List of Laboratory Equipment and Uses
Lab equipment is a vital component of scientific research and experimentation, enabling researchers to accurately measure, mix, and analyze samples, as well as maintain a sterile and safe working environment.
Autoclave
One common type of lab equipment is the autoclave, equipment that utilizes steam under high pressure to sterilize equipment and materials for certain period of time. Autoclaves are frequently used in labs to sterilize glassware, instruments, and other materials that must be free of bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.
Read more on: How to properly use an autoclave.
Personal protective equipment (PPE)
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential type of lab gear that is worn to protect against exposure to hazardous substances or environments. In a laboratory setting, PPE may include a variety of items, such as gloves, goggles, lab coats, and respirators. These items are designed to protect the body from potential hazards and prevent accidents and injuries.
Read more on: Personal Protective Equipment.
Pipettes
A pipette is a common piece of equipment found in many chemistry and biology laboratories. It is calibrated equipment used to transfer precise volumes of liquids from one container to another ranging from 1ul to 10000ul. Pipettes are an essential tool in many laboratory techniques, including serial dilutions, enzyme assays, and DNA extractions. There are several types of pipettes available, each designed for specific volumes and accuracy, for instance single channel pipette and 8-channel pipette.
Read more on: Guide to proper pipetting technique.
Retort Stand
A retort stand is a piece of lab equipment used to hold and support flasks, test tubes, and other containers during experiments. It consists of a base and a vertical rod with adjustable horizontal arms that can accommodate different sizes and shapes of containers.
Microscopes
Microscopes are instruments used to magnify small objects or organisms, such as cells and tissues. There are various types of microscopes, including compound microscopes, which use lenses and light to magnify objects, and electron microscopes, which use a beam of electrons to create an image.
Read more on: Step to properly use a microscope.
Bunsen burners
Bunsen burners are devices used to heat materials in a lab setting. They consist of a metal tube with a gas valve and a stem that holds a flame and are commonly used to heat test tubes and flasks, as well as sterilize equipment.
Incubators
Incubators are devices that maintain a constant temperature and humidity level, as well as provide a sterile environment, for growing cells or cultures. They are frequently used in biology and microbiology labs to culture and study microorganisms.
Lab fridges
Lab fridges are specialized refrigerators used to store lab samples and materials at a consistent, low temperature. They are designed to maintain a stable temperature and prevent contamination, making them vital for preserving samples and reagents.
Cell counters
A cell counter is a laboratory instrument used to count the number of cells in a sample. It is an essential tool in many areas of biology and medicine, including hematology, immunology, and cancer research. Cell counters are used to analyze cell populations, monitor cell growth and viability, and detect changes in cell size and number.
Hot plates
A hot plate is a laboratory instrument used to heat substances in a container. It consists of a flat surface, typically made of aluminum or ceramic, that is heated using electricity or a heating element. Hot plates are commonly used in chemistry and biology laboratories to heat samples for a variety of purposes, including evaporating solvents, melting solids, and sterilizing media.
Centrifuges
A centrifuge is a laboratory instrument used to separate substances based on their weight. It consists of a rotor, or spinning arm, that spins at high speeds, creating a centrifugal force that eventually causes the denser components to form sediment at the bottom of a container while low-density components remain at the top. Centrifuges are commonly used in chemistry and biology laboratories to separate cells, proteins, and other substances for analysis.
Read more on: Laboratory centrifuge: The basic operation and maintenance.
Air samplers
Air samplers are devices used to collect and analyze air samples for the presence of contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, or chemical pollutants. Air sampling is crucial in evaluating microbial contamination in the air and is particularly used in various industries including food & beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, medical device production, and healthcare.
Lab plasticware
Lab plasticware is a type of lab equipment made of plastic, such as pipettes, test tubes, centrifuge tubes and Petri dishes. They are commonly used in labs to store, mix, process and transport samples and reagents and are often preferred over glassware due to their durability and versatility. Discover a comprehensive guide to selecting appropriate labware materials that match the specific needs of your laboratory.
