Centrifuge Tube and PCR Single Tube Difference

When you see PCR single tubes and centrifuge tubes for the first time, will you be confused about how to distinguish these two tubes, can they be exchanged for use in the experiment of the other party as they look so similar, and what is the difference between these two products? This article will introduce the connection and difference between the two.

PCR Single Tubes

PCR tubes are plastic tubes used in PCR experiments. PCR tubes are generally V-shaped bottoms with smooth walls. The tube wall is generally thin, which is convenient for heat transfer in PCR experiments. It is generally available in 0.2mL capacity.

Micro-centrifuge Tubes

In order to ensure the requirements of centrifugation, the wall of the microcentrifuge tube is generally thicker. Microcentrifuge tubes have V and U two shapes bottom to choose from and have graduated markings on the tube wall. Its capacity will be larger than the PCR tube capacity, there are 1.5mL and 2mL. In addition to microtubes, there are standard tubes and large volumetric flasks for more centrifugation needs.

Tube Differences

• First of all, their wall thickness is different. The wall of the centrifuge tube is thicker than that of the PCR tube, and there are scale marks on the wall of the centrifuge tube to observe the sample data. The PCR experiment needs to be heated evenly, so the PCR tubes all have smooth and flat walls, the addition of the scale will affect the heating results.
• Secondly, their capacity is different, the capacity of the centrifuge tube is larger, and sometimes the two bottles can be distinguished according to the size.
• The bottom may be different, and the centrifuge tube will have a U-shaped bottom product.
• Their difference makes them unable to be used interchangeably. PCR tubes are not designed to withstand large centrifugal forces and can easily burst and cause losses. Microcentrifuge tubes are thicker and the scale marks cause uneven and undulating walls, which may affect PCR performance due to slow and uneven heat transfer.

Although they are different, they are indeed similar. They are all transparent colored tubes with a V-bottom design, all of which are composed of a tube body and a cover body, and these two parts are connected together. When purchasing and taking, you need to distinguish it so as not to buy or take the wrong one.

The above is about the difference between PCR tubes and microcentrifuge tubes. You can make a distinction based on these differences. After seeing these differences you will also understand that these two consumables that look so similar cannot be exchanged for use in the other party’s experiment. If you want to obtain excellent PCR tubes and centrifuge tubes, as well as PCR strip tubes and other types of centrifuge tubes, we look forward to your contact with us. We have full confidence in our products and hope you will be satisfied too.