In laboratory environments, sample integrity is critical for ensuring reliable results, workflow efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. While often overlooked, the storage tube plays a pivotal role in protecting samples, streamlining processes, and supporting automation.
Sample storage and handling require a variety of tubes tailored to specific sample types, storage conditions, and analysis methods. SAFE® 2D Tubes from LVL Technologies, available from 2D Tubes by AutoGen, offer the high quality necessary for long-term storage, transport, and automated handling.
Choosing the right storage tubes directly impacts:
- Long-term sample stability and storage efficiency
- Maximum reliability in automation and robotics
- Labeling and traceability
- Biological purity and biocompatibility
Matching the Tube to the Task
Not all samples require the same storage conditions, and choosing the right tube can mean the difference between a reliable result and a lost experiment. Ensure your tubes possess the following quality characteristics:
- Leak-tightness
- Long-term mechanical stability
- Temperature resistance
- Chemical inertness
- Low binding
- Biocompatibility
- Suitability for automation
Material Matters
High-quality tubes must be manufactured from virgin, medical-grade Polypropylene (USP VI) with low leachable, low binding, and low permeability properties. They should be cleanroom manufactured and free of DNase, RNase, DNA, RNA, and Endotoxins.
SAFE 2D Tubes are made using a specially developed polypropylene plastic. This polymer, formulated exclusively for LVL, is precisely tailored to meet the application-specific requirements of cryogenic tubes and is a virgin, medical-grade polypropylene.
The composition of the material has a significant impact on both quality and achievable performance levels. This is reflected in the designation SAFE L3 Medical Polypropylene which highlights three key material properties:
- Low leachables
- Low binding (minimal biomolecular adsorption)
- Low permeability
SAFE 2D Tubes meet the highest standards for biological purity and biocompatibility. Furthermore, the tubes and closures are precisely engineered to ensure mechanical stability and leak-tightness, even under extreme temperature conditions.
Rack Locking Mechanisms Matter
Rack locking mechanisms with two tetter-totter latches on either side of the rack eliminate any concern that the rack isn’t fully locked in. SAFE 2D Tube Racks also include an anti-frost gradient which prevents ice formation. Plus, with the easy lock closure, you can open and close with just one finger.
Labeling and Traceability: The Power of 2D Coded Tubes
The core principle of any automation-ready storage system is unique sample identification. Users must trust that their codes are unique and cannot be duplicated.
Select a 2D Tube with the following features:
- 2D bottom code with a protective rim against mechanical damage (scratches)
- 1D side code / HR side code
- Free space for custom coding
- SAFE® medical-grade polypropylene construction
- A cap design that provides excellent sealing and automation-friendly closure
SAFE 2D Tubes were developed for diverse applications, ranging from long-term cryogenic storage in biobanks to routine use in research, diagnostics, and production.
Smarter Storage, Faster Workflows
Efficiency starts with the tube, but the right accessories are indispensable for managing your valuable samples.
- High-Speed Decappers & 2D Readers: From single-channel to 96-well formats that can decap or scan 96 tubes in under 40 seconds. These offer full integration with Hamilton systems and flexible LIMS compatibility.
- Laser Marker (TLM 864): Replace paper labels with durable laser-etched markings. You can customize logos and labels while processing up to 500 tubes per hour.
The Bottom Line
In laboratory research, precision is everything. A cracked tube in cryogenic storage, a mislabeled sample, or evaporation compromising an assay can derail months of work. The right tube doesn’t just store material—it safeguards sample integrity, optimizes workflows, and prevents costly errors.
At 2D Tubes by AutoGen, we’ve taken the time to consider all these factors to provide a tube and rack design perfect for DNA/RNA extraction automation. Through our partnership with LVL Technologies, we offer a broad array of end-to end sample workflow solutions – from extraction to secure, scalable storage. We believe you won’t find a better sample tube or accessories on the market. If you’re interested in getting these tubes into your workflows, get in touch. Our team is here to help your lab become more efficient.