lab forceps

lab forcepsOne of the most common surgical instruments in a laboratory is lab forceps or tweezers. Thumb forceps used in a lab come in various lengths, and the tips can be straight, curved, angled, or angled on the side. They can be made of stainless steel, German steel, Dumoxel, Dumastar, or titanium. They can have smooth tips, serrated tips, or teeth. They are even available with tungsten carbide inserts. Each style has its own purpose.

In general, however, lab forceps are used to handle and transfer small objects, such as samples, solid materials, or delicate components. The fine tips of forceps allow for precise manipulation and control. For now, here's a quick rundown of some of the popular applications for lab forceps in various types of labs.

Biology Labs

In biological laboratories, surgical forceps are used during dissection and surgical procedures for manipulating tissues, organs, and small structures. When working under a microscope, lab forceps are used to position specimens, slides, cover slips, or other microscopic components without touching them directly, minimizing contamination and damage. Lab forceps are used to collect small organisms, plant parts, or fragile samples, particularly in biological and environmental research. In fields like microbiology or clinical laboratories, sterile forceps are used to handle sterile materials, such as agar plates, sterile swabs, or sterile packaging, to maintain aseptic conditions. Forceps are used in botany and plant research for the delicate manipulation of plant specimens, such as collecting tiny seeds, handling fragile plant parts, or dissecting flowers. Entomologists use lab forceps for handling insects, arthropods, or delicate specimens during collection, identification, and mounting.

Electronics Lab

Electronics and engineering labs use forceps for delicate assembly work, such as positioning small components, inserting wires, or adjusting circuitry. They provide dexterity and precision for intricate tasks. If you are cleaning laboratory equipment, fine forceps are helpful in removing debris, adjusting components, or reaching inaccessible areas.

Jewelry & Gemology

Forceps with fine, delicate tips are used for jewelry making, gemology, and watchmaking to handle precious stones, and small components with care and precision.

Art Restoration

Lab forceps can be used for handling delicate artwork, removing fragments or residues, or applying small amounts of adhesives or consolidants during art restoration.

Forensics

Forensic investigators use forceps for careful handling of evidence, such as fibers, hair, or small objects found at crime scenes, to avoid contamination or damage.

Veterinary Clinics

In a veterinary setting, forceps are used during surgeries, dental procedures, or wound treatment in animals.

Lab forceps are a versatile surgical instrument, which can be used for hundreds of applications involving the precision handling of small components. Always clean your forceps after each use, and if contamination or pathogens are important in your application, properly sterilize your lab forceps using a chemical sterilant or an autoclave. If you have any questions about laboratory forceps, email us at [email protected].

 

See Selection of Lab Forceps