does not operate in the right manner. Moreover, it may also cause heat to build up in the sample and the system. Here is what you need to keep in mind before and during operation.

Before operation:

  • Make sure the tubes and bowls are dry and the spindle is cleaned
  • Use buckets and safety cups to stop the chances of spills and aerosol leakage
  • The container and tubes must be balanced on the rotor
  • Check the O-rings present on the rotor if you have proper training
  • Follow the guidelines of the manufacturer for operation and maintenance

During operation:

  • Check the maximum run speed of the rotor
  • Examine the centrifuge to figure out if it operates properly
  • Make sure the lid of the centrifuge device operates normally
  • Open the lid of the device only when the rotor stops completely

high speed cooling centrifuge used in the laboratory may lead to accidents when its components are not properly maintained or remain unchecked. To buy this device from a reputed manufacturer, connect with https://www.igenels.com/ known for manufacturing equipment in India.

Monday, 14 October 2024

Is The Gel Documentation System the Right Fit For Your Laboratory? Key Factors to Consider

Scientific and medical research has improved dramatically in recent times. Thanks to the advent of laboratory equipment like gel documentation system. The equipment is a must-have in genetics and biotechnology laboratories as it assists in viewing and documenting the outcome of gel electrophoresis. Typically, gel electrophoresis helps separate RNA, DNA, and various protein fragments based on their size. However, to visualise and document the result, laboratory workers need to store it as a digital image, which in turn aids in the study of genetics and extensively used for genetic diseases along with drug and cancer research. 

Key factors to consider when buying gel documentation system

You are out there looking for a gel documentation system. However, to consolidate the purchase, you need to consider key factors. Here is how to choose the right one:

  • Analyse the features 

First, you need to consider the quality of imaging when finding a system that meets your needs. It is measured by the resolution degree and usually mentioned in the form of megapixels. So, the higher the resolution more improved are the clarity and the appearance of gel bands. Next, you need to go into checking the sensitivity of the system. Accordingly, equipment with high resolution is sensitive and can easily determine and analyse faint bands, which is a major aspect when working with low-abundance targets. 

Apart from this, you need to consider the way of capturing the image. A majority of these systems have built-in cameras placed over transilluminator but the quality of the camera used may impact how granular the image is. Besides, scanner types of imagers are also used to capture digital images appropriately and can even be stored for later use.

  • Determining the laboratory requirements 

Buying a gel documentation system becomes less fussy when you what your laboratory requirements are. What is the purpose of having a gel documentation system in the laboratory? Is it just for analysing protein gels using ethidium bromide? Do you need multi-channel imaging facilities? What size of gels are you planning to document? Once the basic requirements are set, you can move ahead with the buying decision. That way, you can make a more realistic decision as well. 

  • Lighting options to consider 

What is the nature of dyes you are to use in this process? Accordingly, you may consider various lighting options for capturing the bands. Although most systems would come fitted with UV lamps as the base but also offer white light alongside; it is largely used for RNA/DNA gels that are stained with ethidium bromide. On the other hand, white light is suitable for protein stained with silver or coomasie blue. Wondering if the UV light is the right choice? 

Well, it is mercury light, which is suitable as well as affordable but may require replacement more often. Moreover, it also generates heat. That is why an LED lighting option is more appropriate due to longer lifespan and does not emit a lot of heat. Therefore, sample degradation can also be reduced to a great extent. Apart from this, there are different lighting options for more advanced systems like fluorescence imaging while working with GFP or SBYR Green; similarly, western blot systems feature RGB and UV. 

  • Price 

Most research laboratories need to adhere to a budget. Therefore, one of the most discussed options would be the price. Analyse the prices of basic gel documentation systems and those with additional features like analysis software, high-resolution cameras, chemiluminescence and fluorescence, and multi-channel imaging. That way, it will be easier for you to determine the prices. When it comes to features, you can choose a particular set based on the requirements of the laboratory.

  • Software 

Do you want the gel documentation system just to take images or analyse them? Do you want the system to conduct a good deal of analysis? Are you keen to get a system and software that runs on the computer as well as the device? When each laboratory member needs a copy of analysis software? 

You need to ask how many software licenses are available with the gel doc system and the cost of adding them. Besides, you need to know the frequency in which the software is updated and the number of free updates available. 

When getting a gel documentation system for your laboratory, analyse the features and determine how well they align with the research requirements as well as budget constraints. Furthermore, the type of output, the size, and the ability of the system to upgrade can help you find a system that matches your needs for now and the future. At IGene Labserve, we have top-grade documentation systems for laboratories and happy to assist clients and answer their queries. Click here https://www.igenels.com/ for more information.

Friday, 27 September 2024

A Comprehensive Guide to the Essential Features of a Stability Chamber

 


A stability chamber has emerged as a must-have tool in various industries and for scientific research where maintaining the environmental condition is essential. Typically, these temperature-controlled chambers help preserve the integrity of various products in pharmaceutical, food, research and development and biotechnology industry. The basic function of this chamber is to control the temperature and humidity levels during testing of materials, substances, and products over time.

Purpose of using a stability chamber

Stability chambers resemble an enclosure-like structure and play a crucial role in several fields that rely on maintaining the long-term stability of substances and products. Here are the basic purposes of using this tool:

·         Controlling temperature and humidity

The tool helps maintain the accuracy levels of humidity and temperature and allow manufacturers and researchers simulate different environmental conditions. With these chambers, researchers can study those factors that affect the stability and quality of products.

·         Preserving the integrity of products

You are familiar that stability chambers mimic the real world conditions when testing substances and products. Naturally, they are appropriately used in pharmaceutical industries where the stability of drugs needs to be tested rigorously.

·         Complying with regulations

Biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries usually need to comply with stringent regulations. That is why the stability chamber is essential to conduct tests under controlled humidity and temperature to test the stability of products against those regulations.

·         Testing for extended periods

During stability testing of various products, they are put under specific conditions over a period. These conditions replicate the shelf life of the products and determine the degradation, efficacy, and composition changes over a period. Those way manufacturers identify how soon a product loses its stability.


 

Key features of a stability chamber

The reason why products need to undergo testing in a stability chamber is to gauge their performance. When products fail to meet the desired expectations, it may become a big headache for industries and puts the end user at risk. That is why we have these tools in laboratories. However, the functionality of a stability chamber should have these features to ensure that they meet the expectations.

·         The temperature range within the chamber needs to have perfect testing conditions.

·         The stability chamber has a cooling system, comprising a mechanical and compact refrigeration system.

·         The capacity of the tool when it comes to controlling humidity needs to be around twenty to ninety percent. A few tools have a feature called high humidity sensor, which can make the levels reach up to 98%. Similarly, a few other chambers may have dessicant air dryers that may help reduce the humidity levels reach as low as 5%.

·         Stability chambers have advanced systems for controlling and regulating the humidity and temperature, which is a must for maintaining the accuracy of the outcome.

·         The modern systems have data logging and monitoring systems for monitoring the humidity and temperature levels. That way, researchers can depend on more valuable data for analysis and to what extent compliances have been met.

·         A stability chamber is designed such that it maintains uniform conditions throughout the testing

·         Most chambers have security control systems like alarms that ensure of the tests that undergo here. Moreover, it debars unauthorised access and helps maintain a controlled environment as long.

How to choose a stability chamber?

There is a flurry of factors that go into determining the capacity, humidity range, and compliance standards of stability chambers. Naturally, when it comes to meeting one, you have to keep the following in mind:

·     Humidity and temperature range

The mainstay of product testing in a stability chamber is the temperature and humidity range. That is why you need to wisely select equipment that helps maintain the temperature and humidity range.

·         Maintenance and usage

Just like other laboratory equipment, you need to consider the maintenance and usage of this chamber. Therefore, you must check whether the chamber has a streamlined calibration, intuitive controls, and components that aid the maintenance of this device.

·         Comply with the standards

When selecting this laboratory tool, you need to ensure that it complies with regulatory and industry standards so that the acceptance and reliability of the results can be greatly increased.

So, stability chamber testing plays a vital role in those areas where reliability and stability need to be leveraged. No wonder it has emerged as one of the most valuable assets for researchers and guarantees that the products meet the safety and quality standards. To buy one, explore the products at IGene Labserve, a leading manufacturer of industrial and laboratory equipment. The company has recently earned NSF certification for biosafety cabinets. So, check your options here https://www.igenels.com/ and order the product right away.

How to Effectively Use the Water Bath in the Laboratory for Optimal Results?

  A shaking water bath is used for mixing and agitating samples in a water bath under controlled temperature. Compared to other types of ...