Float Rack

Polypropylene offers the ideal combination of properties for float rack applications: natural buoyancy (specific gravity < 1.0) ensures the rack floats at the water surface for proper tube immersion; excellent chemical resistance withstands exposure to buffers, reagents, and disinfectants; full autoclavability at 121°C enables sterilization for aseptic work; and durability ensures long service life despite repeated use. These properties make polypropylene the best material choice and the top rated for laboratory float racks.

Yes, these float racks are manufactured from polypropylene and are fully autoclavable at standard sterilization temperatures (121°C). They can be repeatedly autoclaved without degradation, making them suitable for sterile applications in microbiology, cell culture, and molecular biology. The alpha-numeric indexing and structural integrity are maintained through multiple autoclave cycles.

The surface of the rack features raised indexing with rows labeled alphabetically (typically A through D) and columns numbered (1 through 4), creating a grid of positions A1 through D4. This raised, permanently molded indexing allows easy identification of specific tube positions even when the rack is in the water bath. Laboratory personnel can record tube positions (e.g., Sample X in A3) in notebooks or electronic records, ensuring systematic sample tracking and preventing confusion—the best organizational system for traceability.

The central rod handle is designed for convenient, ergonomic lifting of the entire rack from hot water baths. Positioned at the racks center of gravity, it allows one-handed removal without burning fingers or disturbing tube positions. The handle remains cool enough for brief handling (or can be gripped with standard lab gloves) and provides secure control during transfer. This feature is particularly valuable when precise incubation times must be met.

These float racks are designed to accommodate standard micro centrifuge tubes, typically 1.5ml and 2.0ml sizes. The precision-molded holes provide a secure friction fit for these common tube types. They may also accommodate other tubes of similar diameter. For optimal performance, we recommend using standard micro centrifuge tubes from major laboratory suppliers.

The rack is engineered with optimized buoyancy distribution and a low center of gravity that ensures stable flotation even when tubes are unevenly loaded. The polypropylene material provides natural buoyancy, while the racks design prevents tipping or tilting that could lead to tube submersion or sample loss. This stability makes these racks the best choice for reliable water bath incubation.

Polypropylene offers excellent resistance to a wide range of laboratory chemicals including aqueous solutions, dilute acids and bases, alcohols, and many common laboratory reagents. However, prolonged exposure to strong oxidizing agents, concentrated acids, or some organic solvents may affect the material. For specific chemical compatibility, consult standard polypropylene resistance charts.

For routine cleaning, wash with mild laboratory detergent and warm water using a soft brush if needed, then rinse thoroughly with distilled water. For sterilization, autoclave at 121°C for standard cycles (typically 15-20 minutes). The racks can also be disinfected using standard laboratory disinfectants compatible with polypropylene. The non-porous surface resists contamination and simplifies cleaning.

Code 63201 is supplied in packs of 12 pieces. This economical pack quantity allows laboratories to have sufficient racks for multiple experiments, different water baths, or dedicated racks for specific applications (e.g., enzyme assays, cell culture, molecular biology). The 12-piece pack delivers exceptional value for busy laboratories.

Yes, the compact design of these float racks allows multiple racks to be used simultaneously in standard water baths. The racks float independently without interfering with each other, and their stable design prevents collisions or tipping. This allows laboratories to maximize water bath capacity for high-throughput applications.

Yes, polypropylene maintains its properties at water bath temperatures up to 100°C, making these racks suitable for use in boiling water baths. The material does not degrade or deform at these temperatures, and the central handle allows safe removal from boiling water. Always use appropriate personal protective equipment when handling racks from high-temperature baths.

These float racks are essential because they provide a reliable, reusable solution for water bath incubation of multiple samples simultaneously. In microbiology, they support culture incubation, heat-shock transformations, and enzyme assays. In immunology, they facilitate ELISA incubations, serological tests, and antibody labeling. The autoclavable construction ensures sterility, the alpha-numeric indexing enables sample tracking, and the ergonomic handle allows precise timing control—features that make them indispensable for these applications and the top rated choice among laboratory professionals.