How to Choose the Right Burette for Titration: Class, Capacity, and Material

Burettes are precision instruments, and choosing the right one can make all the difference in titration accuracy. For Australian laboratories — whether in education, pharmaceuticals, or environmental testing — selecting a burette involves more than just price. Factors such as accuracy class, capacity, and stopcock material determine how well it performs in daily use.

Accuracy is the first consideration. Class A burettes, manufactured to ISO 385 and ASTM E287 standards, have tighter tolerances and are essential for professional labs where data integrity is critical. Class B burettes, while less precise, are suitable for schools and teaching environments where cost-effectiveness is a priority. Both provide reliable performance when used appropriately, but knowing when precision matters ensures resources are used wisely.

Capacity is another key factor. Burettes are available in sizes ranging from 10 mL to 100 mL, with 50 mL being the most common in both teaching and research labs. Smaller burettes are ideal for micro-titrations, while larger capacities support high-volume analysis in quality control settings. The choice of stopcock — PTFE for durability and low maintenance, or glass for cost savings — further tailors the burette to your workflow.

LabChoice Australia offers burettes made from BORO 3.3 borosilicate glass, ensuring chemical resistance, heat tolerance, and compliance with international standards. With options for different capacities, classes, and stopcock materials, LabChoice provides a tailored solution for every laboratory.

FAQs

What size burette is most commonly used?
50 mL burettes are standard in most teaching and professional labs.

Why are Class A burettes preferred for research?
They have the tightest tolerances, ensuring high accuracy and reproducibility.

Are Class B burettes suitable for titrations?
Yes, but they are better suited for teaching labs where precision is less critical.

What is the advantage of PTFE stopcocks?
They are chemical-resistant, durable, and require little maintenance compared to glass.

Do LabChoice burettes meet ISO and ASTM standards?
Yes, all LabChoice burettes comply with ISO 385 and ASTM E287.

References

• ISO 385: Laboratory Glassware – Burettes
• ASTM E287: Standard Specification for Glass Burettes
• ACS Analytical Chemistry Standards
• University of Melbourne Laboratory Glassware Guide
• NIST Laboratory Calibration Standards