Many people use the terms pipettor and pipette interchangeably since they sound similar. There’s also the misconception that both have the same function or purpose. Understandably, unless you work in a clinic or laboratory, you will find it tricky distinguishing one from the other.
Pipettors are considered just as valuable as pipettes when it comes to handling liquid samples in clinics or laboratories. Also known as pipette controllers or pipettes aids, pipettors are suction devices that suck liquid and transfer them into the pipette.
Pipettors: What are the Different Types?
Some of the pipettors that are available in the market nowadays include:
- Pipette pump. This kind of pipette is used to expel liquid and siphon.
- Triple-valve pipettor. This type comes with three buttons. One button displaces the air from the valve while another button draws fluid from the pipette. The third button will expel the liquid.
- Electronic pipettor. This gives users more control when it comes to liquid handling and transfer.
The Benefits of Using a Pipettor
Pipettors are designed to ensure that users will have better control when handling small amounts of liquid before they are transferred to a pipette. In some cases, it can be difficult to remove the contents of the pipette. In other scenarios, it can be tricky to move liquid from one container to another.
Using a pipettor can help warrant the risk of contamination is significantly lessened as it ensures liquid is handled securely and separately. Using a pipettor also helps prevent hand fatigue especially if it comes with electronic controls and an ergonomic design that allow the users to relax their hands.
All the Basics About Pipettors
Manual pipettors are considered durable and can be maintained easily. However, electronic pipettors offer the benefit of reduced force, minimal risk of repetitive stress injuries, and increased accuracy.
On the other hand, repeating electronic pipettes are useful in immunology, microbiology, and biochemistry. Single-channel pipettes are considered workhorses when it comes to liquid handling.
Multichannel pipettes are commonly used in ELISA and PCR applications. The number of channels of multichannel pipettes can range from 4 to 64.
