Low Profile Screw Caps Save Storage Space

Designed in conjunction with the Hannover Unified Biobank, Micronic has introduced a new range of Low Profile Screw Caps that are compatible with their entire range of 96-well format Screw Cap storage tubes (0.50 mL, 0.75 mL, 1.10 mL, 1.40 mL and 2.00 mL).

Micronic Low Profile Screw Caps are ideal for biobanks and other laboratory facilities that need a space saving solution for their long-term sample storage at low temperatures. Because the tube height with Low Profile Screw Caps is now identical to the tube height with a TPE Cap, the same low profile rack cover can be used for both types of caps increasing operational flexibility for organisations using both types of storage tube closures.

Professor Thomas Illig of the Hannover Unified Biobank commented: "Currently our facility stores in excess of 1 million samples that we project will increase to 5 million within 5 years. We store all samples in a repository (at –80 ºC), as well as in manual liquid nitrogen tanks (at vapour phase liquid nitrogen temperature), which will be fully implemented in 2014. To ensure the integrity of these valuable samples we reviewed the market for sample storage tubes that offered absolutely tight seals and were able to withstand –80 ºC freezer storage and vapour phase liquid nitrogen temperatures for decades without degradation. In addition, the storage tubes/seals should be as small as possible to economise freezer space, must be pickable by automation systems and have a 2D barcode that is stable and readable at low temperatures. We decided to work with Micronic to deliver these 'optimal biobank storage tubes and closures' because of the high quality and compact size of the company's storage tubes'.

Reflecting on this cooperative development, Gijsbert van der Gaag, COO of Micronic commented: “We were delighted to work with the prestigious Hannover Unified Biobank to develop the ideal space saving solution for long term sample storage at ultra-low temperatures.” He added: “Our new Low Profile Screw Caps are available in 12 different colours enabling simple visual identification. The Silicon O-rings around the base of the Low Profile Screw Caps delivers the tightest seal possible, and in turn provides maximum sample integrity for long-term storage. The unique single twist closing on Micronic Low Profile Screw Caps ensures easy and tight sealing on our sample storage tubes."

Manufactured from the highest purity polypropylene, Micronic internally threaded Screw Cap tubes are fully automation compatible and are available non-coded, alphanumeric coded and 2D coded. The 2D codes are encrypted with a laser in the polypropylene code area, guaranteeing the highest resistance to solvent attack and ensuring a reliable code reading. Produced in an automated Class 7 production environment all Micronic Screw Cap tubes and Low Profile Screw Caps are RNase/DNase and Pyrogene free.