What Is A Pipette Pump And Pipette Controller?

A pipette pump, also known as a pipette controller, is a handheld device used for precise and controlled aspiration and dispensing of liquids in the laboratory. It offers several key features that make it a versatile and efficient tool for liquid handling tasks. Here's an explanation of how a pipette pump works and its main features:

1. Operating Principle: A pipette pump utilizes a combination of air displacement and vacuum to control the movement of liquid. The pump consists of a body, a control button, and a nozzle attachment.

2. Suction and Dispensing: To aspirate liquid, the user attaches a disposable pipette tip to the nozzle of the pump. By pressing the control button, a vacuum is created within the pump, which draws the liquid into the pipette tip through a one-way valve. Releasing the control button stops the aspiration.

3. Volume Adjustment: Pipette pumps typically feature a volume adjustment mechanism that allows users to set the desired volume for aspiration or dispensing. This can be achieved through a rotating dial or a digital display.

4. Dispensing Modes: Pipette pumps offer different dispensing modes to accommodate various applications. These modes include blow-out, gravity, and reverse pipetting, allowing precise and controlled dispensing of liquids.

5. Ergonomic Design: Pipette pumps are designed with user comfort in mind. They feature an ergonomic shape and a comfortable grip to reduce hand fatigue during prolonged pipetting tasks. Some pumps also have a lightweight construction to enhance usability.

6. Compatibility: Pipette pumps are compatible with a wide range of pipette tip sizes and types, including standard and extended-length tips. This compatibility allows users to adapt the pump to their specific application requirements.

7. Dispensing Accuracy and Precision: Pipette pumps are engineered to provide high accuracy and precision in liquid handling. The volume adjustment mechanism and the quality of the internal components contribute to the reliable and consistent delivery of the desired volumes.

8. Rechargeable and Battery-powered Options: Many pipette pumps are available in rechargeable or battery-powered versions, offering flexibility in terms of portability and convenience.

9. Safety Features: Pipette pumps incorporate safety features to prevent liquid backflow and cross-contamination. These features may include hydrophobic filters and disposable barriers to protect the internal components from contamination.

10. Pipette Pump Manufacturers: There are various manufacturers specializing in pipette pumps and pipette controllers. Some notable manufacturers include Sanch, Eppendorf, Gilson, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and BrandTech. These manufacturers offer a range of models with different features and specifications to meet the diverse needs of laboratory users.

11. Versatility: Pipette pumps can handle a wide range of liquids, including aqueous solutions, viscous liquids, and volatile compounds. Their adjustable volume settings allow for precise aspiration and dispensing of different volumes, making them suitable for various applications.

Pipette pumps provide a user-friendly and efficient solution for accurate and controlled liquid handling in laboratory settings. Their combination of ergonomic design, volume adjustability, and compatibility with various pipette tips makes them indispensable tools for scientists and researchers in a wide range of applications, including molecular biology, cell culture, and analytical chemistry.