
( Brand: Kimble ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 60690-12 ), ( Part Type: Vial ), ( Unit Quantity: 998 ), ( Intended Use/discipline: Medical Laboratory, Physical Laboratory, Biological Laboratory )
The **Kimble 60690-12 AccuForm SSR High Recovery 998-Vial Tube** is a precision-engineered, high-capacity sample storage solution designed to maximize efficiency and reliability in laboratory settings where space optimization and secure containment are paramount. Crafted from durable, borosilicate glass, this tube offers exceptional chemical resistance and thermal stability, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of solvents, acids, and extreme temperature conditions from cryogenic storage to high-temperature autoclaving. The **AccuForm SSR (Screw Seal Ring)** technology integrates a robust, leak-proof screw cap system with a built-in seal ring, eliminating the need for additional gaskets or stoppers while maintaining an airtight seal that prevents contamination and evaporation, even during prolonged storage or transportation. This design significantly reduces the risk of sample degradation, making it ideal for applications in clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical research, environmental testing, and forensic analysis.
The **high-recovery feature** of this tube is particularly noteworthy, as its tapered, smooth-walled interior minimizes sample retention, allowing for nearly complete retrieval of liquids or suspensions with minimal residue. This is achieved through a carefully engineered internal geometry that directs fluids toward the opening, reducing the need for additional rinsing or cleaning steps a critical advantage in workflows where time and material conservation are essential. The **998-vial capacity** of the tube further enhances its utility in large-scale sample processing, providing a compact yet high-density storage solution that fits seamlessly into standard rack systems or automated liquid handling platforms. Its uniform dimensions and consistent wall thickness ensure compatibility with most laboratory equipment, including centrifuges, vortex mixers, and robotic pipetting systems, while the **clear borosilicate glass** allows for easy visual inspection of contents without the need for opening the tube.
Beyond its functional advantages, the Kimble 60690-12 is engineered with **safety and ergonomism** in mind. The screw cap design is designed for a secure, one-handed operation, reducing the risk of spills during handling, while the smooth, non-abrasive surface minimizes the potential for sample contamination from particulate matter. The tube s **sterilizable construction** allows for repeated use in cleanroom environments, and its resistance to thermal shock ensures durability across a broad range of processing conditions. Whether used in a high-throughput laboratory or a specialized research facility, this tube represents a superior alternative to traditional stoppered vials, offering a blend of **performance, reliability, and ease of use** that streamlines sample management and enhances experimental outcomes.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Kimble 60690-12 AccuForm SSR High Recovery 998-Vial Tube**
#### **Pros:**1. **High Recovery Efficiency** The "High Recovery" designation means it is designed to minimize sample loss during centrifugation, which is particularly useful for precious or limited samples. This reduces the need for repeated extractions or additional testing.
2. **Durability and Quality** Kimble is a well-known brand in laboratory glassware, known for its precision, durability, and resistance to chemical corrosion. The AccuForm SSR tubes are designed for consistent performance in high-speed centrifugation.
3. **Compatibility with Common Centrifuges** These tubes are designed to fit standard laboratory centrifuges, making them versatile for a wide range of applications, including clinical diagnostics, research, and industrial testing.
4. **Sterility and Safety** The tubes are likely manufactured to meet strict sterility standards, reducing contamination risks in sensitive procedures. The sealed design also helps prevent sample evaporation and cross-contamination.
5. **Cost-Effective for Large Volumes** With 998 vials per tube, this format is ideal for high-throughput laboratories, reducing the need for frequent tube replacements and streamlining workflows.
6. **Consistent Performance** The uniform shape and material ensure reproducible results across multiple samples, which is critical in research and quality control applications.
7. **Easy Handling** The design likely includes features such as flat-bottomed or conical shapes that facilitate easy handling during centrifugation and subsequent processing.
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#### **Cons:**1. **High Upfront Cost** Purchasing a large quantity of 998-vial tubes may represent a significant initial investment, especially for smaller labs or those with fluctuating workloads.
2. **Storage Requirements** Storing 998 vials at a time requires adequate shelving and space. If not used immediately, this could lead to waste if samples are not processed in time.
3. **Disposal Considerations** Glass tubes are not biodegradable and may require special disposal procedures, depending on local regulations. This can add to operational costs and environmental concerns.
4. **Breakage Risk** While durable, glass tubes are still fragile and can break during handling, centrifugation, or shipping. This could lead to sample loss or contamination if not handled carefully.
5. **Limited Flexibility in Sample Size** These tubes are optimized for a specific volume range. If your workflow requires varying sample sizes, you may need additional tube types, increasing complexity.
6. **Maintenance of Centrifuge Balance** Loading 998 vials at once may require careful balancing to prevent centrifuge damage, especially if the centrifuge has weight limits or specific balancing requirements.
7. **Potential for Contamination** If not sterilized properly before use or if reused improperly, these tubes could introduce contaminants into samples, compromising results.
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### **Conclusion:**The **Kimble 60690-12 AccuForm SSR High Recovery 998-vial tube** is an excellent choice for laboratories requiring **high-throughput processing with minimal sample loss**. Its durability, compatibility with standard centrifuges, and efficiency in recovery make it ideal for **research, clinical diagnostics, or industrial testing** where consistency and precision are critical. However, the **high cost, storage demands, and potential breakage risks** must be carefully considered, particularly for smaller labs or those with variable workloads.
For labs with **consistent, high-volume needs** and the infrastructure to handle glassware safely, this product is a strong recommendation. For labs with **limited space, budget constraints, or irregular usage**, alternatives such as **plastic microcentrifuge tubes or smaller glass tube formats** may be more practical.
### **Recommendation:**- **Buy if:** Your lab frequently processes large batches of samples, prioritizes sample recovery, and has the space and budget to invest in high-quality glassware.
- **Consider alternatives if:** Your workflow involves irregular or small-scale sample processing, or if cost and storage are major concerns.
- **Pair with:** Proper centrifuge balancing protocols, storage solutions, and disposal plans to maximize efficiency and safety.
Smooth exterior bottoms are perfect for 2D bar coding. Closures not included. U-bottom, screw thread, no shoulder. Less than 10 micro liters of dead space.
Ideal for high-throughput screening. Case of 1000 998 due to two missing vials, 2 ml capacity, 13mm OD, 15-425 thread. Smooth, conical interior surfaces facilitate complete sample recovery.