The Top 30 Most Commonly Used Lab Equipment

Whether you’re stocking a school lab or scaling industrial testing, there are certain pieces of lab equipment that are foundational to safe, accurate procedures.

From life sciences and pharma to education and food analysis, laboratories rely on these essential tools to carry out precise work, ensure compliance, and protect users and the environment.

In this guide, we explore the top 30 most used lab instruments, organized based on function, to help you stock or upgrade your facility with total confidence.

Liquid Handling Essentials

Being able to accurately and ergonomically handle liquid is key to virtually all laboratory workflows, from basic educational experiments to high-throughput pharmaceutical research. These tools help lab professionals measure, transfer and dispense fluids with minimal waste and error.

Pipettes (Manual & Electronic)

Pipettes are essential for dispensing precise microlitre volumes. Manual options include single and multi-channel pipettes, as well as fixed or variable volume formats, all commonly found in diagnostic, pharmaceutical and academic settings.

Electronic pipettes reduce hand strain and keep results reproducible across multiple samples.

We supply ergonomic, fully autoclavable pipettes like the Transferpette® S, which improve comfort and accuracy for high-throughput users. Whether you're running ELISAs, cell culture, or PCR, a well-calibrated pipette is critical.

Explore our full range of pipettes →

Pipette Tips

Even the most accurate pipette is only as reliable as its tips. Universal pipette tips – available filtered or non-filtered – are essential for maintaining sterility and preventing cross-contamination.

DNase and RNase-free options are a must for sensitive molecular biology applications. We recommend sourcing tips compatible with your pipette brand and validating sterility, particularly for regulated or GLP environments.

Explore our full range of pipette tips →

Pipette Controllers

Pipette controllers allow for precise aspiration and dispensing of larger liquid volumes using serological pipettes. Models like the Accu-Jet® S from Brand® provide intuitive, one-handed operation and adjustable speed control, making them ideal for repetitive media preparation or reagent transfers.

Reagent Bottles & Reservoirs

Reagent reservoirs and bottles are staples in any liquid-handling workflow. Ocon supplies borosilicate glass and polypropylene reservoirs with GL45 threads, autoclavable for safe reuse. These are ideal for reagent storage, buffer prep, and bulk dispensing during manual or automated assays.

Measurement & Dispensing

Reliable measurement and dispensing tools are the foundation of reproducible results in analytical chemistry, biology, and quality control. Whether weighing solids or measuring liquids, accuracy and contamination control are paramount.

Analytical Balances

Analytical balances are vital when weighing small samples in milligrams or micrograms. Precision is key — these balances often require placement on vibration-dampening surfaces or within fume hoods for stability.

Look for models with draft shields, internal calibration, and anti-static protection for optimal performance in pharmaceutical, academic, or food-testing labs.

Graduated Cylinders & Measuring Flasks

For rough volume measurements, graduated cylinders are a go-to, especially in school or general research labs. Polypropylene and borosilicate versions are both available, depending on chemical compatibility and temperature resistance needs.

Measuring flasks, typically used in titrations and solution prep, offer higher accuracy. Their narrow necks reduce volume reading errors, making them suitable for preparing standardised solutions.

Syringes & Pipette Fillers

Syringes, especially those with Luer-lock fittings, are frequently used in chromatography workflows and sterile sampling. They allow for controlled fluid handling without aerosol generation.

Pipette fillers are also helpful when using serological pipettes, offering vacuum-assisted filling and safer fluid handling in microbiology and biochemistry labs.

Volumetric Flasks

Volumetric flasks are calibrated for preparing precise concentrations of solutions. Made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass, these flasks are essential in titrations, buffer preparation, and pharmaceutical testing. Their wide base provides stability, while the narrow neck ensures accurate meniscus readings.

Safety reminder:
Always handle volumetric flasks and graduated glassware with care, especially when working with acids, bases, or solvents. Use appropriate PPE and check for any chips or cracks before use.

Explore our full range of flasks →

Heating, Cooling & Storage

Temperature control is fundamental for preserving samples, cultivating organisms, or driving chemical reactions. This equipment ensures that lab conditions are optimised for stability, consistency, and regulatory compliance.

Hotplates & Magnetic Stirrers

Heating and mixing are core to many lab processes — from dissolving reagents to facilitating chemical reactions. Hotplates combined with magnetic stirrers offer simultaneous heating and mixing, with temperature controls for reproducibility.

Advanced models include digital displays and feedback loops for consistent heating, ideal for applications like sample digestion or reagent synthesis.

Water Baths

Water baths provide uniform, gentle heating for temperature-sensitive reactions, including enzyme activity, incubation, or thawing. Static water baths maintain stable temperatures, while shaking baths introduce movement for increased sample homogeneity.

Look for models with digital temperature controls and safety features like over-temperature protection.

Refrigerators & Freezers

Laboratories typically require multiple refrigeration units for storing reagents, enzymes, and biological samples. -20°C freezers are common for general storage, while -80°C ultra-low freezers preserve RNA, DNA, or tissue samples for extended periods.

Reliable temperature monitoring and alarm systems are critical for regulatory compliance and sample integrity.

Incubators

Incubators are used extensively in microbiology and cell culture. For example, the Analog 10L Incubator offers precise temperature control in a compact footprint — ideal for routine microbiological testing or hematology. Features include hydraulic thermostats, corrosion-resistant interiors, and adjustable shelving.

Ocon’s incubators are designed to offer stability, energy efficiency, and ease of use across a wide range of applications.

Explore our full range of incubators →

Cryogenic Tube Racks

Cryogenic tube racks keep samples secure during ultra-low temperature storage. These racks are typically autoclavable, stackable, and compatible with most cryo-box formats. They're essential in genetic, pharmaceutical, and biomedical labs where traceability and durability matter.

Separation & Analysis

Analytical instruments are key to understanding the composition, purity, and concentration of substances. This equipment supports everything from routine QC testing to advanced biomolecular research.

Separation & Analysis

Analytical instruments are key to understanding the composition, purity, and concentration of substances. This equipment supports everything from routine QC testing to advanced biomolecular research.

Centrifuges

Centrifuges are vital for separating samples by density, from simple blood spin-downs to complex cell fractionation. Ocon’s range includes compact bench-top and high-speed centrifuges like the Domel Centric MF 220 and Centric 250.

Centric MF 220: A multi-purpose unit compatible with tubes from 1.5 mL to 50 mL. It includes seven rotor options, including PCR-specific and hematocrit rotors.

Centric 250: A high-speed, low-noise centrifuge featuring microprocessor control, brushless motors, and rotor auto-recognition. Ideal for labs needing programmable precision and high throughput.

Both models support aerosol-tight rotors, programmable acceleration, and braking, perfect for biopharma, clinical, and academic research labs.

Explore our full range of centrifuges →

Spectrophotometers

Spectrophotometers are used to measure the absorbance or transmittance of light through a sample, providing critical data for DNA quantification, enzyme kinetics, or quality control in manufacturing.

Basic UV-Vis models are common in teaching and general research labs, while more advanced systems interface with LC-MS or UHPLC setups for high-resolution detection. Key considerations include wavelength range, sample capacity, and software integration.

LC-MS / UHPLC-MS Solvent Systems

When working with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS or UHPLC-MS), solvent purity is paramount. Even trace impurities can skew results or damage equipment. That’s why Ocon supplies Scharlau LC-MS grade solvents, rigorously tested for UV transparency, particle count, and low metal content.

These solvents are used in proteomics, drug discovery, and environmental testing. Choose suppliers that guarantee batch-to-batch consistency and provide certificates of analysis.

Chromatography Columns

Chromatography columns enable the separation of compounds in a sample, essential in pharmaceuticals, forensics, and food safety. You’ll find columns tailored for different methods:

• Flash chromatography columns for quick separations
• HPLC/LC columns for high-resolution analytical work
• Fractionating or Snyder columns for preparative work

At Ocon, we also supply supporting consumables like column packing material, adaptors, and valves for a complete system.

Condensers & Distillation Setups

Distillation is used in organic synthesis, purification, and solvent recovery. Condensers allow vapours to cool and recondense efficiently. Common types include:

• Liebig condensers – straight inner tube, basic cooling
• Graham and Allihn condensers – more surface area, ideal for volatile solvents
• Dimroth condensers – coiled design for high-efficiency cooling

Paired with distillation flasks and receivers, these systems are essential in both academic and industrial chemistry labs.

Containment & Safety

Safety equipment isn’t optional — it’s mandatory for protecting lab personnel and ensuring compliance with REACH, ISO 9001, and national safety regulations. This gear mitigates risks from chemical exposure, spills, or mechanical hazards.

Fume Hoods

Fume hoods provide a ventilated workspace for handling volatile substances, acids, or solvents. They capture and exhaust harmful vapours, protecting users from inhalation risks. Choose ducted or filtered (ductless) hoods based on lab type and chemical usage.

Proper training and routine airflow checks are essential for safe operation.

Lab Coats, Gloves & Eye Protection

PPE is the frontline defence in every lab. Ocon supplies:

• Aurelia® nitrile gloves in sizes S to XL — chemical-resistant and powder-free
• Lab coats — flame-retardant and spill-resistant
• Goggles and face shields — for splash and impact protection

Always select gloves based on chemical compatibility and replace them regularly to prevent degradation.

Spill Kits

Every lab must be ready for chemical spills. We offer Chemispill® kits that include:

• Absorbent pads and granules
• Full PPE (gloves, goggles, apron)
• Disposal bags and tamper-proof containers

These kits help you comply with local environmental and workplace safety laws, while preventing costly contamination or injury.

Fire Extinguishers & Safety Showers

Flammable chemicals and electrical equipment create real fire risks. Labs must install the correct type of fire extinguishers (e.g., CO₂ or dry powder) and ensure they’re regularly inspected.

Safety showers and eye wash stations should be located within 10 seconds of any hazardous material handling area — a requirement under many national health and safety standards.

First Aid Kits & Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

ISO 9001 and REACH require immediate access to SDS for all chemicals on site. Ensure that your lab maintains:

• Updated first aid kits with burn gel, eyewash, and CPR barriers
• A clear folder or digital repository of SDS
• Regular staff training on emergency protocols

Cleaning & Waste Management

Efficient waste handling and cleaning reduce downtime, contamination risks, and environmental impact. Labs must prioritise compliant disposal and hygiene practices.

Waste Bins & Clinical Containers

Ocon provides UN-approved packaging for clinical, pharmaceutical, and chemical waste. Options include:

• Clinical waste bins and solvent containers
• Lidded drums and bulk containers
• Colour-coded systems for safe segregation

All waste is handled in line with ADR regulations and includes traceable documentation for audit and compliance.

Glassware Washers

Automated glassware washers save time and ensure consistent decontamination. Many systems include acid-neutralising cycles and validated rinse protocols, ideal for trace-metal or biological work.

They’re especially useful in GLP and GMP environments where manual washing poses contamination risks.

Filtration Assemblies & Funnels

Filtration is essential in prep and disposal — from particle removal to pH neutralisation. Ocon supplies:

• Filtering flasks with ground joints
• Filter funnels with sintered glass
• HPLC-compatible filtration units

Used for both sample clarification and post-reaction clean-up, these tools are staples in analytical, environmental, and production labs.

Explore our full range of funnels →

Specialised Equipment

Beyond the basics, some labs require highly specialised tools tailored to niche tasks like protein extraction or nitrogen determination.

Soxhlet Extractors

Soxhlet systems continuously extract analytes from solids using heated solvents. They’re widely used in food testing, environmental monitoring, and natural product isolation.

Ocon supplies extractors in volumes from 50 mL to 2000 mL, compatible with standard lab glassware systems.

Kjeldahl Apparatus

Kjeldahl equipment is used to determine nitrogen content in organic substances — a critical measure in food, feed, and fertiliser testing. Systems include digestion flasks, splash heads, and condensers tailored for high-temperature reactions.

Desiccators & Vacuum Manifolds

Desiccators provide moisture-free storage for sensitive reagents or dried samples. Vacuum manifolds allow inert gas or vacuum distribution across multiple vessels, supporting glove box setups or Schlenk line chemistry.

Look for PTFE stopcocks and chemical-resistant glass construction for durability.

Calibrated Glassware

Calibrated glassware like pycnometers (for density) and viscometers (for fluid flow) ensures reliable measurements in research and industry. Ocon offers:

• Ubbelohde viscometers
• Gay-Lussac pycnometers
• Cannon-Fenske viscometers

These tools are often required in quality control and formulation labs for product specification testing.

Key Takeaways

• Common lab equipment spans liquid handling, measurement, safety, storage, and analysis
• Proper selection ensures accuracy, safety, and regulatory compliance
• Ocon Chemicals offers nationwide delivery, expert sourcing, and ISO-certified service
• We stock over 30 categories of trusted lab equipment and consumables

Contact Ocon Chemicals

Need help outfitting your lab with safe, compliant and reliable equipment?
Contact our team today for expert advice and fast delivery across Ireland.