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3 Questions to Ask Yourself When Buying a Lab Glassware Washer

Glassware washers come in a variety of configurations and sizes

by Lab Manager
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3 questions to ask yourself when buying a lab glassware washer

Maintenance Tip: Glassware Washers

Just keeping the inside of your lab glassware washer clean is an important part of keeping it working properly. That includes cleaning the filter screen for any debris that’s collected, as not doing so will cause pump problems, and the tank itself should also be cleaned. Users should be careful with how they load the washer, for example, making sure they load the washer in such a way that the spray arm isn’t blocked.

How will sample throughput volume influence which type of glassware washer is needed?

Glassware washers come in a variety of configurations and sizes. For instance, if the amount of glassware to be washed is minimal, then an under-counter standard capacity washer is ideal and will also free up valuable floor space. Alternatively, if sample throughput is high, bringing with it an increased amount of glassware to be washed, then a large capacity floor-standing washer may be needed.

How will the sensitivity of the analysis equipment influence which type of glassware washer is required?

If the glassware is going to be used for preparation of samples which will be run on highly sensitive equipment (such as mass spectrometers), then some additions may be required in order to ensure contamination does not occur. Many companies now make glassware washers tailored to such processes. These systems involve high purity water, high temperatures, and forced air drying using HEPA filters to ensure airborne particles do not cause an issue. Many of these systems also include the ability to print out the settings used to wash the glassware, ensuring the proper settings were used for the process.

How does the speed glassware is required to be back in service affect which glassware washer is best?

Depending on the process and deadlines of the laboratory, different drying methods can be utilized to ensure quick turnaround of glassware. Traditionally, gravity convection drying elements are used in glassware washing systems, which can consume more energy to heat the elements than current models. Newer models come equipped to use HEPA filtered forced air to dry glassware. On top of increasing throughput, HEPA filtered forced air will also ensure no airborne contaminants compromise glassware cleanliness.


Start your glassware washer search at LabManager.com/ProductFinder/Glassware-Washers