- Cleaning With the Proper Materials
Over 80% of labs in the U.S. count paper towels as one of their most-used cleaning supply, it’s important to remember that certain cleaning agents can actually leave a residue behind.
Paper towels, for example, may deposit microscopic fibers in the tubes and vessels they’ve wiped, rendering future chemicals less pure than otherwise thought. For chemical-specific laboratories, investing in no-remnant cleaning techniques like ultrasonic cleaners, glassware washers, and specially designed wiping cloths can be well worth it, particularly for research that calls for high-purity chemicals. - Regular Calibration of Equipment
Periodical calibration of equipment is critical for chemical applications. Calibrated equipment not only ensures accuracy of measurements and testing, it can improve safety in the lab when hazardous chemicals are involved. In most labs, regular calibration should be considered as part of a normal maintenance routine and should be carried out by an independent calibration specialist quarterly, if not more often. - Record Keeping and Testing of Processing Equipment
In chemical labs that deal often with particularly volatile reactions (i.e. pressurized gas, electrical reactions, etc.) regular inspection of operational components is essential. In particular, pressure vessels should be labeled individually, and precise records should be maintained regarding everything from their maximum allowable temperature to burst diagrams. Remember that corrosive and/or hazardous reactors require more frequent inspections and recordings.
There are dozens of maintenance steps specific to any lab. Even the chemicals used in a single experiment can dictate how machinery and glassware should be cleaned, handled, and inspected.
Well-maintained lab equipment lasts longer, operates more efficiently, and produces more reliable results. Most importantly, it’s safer to work with. As a leader in scientific equipment repair and medical equipment calibration, Scientific Instrument Center works with many corporations, universities and hospitals providing the highest level of laboratory services. Contact us today to find out how we can keep your equipment performing to industry codes and regulations.
