
( Brand: Pyrex ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 3140-190 ), ( Country Of Origin: United States ), ( Intended Use/discipline: Biological Laboratory, Microbiological Laboratory, Medical Laboratory )
The **Corning Pyrex 3140-190 Crystalizing Dish** is a precision-engineered, high-quality laboratory glassware essential for a wide range of scientific and culinary applications. Crafted from durable, borosilicate glass (specifically Corning s renowned Pyrex brand), this dish is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, thermal shock, and rigorous use, making it an indispensable tool for both professional researchers and home cooks alike. With a sleek, transparent design, the **3140-190** features a **190mm (7.5-inch) diameter** and a **100mm (4-inch) depth**, providing ample surface area for even crystallization, evaporation, or slow cooking processes. The smooth, polished interior ensures minimal residue buildup, while the sturdy, heat-resistant base guarantees stability during prolonged heating or cooling cycles. Whether used for crystallizing compounds in a laboratory setting, dehydrating fruits for homemade jams, or gently simmering sauces and confections in a kitchen, this dish delivers consistent, reliable performance. Its transparent nature allows for easy monitoring of progress, and the borosilicate composition ensures chemical resistance, making it safe for use with a variety of solvents and acids. Packaged as part of the **3140-80 series**, this dish is part of a trusted line of Pyrex glassware known for its durability, clarity, and precision ideal for both educational demonstrations and professional-grade applications.
### Pros and Cons of buying a Corning Pyrex 3140-190 Crystalizing Dish (3140-80, 190mm x 100mm Pack)
#### **Pros:**1. **Durability and Heat Resistance** Pyrex glass is known for its high heat resistance, making it ideal for baking, crystallization, and laboratory use. It can withstand extreme temperature changes without cracking or breaking, which is essential for processes like recrystallization in chemistry or food preparation.
2. **Chemical Inertness** The borosilicate glass composition of Pyrex is resistant to most acids and bases, ensuring that the dish remains unaffected by reactive substances. This makes it safe for use in chemical experiments, food preservation, and even some pharmaceutical applications.
3. **Versatility** The dish can be used for a variety of purposes, including:- **Crystallization** (as the name suggests), where it helps in purifying solids from solutions.
- **Baking and cooking** (e.g., casseroles, baking dishes).
- **Laboratory work** (e.g., holding reagents, growing crystals).
- **Food storage** (though not recommended for long-term storage due to potential leaching of borosilicate over time).
4. **Even Heat Distribution** Pyrex distributes heat uniformly, reducing the risk of hot spots that could damage delicate substances or cause uneven cooking.
5. **Easy to Clean** Glass surfaces are non-porous, making them easy to clean and sanitize. They can be washed by hand or in a dishwasher (though hand washing is preferred to prolong lifespan).
6. **Aesthetic Appeal** The clear, smooth glass has a professional look, making it suitable for both home and lab settings. It is also microwave-safe (when empty or with food), adding to its convenience.
7. **Long Lifespan** With proper care, Pyrex dishes can last for decades, making them a cost-effective investment.
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#### **Cons:**1. **Weight** Pyrex dishes are heavier than plastic or some ceramic alternatives, which can make handling them cumbersome, especially for large or deep dishes.
2. **Breakability** Despite its durability, glass is still fragile. Dropping it or subjecting it to sudden impacts (e.g., hitting it against another hard object) can cause it to shatter.
3. **Potential for Scratches** While Pyrex is scratch-resistant, abrasive cleaners or rough scrubbing can damage the surface over time, affecting both appearance and functionality.
4. **Not Microwave-Safe with All Contents** While the dish itself is microwave-safe, it should not be used with metal utensils or aluminum foil inside. Additionally, filling it too full can cause spills or uneven heating.
5. **Limited Use for Highly Reactive Substances** While Pyrex resists many chemicals, some highly corrosive or concentrated acids/bases may still degrade the glass over time. Always check compatibility with specific substances.
6. **Cost** Compared to plastic or disposable alternatives, Pyrex dishes are more expensive upfront. However, their longevity often justifies the cost.
7. **Not Ideal for Extreme Temperature Shifts** While Pyrex handles heat well, sudden temperature changes (e.g., moving from freezer to oven) can still cause stress cracks if not done gradually.
8. **Storage Space** Due to their size and weight, Pyrex dishes require more storage space compared to lighter alternatives.
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### **Conclusion:**The Corning Pyrex 3140-190 crystalizing dish is a high-quality, versatile tool that excels in durability, heat resistance, and chemical inertness. It is particularly valuable for laboratory work, crystallization processes, and baking, where reliability and even heat distribution are critical. However, its weight, breakability, and higher cost may be drawbacks for some users, particularly those who prioritize convenience or portability.
If you need a **long-term, multi-purpose dish** for scientific, culinary, or industrial use where durability and heat resistance are non-negotiable, this Pyrex dish is an excellent investment. For casual home use where weight or cost is a concern, alternatives like stainless steel or high-quality ceramic might be more suitable.
### **Recommendation:** **Buy this Pyrex dish if:**- You require a **reliable, heat-resistant container** for crystallization, baking, or laboratory work.
- You are willing to invest in a **durable, long-lasting tool** that can handle high temperatures and chemical exposure.
- You prioritize **even heating** and **non-reactive surfaces** over convenience or weight.
**Avoid this Pyrex dish if:**- You need **lightweight, disposable, or budget-friendly alternatives** (e.g., plastic or aluminum).
- You frequently handle **extremely fragile or delicate substances** that could be damaged by the dish s weight.
- You require **maximum portability** (e.g., for fieldwork or travel).
For most serious users whether chemists, bakers, or home cooks this Pyrex dish is a worthwhile purchase due to its unmatched performance and longevity.
They will withstand repeated sterilization wet or dry and are ideal for storage. These flat PYREX dishes have approximately a 2600 ml capacity with rims that are reinforced and fire polished to reduce chipping.