Kimble 73500-16150 N-51A Borosilicate 23mL Disposable Culture Tube

Description

Product Overview

The Kimble 73500-16150 N-51A culture tube is crafted from high‑grade borosilicate glass, a material renowned for its durability, thermal stability, and superior chemical resistance. Meeting ASTM Specification E438, Type I, Class B requirements, this tube provides a reliable platform for a wide range of laboratory applications, from microbiology to cell culture. Its clear, transparent construction allows easy visual monitoring of sample conditions without compromising integrity.

Each tube holds a precise 23 mL volume and features a molded rim top that facilitates secure sealing and easy handling. The uniform length and consistent bottom thickness reduce variability between samples, ensuring reproducible experimental outcomes. The tube’s design minimizes the risk of breakage during routine bench work, while the smooth interior surface prevents sample adhesion and contamination.

For convenience, the tubes are supplied in shrink‑wrapped trays that keep them aligned and protected throughout shipping and storage. The trays are sized to fit standard laboratory drawers and benchtop racks, allowing quick access and organized inventory management. The protective film also guards against dust, moisture, and accidental impact, preserving the pristine condition of each glass tube until use.

Beyond its physical attributes, the Kimble culture tube delivers performance benefits that translate directly into laboratory efficiency. The borosilicate composition resists leaching of sodium and other ions, maintaining sample purity even during prolonged incubations. This chemical inertness, combined with the tube’s optical clarity, supports accurate spectrophotometric readings and visual assessments, making it a versatile choice for both routine assays and specialized research protocols.

Usage

Designed for microbiology laboratories, this disposable culture tube is ideal for growing bacterial, fungal, and yeast cultures under controlled conditions. The 23 mL capacity provides ample space for nutrient media while allowing sufficient headspace for gas exchange, supporting optimal microbial growth. Researchers can inoculate directly into the tube using standard pipettes or inoculation loops, then seal the rim top with a compatible cap or foil to maintain sterility.

In cell culture applications, the tube serves as a convenient vessel for small‑scale suspension cultures, allowing rapid setup of multiple parallel experiments. Its clear walls enable real‑time observation of cell density and morphology, facilitating timely interventions such as media changes or harvesting. The tube’s resistance to a broad range of chemicals makes it suitable for assays involving solvents, acids, or bases, without compromising tube integrity.

When not in active use, the tubes can be stored in the provided trays on laboratory benches or in refrigerated units, thanks to their robust construction and protective packaging. The rim top design simplifies labeling and tracking, while the uniform dimensions ensure compatibility with standard incubators, shakers, and centrifuges. Overall, the Kimble culture tube streamlines workflow from preparation to analysis, reducing handling time and minimizing the risk of cross‑contamination.

Why Choose Us

Kimble Chase has a long‑standing reputation for delivering high‑quality laboratory glassware that meets rigorous industry standards. By adhering to ASTM Specification E438, Type I, Class B, each tube undergoes strict quality control testing to verify dimensional accuracy, breakage resistance, and chemical inertness. This commitment to compliance ensures that researchers receive a product they can trust for critical experiments.

Our manufacturing process incorporates advanced glass‑forming techniques and automated inspection systems, guaranteeing uniform wall thickness and flawless surface finish across every batch. The result is a tube that consistently performs as expected, reducing variability and enhancing reproducibility in scientific studies. Additionally, the shrink‑wrapped tray packaging is engineered to protect the tubes from mechanical shock and environmental contaminants throughout the supply chain.

Beyond product excellence, Kimble provides responsive customer support and after‑sales service. Our technical team is available to answer product‑related inquiries, assist with troubleshooting, and offer guidance on best practices for tube handling and storage. Should any issue arise, we stand behind our products with a clear return and replacement policy, reinforcing confidence in your laboratory investments.

Key Features

• Premium borosilicate glass ensures excellent chemical resistance and thermal stability for reliable experiments.
• 23 mL disposable capacity with a secure rim top simplifies sealing and reduces contamination risk.
• Uniform length and sturdy bottom provide consistent sample volumes and minimize breakage during handling.
• Shrink‑wrapped trays keep tubes aligned, protected, and ready for immediate use on benchtops or in drawers.
• Dedicated customer support and a clear warranty policy guarantee assistance and peace of mind after purchase.

FAQ

What is the maximum temperature the tube can withstand?

The borosilicate glass used in this culture tube is rated for temperatures up to 350 °F (177 °C), making it suitable for most autoclaving and heat‑treatment procedures commonly performed in microbiology labs.

Can the tube be used with standard caps or closures?

Yes, the rim top is designed to accept a variety of standard laboratory caps, including screw caps, snap caps, and foil seals. This flexibility allows you to choose the closure type that best fits your experimental protocol.

Is the tube compatible with centrifugation?

The tube’s sturdy construction and uniform dimensions make it compatible with most benchtop centrifuges when used within the recommended speed limits (typically up to 5,000 rpm). Always refer to your centrifuge’s specifications for safe operation.

How does the packaging protect the tubes during shipping?

Each set of tubes is placed in a shrink‑wrapped plastic film that holds them in constant alignment within a molded tray. This packaging absorbs shocks, prevents movement, and shields the glass from dust and moisture, reducing the likelihood of breakage or contamination before the tubes reach your lab.

What should I do if I receive a damaged tube?

Contact our customer service team within 48 hours of receipt, providing the order number and a photo of the damage. We will arrange a replacement shipment promptly, ensuring minimal disruption to your workflow.