What Is a Pipette & Micropipette?
How to Use a Micropipette, Fixed vs Variable & Types Explained
In modern laboratories, accurate liquid handling is extremely important. Whether it is a research lab, diagnostic lab, pharmaceutical company, or educational institute, pipettes and micropipettes are essential tools. This blog explains everything you need to know about pipettes and micropipettes in simple language.
What Is a Pipette?
A pipette is a laboratory instrument used to measure and transfer liquid volumes accurately from one container to another. Pipettes are commonly used in chemistry, biology, microbiology, pathology, and pharmaceutical laboratories.
Pipettes are designed to handle liquids safely, precisely, and hygienically, reducing human error in experiments.
What Is a Micropipette?
A micropipette is a type of pipette specially designed to measure and transfer very small volumes of liquid, usually in microliters (µL).
Micropipette Volume Range:
- From 0.1 µL to 1000 µL
Micropipettes are widely used in:
- Molecular biology
- PCR & DNA analysis
- Biotechnology labs
- Clinical & diagnostic labs
- Pharmaceutical R&D
Main Parts of a Micropipette
- Plunger button
- Volume adjustment dial
- Volume display window
- Tip cone / nozzle
- Disposable pipette tip
Each part plays an important role in ensuring accurate liquid measurement.
How to Use a Micropipette (Step-by-Step)
Using a micropipette correctly is very important for accurate results.
Step 1: Set the Volume
Rotate the volume adjustment knob to set the required volume within the pipette’s range.
Step 2: Attach a Pipette Tip
Attach a clean, disposable pipette tip firmly to the tip cone.
Step 3: Aspirate the Liquid
- Press the plunger to the first stop
- Dip the tip into the liquid
- Slowly release the plunger to aspirate the liquid
Step 4: Dispense the Liquid
- Place the tip in the receiving container
- Press the plunger to the first stop, then to the second stop to dispense all liquid
Step 5: Eject the Tip
Use the tip ejector to safely discard the used tip.
✅ Always keep the micropipette vertical while aspirating for best accuracy.
Fixed Volume vs Variable Volume Micropipette
Fixed Volume Micropipette
A fixed volume micropipette is designed to dispense only one specific volume.
Advantages:
- High accuracy and precision
- Simple to use
- Ideal for repetitive tasks
Best for: Routine laboratory work where the same volume is used repeatedly.
Variable Volume Micropipette
A variable volume micropipette allows the user to adjust the volume within a specified range.
Advantages:
- Flexible and versatile
- Suitable for multiple applications
- Saves cost by replacing multiple fixed pipettes
Best for: Research labs, R&D, and multi-volume experiments.
Types of Micropipettes
1. Single Channel Micropipette
- Transfers liquid using one tip
- Most commonly used type
- Ideal for routine lab work
2. Multi Channel Micropipette
- Available in 8 or 12 channels
- Used for microplates (ELISA, PCR plates)
- Saves time in high-throughput applications
3. Adjustable Micropipette
- Volume can be adjusted
- Available in single & multi-channel models
4. Fixed Volume Micropipette
- Delivers one fixed volume
- Highly accurate and stable
5. Mini / Pocket Micropipette
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to carry
- Suitable for field or quick lab work
6. Digital Micropipette
- Digital volume display
- High precision and easy readability
- Common in advanced laboratories
Applications of Micropipettes
- Clinical diagnostics
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Biotechnology & life science research
- Academic laboratories
- Food & water testing labs
Conclusion
Pipettes and micropipettes are core laboratory instruments that ensure accuracy, repeatability, and reliability in liquid handling. Understanding how to use a micropipette, the difference between fixed and variable volume, and the types of micropipettes helps laboratories choose the right equipment and improve experimental results.
Choosing a high-quality micropipette ensures long-term performance, user comfort, and precise outcomes.
Company Name: UMA SCIENTIFIC / LABOLIT
Product Range:
Micropipette, Fixed Volume Micropipette, Variable Volume Micropipette,
Single Channel & Multichannel Micropipettes, Mini Pipettes
📍 Address: India
📞 Phone: +91-7347707507 / 7379207507
📧 Email: sales@labolit.com
🌐 Website: www.labolit.com
www.umascientific.com
Made in India | Trusted by Laboratories Nationwide
