The Erlenmeyer filter flask, also called a conical flask, was named after Richard August Carl Emil Erlenmeyer. The flask comprises an inverted cylindrical neck, a broad base, and a flat bottom. The flask is frequently used in chemistry studies to combine various chemicals.
Erlenmeyer filter flasks are often made of glass or plastic and have ground glass attached to the neck. Otherwise, they frequently have areas of enamel and ground glass that require pencil labeling.
Erlenmeyer Flask Usage
The transfer, storage, and mixing are the three main uses of the Erlenmeyer flask. Within 5%, its stamped values are correct, which might make it easier for you to transfer liquids of that volume into a beaker or a larger flask. If not, you should continue using measuring cylinders and beakers.
Sizes of Erlenmeyer conical flasks include 125 mL Erlenmeyer Flask, 250 mL Erlenmeyer Flask, 500 mL Erlenmeyer Flask, and 1000 mL Erlenmeyer Flask. It is perfect for conducting research in various laboratories of varying sizes because of these different sizes.
● In Chemistry
In chemistry, the Erlenmeyer flask is used for filtration, titration, and even storage. They can be stopped and sealed off due to the mouth’s narrowness. Thus, spillage is avoided, and evaporation occurrences are reduced.
● In Microbiology
Erlenmeyer filter flasks are used to prepare cultures in microbiology. Some specialized flasks have vented closures that enhance incubatory gas exchange.
● In Biology
The methods utilized to produce specific bacterial and mammalian cells in biology are crucial for study.
Advantages of Erlenmeyer Flask
Here are the cons of the Erlenmeyer Flask as follows:
● Great for Mixing Chemicals
Chemical mixing works well in Erlenmeyer flasks because of their wide bases and ability to be swirled without spilling anything. There is less chance of the liquid reaching the top and spilling out because the base is broad.
● Evade Tipping
The Erlenmeyer filter flask avoids tipping. The large base of the container stops spilling, unlike measuring cylinders and even breakers. The center of gravity is lowered by the flask’s narrow mouth and large base.
● Stoppered Using Rubber Bungs
Additionally, the Erlenmeyer filter flasks have the benefit of being stoppered using rubber bungs. A beaker cannot be subjected to this. Because of this, samples or mixtures are not typically kept in beakers for storage.
● Filter Different Samples with Filter Paper
The conical flask is also used to filter various samples with filter paper because of its narrow mouth. Here, a modified Erlenmeyer flask is utilized, known as the Buchner flask/vacuum flask. Titrates may also be contained in it. Due to these characteristics, it is ideal for re-crystallization and makes the flask perfect for boiling reactions.
The solvent can condense on the flask’s body because of its conical shape. This stops solvent loss. But these reactions need to be handled. They must not increase above a specific temperature because if they do, the thermal shock could cause the flask to break.
● Stronger Than the Standard Wall Flasks
Erlenmeyer flasks are built to be far more durable than the typical wall flasks used in laboratories. They have a longer shelf life than regular wall flasks because they include 25% more glass.
Disadvantages of Erlenmeyer Flask
Since its primary use is to mix and contain liquids, this flask is not used for measuring. The flask’s uneven form makes it unsuitable for measurement. The flask is only used for collecting and storing things. Due to its thinness, it is not used for high-energy chemical reactions.
Conclusion
A chemical lab would be incomplete without an Erlenmeyer conical flask. It works well not just as a container for mixing and storing things but also for filtering. Although it has limited utility as a measurement device, it accomplishes the job well. The Erlenmeyer conical flask’s large base and thin neck make it practical. As a result, it is excellent for handling corrosive and sensitive chemicals and avoiding spillage.
Erlenmeyer flasks and 5ml and 10ml plastic tubes are just a few of the laboratory glassware products MBP INC. is dedicated to offering. Contact us in person or email us about our biological products.
