ASTM E787-81(2024) PDF

Overview

ASTM E787-81(2024), Standard Specification for Disposable Glass Micro Blood Collection Pipets, covers requirements for two types of dimensionally different disposable glass micropipets used in collecting whole human blood specimens. These pipets are essential for clinical analysis and laboratory testing, providing a standardized method for sample collection. The specification details manufacturing materials, physical requirements, performance tests, and quality indicators to ensure safe and effective use in laboratory environments.

Key Topics

• Pipet Types: The standard defines two main types of pipets:
  • Short Caraway pipet: Approximately 75 mm in length, typically holding 310 μL to 470 μL.
  • Long Natelson pipet: Approximately 150 mm in length, with a capacity of 220 μL to 420 μL.
• Coating Options: Both pipet types are available in two variants:
  • Type I (Heparin-coated): Identified with a red band. Provides anticoagulant properties using a heparin coating.
  • Type II (Uncoated): Identified with a blue band. Used when anticoagulant is not required.
• Material Requirements: Pipets must be made from either borosilicate glass (Type I, Class B) or soda lime glass (Type II) to ensure strength and chemical resistance.
• Quality and Design: The specification demands:
  • Straight, fire-polished pipets with tapered points
  • No defects, cracks, or foreign matter
  • Color coding for easy identification
• Performance Tests: Includes capillarity, fluidity, sheep plasma, human whole blood, centrifugal force resistance, and heparin content tests to guarantee reliable and safe performance.

Applications

Disposable glass micro blood collection pipets specified by ASTM E787-81(2024) are critical in a range of medical and laboratory applications where small-volume blood collection is required:

• Clinical Laboratories: Used in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic labs for routine blood testing and specialized analyses.
• Point-of-Care Testing: Suitable for near-patient sample collection in doctor’s offices and emergency settings.
• Research Facilities: Widely used in academic and biotechnological research where accurate and standardized micro blood sampling is essential.
• Quality Control: Ensures traceability through lot numbers and standardized dimensions, improving reproducibility and patient safety.
• Compatibility and Safety: Heparin-coated models allow for immediate anticoagulation, preventing clotting during analysis and aiding in accurate test results.

Related Standards

Several ASTM standards and guidelines complement or reference ASTM E787-81(2024):

• ASTM E438: Specification for Glasses in Laboratory Apparatus provides the glass material requirements referenced for pipet manufacturing.
• United States Pharmacopeia (USP): Methods for assaying heparin content ensure compliance with pharmaceutical quality benchmarks.
• International Principles: This standard aligns with principles established by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee, ensuring international applicability.

Practical Value

Adhering to ASTM E787-81(2024) ensures consistent quality, patient safety, and regulatory compliance in the production and use of disposable glass micro blood collection pipets. Clear specifications for design, materials, testing, and labeling help laboratories select the appropriate pipet for clinical and research applications, reducing risk of contamination, breakage, or sample compromise. The use of standardized pipets also facilitates interoperability and efficient training for laboratory personnel worldwide.

Keywords: blood collection, disposable pipets, glass micropipets, clinical laboratory, heparin-coated, Caraway pipet, Natelson pipet, ASTM E787-81, laboratory supplies, medical testing standards.