Glass capillaries, though small, play a monumental role across various scientific and industrial fields. These slender glass tubes are indispensable in applications ranging from medical diagnostics to advanced electronics. Hilgenberg GmbH, with its rich heritage and precision engineering, stands at the forefront of glass capillary manufacturing. Through MSE Supplies, these high-quality components are now readily accessible to professionals in the U.S.

What Are Glass Capillaries?

Glass capillaries are thin, hollow tubes with precisely controlled inner and outer diameters, commonly made from high-purity borosilicate or quartz glass. However, other types of glass can be used for special applications, such as lead glass, UV glass, radiographic glass, and more. These materials are prized due to their different properties and characteristics. One of their most important characteristics is chemical resistance, which allows them to remain durable and stable even when exposed to aggressive substances such as acids, bases, and solvents. This makes them ideal for both laboratory and industrial environments. Another key feature is their thermal stability, enabling them to withstand extreme temperatures and thermal cycling without compromising their structural integrity. Their optical transparency is equally valuable, as it allows for clear visual monitoring and accurate optical measurements—an essential quality in diagnostic and analytical applications. Lastly, their dimensional precision allows for incredibly tight tolerances at the micrometer scale. This ensures consistent performance and reliable results in high-sensitivity settings such as microfluidics, analytical instrumentation, and medical technologies.

Diverse Applications Across Industries

The versatility of glass capillaries is evident in their widespread use:

• Life Sciences & Medical Technology:

• Microinjection: Delivering substances into cells or embryos with pinpoint accuracy.

• Capillary Electrophoresis: Separating molecules for analytical purposes.

• Microfluidic Devices: Managing tiny fluid volumes in diagnostic equipment.

• Analytical Chemistry & Research Laboratories:

• Spectroscopy and Chromatography: Serving as conduits for sample introduction and analysis.

• Lab-on-a-Chip Systems: Enabling compact, integrated analyses.

• Electronics & Optics:

• Fiber Optic Preparations: Assisting in the development and maintenance of communication systems.

• Sensor Encapsulation: Protecting sensitive components within sensors.

• Industrial Manufacturing:

• Precision Fluid Dosing: Ensuring accurate dispensing in production processes.

• Calibration Systems: Providing standards for measurement accuracy.

The Hilgenberg Advantage: Precision Engineering at Its Best

 Hilgenberg GmbH distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to precision. Utilizing advanced fabrication techniques such as laser-assisted cutting and microstructuring, they produce capillaries with:

• Outer Diameters: Ranging from a minuscule 0.05 mm to 10 mm.

• Wall Thicknesses: As thin as 10 μm for specific applications.

• Inner Diameters: From 4–5 μm, catering to the most demanding requirements.

• Cross-Sections: Different shapes and sizes to accommodate various applications.

Their portfolio encompasses a variety of geometries, including round, square, triangular, and multi-channel capillaries, addressing the unique needs of diverse applications.

Accessing Hilgenberg GmbH Products Through MSE Supplies

MSE Supplies proudly offers a wide range of Hilgenberg GmbH products as an authorized distributor. In addition to its renowned glass capillaries, Hilgenberg GmbH manufactures high-quality laboratory and specialty glass items such as crucibles, beads, helices, and other precision-formed components. These products are designed to meet the exacting standards of research, medical, optical, and industrial applications.

Whether you're looking for standard glass components or custom-engineered solutions, MSE Supplies connects you with Hilgenberg’s exceptional German craftsmanship. Our team is here to provide expert support, tailored recommendations, and access to the right tools for your unique needs.

Despite their small stature, glass capillaries are pivotal in advancing scientific research and industrial innovation. Hilgenberg GmbH's dedication to quality and precision and MSE Supplies' commitment to customer service ensure that professionals can access the best tools for their endeavors.

Explore our collection of Hilgenberg precision capillaries or contact our team for customized solutions tailored to your specific needs.