Laboratory safety ,biosafety ,biosecurity and instrumentation

Ndem Maxwel

HS21MLS0014

Level 200(MLS)

Assignment on Micropipette

Micropipettes are precision instruments used to measure and transfer small volumes of liquids in the
laboratory. They are essential tools in many scientific applications, including molecular biology,
biochemistry, and microbiology.

Principles of Micropipettes:

Micropipettes work on the principle of air displacement. They consist of a piston that moves up and
down within a calibrated barrel. As the piston moves up, it creates a vacuum that draws liquid into
the tip of the pipette. When the piston is depressed, it pushes the liquid out of the tip in a controlled
manner.

Types of Micropipettes:

There are two main types of micropipettes: single-channel and multichannel. Single-channel
micropipettes are used for transferring small volumes of liquid from one container to another.
Multichannel micropipettes can transfer multiple samples at once, making them ideal for high-
throughput applications.

How to Care for Micropipettes:

Proper care and maintenance of micropipettes are essential to ensure their accuracy and longevity.
Here are some tips for caring for your micropipettes:

1. Always use high-quality pipette tips that are compatible with your micropipette.

2. Avoid over-tightening the tip, as this can damage the pipette.

3. Clean the pipette regularly with a mild detergent and water.

4. Do not immerse the pipette in water or other liquids.

5. Keep the pipette in a safe place when not in use to prevent damage.

6. Calibrate your pipette regularly to ensure accuracy.

Maintenance of Micropipettes:

In addition to regular cleaning and calibration, there are some other maintenance tasks that you
should perform to keep your micropipette in good working order. These include:
1. Lubricating the piston with silicone grease to prevent sticking.

2. Replacing worn or damaged parts, such as o-rings and seals.

3. Checking the volume adjustment mechanism for smooth operation.

4. Storing the pipette in a protective case to prevent damage.

By following these tips for care and maintenance, you can ensure that your micropipette remains
accurate and reliable for years to come.