If you are interested in using rubber plugs and want to know more about them, you have come to the right place. Not many people know just how useful and effective rubber plugs. In the simplest of words, a rubber plug is a small, tapered plug that is used for sealing all types of openings including flasks, tubes, and other laboratory glassware. There are also cork plugs that are widely available. However, they cannot compete with rubber plugs when it comes to variety of applications. The fact is that rubber plugs are simply better at dealing with situations that require a greater degree of chemical resistance or a tighter seal.

Purpose

The main purpose of a rubber plug is to ensure that gas or liquid does not escape from the container where it is inserted during the scientific experiment. Besides just this, rubber plugs also help prevent the sample contamination as they protect the laboratory glassware and its contents from being exposed to air. Lastly, rubber plugs are used by experimenters to mix or shake solutions while ensuring that they do not spill.

Shape

When you are in market for rubber plugs, you will notice that their standard shape is cylindrical. Most rubber plugs have a tapered bottom end, whereas, some contain more than one hole for allowing the insertion of test equipment, tubing, or pipettes.

Size

The size of rubber plugs is generally 0.5 inches to 5 inches at their top. On the other hand, their tapered bottom end has a diameter of up to 3.5 inches. Large rubber plugs are commonly used for beakers and flasks, whereas, smaller ones are used for test tubes and glassware.

Properties

When it comes to rubber plugs, their main property is that they are elastic. This is the reason why they are suitable for use at a laboratory. In addition to elasticity, rubber plugs are impermeable and offer chemical resistance. Due to their elasticity, the rubber plugs are able to form a tight seal around the glassware. This prevents chemicals from escaping outside of the container. The chemical resistance allows for safe use, especially when working with corrosive and reactive compounds. The impermeable property is responsible for preventing liquids and gases from making their way outside of the beaker.

The properties of rubber plugs are the reason why they are widely used just about everywhere. No matter where you go, you are most likely to come across their application. Hence, it is a good idea to use them for carrying out your tasks.

 

Conclusion

Rubber plugs have been used for a long time now. Their properties have made them quite popular. If you are considering using rubber plugs, it is about time that you did because they will allow you to get things done. Make sure to shop for rubber plugs from a reputable manufacturer. Otherwise, you will be unable to do what you want. Hence, it is best to go for a reputable company such as Etol Rubber.