Common Maintenance Issues with Laboratory Syringes 

Laboratory syringes are used for accurate measurement and administration of fluids in medical, laboratory, and industrial settings. Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure their functionality and accuracy. Here we will examine some common maintenance issues you may encounter with your reusable laboratory syringes.

Sticking Plunger

If the plunger doesn’t move smoothly and freely along the barrel, you may have dried residue inside the barrel or inadequate lubrication. This can affect dosing accuracy. Regular cleaning and lubrication can help prevent this issue. Alternatively, your plunger may be bent, creating resistance as you advance it along the syringe barred. Inspect it for any deviations along the plunger shaft. Alternatively, your plunger may be bent, creating resistance as you advance it along the syringe barred; inspect for any deviations along the plunger shaft.

Leakage

if the syringe barrel, plunger, or seals are damaged or worn, you may experience leaking. Leaks compromise accurate dosing and can lead to contamination. Inspect your laboratory syringe for visible damage and ensurethat it is properly assembled.

Worn Graduations and Markings

With repeated use, regular cleaning, or even exposure to certain chemicals, the graduations on the syringe barrel may wear off, affecting accurate measurement. If the markings are unreadable, replace the syringe.

Corrosion or Chemical Damage

Some chemicals can corrode the seals and other components in your laboratory syringes. Always choose the appropriate syringe when working with such chemicals. When you finish, promptly rinse your syringe thoroughly to ensure its longevity.

Clogging

Particulate matter suspended in the fluid used in a laboratory syringe may settle or solidify, clogging the syringe tip or barrel. Clogging can lead to inaccurate dosing or even malfunction.  Regular cleaning and thorough rinsing after use helps prevent clogging.

Plunger Seal Damage

If the seal at the end of the plunger is worn or damaged, the syringe may leak, resulting in inaccurate dosing. Regularly inspect the seal for signs of wear or deterioration.

Broken Parts

Dropping or mishandling syringes can break the barrel, the plunger, or the needle, rendering the syringe unusable and posing safety risks. Handle syringes with care.

Inadequate Sterilization

In medical and laboratory settings, improper sterilization can lead to contamination and the spread of infections. Follow proper sterilization protocols to ensure safe and hygienic use.

Misalignment or Improper Assembly

Incorrect assembly of syringe components can lead to malfunction, leakage, or inaccurate dosing. Always ensure proper alignment and assembly.

Worn or Damaged Luer Lock Threads

Luer lock syringes have threads that connect the needle or other accessories. Over time, these threads can wear down or become damaged, affecting the secure attachment of components. If the Luer lock is damaged, replace the syringe.

Fading Barrel Transparency

Some syringe barrels are made of transparent materials to allow easy viewing of your sample. Over time, these materials can become grazed, cloudy, or scratched, hindering clear visibility. Replace the syringe.

 

 

Maintaining your laboratory syringes is not merely a matter of extending their operational lifetime. It’s critical to the quality of your results and the safety of your lab environment. A well-maintained lab syringe ensures accurate measurements and precise dispensing, which are cornerstones of any successful laboratory experiment or operation. Conversely, a neglected or compromised syringe can introduce error and variability, skewing results and potentially leading to incorrect conclusions.

If you inspect your syringes regularly, clean them properly, store them appropriately, and adhere to manufacturer guidelines, you will ensure the longest life for your laboratory syringes, and the best outcomes for your applications. If a syringe is damaged, compromised, or no longer accurate, it's important to replace it promptly. If you have any questions about WPI syringes, give us a call at (866) 606-1974 or email us at [email protected].

 

 

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