In daily laboratory work, pipettes are key tools for accurately transferring liquids, and their accuracy and stability are crucial. However, pipette leakage problems occur from time to time, which not only affects the accuracy of experimental results, but may also cause waste of experimental materials and even pose a threat to the safety of experimental personnel.
1. Common causes of pipette leakage 1. Mismatched pipette tip: The pipette tip (also called the suction tip) needs to match the pipette itself. If the tip is mismatched or damaged, it may cause a loose seal, causing leakage. Therefore, be sure to use tips that match your pipette model and check tips regularly for damage or wear. 2. Abnormal spring piston: The spring piston is one of the key components of the pipette, and its normal operation is crucial to the accuracy of pipetting. If the spring piston fails or becomes worn, sealing performance may deteriorate, causing leakage. At this time, you need to find professional maintenance personnel for inspection and repair. 3. Saturated vapor pressure problem: When the pipette is used to absorb volatile liquids (such as many organic solvents), the problem of saturated vapor pressure may be encountered. This may cause the liquid to evaporate and create bubbles during pipetting, affecting pipetting accuracy and causing leakage. To solve this problem, pipet the liquid several times to remove air bubbles before pipetting. 4. Aging or wear of the sealing gasket: The sealing gasket (such as the O-ring) of the pipette may age or wear over time, resulting in loose sealing and leakage. Therefore, aged or worn gaskets should be inspected and replaced regularly. 5. Insufficient piston lubrication: Insufficient lubrication between the piston and the sleeve may increase friction, leading to a decrease in sealing performance, thereby causing leakage. To ensure the normal operation of the pipette, components such as the piston and sleeve should be regularly lubricated with an appropriate amount of oil. 6. Improper installation of the suction head: If the suction head is not installed correctly or is installed too tight/too loose, it may cause leakage. Therefore, when installing the suction head, make sure to install it correctly according to the instructions and avoid being too tight or too loose. 7. Pipette contamination: If the inside of the pipette is contaminated, such as residual sticky substances or particles, it may also affect the sealing performance and cause leakage. Therefore, the outside and inside of the pipette (if applicable) should be cleaned regularly to avoid contamination and clogging. 8. Improper operation: Improper operations such as pipetting too quickly or the tip leaving the liquid surface too quickly may also cause leakage. Therefore, when using a pipette, you should follow operating procedures, such as moving the control button slowly, staying under the liquid surface for sufficient time, etc.
2. Measures to avoid pipette leakage 1. Choose the appropriate pipette tip: (1) Ensure that the pipette tip used matches the pipette model. (2) Avoid using damaged or worn tips. (3) Regularly check the integrity of the gun head and replace damaged gun heads in a timely manner. 2. Install the pipette tip correctly: (1) Install the pipette tip correctly according to the pipette operating instructions. (2) Do not install the pipette tip too tightly or too loosely to ensure the sealing between it and the pipette. 3. Keep the pipette clean: (1) Clean the outside and inside of the pipette regularly (if applicable) to avoid contamination and clogging. (2) Use special detergent or alcohol to wipe the pipette and make sure it is completely dry before use. 4. Inspect and maintain pipettes: (1) Regularly check whether the pipette's piston, spring, sealing gasket and other parts are intact. (2) If any abnormalities or wear are found, contact professional maintenance personnel for inspection and repair in time. (3) Replace aging gaskets and O-rings regularly. 5. Pay attention to operating specifications: (1) When sucking liquid, ensure that the suction head is completely immersed in the liquid, and avoid moving the control button too quickly. (2) When discharging liquid, ensure good contact between the suction head and the receiving container to avoid liquid splashing or leakage. (3) Avoid using excessive force when pipetting viscous or highly concentrated liquids to avoid damaging the pipette or causing leakage. 6. Use appropriate lubricant: (1) If the pipette piston needs lubrication, please use special lubricant and apply it according to the instructions. (2) Avoid using too much lubricant to avoid affecting the performance of the pipette. 7. Storage and maintenance: (1) Store the pipette in a dry, cool place, avoid direct sunlight and high temperature environment. (2) If the pipette will not be used for a long time, please disassemble and clean it before storing it. 8. Training operators: (1) Provide professional training to personnel who use pipettes to ensure that they understand the operation methods and precautions of pipettes. (2) Emphasize the importance and accuracy of pipettes to avoid leakage problems caused by improper operation.
Although the problem of pipette leakage is common, it is by no means unsolvable. By deeply understanding the common causes of liquid leakage and taking targeted preventive measures, we can not only significantly improve the accuracy of pipetting operations, but also effectively ensure the efficient use of experimental materials and the safety of experimental personnel. From choosing the right pipette tip to correct installation and maintenance, from keeping the pipette clean to following standardized experimental operations, every detail is crucial.
Related reading recommendations
Automated Elisa (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) using Opentrons pipetting stations
Opentrons8 channel GEN2 electronic pipette
User Manual: Opentrons Calibration Module
How to disassemble the pipette pipette
The experienced service team and strong production support team provide customers with worry-free order services.
