Hamilton FAQs

What is the accuracy of a Hamilton Syringe?

Hamilton syringes are manufactured to be accurate within ±1% of nominal volume, and with precision within 1%, measured at 80% of total scale volume. The design of the barrel and plunger dimensions assures high levels of accuracy and precision. The Hamilton Company Quality System is ISO 9001-2000 certified.

Is the volume of fluid in the needle part of the total volume of the dispensed fluid?

When using a Hamilton syringe, the volume in the needle (called dead volume) is considered constant and the volume being dispensed is absolute. The dead volume is maintained throughout aspirate and dispense stages.

Are the plungers for the 700 series MICROLITER syringes interchangeable?

No, they are not. Each plunger is fitted to a specific syringe barrel. Be very careful to keep each plunger with its original syringe in order to maximize syringe performance.

What are the most versatile syringes made by Hamilton?

GASTIGHT syringes are the most versatile syringes. The plunger is replaceable. Any of the Metal hub, Kel-F or Removable Needle allow for the replacement of needle if they become bent or plugged.

How do I select the correct needle?

You will need to answer the following questions:

1. What is your application and what instrument are you using?
2. Do you already have a syringe, and if so what kind? What is the volume and what is the termination?
3. What gauge do you think you need? Hamilton makes needles from 10-33 gauge.
4. What length do you need? The most common length is 2 inches (51 mm).

Is the digital syringe automated or manual?

The Digital Syringe is a manual syringe with a digital display which allows you to clearly see the aspirated volume. The Digital Syringe is not automated, it will not dispense with the touch of a button. It operates like a typical syringe, but there is no guessing as to the volume being aspirated or dispensed.

What does “s” mean in 22s or 26s gauge needle?

The “s” represents a smaller inner diameter for the needle and a thicker needle wall for better durability. For example, a 26 gauge needle has an outer diameter of 0.46 mm and an inner diameter of 0.26 mm while the 26s gauge needle has an outer diameter of 0.47mm and an inner diameter of 0.13mm. The 26s has half the inner diameter of the 26 gauge needle. The difference in the wall thickness is also nearly doubled with 26s gauge having a thickness of 0.18mm while the 26 gauge is only 0.10 mm.