Serological pipettes: what they are and how they are used in laboratories
Serological pipettes are essential tools in research laboratories, clinical settings, as well as in the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries. They are used to accurately measure and transfer specific volumes of liquid. In this blog, we will explore what serological pipettes are, how they are used, and some practical tips for handling them in the lab.
What are serological pipettes?
Serological pipettes are cylindrical, graduated tubes typically made of glass or plastic, designed to measure and transfer precise volumes of liquid. They come in various sizes, commonly ranging from 1 ml to 50 ml, and are marked with precise graduations to ensure accurate liquid measurement.
These pipettes are intended to be used with a pipette aid or pipetting device, which allows for controlled aspiration and dispensing of liquids. Serological pipettes are often classified as "blow-out" pipettes, meaning that the remaining liquid must be expelled completely to ensure accurate measurements.
How to use serological pipettes
Attach the Pipette to a Pipette Aid: Insert the serological pipette into a pipette aid, which can be manual or electronic. Ensure a secure fit to prevent leaks or inaccuracies during liquid transfer.
Aspirate the Liquid: Submerge the tip of the pipette into the liquid. Use the pipette aid to aspirate the liquid up to the desired volume mark. Keep the pipette in a vertical position to avoid air bubbles that can affect accuracy.
Dispense the Liquid: To dispense, place the pipette tip into the target container. Use the pipette aid to release the liquid smoothly. For "blow-out" pipettes, expel the remaining liquid completely to ensure precise volume delivery.
Avoid Contamination: Always use sterile pipettes for microbiological or cell culture work. Dispose of or sterilize pipettes appropriately after each use to prevent cross-contamination.
Tips for proper handling
Check for Calibration: Before using a serological pipette, check for calibration accuracy, especially when working with sensitive assays.
Choose the Right Size: Use a pipette that closely matches the volume you need to transfer for better accuracy.
Practice Proper Technique: Avoid tilting the pipette while aspirating or dispensing to prevent introducing air bubbles, which can lead to inaccurate measurements.
Applications of Serological Pipettes
Serological pipettes are versatile and can be used for a variety of applications, including:
Cell Culture: Transferring media, reagents, and cells in tissue culture work.
Clinical Testing: Measuring blood samples, reagents, and solutions in diagnostic testing.
Chemical Analysis: Preparing dilutions, mixing solutions, or transferring precise liquid volumes in analytical chemistry.
In summary, serological pipettes are invaluable tools for accurate liquid handling in the lab. By understanding their proper use and maintenance, lab personnel can ensure the precision and reliability of their experiments.
