When the scale knob of the rotating pipette encounters resistance, or the scale pointer does not move at all, these problems will directly cause the pipette to be unable to accurately control the liquid volume, which will have a negative impact on the accuracy and repeatability of the experimental results. In response to this situation, the following will introduce in detail the possible reasons for the difficulty in adjusting the pipette scale, and propose a series of practical solutions to help laboratory workers quickly restore the normal operation of the pipette and ensure the smoothness of the experimental process.
1. Check whether the pipette is damaged: (1) The volume adjustment of the pipette is usually achieved by rotating the handle or the scale knob. If the scale cannot be adjusted, first check whether the pipette is damaged. (2) You can try to insert the pipette into the liquid to check whether there is liquid leakage. If liquid leaks out, there may be a problem with the pipette's seal and the pipette needs to be replaced. 2. Check whether the scale knob or handle is installed correctly: (1) The scale knob or handle of the pipette needs to be installed correctly to adjust the range normally. (2) Check whether the connection between the scale knob or handle and the pipette is tight. If it is loose, it needs to be reinstalled. 3. Check whether the pipette pipe is blocked: (1) Blockage of the pipette pipe may also cause the scale to be unable to be adjusted. (2) You can try to insert the pipette into the distilled water and repeat the operation of inhaling and pushing out the distilled water several times to clear the blockage in the pipe. 4. Check whether the pipette is clean: (1) The pipette needs to be cleaned regularly to maintain its normal working condition. (2) If the pipette is not cleaned, the volume adjustment may be affected. You can use a cleaning solution such as deionized water or alcohol to clean the pipette, and repeat the operation of inhaling and discharging the cleaning solution several times until it is clean. 5. Avoid problems caused by improper operation: (1) When adjusting the pipette scale, correct operation methods should be followed. (2) Especially when adjusting from a small volume to a large volume, you should first turn the scale knob clockwise to a scale that exceeds the measurement range, and then adjust it back to the set volume. (3) Avoid tapping the pipette on the tip box to install the tip, which may cause internal accessories to loosen or the scale to get stuck. 6. Check the internal mechanical device: (1) If the above methods are ineffective, there may be a malfunction in the internal mechanical device of the pipette. (2) At this time, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer or professional maintenance personnel for inspection and repair. 7. Regular maintenance and upkeep: (1) Regular cleaning, calibration and maintenance of pipettes can extend their service life and maintain stable performance.
Although the problem of pipette scale adjustment may seem trivial at first, in fact it has a significant and non-negligible impact on the accuracy of experimental results and the smooth conduct of the experiment. Wear of mechanical parts, accumulation of dirt, and irregular operating habits can all lead to problems with the pipette scale not being able to adjust. Only by observing the daily use and maintenance of pipettes, following correct operating procedures, and performing regular maintenance and calibration can the occurrence of such problems be reduced.
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