Micropipette Guide 2024 Types, Applications and More.pdf

The Accumax Micropipette Guide is your essential resource for mastering precise liquid handling with micropipettes. This comprehensive guide covers everything from choosing the right micropipette and tips to understanding their proper use and maintenance. Designed for accuracy and ease, the guide includes detailed information on various micropipette models and tips, helping you make informed decisions for your laboratory needs. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to micropipetting, this guide offers valuable insights to enhance your pipetting skills and ensure reliable results.

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Micropipette
Guide 2024: Types,
Applications and
More

2. Micropipettes or pipettes, are instruments used to
measure liquid ranging between volumes of 1-10000 µl
and transfer it from one sample container to another.
This is a basic liquid-handling instrument for almost all
scientific laboratories.
Types of Micropipettes
There is no 1 way to classify micropipettes. It can vary in
a number of ways.
1. Number of Channels
Single Channel Micropipettes
A single-channel micropipette has only 1 channel to
aspirate and dispense the liquid. It means you can handle
only one sample at a time.

3. Multi-Channel Micropipettes
Multi-channel micropipettes can handle 8, 12 or 16 samples in one
go. It can attach multiple tips at the same time and you can get
the work done faster especially if working in high-throughput labs.
2. Volume Adjustment
Fixed Volume Micropipettes
Here the volume a pipette can aspirate and dispense remains
the same and you don’t have the option to adjust or choose
between a range. They offer consistent and accurate results
for repetitive pipetting.

4. Variable Volume Micropipettes
Variable volume pipettes give you the flexibility to choose the volume you want to pipette (within the
given range). You need to set the volume manually on the dial. High-performance pipettes also come with
a volume lock feature for enhanced safety and reliability.

5. 3. Operating Mechanism
Mechanical Pipettes
These are the standard pipettes widely used in all laboratories. Mechanical
micropipettes operate on a piston-driven system, where users manually
set the desired volume using a dial and apply thumb pressure on the
plunger to aspirate and dispense liquids.
Electronic Micropipettes
Electronic micropipettes are more expensive than
mechanical ones because they have digital controls,
programmability and eliminates the element of human error
to a certain extent. It has an electronic display and is ideal
for high-throughput labs where reproducibility is paramount.

6. Components of Micropipette
Plunger
The plunger is one of the main components of the micropipette. Use your thumb to press down on the
plunger to aspirate and dispense the liquid.
Then, with a firmer push, sometimes called the “blow-out stop,” it ensures a thorough expulsion of any
remaining liquid, guaranteeing accurate measurements—a two-step process of liquid control.
Ergonomics are a key point here since lab professionals will be pipetting repeatedly for long hours. A low-
force mechanism which does not require excessive plunge force, will minimize the RSI.
Volume Adjustment Dial
By twisting the volume adjustment dial, you dictate the micropipette’s plunger movement, determining
your experiment’s liquid dosage. In micropipettes with adjustable volumes, this feature offers precise
measurement control, no matter how small or large the quantity is.
Tip Ejector
Keep your hands and micropipette clean by disposing of used tips promptly. Utilize the convenient tip
ejector button to effortlessly remove micropipette tips, ensuring a fuss-free and contamination-free
experiment environment.

7. Tip Ejector
Keep your hands and micropipette clean by disposing of used tips promptly. Utilize the convenient
tip ejector button to effortlessly remove micropipette tips, ensuring a fuss-free and
contamination-free experiment environment.
Tip Cone
The tip cone, also known as the shaft, is the crucial component of a micropipette where the
disposable tip is inserted. Its primary function is to ensure a snug fit for the tip, ensuring precision
in measurements and preventing air leakage. Its adaptable shape accommodates various sizes
and styles of tips, allowing for versatile and secure usage without concerns of detachment or
disruptions.
Calibration Screw
Inside the micropipette lies a crucial component, the calibration screw. This is what makes
accuracy possible. Twisting this tiny screw adjusts the liquid output, fine-tuning the
micropipette’s performance. Regular checks and tweaks, as advised by the manufacturer, ensure
precision in your measurements, keeping everything flowing smoothly.

8. Calibration Screw
Inside the micropipette lies a crucial component, the calibration
screw. This is what makes accuracy possible. Twisting this tiny
screw adjusts the liquid output, fine-tuning the micropipette’s
performance. Regular checks and tweaks, as advised by the
manufacturer, ensure precision in your measurements, keeping
everything flowing smoothly.
Applications of Micropipettes in Laboratory
Micropipettes are used to measure any small amount of liquid
samples for testing and research. They are crucial in lab
settings like molecular biology and diagnostics, precisely
transferring tiny liquid volumes, facilitating diverse
experiments. Mastery of their principles is key to effective
scientific research and analysis.

9. Some common applications include:
1. Molecular Biology
2. Biochemistry
3. Cell Culture
4. Microbiology
5. Analytical Chemistry
6. Clinical Diagnostics
7. Pharmaceutical Research
How does a Micropipette work?
Micropipettes operate on the principle of air displacement. They consist of a plunger connected
to an internal piston, which moves to two distinct positions:
Filling Position: When the plunger is depressed to the first stop, the internal piston displaces
a volume of air equal to the desired volume shown on the volume indicator dial. This creates a
vacuum, drawing the liquid into the tip.
Dispensing Position: The second stop on the plunger is used solely for dispensing the
contents of the tip without drawing in additional air.

10. How to use a micropipette?
1. Start with choosing the right micropipette and micropipette tips
Select the one that is best for your application. While pipettes are similar in the way they function,
what sets them apart is the accuracy and precision of the measurement, ergonomics and general
durability of the instrument.
Set the volume based on your requirement and ensure the tips match the volume of the pipettes.
2. Attach the micropipette tip to the micropipette
Don’t use excessive force here because good quality pipettes will be quick and seamless to
attach to the tips and should provide a leak-proof seal.
Immerse the pipette in the liquid at 90 degrees
Be mindful of your posture and keep the position upright.
Aspirate and dispense 2-3 times before actually measuring the liquid

11. 3. Forward or Reverse Pipetting
First let’s talk about forward pipetting:
To aspirate the liquid in the tip, press the plunger
to the first stop. Immerse the pipette tip vertically
in the liquid.
Slowly release the plunger while the tip is
immersed. The liquid will be aspirated into the
pipette tip.
To dispense the liquid, place the tip on the inner
wall of the receiving vessel at a steep angle
Slowly press the plunger to the first stop to
dispense the liquid.
To empty the tip completely, press the plunger to
the second stop.

12. Now for reverse pipetting
The reverse technique is suitable for dispensing reagents/solutions that have high
viscosity or a tendency to foam easily. It is also recommended for dispensing very small
volumes.
To aspirate the liquid in the tip, press the plunger to the second stop and immerse the
pipette tip vertically in the liquid.
Slowly release the plunger while the tip is immersed. The liquid will be aspirated into the
pipette tip.
To dispense the liquid, place the tip on the inner wall of the tube at a steep angle.
Slowly press the plunger to the first stop.
Finally, eject the tip and dispose it off

13. Calibration of Micropipettes
Calibration is conducted through gravimetric testing, which involves weighing the amount
of pure water delivered in a single operation of the pipette. The obtained mass is divided by
the density of water to determine its volume. Variable volume pipettes should undergo
testing at three or more points across their designated range, typically at maximum volume,
50% of maximum volume, and the lower limit of their range.
Here’s a general guide on how to calibrate a micropipette:
1. Gather Materials
Micropipette(s) to be calibrated
Appropriate pipette tips
Distilled water or a calibration solution
Weighing balance with appropriate accuracy (usually in milligrams)
Gloves and lab coat for safety

14. 5. Set the Micropipette to the Desired Volume
Adjust the micropipette to the volume you want to calibrate (e.g., if calibrating a 10-100
μL micropipette, set it to 50 μL).
6. Dispense Liquid into a Weighing Boat or Container
Dispense the liquid from the micropipette into a weighing boat or a container placed on
a weighing balance.
Note down the initial weight (W1) of the liquid dispensed.
7. Weigh the Dispensed Liquid
Carefully weigh the liquid dispensed using the weighing balance. Ensure the balance is
calibrated and accurate.
Record the final weight (W2) of the liquid.
8. Calculate the Dispensed Volume
Subtract the initial weight (W1) from the final weight (W2) to determine the weight of
the liquid dispensed (W).
Convert the weight of the liquid dispensed to volume using the density of the liquid or
the known density of the calibration solution.

15. 9. Compare with Expected Volume
Compare the calculated volume dispensed with the expected volume (e.g., 50 μL for a
10-100 μL micropipette).
Calculate the percent error to assess the accuracy of the micropipette calibration:
10. Adjust if Necessary
If the percent error is within an acceptable range (typically ±2-5%), the micropipette is
calibrated. Otherwise, adjustments may be needed.
Consult the micropipette’s user manual for instructions on how to adjust the volume
settings. Adjust carefully and recheck the calibration until the desired accuracy is
achieved.

16. 11. Record Calibration Data
Keep a record of the calibration process, including the micropipette serial number, date
of calibration, volume settings, calibration solution used, measured weights, calculated
volumes, and any adjustments made.
12. Final Checks
After calibration, perform a final check to ensure the micropipette is dispensing
accurately and consistently across the volume range.
When is micropipette calibration required?
Micropipette calibration is typically required in the following situations:
Initial Use
New micropipettes should be calibrated before their initial use to ensure accuracy and
precision.

17. After Maintenance or Repair
Calibration should be performed after any maintenance or repair work on the micropipette
to verify that it meets the required specifications.
Change in Operating Conditions
If there is a significant change in the operating conditions, such as temperature or altitude,
recalibration may be necessary to account for these factors’ effects on the micropipette’s
performance.
Compliance Requirements
Laboratories may have regulatory or quality assurance requirements that mandate regular
calibration of micropipettes to ensure traceability and compliance with standards.

18. Where do we get the best micropipette for the lab?
When purchasing a micropipette for your lab, consider key factors such as accuracy,
precision, ergonomics, and ease of maintenance. Research the brands and models,
compare specifications, and read user reviews to make an informed decision. Evaluate
additional features like adjustable volume settings and compatibility with automation
systems. Set a budget and balance costs with desired features. Check warranty coverage
and customer support options for added peace of mind.
Cleaning and Maintenance of Micropipettes
1. External Cleaning
Remove and Clean the Tip Ejector: Begin by detaching the tip ejector and giving it a
thorough wipe-down.
Wipe Down All Exposed Surfaces: Take a lint-free cloth or tissue and carefully wipe all
visible parts of the micropipette, including the body, buttons, operating rod, and tip
holder. Be diligent in cleaning any scuffs, marks, or accumulated debris in hard-to-reach
areas.

19. 2. Internal Cleaning
Cleaning the inside of a pipette should be handled by trained personnel to avoid incorrect
reassembly, which can damage the micropipette and affect its performance, leading to
decreased accuracy and potential leakage.
Disassemble the Micropipette: Carefully take apart the pipette, placing the upper part in
a clean, dry area.
Wipe with Alcohol-Coated Wipes: Use alcohol-coated wipes to thoroughly clean the
entire interior, including the body, connecting nut, tip holder, O-ring, seal, and the
stainless steel surface of the piston. Ensure the piston is completely dry to prevent
corrosion.
Allow Alcohol to Evaporate: Let the alcohol evaporate fully from the interior of the
pipette.
Check for Lubrication Needs: Refer to the instruction manual to determine if any parts,
like the piston assembly and seals, require lubrication. Follow the manual’s guidance for
reassembly, ensuring proper alignment and placement of components.

20. Maintaining Micropipettes
When the pipette is not in use it should be stored in an upright position. The pipette should
be inspected prior to use each day for any dust or contamination on outside surfaces.
Special attention should be given to the tip cone. No solvent other than isopropanol should
be used to clean the pipette. If the pipette is used daily, an internal parts inspection should
be performed every three months.
Choosing the right micropipette for your application
Ensure that the micropipette can accommodate the desired range of liquid volumes for
your pipetting needs.
Verify if the micropipette features a universal tip cone to accommodate various types
of pipette tips.
Check if the micropipette is autoclavable at the necessary temperature to ensure
proper sterilization.
Check if the micropipette is UV resistant so that they can be kept inside the hood even
when the UV mode is on.

21. Accumax Lab Devices specializes in manufacturing high-precision liquid handling
instruments for top-tier laboratories worldwide. With a focus on innovation, it offers an
advanced range of micropipettes designed to enhance user experience within real-world
laboratory settings. Especially our range of FAB and FAB LF pipettes, which are specially
designed for accuracy and precision with excellent ergonomics to elevate your pipetting
experience like never before.
Read More: https://www.accumaxlab.com/micropipette-guide/

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[email protected]
[phone]/25

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