How Do I Choose the Best Beaker?

When choosing a beaker for science work or experiments, consider what material will be best for your needs. Unbreakable plastic is obviously safer to use, although glass is easily cleaned and disinfected, as well as being more resistant to stains. When selecting a beaker, choose the appropriate size to hold your chemicals. You can often find sales on scientific instrument sets that can be used for various projects. Buying beakers in bulk rather than individually can save you money in the long run.

Although a glass beaker set has advantages, such as durability, these can be expensive. Also, if you store unused beakers in boxes, glass is typically heavier to carry than plastic. If you need several flasks or beakers and do not want to spend a lot of money, consider buying plastic sets.

Beaker size will vary. Choosing a few different sizes will allow you to transfer liquids from one cylinder to another. You can buy a relatively inexpensive graduated set online or at scientific stores.

For affordability, choose high-grade plastic instead of glass. For added convenience, consider a beaker with a measuring scale indicator on the side. In addition to using them for scientific or lab work, a graduated plastic set is practical for other projects, such as making homemade cosmetics and essential oils.

If you require a beaker that can be used over an open flame, you'll need one that is made with heat resistant or tempered glass. Be certain the glass is made to withstand high temperatures and is shock resistant as well. For extra security, choose beakers that are made with double walled construction and casing. You should never use a plastic beaker over an open flame. Look for beakers and cylinders that are also chemically resistant and dishwasher safe.

Familiarize yourself with the terminology used for scientific equipment. Boiling tubes are beakers made with heavy duty materials, while thistle tubes include a stopper. Flared rim tubes are convenient for pouring substances. Griffin beakers are typically short and wide, while the Berzelius model is a taller, more slender tube. Test tube beakers are typically constructed with a flat bottom for storing on a specially designed base.

When choosing a beaker set, you should make your selection carefully. For sanitary reasons, beakers are not typically returnable. This is due to the possibility of contamination from bacteria or harmful chemicals.