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ahoyhoy239
12/09/2007, 02:28 PM
I always have a problem with my API test kits, whenever i put the cap on the tube after adding some reagent(doesnt matter which kit, thwy all use the same tube) and shake up the tube, after taking the cap off theres always some liquid that comes out. I know this has to be affecting the results at least a little, so i wonder if any one here has some advice or tricks to keeping this from happening?
ahoyhoy239
12/09/2007, 03:41 PM
bump
dendro982
12/09/2007, 04:35 PM
Leak occurs after shaking and returning in the vertical position, so I don't think, that this influences results. I'm using piece of paper towel to keep fingers and the scale clean.

And more leaky, in my case, are only 2 tubes from all tests.
nietzsche
12/09/2007, 06:28 PM
find all 4 tubes and test each one. what i do is throw out the crappy ones, and the way i test that is just by putting my pointing finger on the cap and my thumb on the bottom of tube, and just press it tightly while i shake. theres always that one tube that leaks wayyy too much
ahoyhoy239
12/09/2007, 07:57 PM
next time i test i will try, but ive tried squeezing the shizz out of the cap and tube while shaking and i can prevent it from leaking. anyone ever try making their own little plug instead of the cap? i might try and make somthing up when i get some time
siwelk
12/09/2007, 08:01 PM
i use API test kits with new test tubes i jacked from my chem lab....i dont condone this
masonicman
12/09/2007, 08:06 PM
Same problem..... I switched to Salifert
aaron7405
12/09/2007, 08:42 PM
Me too shift to Salifert
dendro982
12/10/2007, 09:04 AM
Piece of a new plastic bag between finger and fluid?
I have Salifert as a reference for 3-4 API alkalinity tests, to be sure in results. So far - no problems.
iwishtofish
12/10/2007, 10:27 AM
I have the same problem with leaks and just hold the tube with a paper towel, but I don't know if it really throws off the results that much. I presume not. I bet not everyone gets the water level in the test tubes exactly at the line, either.

I usually worry more about safety since I don't wear gloves as I should. I also should probably familiarize myself more with the toxicity of these chemicals.