
( Brand: Kimble ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 31200-150 ), ( Part Type: Vacuum ), ( Country Of Origin: Portugal ), ( Intended Use/discipline: Vacuum Desiccator )
The **Kimble Kimbleze 31200-150 Vacuum Desiccator** is a high-performance, precision-engineered laboratory desiccator designed to provide an airtight, moisture-free environment for sensitive samples, chemical reagents, and delicate materials requiring strict humidity control. Constructed from durable **borosilicate glass (Type I, Class A)**, this desiccator ensures chemical resistance, optical clarity, and long-term durability, making it ideal for applications in pharmaceuticals, biochemistry, materials science, and analytical laboratories. The **150mm (6-inch) diameter** chamber offers ample space for accommodating a variety of sample sizes, from small vials and petri dishes to larger containers, while the **smooth, seamless design** minimizes dead spaces where moisture or contaminants could accumulate. The **PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) gasket** provides an airtight seal, preventing external humidity from compromising the integrity of stored materials, and its low outgassing properties ensure purity critical for sensitive experiments.
Equipped with a **stainless steel vacuum valve**, the desiccator allows for precise control over internal pressure, enabling rapid evacuation to near-vacuum levels (typically below 10 mmHg) to accelerate drying or remove residual moisture. The **vacuum gauge** integrated into the valve assembly provides real-time feedback, ensuring accurate pressure monitoring during the desiccation process. The **screw-threaded lid** with a **quick-release mechanism** facilitates easy access to the chamber while maintaining a secure seal, reducing the risk of contamination or moisture ingress during use. Additionally, the desiccator s **ergonomic handle** allows for safe and stable handling, even when filled with heavy or fragile contents.
Beyond its primary function of moisture control, the Kimbleze 31200-150 excels in preserving the stability of temperature-sensitive compounds, preventing oxidation, and protecting samples from atmospheric degradation. Its **compatibility with a wide range of desiccants**, including silica gel, molecular sieves, and calcium chloride, further enhances its versatility, allowing users to tailor the drying environment to specific material requirements. The **autoclavable design** (when used with appropriate desiccants) makes it suitable for sterilization procedures, ensuring compliance with stringent laboratory hygiene standards. Whether used for long-term sample storage, preparation of reagents, or critical analytical processes, this desiccator delivers reliability, precision, and durability making it an indispensable tool for laboratories demanding the highest standards of sample integrity.
The **Kimble 31200-150 Vacuum Desiccator (150mm diameter)** is a laboratory tool used for drying, storing, or preserving samples under vacuum conditions in a desiccant environment. Below is a detailed analysis of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.
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### **Pros of the Kimble 31200-150 Vacuum Desiccator**
1. **Effective Drying and Sample Preservation**
The vacuum environment reduces moisture content more efficiently than standard desiccators, making it ideal for sensitive samples such as biological specimens, chemicals, or electronic components. The low-pressure conditions accelerate drying while minimizing oxidation or degradation.
2. **Durable Construction**
Kimble (a Corning brand) is known for high-quality borosilicate glass, which is chemically resistant, thermally stable, and less prone to cracking compared to standard soda-lime glass. This ensures longevity and reliability in laboratory settings.
3. **Standardized Size and Compatibility**
The 150mm diameter is a common size in laboratories, making it compatible with most laboratory glassware, desiccants (e.g., silica gel, Drierite), and vacuum pumps. It fits standard desiccator clamps and lids securely.
4. **Versatility in Applications**
Beyond drying, it can be used for:- Storing volatile or hygroscopic compounds.
- Preparing samples for analysis (e.g., spectroscopy, microscopy).
- Maintaining a controlled environment for reactions sensitive to moisture.
5. **Easy to Clean and Maintain**
Borosilicate glass is smooth and non-porous, allowing for easy cleaning with solvents, detergents, or mild acids. It resists staining and microbial growth better than plastic alternatives.
6. **Compatibility with Vacuum Systems**
The desiccator is designed to work seamlessly with laboratory vacuum pumps, allowing precise control over pressure levels. This is crucial for applications requiring specific drying conditions.
7. **Cost-Effective for Laboratory Use**
While not the cheapest option, its durability and performance justify the investment for medium to large laboratories. It avoids frequent replacements, reducing long-term costs.
8. **Safety Features**
The vacuum seal prevents contamination from external air, and the glass construction avoids the risk of plastic degradation or leaching chemicals into samples.
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### **Cons of the Kimble 31200-150 Vacuum Desiccator**
1. **Fragility of Glass**
Despite its strength, borosilicate glass can still shatter if subjected to thermal shock (e.g., rapid temperature changes) or mechanical impact. This poses a risk in busy or poorly managed labs.
2. **Limited Portability**
The glass construction makes the desiccator heavy and cumbersome to move frequently. Laboratories with limited bench space may find it less convenient than plastic alternatives.
3. **Higher Initial Cost**
Compared to plastic desiccators, Kimble s borosilicate glass model is more expensive upfront. Smaller labs or those on tight budgets may opt for cheaper alternatives, though with trade-offs in durability.
4. **Maintenance of Vacuum Seal**
The rubber gasket or silicone seal on the lid may degrade over time, requiring periodic replacement. A faulty seal compromises the vacuum and drying efficiency.
5. **Not Ideal for High-Vacuum Applications**
While effective for standard vacuum drying, it may not perform optimally under ultra-high vacuum conditions (e.g., below 1 mbar) without additional modifications or equipment.
6. **Cleaning Time and Effort**
Thorough cleaning after use with solvents or abrasives can be time-consuming, especially if residues are stubborn. Plastic desiccators are often easier to clean quickly.
7. **Potential for Condensation Issues**
If the desiccator is not properly pre-cooled or if the vacuum pump is not efficient, condensation inside the chamber can occur, defeating the purpose of drying.
8. **Limited Customization**
Unlike some plastic desiccators, Kimble s model does not offer built-in features like integrated pressure gauges or multiple compartments, requiring additional accessories for advanced use.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Kimble 31200-150 Vacuum Desiccator** is a robust, high-quality tool ideal for laboratories requiring reliable, long-term drying and sample preservation under vacuum. Its borosilicate glass construction ensures durability and chemical resistance, making it suitable for demanding applications. However, its fragility, higher cost, and maintenance requirements may be drawbacks for smaller labs or those prioritizing portability and ease of use.
For laboratories with a need for precision, chemical compatibility, and longevity, this desiccator is a strong recommendation. In contrast, labs with limited budgets, frequent sample turnover, or ultra-high vacuum requirements may consider alternatives like plastic desiccators or specialized vacuum systems.
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### **Recommendation**
**Buy the Kimble 31200-150 Vacuum Desiccator if:**- Your laboratory handles sensitive, hygroscopic, or volatile samples that require controlled drying.
- You prioritize durability, chemical resistance, and long-term performance over cost savings.
- Your workflow involves standard vacuum conditions (not ultra-high vacuum) and you have access to proper handling and maintenance protocols.
- You need compatibility with a wide range of laboratory glassware and desiccants.
**Consider Alternatives if:**- Budget constraints are a priority, and you can tolerate slightly lower durability (e.g., plastic desiccators like Nalgene or other borosilicate models with additional features).
- Your lab frequently moves equipment or requires portability.
- You need ultra-high vacuum capabilities or specialized features not supported by this model.
For most academic, research, or industrial laboratories with moderate to high demands, the Kimble 31200-150 is a well-justified purchase. Always pair it with a reliable vacuum pump, appropriate desiccant, and proper safety protocols to maximize its effectiveness.
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