Micropipettes – Parts, Types, Applications, Techniques

What is a micropipette?

A micropipette is a precision laboratory instrument designed to measure and transfer extremely small volumes of liquid, typically ranging from 0.1 microliters to 1,000 microliters. Commonly used in molecular biology, chemistry, and medical labs, it operates like a highly accurate eyedropper, enabling researchers to handle samples with meticulous control. The device consists of a plunger, a digital or analog volume adjustor, and a disposable plastic tip that comes into contact with the liquid. By depressing the plunger, users create a vacuum to draw liquid into the tip, then release it to dispense the measured volume. Micropipettes are calibrated for specific volume ranges (e.g., P20 for 2-20 µL, P200 for 20-200 µL) and require proper technique to avoid errors, such as ensuring the tip is securely attached and pre-rinsed for consistency. They’re indispensable for tasks like PCR setup, sample dilution, or loading gels, where even minor inaccuracies can compromise experiments. Mastery of micropipetting—from selecting the right instrument to maintaining steady hands—is a foundational skill in lab work, blending science with a touch of art to achieve reliable results.

What is the purpose of pipetting?

• Accurate measurement and transfer of particular liquid volumes depend on pipetting, a basic laboratory method.
• It guarantees consistency and repeatability in experimental techniques by helping reagents and samples to be precisely prepared.
• For quantitative studies in disciplines such biochemistry, molecular biology, and clinical diagnostics, the technique reduces human error and contamination—qualities absolutely vital for success.
• From manual micropipettes to automated liquid handling systems, modern pipetting technologies let microliter to milliliter amounts be dispensed under supervision.
• From basic glass tools employed in early microbiology, pipetting has developed historically from simple glass devices into sophisticated, flexible, electronic systems improving laboratory safety and efficiency.
• For tests requiring exact liquid volumes—including enzyme kinetics, polymerase chain reactions, and many titrations—its precision is absolutely essential.
• In modern scientific research, pipetting underlines consistent data generation and efficient experimental design overall.

How to Use a Micropipette?

1. Turning the adjustment dial within the pipette’s designated range will help you to confirm the calibration and establish the intended volume.
2. Aligning a sterile, disposable tip with the shaft, press until it clicks firmly into place.
3. To balance the internal air cushion and reduce capillary effects, aspirate and dispense a tiny bit of the sample or distilled water pre-rinse the tip.
4. Before dipping the tip into the liquid, hold the micropipette vertically—about 90 degrees—then gently lower the plunger to the first stop.
5. To prevent contamination, submerge the tip somewhat below the meniscus of the liquid without touching the pipette shaft.
6. To aspirate the set volume, gently release the plunger under control such that no air bubbles find their way to the tip.
7. Retook the pipette from the liquid keeping a vertical orientation to retain precision.
8. After moving the pipette to the receiving vessel, slant the tip somewhat against the vessel wall.
9. To release any last fluid, gently press the plunger to the first stop, pause momentarily then press to the second stop.
10. Remove the tip from the vessel leaving the plunger depressed; then, release the plunger to rest.
11. Activate the tip ejector button to throw away the discarded tip in a marked waste container.
12. Following manufacturer recommendations, clean and store the micropipette; frequent calibration and maintenance guarantees ongoing accuracy.

Parts of a micropipette

Micropipettes consist of several essential parts that enable precise and accurate liquid handling. Here are the main parts of a micropipette:

1. Plunger: The plunger is the topmost part of the micropipette. It is used to adjust the volume, aspirate, and dispense the required amount of the sample. By rotating the plunger clockwise or counterclockwise, the volume can be increased or decreased. It typically has two stops, allowing for forward and reverse pipetting.
2. Tip Ejector: The tip ejector is a mechanism that helps in the easy removal of micropipette tips. It is usually located below the plunger, and by pressing the ejector, the tips can be safely released without the need to touch them.
3. Volume Window: The volume window is a transparent area on the micropipette body that displays the adjusted volume. It allows the user to visually confirm the selected volume before pipetting.
4. Shaft: The shaft is a tube-like structure inside the micropipette that is filled with air. It plays a crucial role in the pipetting mechanism by pushing or pulling the liquid as the plunger is operated.
5. Micropipette Tips: Micropipette tips are disposable attachments that are placed on the end of the micropipette. They come in various sizes to accommodate different sample volumes and are made of materials such as virgin polypropylene or molded plastics. The tips directly come in contact with the liquid being pipetted and are essential for accurate and contamination-free transfer.
6. Digital Volume Display Window: This feature is present in electronic micropipettes. It displays the volume that the micropipette can withdraw or dispense. The digital display provides precise and clear volume readings, enhancing the convenience and accuracy of pipetting.
7. Plastic Shaft: The plastic shaft is a tube-like structure filled with air in air displacement micropipettes. It aids in the displacement of air and liquid during the pipetting process. When the plunger is pressed, air from the shaft is released, facilitating liquid aspiration. Releasing the plunger allows the shaft to refill with air, assisting in liquid dispensing.
8. Ejector Arm: The ejector arm is an extension of the tip ejector button. When the ejector button is pressed, the ejector arm applies pressure on the pipette cone, aiding in the secure ejection of used pipette tips.
9. Tip Cone: The tip cone is the part of the micropipette where the pipette tip is attached. It ensures a secure and tight connection between the micropipette and the tip, preventing any leaks or sample loss during pipetting.
10. Pipette Tip: The pipette tip is an essential component that comes in direct contact with the liquid. It is made of high-quality materials and designed to be compatible with specific micropipette models. Pipette tips are available in various sizes and can accommodate different volumes of liquid.

Micropipette Tips

Micropipette tips are essential components of micropipettes and are available in various colors and sizes. Here is some information about micropipette tips based on the content provided:

1. White Micropipette Tips:
   • White micropipette tips are commonly used with P2, P10, and P20 micropipettes.
   • Micro white tips: These tips are designed for P2 and P10 micropipettes, allowing measurement of liquid volumes ranging from 0.2 µl to 10 µl.
   • Medium white tips: Medium white micropipette tips are used with P20 micropipettes and can handle liquid volumes ranging from 2 µl to 20 µl.
2. Yellow Micropipette Tips:
   • Yellow micropipette tips are specifically designed for P100 and P200 micropipettes.
   • They are used for measuring liquid volumes between 20 µl and 100 µl.
3. Blue Micropipette Tips:
   • Blue micropipette tips are utilized with P1000 micropipettes, which are capable of handling higher liquid volumes.
   • These tips can measure liquid volumes from 200 µl up to 1000 µl, which includes milliliter ranges as well.

Attaching Micropipette Tip – How to Attach a Micropipette Tip?

• Check that the tip chosen is suitable for the volume range you wish for and that the micropipette is set to that volume.
• Carefully open the sterile tip box, being sure not to touch any non-sterile surfaces between the tips.
• To guarantee ideal alignment with the tip’s opening, hold the micropipette vertically.
• Visually check the tip to make sure it fits tightly on the shaft without gaps that might cause leakage or contamination. Then gently insert the dispensing end of the micropipette into a tip applying strong and steady pressure until you feel or hear a slight “click” indicating that the tip is securely attached.
• To preserve sterility for next use, close the tip box right away after removing a tip.
• Verify that the tip is securely fastened before handling liquids to guarantee accurate and repeatable measurements.

Types of micropipette

Usually in the microliter range, micropipettes are precise tools used in laboratories to measure and move very tiny amounts of liquids. In many different fields including molecular biology, biochemistry, and other sciences, they are indispensable instruments. One can group micropipettes depending on numerous criteria:

1. Based on Volume Capacity:

Fixed Volume Micropipettes – Designed to dispense a single, exact volume, fixed volume micropipes are perfect for jobs needing repeated transfers of the same volume, therefore guaranteeing excellent consistency and lowering user error.

Variable Volume Micropipettes – Variable volume micropipettes provide flexibility for many experimental purposes by letting users change the dispensing volume within a specified range. When several volumes are needed in one process, they are usually used.

2. Based on operational mechanism:

Mechanical (Manual) Micropipettes – Hand operated mechanical (manual) micropipettes with a spring-loaded piston mechanism. To aspirate and distribute liquids, the user personally depresses and releases the plunger. Their dependability and simplicity help them to be rather popular.

Electronic Micropipettes – With motorized pistons, electronic pipettes automate the aspiration and dispensing motions. For complicated pipetting systems, they provide configurable functions, lower user fatigue, and more accuracy.

3. Based on Operation Principle:

Air Displacement Micropipettes – Air Dislocation Usually the most used kind, micropipettes move an air cushion between the piston and the liquid. The piston displaces air as it moves, therefore dragging the liquid. Their fit for general laboratory application and aqueous solutions is evident.

Positive Displacement Micropipettes – Positive Dispersion In these pipettes, the piston makes direct touch with the liquid, therefore removing the air cushion. For viscous, volatile, or high-density liquids especially, this design minimizes mistakes resulting from liquid characteristics.

4. Inspired by Channel Number:

Single-Channel Micropipettes – One pipette tip makes single-channel micropipettes flexible for many uses and used for individual sample transfers.

Multi-Channel Micropipettes – Equipped with several tips (usually 8 or 12), multi-channel micropipettes enable simultaneous transfer of several samples, hence greatly boosting throughput in uses including filling microplate wells.

Working mechanism of Micropipette

• Operating on the concept of air displacement, micropipettes use a piston within a sealed chamber to produce a regulated air cushion for liquid transfer.
• Depressing the plunger compresses the air and ejects any remaining liquid from the disposable tip by moving the piston downward.
• The piston’s travel distance is set by an adjustable dial, calibrated to provide a certain, exact liquid volume.
• Gradually withdrawing the plunger produces a partial vacuum that pulls liquid toward the tip until the desired volume is attained.
• The disposable tip guarantees consistent calibration by keeping the sample from coming into touch with the internal processes, therefore reducing cross-contamination.
• The plunger is squeezed to the first stop to release most of the liquid during dispensing, then to a second “blow-out” stop to evacuate any last liquid from the tip.
• To prevent mistakes from air bubbles, evaporation, or poor immersion, the design depends on exact calibration and correct method. depth
• Variations in pipetting techniques, such forward and reverse pipetting, let one adapt to various liquid characteristics and experimental needs.

Volume adjustment on Micropipette – How to Adjust Volume in Micropipette?

• Consult the marks or instructions on the device to find the operating volume range of the micropipette so that your intended volume falls within the designated ranges.
• Usually found incorporated into the top or plunger component of the pipette, find the volume adjustment dial.
• Turn the dial gently; generally, rotating it counterclockwise raises the volume and turning it clockwise lowers the volume.
• To be sure the chosen volume fairly represents your experimental requirements, check the volume display—digital or analog.
• Gradually change the volume; be sure the dial does not go above its intended lowest or maximum settings since straining it can destroy the internal mechanism.
• To keep measurement accuracy, routinely check the calibration of the pipette by suitable techniques (such as gravimetric analysis).
• To guarantee constant performance and lifetime, follow manufacturer recommendations on appropriate volume adjustment and routine maintenance.

Size and Range / Technical Specifications of Micropipette

Micropipettes are offered in a variety of sizes ranging from 0.1 up to 10,0000 ul. The most commonly used versions of micropipettes that have a single channel of variable volume are listed below with their error tolerances as defined in the ISO-8655-2 standards.

They may be referred to as P10 or P20, P1000 or P5000 pipettes based upon the largest volume of liquid that is aspirated and disseminated by the pipette. For example the 0.5-10ul micropipette is often called P10 pipette.

Volume Range (ul)	Classification	Increment (ul)	Accuracy (± %)	Accuracy (±ul)	CV (± %)	CV ( ± ul)
0.2-2	P2	0.002	2	0.04	1.2	0.024
0.5-10	P10	0.02	1	0.1	0.5	0.05
2-20	P20	0.02	0.8	0.16	0.4	0.08
5-50	P50	0.1	0.8	0.4	0.4	0.2
10-100	P100	0.2	0.6	0.6	0.2	0.2
20-200	P200	0.2	0.6	1.2	0.2	0.4
100-1000	P1000	1.0	0.6	6	0.2	2
500-5000	P5000	10.0	0.6	30	0.2	10
1000-10000	P10000	20.0	0.6	60	0.2	20

The measuring ranges for the micropipettes most frequently used are:

• P10 – 1.0-10.0µL – White tips (slightly translucent)
• P20 – 2.0-20.0 µL – Yellow tips
• P100 -10.0-100.0 µL – Yellow tips
• P200 – 20.0-200.0 µL – Yellow tips
• P1000 – 11000.0 µL –Blue tips (should only be used for volumes 200 or greater)

Working Principle of micropipette

Air displacement micropipettes function via the piston driven air displacement. As the piston pulled down, air contained within the sleeve of the micropipette is released because of the force with which the liquid in the micropipettes ‘ tip is also eliminated.

As the piston is moved upwards there is a vacuum created in the empty space left due to the movement of the piston. The air at on the tips to expand to fill in the empty space. The tip air is replaced by the liquid that is drawn upwards to the tip.

Positive displacement micropipettes work via piston-driven displacement. The piston inside the positive displacement micropipette is directly in touch with liquid. If the piston gets pulled down, liquid that is inside the sleeve of the micropipette is also moved downwards and is ejected from the tips. As the piston moves upwards it draws the liquid with it in an upward direction.

Using an Air Displacement Micropipette

Accurate measurement of liquids is dependent on the proper micropipette use. Air displacement micropipettes operate using the principle of air displacement. The plunger is compressed by the thumb, and when it releases the liquid is drawn towards the tip of a disposable. If the plunger is then pressed again and the liquid is dispersed. Between these stages, there are many smaller steps that assist in making the process of liquid dispensing more precise.

Position 1

• In this, the micropipette is at rest position: You can press-fit the tip of the micropipette, but not touching directly to the edge.

Position 2

• In this, the plunger is depressed till the first stop: To aspirate the liquid at the tip push the plunger until its first stop. Place the pipette tip horizontally within the liquid.
• Release the plunger: Release the plunger slowly while the tip is submerged. The liquid will aspirate into the tip of the pipette. The liquid is then poured into the tip according to the micropipette’s volume that is set.

Position 3

• Depress the plunger: place the tip on the interior wall of the vessel at an angle of steep. The plunger should be pressed slowly to the first stop in order to disperse the liquid. To completely empty the tip push the plunger until next stop. Clean the tip with the wall before taking the tip from the vessel.

Some micropipettes are able to deliver a set amount of liquid. But, the majority of them can be adjusted with their variable volume settings. Variable volume micropipette is available with different ranges of measurement and upper and lower limit of measurement. In these situations, the error percentages can differ as according to the liquid being measured. Dispensing lesser than the lowest limit of the range could result in inaccurate measurements of liquid while attempting to use the upper limit will fill the tip and allow liquid to flow into the pipette’s body.

Cleaning, maintenance and storage of a micropipette

• Immediately following use, remove the disposable tip to avoid internal component contamination.
• To remove remaining liquid and biological pollutants, wipe the outside surfaces with a lint-free cloth moistened with 70% isopropyl alcohol.
• To avoid damaging internal seals and the piston mechanism, never dip the pipette in any cleaning solution.
• Should thorough cleaning be needed, remove only the user-removable components as advised by the manufacturer and wash them with a mild detergent then rinse with distilled water; let all parts air dry totally before reassembly.
• Using manufacturer-approved lubricants, routinely check and, if needed, lubricate moving parts including the piston and O-rings to preserve smooth operation.
• Periodically calibrate the pipette using a gravimetric technique to guarantee accuracy and precision following lengthy use or significant cleaning.
• On a specialized stand, keep the pipette straight to reduce mechanical damage risk and stop dust build-up.
• As advised by the manufacturer, keep the instrument in a regulated environment with steady temperature and humidity conditions to prevent miscalibration or internal corrosion.
• To maintain the pipette’s functional integrity, keep it out of direct sunlight and corrosive chemicals under storage.
• To increase the micropipette’s dependability and lifetime, follow manufacturer recommended maintenance schedules and servicing requirements.

Different pipetting techniques 

The most frequently employed pipetting techniques comprise forward pipetting and reverse pipetting. Before we learn about these techniques in greater detail the basic guidelines for pipetting that are listed below will be worth mentioning.

1. The plunger should be released and pressed gradually, always especially when working with viscosity reagents or solutions. Check that the plunger doesn’t snap.
2. Make sure that the tip is secured to the cone.
3. Before beginning your experiment, you should fill then empty your tip three times with the reagent , or solution you’ll be pipetting.
4. Make sure to hold the micropipette upright in a position while you aspirate. The Grippy should rest on your index finger.
5. Check your tips and the pipette as well as the solution/reagent are all at the same temperature.

Forward Pipetting Technique

• Turning the dial until the appropriate microliter number shows will help you to set the desired volume, therefore guaranteeing the pipette’s calibrated range.
• Firmly put the pipette’s dispensing end into a sterile, disposable tip until a clear, decisive click or resistance is felt.
• Holding the pipette upright outside the liquid, depress the plunger to the first stop to displace the exact volume of air needed for aspiration.
• To prevent creating air bubbles, submerge the tip just below the surface of the liquid—usually 2–3 mm for modest volumes—then gently release the plunger to aspirate the liquid.
• Aspire with a consistent, vertical direction to make sure the drawn volume exactly matches the set volume.
• Pull the pipette gently from the liquid so that any residual liquid doesn’t stick to the tip’s outside.
• Position the tip into the receiving vessel and release most of the sample by first pressing the plunger first to the first stop.
• Keep lowering the plunger to the second stop to release any last liquid from the tip, therefore guaranteeing complete transmission.
• Pressing the ejector button removes the pipette tip, therefore preventing cross-contamination and ready the pipette for next usage.

Reverse Pipetting Technique

• As shown on the dial, set the pipette’s desired volume.
• To pre-load more liquid for compensation, fully depress the plunger to the second stop.
• Just below the meniscus, immerse the pipette tip into the liquid sample to prevent air intake.
• Release the plunger slowly to aspirate the liquid; be aware that this draws in more than the specified volume.
• Steady withdrawal of the pipette tip from the liquid should keep it upright to reduce disruptions.
• Press the plunger only to the first stop to distribute the liquid from the tip to the receiving vessel, therefore delivering the predetermined volume.
• Leave any extra liquid in the tip; this will be thrown away as waste to guarantee correct dosage.
• To stop cross- infection and get ready for next use, eject the tip with the ejector button.

Note: Any residual liquid stays in the end. It is not part of the volume of dispensing.

Choose the right micropipette

Since micropipettes can be used for many different applications The issue is how to select the appropriate micropipette for the specific job.

To do this, follow our easy, step-by-step guide. The first step is writing down the specifics of the experiment you’re conducting using the micropipette. It should include details about the amount of sample to be taken, the volume of the sample to be transferred as well as the number of duplicates and whether you require sterile conditions and other details. In this manner can aid in deciding the best micropipette for you.

Selecting the Type of Micropipette

Micropipettes are generally classified into two kinds namely air Displacement Micropipettes as well as Positive Displacement Micropipettes. It is possible to choose the best type by matching the application to the research you want to conduct.

Next Steps

When you’ve decided on the best type, let’s examine the various sub types that are that are available, based on factors such as the amount of material of work to be done, the quality of tips, the manual or electronic pipettes as well as other factors. This is where the specific details about the procedure will be useful.

1. An adjustable micropipette or a fixed micropipette

You could either choose the micropipette with a volume that is already fixed, or one that is able to be altered as needed. If you typically employ a single volume like 100 ul to conduct your experiments, opt for an instrument with a fixed volume, such as MICROLIT RBO Fixed Volume (Single Channel). If your project requires you working with several volumes, go for the flexible or variable pipette such as MICROLIT RBO Variable Volume (Single Channel or Multichannel).

2. The volume to be handled

As a general rule it is recommended to select the smallest pipette that can handle the required quantity because if the quantity is near the capacity limit of the micropipette accuracy and precision of readings diminish.

• Single channel or multichannel micropipettes: The choice of this type is according to the quantity of replicates or samples you’re working with. Single channel micropipettes such as those of the MICROLIT RBO Single channel (Fixed volume and variable) are utilized when the quantity of samples is lower, while many sample or even well plate could be handled with ease with multichannel micropipettes such as those of the MICROLIT RBO Multichannel (8-channel and 12-channel).

3. Micropipette Tips

Once you’ve picked the micropipette you want to use then this is the next critical decision you have to make. Micropipette Tips are graduated or not either universal or pipette specific and with filter or no filter, sterile or not, and so on. If the procedure requires aseptic, sterile conditions, you should make use of sterile and filter-filtered tips. Universal tips can be utilized for a range of pipettes. It is crucial to make sure that how much capacity the tip has to that of the micropipette prior making use of.

4. Accuracy with specific tolerance

Micropipettes are made to work with accuracy just a few percent (generally less than 5 percent) of the value you want of the sample. Be sure that your micropipette has the same level of accuracy that you require for the sampling.

Micropipette calibration

Micropipette calibration is a crucial element in every laboratory’s procedure to guarantee precise and precise results from pipetting. To ensure that the sample is accurate it is essential to verify the calibration of the pipette each month or after between a few months. Making a correct micropipette calibration as per ISO 8655 standard requires special conditions in the ambient. Things like air pressure or humidity, temperature, or even altitude influence the outcomes of the pipetting. The following text will explain the material or equipment needed and the various steps you should follow and verify the calibration of a micropipette.

Here’s a list things you’ll need to test a micropipette

• Micropipette that must be calibrated and tips
• Distilled Water
• Clean Beaker
• Thermometer
• Distilled Water Density Chart and Temperature
• Semi-Micro Balance having an accuracy of at minimum 0.0001 grams
• Notebook to write down the results
• Calculator

How to calibrate the Micropipette?

Calibrating a micropipette is essential to ensure accurate and precise measurements. Here are the steps to calibrate a micropipette:

1. Prepare the Equipment:
   • Keep distilled water in the refrigerator to ensure a consistent temperature.
   • Use a thermometer to measure the temperature of the distilled water.
   • Clean and dry the beaker on top of the balance.
2. Check the Micropipette:
   • Ensure that the micropipette is in good condition and functioning properly.
   • Make sure there are no air bubbles in the pipette and that it is clean.
3. Filling the Micropipette:
   • Fill the micropipette with distilled water, taking care to avoid air bubbles.
4. Dispensing and Weighing:
   • Dispense the distilled water into the clean beaker on the balance.
   • Use the balance to measure the weight of the dispensed water. Take note of the measurement.
5. Repeat and Record:
   • Repeat the dispensing and weighing process 5-10 times.
   • Record each measurement accurately for further calculations.
6. Calculating the Dispensed Volume:
   • Use the formula V = Z * W to calculate the dispensed volume.
   • V represents the amount of dispensed water, W is the weight of the distilled water dispensed, and Z is the conversion factor based on the density of water.
7. Average the Results:
   • Calculate the average of the dispensed volumes by dividing the total by the number of tests conducted.
8. Determine the Accuracy:
   • Use the formula A = (100 * Vavg) / V0 to determine the accuracy of the micropipette.
   • A represents the accuracy, Vavg is the calculated volume average, and V0 is the theoretical volume expected to be dispensed.
   • The desired accuracy range is typically between 99% and 101%.
9. Evaluate the Results:
   • Examine the calculated accuracy results.
   • If the micropipette falls within the acceptable range, it is considered calibrated and safe to use.
   • If the results are inconsistent or outside the acceptable range, the micropipette may need to be adjusted or serviced before further use.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your micropipette is accurately calibrated, providing reliable measurements for your experiments and procedures. Regular calibration and maintenance of micropipettes are important to maintain their accuracy and precision over time.

Sterilization Process of a micropipette

• The micropipettes are sterilized using autoclaving at temperatures of 121°C (252degF) or 15 PSI for a period of between 15 and 20 minutes.
• There is no special preparation required.
• You can utilize steam sterilization bags when you require. When the autoclave is done, the pipette needs to be chilled to ambient temperature for at minimum two hours. Before you pipetting, ensure you have the pipette clean.
• It is suggested to test the calibration at the end of each sterilization process to get the greatest precision and accuracy.

When is micropipette calibration required?

• First setup calls for micropipette calibration to set a performance baseline.
• Maintaining accuracy requires regular calibration—usually annually or as advised by manufacturers.
• Calibration is necessary after any repair, maintenance, or physical impact that could compromise pipetting precision.
• Observable differences in pipetting performance or conflicting experimental results suggest the need for recalibration.
• Environmental changes—such as temperature or humidity—may influence performance and call for recalibration.
• Critical quantitative applications in research and clinical settings necessitate calibration to assure data integrity and reproducibility.

Uses of Micropipette

• Transferring precise volumes in laboratory experiments
• Preparing solutions and serial dilutions
• Conducting quantitative assays in clinical diagnostics
• Performing sample preparation for molecular techniques
• Supporting high-throughput screening in drug discovery

Limitations of Micropipette

• Sensible to temperature and humidity, air displacement micropipettes can vary the air cushion and influence volume accuracy.
• They are less dependable when dispensing thick or volatile liquids, as these features might disturb the air displacement process.
• Regular calibration is essential since over time repetitive use can create calibration drift and reduce accuracy.
• Operating close to the lower or upper limits of the pipette’s volume range reduces accuracy, hence cautious choice of the suitable size is important.
• Errors in operator handling—such as faulty pipetting technique or wrong tip attachment—can bring both systematic and random mistakes.
• Physical damage from mishandling or contact to incompatible chemicals can compromise internal components and general performance.

Advantages of micropipette

• High precision and accuracy for transferring minute liquid volumes
• Consistent and reproducible dispensing for reliable experimental results
• Disposable tips reduce the risk of cross-contamination between samples
• Ergonomic design minimizes user fatigue during repetitive tasks
• Versatile use across diverse scientific and clinical applications
• Easy calibration and maintenance support sustained performance
• Cost-effective solution for precise liquid handling in laboratories

What you shouldn’t do with micropipettes?

• Avoid pipetting too quickly or aggressively since too fast speed can cause uneven liquid volumes and introduce air bubbles compromising precision.
• Maintaining a vertical alignment during aspiration guarantees consistent volume delivery; avoid holding the micropipette at an incorrect angle.
• Do not use incompatible or poorly fitted pipette tips, which might cause leaking, result in volume mistakes, and risk contaminating the instrument.
• Set volumes within the designated range of the micropipette; overextension or underutilization can harm internal mechanisms and compromise performance.
• Avoid submerging the pipette tip too far into the liquid sample since deep immersion may draw in air or cause liquid to stick to the outside, which would produce erroneous measurements.
• Liquids should not be allowed into the pipette body; this could happen should the tip be buried too deeply or if the pipette is mistreated, therefore compromising internal seals.
• Regular maintenance and calibration routines should not be overlooked since neglect of them could lead to ongoing measurement mistakes and lower dependability.
• Micropipettes should be kept straight to prevent mechanical damage and liquid collection in the shaft; they shouldn’t be stored horizontally.
• Drop or subject the micropipette to mechanical shocks; improper handling can misalign internal components and compromise its precision.
• Instead of trying unapproved repairs on a broken pipette, rely on expert service to guarantee long-term accuracy and restore correct function.

Precautions To Be Taken While Using Micropipettes

• To guarantee measurement accuracy and stop internal damage, make sure micropipettes are routinely maintained in line with manufacturer recommendations.
• Always use the appropriate, well-fitting pipette tips and pre-wet them by aspirating and dispensing a small volume before use to stabilize the air cushion and lower volume variance.
• Holding micropipettes vertically during inhalation and at the advised angle during dispensing can help you to minimize operator mistake and strain by using correct ergonomic practices.
• Avoid quick or vigorous pipetting, as excessive speed can introduce air bubbles and result in inconsistent liquid volumes
• Immerse the pipette tip only to the depth required for the specified liquid volume to prevent pulling air or allowing liquid to cling externally, which can lead to under-pipetting
• Handling viscous or volatile liquids using reverse pipetting methods will help to reduce sample loss and preserve accuracy.
• Prevent cross-contamination by replacing pipette tips between samples and avoiding contact between the tip and any non-target surfaces
• Store micropipettes in an upright posture on approved platforms to avoid liquid collection in the shaft and potential mechanical misalignment
• Regular clean and decontamination of micropipettes using suitable solutions, such 70 percent ethanol, helps to preserve instrument integrity and experimental dependability.
• Follow all laboratory safety protocols and the manufacturer’s instructions for micropipette use to guarantee correct operation and reduce the risk of data errors or equipment failure

Sources of errors in Micropipette

• Using an improper angle, irregular aspiration speed, and insufficient pre-wetting can bring both systematic and random mistakes into operator technique.
• Setting volumes either at or over the pipette’s calibrated limits could cause mechanical errors and measurement drift over time.
• Using incompatible, damaged, or poorly fitting pipette tips can cause contamination, air ingress, or leakage that results in volume errors.
• Sample parameters including viscosity, volatility, and temperature fluctuations may affect liquid flow and tip dispensing behavior, affecting the delivered volume
• Inadequate or infrequent maintenance and calibration let wear of internal components like piston seals to build up and cause ongoing measurement deviations.
• Environmental factors, including ambient temperature, humidity, and air pressure variations, can subtly alter liquid delivery precision, especially at very small amounts
• Mechanical mishandling—that is, dropping or shocking the pipette—may misalign internal components and affect its general performance.

FAQs

References

• https://www.microlit.us/micropipette-product-guide/
• https://paramedicsworld.com/biochemistry-practicals/micropipettes-guidelines-of-micropipetting/medical-paramedical-studynotes
• https://solutions.pipette.com/micropipette/