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Vial Inserts
Vial inserts are an optional add-on for vials that can be used to flexibly adapt shapes, materials and filling quantities to a specific application. They offer numerous advantages, especially when it comes to handling small sample volumes and avoiding sample loss.
Vial inserts are available in various shapes, sizes and materials to meet the different requirements in chromatography. The most common materials are glass and plastic.
Technical Data
When does it make sense to use an insert?
A vial does not necessarily have to be used together with an insert. However, in some cases it can be a great advantage or even essential. The three most important reasons for using an insert are therefore listed below.
1. You work with very small sample volumes
Standard vials typically have a usable volume of 1.5 ml and more, which makes them unsuitable for use with sample volumes in the µl range. This can be remedied by using an insert. These are available with a capacity of 100 - 500 µl and are sometimes provided with filling lines, which facilitates the filling process and contributes to better reproducibility.
2. You need a conical base for your application
Vials with a conical base taper towards the bottom so that the entire sample volume can be taken up with a needle tip without leaving any residue, which can be a great advantage in applications with an autosampler. However, handling is somewhat more difficult, as special holders are essential for a firm stand. The use of a conical insert in a vial with a flat base is simple, combining the above-mentioned advantages with the stability of a flat bottom.
3. You want to combine the advantages of two materials
The use of an insert prevents direct contact between your sample and the wall of the vial. This means that only the material of the insert must be compatible with your sample and the vial material can be freely selected. A typical combination is the use of a glass insert in a plastic vial. The plastic is less susceptible to breakage due to impact than glass and the insert is inert to organic solvents, resulting in an extremely robust vessel for organic sample solutions. Depending on the application, other material combinations may also be suitable.
Inserts with springs or feet
Inserts for vials are also available in a version with a spring (also called feet) made of elastic plastic. This variant is particularly common for conical bases. The use of a spring can offer the following advantages:
- Automatic centring of the insert in the vial
- Cushioning and protection of the insert
- Easy filling, as the insert stands above the vial rim when the spring is relaxed
- Prevents needle bending
If you have not yet selected a vial for your application or would like more information, please visit our page on vials.
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