A laboratory needs various tools, equipment, and supplies for it to operate effectively. Water baths are among the lab essentials used to incubate samples in water. Most samples need to be maintained at a constant temperature before or during the experiments, and that’s why you need to buy a quality water bath.
If you need to buy a water bath, learn how to choose one that meets your needs. Here are things to consider when purchasing a water bath for your lab.
Durability
Look for a water bath made of durable materials. Just like other appliances, durable water baths are likely to cost you a little more, but they will serve your lab for many years.
Safety
Anything can go wrong during an incubation process, and thus you should observe lab safety measures. You also need to choose a water bath with the recommended safety features.
For example, you can buy water baths with alarms that go off when any measure goes out of the set conditions. The water bath may also be set to shut off when the temperature and water levels exceed the set standards.
Size
The best size for your water bath is determined by the number and volume of samples to be incubated. Most lab water baths can hold between 1.5 to 43 liters of samples.
If most of your experiments use test tubes, get a large water bath with test tube racks to fit the test tubes. Choose a water bath that is spacious enough to allow you to use flasks if need be.
Lids
Water baths without lids may lead to inaccuracies because contaminants might interfere with the samples. For this reason, you should purchase a water bath that has a cover to prevent contamination.
Choose clear covers that allow you to monitor your experiment progress. Also, you need to buy water baths with cover fins to avoid being burned by hot vapors.
Hinged covers are advantageous as they allow you to load or remove the samples conveniently. If most of your water bath experiments are take place above 60ºC, covers can significantly help to keep the temperature constant.
Temperature Range
Samples are usually incubated at a specific temperature for a successful experiment. Thus, you should invest in a water bath with a temperature range that works for your particular sample type.
If you are not sure about the sample’s precise incubation temperature, choose a water bath with a broader temperature range to avoid inconveniences.
Other than the temperature range, remember to check the temperature stability, uniformity, and precision. You need a reliable water bath to avoid errors caused by temperature fluctuations. Depending on your samples, experts can help you select a water bath with the most suitable temperature range.
Control Systems
Generally, control systems regulate and operate water baths. Old models are controlled by analog systems, while contemporary ones have digital controls. Analog system controls are typically easy to use, and thus you can opt for them if your experiments are simple and straightforward.
However, if you perform complex experiments, such as microbiology examinations or quantity control procedures, which require advanced features, you might need water baths with advanced digital controls. Digital controls offer a high-temperature precision than analog ones.
Modern water baths can be connected to the lab’s central water system, and the control system will maintain the water at the required level. This is crucial for experiments that need a constant water level. Therefore, the advanced digital controls can come in handy in this case.
Cleaning Requirements
Like any other lab equipment, a water bath also has to be washed to prevent contamination. Purchase a water bath with components that are easy to clean.
Water baths have made many scientific tests and procedures possible. Revolutionary Science is a leading manufacturer of quality water baths and a wide range of other laboratory equipment. If you need quality lab equipment, contact us today.