The Graduated Cylinder: Laboratory Guide

The graduated cylinder is a common laboratory instrument used to measur volume with high accuracy. This cylindrical container has graduated markings along its length that allows users to read the volume of the liquid being measured. Graduated cylinders come in different sizes and shapes, depending on their specific applications. From simple classroom experiments to complex research projects, the graduated cylinder has proven to be a versatile and indispensable tool in various scientific fields.

In this article, we will explore the different types of graduated cylinders, their applications, and how to use and maintain them for accurate measurements.

Graduated cylinder manufacturers

• VWR International: https://us.vwr.com
• Kimble Chase: https://www.dwklifesciences.com
• Bel-Art: https://www.belart.com
• Fisher Scientific: https://www.fishersci.com
• Wilmad-LabGlass: https://wilmad-labglass.com

What is a graduated cylinder and what is it for?

It is a fairly common piece in the materials of in addition, it has a narrow cylindrical shape. It gets its name because it has a graduated scale represented in several well-marked lines, which reflect the amount of liquid it contains. Its main utility it is the one to measure volumes of liquids accurately.

What is a graduated cylinder made of?

In general terms graduated cylinders are made of plastic which provides them greater lightness and less fragility than glass. They can be found made of polymethylpentene which has a special feature of being more transparent. Compared to polypropylene which is a little more opaque but it has great resistance to chemicals.

Although being made of plastic provides them with certain advantages, it also gives them some disadvantages. For example polypropylene is very easy to sterilize and has resistance to multiple sterilizations. However al sterilized at a temperature above 121°C can melt and affect its accuracy.

The graduated cylinders which are made of glass they also have their advantages since they are chemically inert. And if they are borosilicate glass has much more resistance than glass normal to what heat shock is.

Types of Graduated Cylinders:

There are two main types of graduated cylinders: the tall form and the short form.

1. Tall Form Graduated Cylinder: This type of graduated cylinder is characterized by its tall, narrow shape, which makes it suitable for measuring large volumes of liquids accurately. The markings on the cylinder are evenly spaced, making it easy to read and record measurements.
2. Short Form Graduated Cylinder: This type of graduated cylinder has a wider base and a shorter height, making it more stable and less prone to tipping over. It is used for measuring smaller volumes of liquids accurately, and the markings on the cylinder are spaced closer together for more precise readings.

Graduated cylinder: Classification

Traditional

It is usually high and narrow, it is done in this way to increase accuracy and precision in terms of volume measurement he means. He usually has a support to generate support for him. So you will be identifies a base made of glass or plastic, in addition it also possesses a kind of beak. Which helps to easily pour the liquid which has been measured.

Mixer

They have a structure quite similar to cylinders traditional graduates but instead of possessing a beak they have kind of board. These gaskets are made of frosted glass and allow it to be close using a stopper. Or sometimes connect with others laboratory elements to be used in processes such as distillation.

In this variety of cylinder is not added directly the liquid to be measured, a cannula is usually used. Since al not owning a spout is a little more tedious to fill or empty it.

What is the graduated cylinder used for?

Their main use is to measure the volume of a liquid, they are ideal for this task as they are more precise and accurate than other materials laboratory. However, for volumetric analysis, they should be used more precise elements. Such as pipettes or volumetric flasks that are made of glass.

They are sometimes used to measure the volume of some solids, employing an indirect technique in which the displacement of a liquid.

This laboratory implement is a key piece of what would be the equipment of a standard scientific laboratory. Since measuring volumes of liquids is a fundamental task in routine experiments.

Features of a graduated cylinder

Scale

According to the maximum volume of the instrument to be used, two or three significant data scales can be found. It can be said that the greater the volume, the fewer classification divisions they have. For example, a 100 ml cylinder has divisions of 1 thousand each. While the smaller volume cylinders such as those of 10 ml have divisions of 0.1 ml. However, each instrument has its own scale, so it is not generally applicable.

These scales can be double or single depending on the graduated cylinder, the keys only allow to read the filling volume. For explain it more clearly this scale allows reading from top to bottom. By on the other hand, the double scales allow the reading of both the volume filling and pouring. That is, they can be read in reverse scale.

Measurement

Each laboratory instrument with a graduated scale has its error range, the graduated cylinder does not escape from it. For example in a instrument whose measurement value is 10 ml ± 0.1, if a measurement of 5 ml. The precise result would be between 4.9 to 5.1.

Application of the graduated cylinder

• As already mentioned above the functionality of the graduated cylinder is to make measurements of the volume of a liquid.
• To perform it with accuracy observation at eye level has to be carried out.
• Be reading is done through the meniscus which is formed by the action of the forces molecules of the liquid.
• The meniscus can be convex or concave, the former it should be read at the top, and the second at the bottom.

1. Chemical Analysis: Graduated cylinders are used in chemical analysis to measure the volume of liquids precisely. This is important in experiments that require specific volumes of liquids to achieve accurate results.
2. Medical Research: Graduated cylinders are used in medical research to measure small volumes of liquids such as blood samples, urine, and other body fluids.
3. Engineering: Graduated cylinders are used in engineering to measure the volume of different fluids such as lubricants and coolants used in machinery.

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How to Use a Graduated Cylinder:

Using a graduated cylinder requires some basic knowledge and skills. Here are the steps to follow when using a graduated cylinder:

1. Choose the appropriate graduated cylinder for your specific application.
2. Place the graduated cylinder on a level surface, and ensure it is clean and dry.
3. Pour the liquid you want to measure into the cylinder, making sure it is below eye level.
4. Hold the graduated cylinder at eye level and read the meniscus, which is the curved surface of the liquid.
5. Record the volume of the liquid in the graduated cylinder.
6. Dispose of the liquid appropriately and clean the graduated cylinder after use.

Tips for Maintaining Graduated Cylinders:

Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure the accuracy and longevity of graduated cylinders. Here are some tips to follow:

1. Clean the graduated cylinder after each use to prevent contamination and ensure accuracy.
2. Store graduated cylinders in a clean, dry area to prevent damage.
3. Check the calibration of the graduated cylinder regularly to ensure accurate readings.
4. Avoid using harsh chemicals or scrubbing tools that can damage the markings on the cylinder.

FAQs:

Q: Can a graduated cylinder be used to measure gas volume?

A: No. Graduated cylinders are designed for measuring liquid volume only. For gas volume measurement, other specialized tools such as burettes and gas syringes should be used.

Q: Can graduated cylinders be used for measuring the volume of viscous liquids?

A: Yes. Graduated cylinders can be used for measuring the volume of viscous liquids, such as oils and syrups. However, it is important to consider the meniscus when reading the volume, as the curved surface may affect the accuracy of the measurement.

Q: Can graduated cylinders be used to measure the volume of solids?

A: No. Graduated cylinders are designed for measuring liquid volume only.

Graduated cylinder manufacturers

There are numerous manufacturers of graduated cylinders that produce high-quality and accurate instruments. Some of the most well-known and reputable manufacturers include:

1. Kimble Chase: Kimble Chase is a leading manufacturer of laboratory glassware, including graduated cylinders. Their graduated cylinders are made from borosilicate glass and come in both tall and short forms.
2. Pyrex: Pyrex is a household name when it comes to laboratory glassware. Their graduated cylinders are made from high-quality borosilicate glass and are available in different sizes and capacities.
3. DWK Life Sciences: DWK Life Sciences is a leading global manufacturer and supplier of laboratory products, including graduated cylinders. They offer a wide range of graduated cylinders made from borosilicate glass or plastic, with various features such as single or double metric scales and hexagonal base for stability.
4. BrandTech Scientific: BrandTech Scientific is a manufacturer of high-quality laboratory equipment and supplies, including graduated cylinders. Their graduated cylinders are made from durable materials such as polypropylene and polyethylene, making them ideal for use in harsh laboratory environments.
5. Ace Glass: Ace Glass is a supplier of laboratory glassware and equipment, including graduated cylinders. Their graduated cylinders are made from high-quality borosilicate glass and are available in a variety of sizes and capacities.

These manufacturers and their products are highly regarded in the scientific community for their accuracy, durability, and ease of use. By selecting a graduated cylinder from a reputable manufacturer, you can ensure that your measurements are accurate and reliable.

Graduated cylinder commonly sizes

Graduated cylinders come in a variety of sizes, with capacities ranging from as little as 1 milliliter (ml) to as much as 10 liters (L). The most common sizes of graduated cylinders used in laboratories are:

• 10 mL: This size is suitable for small volume measurements, such as those required for titration experiments.
• 25 mL: This size is ideal for general laboratory use and can be used for a variety of experiments and measurements.
• 50 mL: This size is commonly used for measuring larger volumes of liquids, such as those required for dilutions or solution preparations.
• 100 mL: This size is suitable for larger volume measurements, such as those required for serial dilutions or when preparing solutions in bulk.
• 250 mL: This size is commonly used for measuring large volumes of liquids in industrial or research settings.
• 500 mL: This size is suitable for measuring even larger volumes of liquids and is commonly used in industrial settings.

It's important to choose the right size of graduated cylinder for your experiment or measurement to ensure accurate results.

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