The operating principle changes according to the type of glass pipette used.
Click on the different pictures in order to see how the following pipettes work.
Volumetric pipette with 2 calibration lines
Step 1: sampling
Draw the solution into the pipette until it reaches the upper mark of the pipette.
Step 2: dispensing
For an exact volume distribution the flow of solution must be stopped when the meniscus reaches the lower mark of the pipette.
The pipette must, without fail, remain in a vertical position during the sampling and the distribution in order to keep the meniscus in sight! There is no need to maintain contact with the container during the distribution.
volumetric pipette with 1 calibration line
Step 1: sampling
Draw the solution into the pipette until it reaches the upper mark of the pipette.
Step 2: dispensing
For an exact volume distribution the entire volume must be released while pressing against the container and holding the pipette vertically.
With a pipette with 1 calibration line, the pipette MUST be in contact with the container during the distribution. The pipette must also always remain in a vertical position.
Graduated pipette
Step 1: sampling
Draw the solution into the pipette until it reaches the mark corresponding to the desired volume.
Step 2: dispensing
For an exact volume distribution, the entire volume must be released while pressing against the container and holding the pipette vertically.
With a graduated pipette, the pipette MUST be in contact with the container during the distribution. The pipette must also always remain in a vertical position.