A pipettor is a device that is used to transfer and measure small quantities of liquids (typically 0.1-100uL). Pipettors are mainly used in scientific research departments like environmental protection, food hygiene, and medicine. This piston-type straw works using the air discharge principle.
Three Main Components of Pipettors
The typical pipettor has three main components including:
- Main body (holds the plunger)
- Plunger (pushed down to move the liquid)
- Pipette tip (part that contains the liquid)
While there are different types of pipettors, they operate on the same principle—the plunger will slide down the main body to push the liquid out of the pipette tip. Pipettors are also commonly used by scientists to prepare and conduct experiments. For instance, scientists use pipettors to:
- Dilute solutions and chemicals to accurately measure out the appropriate and safe dosage
- Transfer liquid samples from one container to another
- Conduct cell counts when creating cultures in the lab
- Dispense liquids onto slides when conducting research with biological specimens or when working with microscope cultures
- Transferring liquids from one container to another (when working with various tools in different areas of the lab)
In most of the cases above, the volume of liquid should be precise and accurate and pipettors are used for this purpose. In the medical field, pipettors are used to add intravenous solutions and medications during blood samples and vaccinations.