Custom Ampules in the Lab
What are Ampules and why use them?
Custom ampule-filling is one of Sarchem’s most popular services. This post will explore why ampules are so popular and their role in a variety of applications.
First, the basics: Labs Ampule are similar to vials and were developed in the 1500s for medicinal purposes. Ampules can preserve the contained material by extending the shelf life of the liquid or solid sample. Ampules are typically made from borosilicate glass and can be transparent or amber, with the latter used for light-sensitive samples. As opposed to plastic, glass is used for its resistance to chemicals and liquid solutions, heat sterilisation, and near-unlimited life span. Pre-scored ampules have a tightened stem for opening, removing the need for filing. Because both straight-stem and funnel-type ampules are open, sterilisation is required prior to filling.
Clients use Sarchem’s and custom ampule fillings to extend the shelf life of samples. Ampules are also versatile, as they can hold a range of materials (including compounds that are air—or water-sensitive) for varying applications in medical or analytical labs.
The Ampule Process
Custom ampule-filling must contain only the compound, not dirt or air. Using sterilised syringes and fillers, Sarchem custom fills each ampule on a calibrated scale. To get within 5 micrograms, Sarchem painstakingly measures and fills each ampule. Besides a steady hand, the task requires a sterilised environment and limited exposure to outside decontaminants. We also inject an inert gas (such as Argon) to ensure the material is 100% pure.
After being filled, the ampule goes straight to a belt under a flame to be sealed. Custom ampule-filling can be sealed using the tip-seal or pull-seal methods.
The tip-seal method involves melting the top of the glass. The lab ampule is placed on a belt that rotates it under a flame, giving it an excellent, rounded seal.
The pull-seal method melts the glass in the middle of the neck. With the glass melting, the lab ampule’s top is pulled off (from the neck) with a small, thin glass to create the seal.
Sarchem has the equipment and know-how to implement the pull-seal method while inserting inert gas, ensuring your kits will be contaminant-free.
Sarchem can produce lab ampules for various client types and sizes, including end-users that don’t require many ampules. Sarchem’s custom filling ranges from 81 ampules to tens of thousands. These are carefully packed to prevent breakage or leaking.
To get a quote or discuss your ampules project and custom ampules filling, please contact us at 1-844-SARCHEM or info@sarchemlabs.com