Comprehensive Guide To The Different Types of Test Tube Racks

Test tubes are an essential element of laboratories. These act as containers for different solutions to perform all types of tests on them. As the lower part of the test tubes has rounded structures, you cannot keep them directly on the flat surfaces of countertops. There are different test tube racks and holders that are available in the market, and you can check once and then buy them for your lab. The rack is needed so that the test tube stands erect, it does not fall down and break, or there is no spillage of chemicals.

There are different types of Test Tube Racks available in the market nowadays. These are very beneficial during the laboratory works as:

1. Racks allow keeping multiple test tubes simultaneously without spilling the materials inside and maintaining equal gaps.

2. Organizing the test tubes gets easier with these racks, as these have rounded hole-like structures to provide accurate support to the test tubes.

Classification On The Basis Of Materials:

The nature of materials in use for the Various types of Test Tube Racks helps decide which one will be suitable for your work environment.

Wooden Test Tube Racks

The classic tube racks were undoubtedly comprising of wood.

1. These look vintage with classic elegance in the appearance

2. Nowadays, you can rarely use the for these undergo damages during autoclave sterilization procedures

3. You cannot sanitize properly, which triggers the growth of more bacteria.

4. Wood is traditional, but wood is heavy, durable and longlasting.

5. Wooden rectangular racks can work well to hold the tubes in proper place.

However, if you have other materials as options to choose for test tubes, then you should avoid the wooden one unless there is some specific need for a wooden rack.

Stainless Steel Racks

Stainless steel wires are one of the most effective building materials for the test tube racks. Among the numerous Types of Test Tube Racks, this one has special features like

1. Sterile

2. Non-corrosive to bodily fluids

3. Can stand through autoclave sterilization process without suffering any damages.

Plastic Test Tube Racks

Polypropylene is a common constituent material for the plastic test tube racks, along with the acrylic test tube racks and the Nalgene ones. Although it is easy to handle these Types of Test Tube Racks, but these can undergo damages very easily.

Aluminum Test Tube Racks

The price of aluminum is lower than the steel wires. Therefore, the aluminum test tube racks will be more cost-effective than the steel wire formats. You can get racks made of metal sheets, and also opt for three row arrangement, so that a greater number of test tubes can be accommodated.

Foam Test Tube Racks

If you are looking for the economic Types of Test Tube Racks, then the foam racks can be a pleasing option.

1. They are flexible enough to accommodate various types and sizes of test tubes. The right racks are of much help to researchers, scientists and educators in different fields.

2. Can float in water baths

But you cannot sterilize them in the autoclaves, and these racks are prone to quick wear and tear.

Types based on designs

There are several Types of Test Tube Racks depending on the designs of the racks. The common ones are:

Interlocking Cube Form

In this version of the racks, there will be several cubes of racks that you can detach, and twist based on the side that you need to use.

Stackable Rack

You can place one on top of the other if you are using this type of racks using the secondary frame or chassis.

Classic Racks

These are the usual ones with a different number of holes ranging from 8 to 10 to 12.

The above guide will definitely help you buy suitable racks for laboratory use.