
( Brand: Kimax Kimble Kontes ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 25276-250 ), ( Intended Use/discipline: Biological Laboratory, Dental Laboratory, Medical Laboratory, Microbiological Laboratory, Physical Laboratory ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Unit Type: Unit ), ( Additional Information: Surplus Laboratory Consumable Supplies )
The **Kimble-Kontes 25276-250 DWK Glass Round Bottom Boiling Flask (250 mL, 14/20 joint)** is a precision-engineered laboratory glassware essential for a wide range of chemical, biological, and pharmaceutical applications. Crafted from high-quality borosilicate glass (Type I, Kimble Kimax), this flask is designed to withstand extreme thermal and chemical stresses, ensuring durability and reliability in demanding laboratory environments. Its **250 mL capacity** strikes an ideal balance between versatility and efficiency, making it suitable for small-scale synthesis, distillation, reflux reactions, and other routine laboratory procedures. The **single neck, 14/20 standard taper joint** provides a secure, leak-proof connection to compatible glassware accessories, such as condensers, adapters, or dropping funnels, facilitating seamless integration into complex experimental setups. The **double-walled (DWK) design** enhances thermal insulation, reducing heat loss during heating processes and promoting more uniform temperature distribution, which is particularly advantageous in reactions requiring precise temperature control. The **round bottom shape** optimizes heat transfer and minimizes dead space, improving reaction efficiency and yield while reducing the risk of hot spots that could compromise safety or product quality. Additionally, the **smooth, polished surface** of the flask minimizes residue buildup and simplifies cleaning, a critical factor in maintaining sterility and accuracy in sensitive experiments. Whether used in academic research, industrial synthesis, or quality control testing, this flask exemplifies the blend of engineering precision and chemical inertness that Kimble-Kontes is renowned for, making it an indispensable tool for laboratories demanding both performance and longevity.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Kimble-Kontes 25276-250 DWK Glass Round Bottom Boiling Flask (250 mL, 14/20 Joint)**
#### **Pros:**1. **High-Quality Borosilicate Glass (Type 1)**
- The flask is made from **Kimble-Kontes borosilicate glass (DWK)**, which is chemically inert, resistant to thermal shock, and durable for repeated heating and cooling cycles. This makes it ideal for laboratory applications requiring precision and longevity.
2. **Standard 14/20 Joint Compatibility**
- The **14/20 ground glass joint** ensures compatibility with a wide range of laboratory glassware, adapters, and accessories (e.g., condensers, funnels, and stoppers). This flexibility simplifies setup for various experiments, including distillation, reflux, and heating.
3. **Single Neck Design**
- The **single-neck configuration** is simpler and more straightforward for basic operations like boiling, heating, or stirring. It reduces complexity compared to multi-neck flasks, making it easier to use for foundational lab techniques.
4. **250 mL Capacity**
- The **250 mL size** strikes a balance between small-scale experiments and moderate-volume reactions. It is suitable for teaching labs, small-scale syntheses, or pilot experiments where larger flasks may be unnecessary.
5. **Durable and Long-Lasting**
- Kimble-Kontes is a reputable brand known for **high-quality, long-lasting glassware**. Proper care (avoiding thermal shock and mechanical stress) can extend its lifespan for years, making it a cost-effective investment.
6. **Compatibility with Standard Lab Equipment**
- Works seamlessly with **heating mantles, oil baths, condensers, and magnetic stirrers**, making it versatile for common lab procedures.
7. **Easy to Clean and Sterilize**
- Borosilicate glass is **resistant to most solvents and acids**, and the smooth surface allows for thorough cleaning with standard lab detergents or autoclaving where applicable.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Fragility Despite Durability**
- While borosilicate glass is more resistant to thermal shock than soda-lime glass, it is still **breakable**. Dropping or mishandling can cause cracks or shattering, especially if the glass is already stressed or damaged.
2. **Limited to Glass Joints**
- The **14/20 joint** requires proper lubrication (e.g., silicone grease) to ensure a tight seal, which can be a maintenance hassle. Over time, joints may wear out or become difficult to assemble/disassemble.
3. **Not Ideal for High-Pressure Applications**
- Standard round bottom flasks are **not pressure-rated**. Using them with high-pressure reactions (e.g., sealed systems) can lead to dangerous explosions. Specialized pressure flasks are required for such applications.
4. **Weight and Bulkiness**
- Glass flasks are **heavier than plastic alternatives**, which can be cumbersome for frequent handling. They also take up more storage space compared to lightweight plastic or metal containers.
5. **Cost Compared to Plastic Alternatives**
- While borosilicate glass is durable, it is **more expensive than disposable plastic flasks**. For single-use or low-budget applications, plastic may be a more economical choice, though with reduced durability and chemical resistance.
6. **Potential for Contamination**
- If not cleaned thoroughly, borosilicate glass can harbor residues from previous experiments, leading to **cross-contamination** in sensitive applications. Proper cleaning protocols are essential.
7. **Limited to Low-Volume Applications**
- For **large-scale reactions**, a 250 mL flask may be too small, requiring upscaling to larger volumes (e.g., 500 mL, 1 L). This limits its use in industrial or high-throughput settings.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Kimble-Kontes 25276-250 DWK borosilicate glass round bottom boiling flask** is an excellent choice for **academic, teaching, and small-scale laboratory work** where durability, chemical resistance, and compatibility with standard glassware are priorities. Its **borosilicate construction, 14/20 joint compatibility, and 250 mL capacity** make it versatile for distillation, reflux, and heating applications. However, its **fragility, maintenance requirements, and higher cost** compared to plastic alternatives may make it less suitable for high-throughput, disposable, or high-pressure applications.
### **Recommendation**
- **Buy this flask if:**- You need a **durable, reusable, and chemically inert** vessel for **small-scale lab work** (e.g., undergraduate teaching labs, organic synthesis, or pilot experiments).
- You require **standard 14/20 joint compatibility** for easy integration with other glassware.
- You prioritize **long-term reliability** over disposability.
- **Consider alternatives if:**- You need **disposable or low-cost options** (e.g., plastic flasks for single-use).
- Your work involves **high-pressure reactions** (use a pressure-rated flask instead).
- You frequently handle **large volumes** (opt for a 500 mL or 1 L flask).
- You require **autoclave sterilization** (ensure the flask is compatible; some borosilicate glass may not withstand high-pressure steam).
For most **standard laboratory applications**, this flask is a **high-quality, practical investment** that will serve well with proper care.
No chips or cracks throughout. See pictures for details. GSR veers 1730 GS 9.9.4 1730 Used item in great condition.