Sample Vials
Tubes and vials for general collection, storage, and transportation of samples; available in a variety of colors, sizes, volume capacities, and material compositions; may be sterile, non-sterile, and/or autoclavable; may include caps.
The term “vial” is somewhat undefined and is usually described as a small, cylindrical, and flat-bottomed container used to hold liquids. Most sample vials are made of plastic or glass, and include a separate or attached lid or closure. Sample vials are categorized by material and also by their size or specific purpose.
Glass sample vials are categorized by the type of glass used to make them.
- Type I, Class A glass sample vials are made from low-expansion borosilicate glass
- Type I, Class B glass sample vials are made from an alumino-borosilicate glass
- Type II are made from soda-lime glass
Plastic sample vials may be made from a variety of resins, including:
- Polycarbonate
- Polypropylene
- Polystyrene
- Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
- High-density polyethylene (HDPE)
Glass sample vials may be clear or amber-colored (to protect the contents from ultraviolet light). Plastic sample vials are available in a range of colors, including amber, natural, and clear resins.
Sample vials may have different types of closures, depending on their use and the material being stored.
- Screw caps
- For both glass and plastic sample vials
- May be closed or open
- Typically made from polypropylene or phenolic resin (with a variety of closure liners, including PE foam, PTFE, cork, tin, etc.)
- Flip-top
- Caps for plastic sample vials may be attached by a tether to the vial itself
- Also called “captive” closures
- Snap caps (external): Both glass and plastic sample vials
- Plug caps (internal): Both glass and plastic sample vials
Krackeler Scientific Wide Opening Screw Top Glass Vials
Versatile 12 x 32mm wide opening vials designed for autosamplers with rotating or robotic arm trays
Caplugs™ Evergreen Scientific Dilution Vials in Tray
Dilution vials provide accurate, hemolysis- and distortion-free cell and particle counts
Globe Scientific Polypropylene Transport Tubes
Designed for safe storage and transport of biological materials
Lovibond™ Type 2 Multi-Vials
Lovibond Type 2 Multi-Vials, Includes: Lids, Plastic, Sample Vial, Diameter Inner: 0.39 in., 10mm, Graduations: 5 and 10mL, Quantity: 12 Pack, Shape: Round
Globe Scientific Self-Standing Transport Tubes
Globe Scientific Inc. Self-Standing Transport Tubes with leak-resistant screw caps
Globe Scientific 4mL Tube with Screwcap and O-ring for Access™ Analyzer
Self-standing polypropylene tube/vial with cap for use with Beckman™ Access™ Analyzer
Globe Scientific Blood Cell Counting Vials
35mL capacity vial with snap cap
Glass Vials, Inc. Glass Sample Vial with TFE-Lined Cap
Flint glass with positive sealing, TFE-lined screw cap
Fisherbrand™ Polystyrene Containers
Ideal for storing dry materials, powders and tablets.