Rainin Pipet-Lite PL+ Single-Channel Manual Pipette
| Brand | Rainin |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Model | Pipet-Lite PL+ |
| Type | Single-channel manual pipette |
| Volume Range | 0.1 µL – 10 mL (model-dependent) |
| Accuracy (typical) | ±0.15%–±12.0% (volume-dependent) |
| Precision (CV) | ≤0.15%–≤6.0% (volume-dependent) |
| LTS Tip Ejection System | Yes |
| Compliance | ISO 8655 compliant |
| Certifications | CE, RoHS, REACH |
Overview
The Rainin Pipet-Lite PL+ is a high-performance, single-channel manual pipette engineered for precision liquid handling in regulated and research-intensive laboratory environments. Built upon Rainin’s legacy of ergonomic and metrologically rigorous design, the PL+ series leverages patented LiteTouch System (LTS) technology to deliver consistent tip attachment, superior sealing integrity, and effortless tip ejection—eliminating the need for forceful tapping or twisting. Its operating principle relies on air displacement mechanics governed by ISO 8655 standards, ensuring traceable, reproducible volumetric delivery across its full range (0.1 µL to 10 mL, depending on model). The PL+ is not merely a tool for volume transfer; it is a calibrated instrument designed to minimize operator-induced variability—critical for applications requiring GLP/GMP compliance, assay validation, or multi-site method transfer.
Key Features
- LTS (LiteTouch System) architecture: Features a reduced-seal-area piston and optimized front-stop geometry to ensure rapid, secure tip engagement with minimal insertion force and zero leakage risk—even with low-retention or filtered tips.
- Ergonomic actuation system: Incorporates a low-friction internal seal and lightweight spring mechanism that reduces plunger activation force by up to 40% compared to conventional manual pipettes, significantly lowering cumulative hand fatigue during high-throughput workflows.
- Thumb-rest and finger-hook design: Optimized grip geometry distributes pressure across the metacarpal region, reducing localized strain and supporting repetitive use in compliance with ISO 9241-5 ergonomic guidelines.
- Volumetric lock mechanism: A tactile, side-mounted volume lock prevents accidental adjustment during benchtop handling or transport—essential for maintaining protocol fidelity between users or shifts.
- Calibration-friendly construction: Fully serviceable design with field-accessible calibration screws and standardized adjustment procedures aligned with ISO 8655-6 verification protocols.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Pipet-Lite PL+ supports universal compatibility with LTS-certified tips—including low-binding, filter, and sterile options—from Rainin and third-party manufacturers meeting ISO 8655-3 dimensional tolerances. Each PL+ model undergoes factory calibration per ISO 8655-2 and is supplied with a certificate of conformity referencing traceable NIST-traceable standards. The instrument meets CE marking requirements under the EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) Annex I essential requirements for Class I devices, and complies with RoHS 2011/65/EU and REACH (EC) No. 1907/2006. For laboratories operating under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11, the PL+ supports audit-ready documentation through optional Rainin Calibration Management Software (RCMS), enabling electronic calibration logs, user access control, and change history tracking.
Software & Data Management
While the PL+ is a manually operated instrument, its integration into digital lab ecosystems is facilitated via Rainin’s RCMS platform. RCMS enables secure storage of calibration records, scheduled maintenance alerts, and user-specific configuration profiles. All calibration events are timestamped, digitally signed, and exportable in PDF or CSV format—fully compliant with ALCOA+ data integrity principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate). The system supports role-based permissions and generates audit trails required for regulatory inspections under ISO/IEC 17025, CLIA, or GxP frameworks. Optional RFID-enabled pipette trackers can be retrofitted for real-time location monitoring and usage analytics within enterprise LIMS environments.
Applications
- Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and RT-qPCR setup requiring sub-microliter accuracy at 0.1–2 µL volumes
- Cell culture media preparation and reagent dilution where volumetric consistency directly impacts viability assays
- ELISA and immunoassay plate loading under ISO 15197:2013 performance criteria
- Reference standard preparation in pharmaceutical QC labs adhering to USP and EP 2.9.36
- High-content screening workflows demanding >99.5% inter-operator reproducibility across multi-user platforms
- Teaching laboratories requiring robust, serviceable instruments validated to ISO 8655 educational benchmarks
FAQ
Is the Pipet-Lite PL+ compatible with non-LTS tips?
No. The PL+ is engineered exclusively for LTS tips. Using non-LTS tips compromises sealing integrity, accuracy, and repeatability—and voids calibration certification.
What is the recommended recalibration interval?
Rainin recommends verification every 3–6 months for routine use, or after 10,000 cycles—whichever occurs first. Frequency may increase under high-humidity, volatile solvent, or high-precision assay conditions.
Can the PL+ be sterilized in an autoclave?
No. The PL+ is not autoclavable. Sterilization is achieved via surface disinfection using 70% ethanol or isopropanol. Tip cones and lower parts are replaceable and available as sterile kits.
Does Rainin provide ISO 17025-accredited calibration services?
Yes. Rainin offers accredited calibration services through ISO/IEC 17025-certified labs, including uncertainty budgets, measurement traceability statements, and full compliance reporting for audit readiness.
How does LTS reduce carryover and cross-contamination?
The LTS tip cone features a precisely defined interference fit and minimal dead volume geometry. Combined with consistent ejection force and axial alignment, this reduces residual liquid retention by >95% versus legacy conical systems—validated per ISO 8655-5 carryover test protocols.
