7 Basic Equipment Every Lab Has

The laboratory is an environment used to conduct experiments, testing, and analyzing data. To analyze and experiment, the right equipment is used. Having the right equipment and tools is essential to ensure successful and accurate results.

In this blog post, we will discuss seven crucial pieces of equipment that every laboratory should have. Here is the list of the 10 most vital equipment in any modern laboratory:

1. Microscope

A microscope in the laboratory is used to magnify specimens that are too tiny to be seen with the naked eye. This enables the study of cells, bacteria, and viruses. A microscope is a vital tool used in various fields, including biology, medicine, and forensics. It’s used for tasks like disease diagnosis, crime scene investigation, and tissue analysis. 

A microscope comes in various types, such as:

• Light microscopes
• Electron microscopes
• Confocal microscopes

2. Laboratory Snorkel Exhaust

A laboratory snorkel exhaust is used to capture localized fumes, remove heat, and control nuisance odors from a specific point in a laboratory. It features a flexible arm with a funnel-shaped inlet, best positioned directly over a source, such as a small benchtop apparatus. It’s helpful in capturing vapors that are not highly toxic or hazardous. 

3. Centrifuge

A centrifuge separates different components based on their densities by spinning them at high speeds. This process is essential for a wide range of applications, such as the extraction of DNA, the isolation of blood components, and the purification of proteins. Through centrifugal force, heavier elements are moved to the bottom of a tube, forming a pellet. At the same time, lighter substances remain in the liquid above.

4. Spectrophotometer

A spectrophotometer is used to measure the concentration of chemicals and identify unknown elements by measuring the amount of light a sample absorbs. This tool is used for both quantitative and qualitative analysis. Spectrophotometers are utilized in various fields, including biochemistry, environmental science, and pharmaceuticals.

Key uses of a spectrophotometer:

• Quantitative analysis
• Qualitative analysis
• Quality control
• Reaction monitoring
• Purity assessment

5. Incubator

An incubator is used to grow and maintain living cells, microorganisms, and other cultures. This process is done in a controlled, stable environment by regulating humidity, temperature, and atmospheric gases. It provides a necessary climate for research in fields such as cell and tissue culture, microbiology, and biochemistry. This method is also used for quality control and product testing in industries such as food and pharmaceuticals.

6. Autoclave

An autoclave is also a crucial equipment used in a laboratory to sterilize materials by exposing them to high-pressure steam, which kills microorganisms. Its basic uses include sterilizing glassware, instruments, and culture media. Decontaminating biohazardous waste for safe disposal. 

7. Balances (Analytical/Precision)

Analytical and precision balances are used to measure the mass of samples with high accuracy and precision. This is essential for research on reliable data, pharmaceuticals, and quality control. They are used for weighing small quantities of chemicals and conducting density and purity analyses. Balances are also used for preparing samples for testing and counting parts or finished products.