Laboratory Equipment & Apparatus Stands

A basic light microscope is an important piece of lab equipment.

When working in a lab, knowing the proper functions and uses of each piece of equipment is essential. Without this knowledge, accidents and missteps in procedures can occur. Laboratory equipment and their apparatus stands make a lab functional, and understanding them makes for better and more accurate research.

Types of Equipment

Scientific laboratories use all types of equipment. Some of the basics include: microscopes, thermometers, Bunsen burners and special equipment such as centrifuges and computer lab software. This is in addition to the specialized pieces for different areas of research. Each piece of equipment has a specific use. High school and college laboratories tend to have the more basic components. Research centers use the higher-functioning and more complex equipment.

Functions of Equipment

Each piece of lab equipment is designed with a specific function in mind. There are two major types of microscopes used in labs: light and electron. The light microscope magnifies objects up to 1,000 times, according to the website Laboratory Equipment World. Whereas electron microscopes are used for viewing extremely minuscule objects, they then transmit the image onto a TV or computer screen. Pieces such as beakers and flasks are used to the hold liquids. Bunsen burners are used to heat the liquid. Each piece of equipment is used to create a basic functioning laboratory.

Types of Apparatus Stands

Apparatuses in laboratories are used to separate test tubes and other vials from one another. These stands create better organization and a more constructive laboratory overall. Different types of these stands include the tripod stand. This type of stand works as a base to support such things such as flasks and beakers. It's used in all types of laboratories, including clinical and educational labs. Other types of apparatuses include ring stands and support stands, both of which are used to hold glassware used in experiments.

Technology

Just like other areas of study, laboratories are used to dealing with new technology when it comes to the equipment and apparatus stands they use. Technology is used to set the calibration for measurement and helps to get the most accurate readings of the experiment. The use of technology with lab equipment is vast and varied; it spreads across all types of sciences and laboratories. Equipment like flasks and Bunsen burners are mainstays of the lab, but technological advances help to make human error less likely.

Considerations

When working in a laboratory setting, it's essential to understand the mechanics of the equipment and the proper way to use it. Without this knowledge, accidents are more likely to occur. The Princeton University's Lab Safety manual covers everything from how to use equipment in the lab's fume hoods to how to properly store materials and equipment. Labs in high schools and universities, as well as professional labs, follow these same types of safety procedures because they create a better environment to work and study in.

References

• Global Spec: Types of Laboratory equipment
• Princeton University: Lab Safety Manual

Resources

• Using the Microscope: Introduction to the basic tutorial