DWK Life Sciences : What floorutions for laboratory glassware and packaging in the laboratory?

DWK Life Sciences brings together the DURAN, WHEATON and KIMBLE brands—global benchmarks in laboratory glassware and primary packaging. From GL 45 media bottles to Class A volumetric flasks, via vials and serum bottles, DWK equips R&D, Quality Control and production at pilot scale. Its credo: dimensional accuracy, chemical resistance and traceability, for reproducible, safe results in modern laboratories. With a coherent, well-documented portfolio, the brand streamlines purchasing and guarantees accessory compatibility.

A cutting-edge leader born of three pioneers

DWK was born from the union of three pioneers: Duran Group (borosilicate glass 3.3), Wheaton (bottles and vials) and Kimble (volumetric glassware). With more than a century of glassmaking know-how, the company has its roots in Europe and North America while operating a global manufacturing network. The goal remains the same: deliver reliable, standards-compliant glassware designed for everyday lab use. From the ergonomics of DURAN YOUTILITY bottles to the wide-mouth GLS 80, purposeful innovation drives its development, backed by stringent quality and service. Bringing the brands together has harmonised standards, enabled investment in next-generation furnaces and provided worldwide logistics. Every batch carries a Retrace Code giving access to manufacturing data. Over the years, DWK has enriched its ranges with amber options for light protection, safety coatings (Protect) and ready-to-use solutions for pharma and analytical applications.

Expertise and areas of specialisation

DWK stands out for its mastery of borosilicate glass 3.3 for demanding life-science, analytics and quality control workflows. DURAN bottles (GL 45, GLS 80) offer outstanding thermal and chemical resistance, hard-wearing graduations and proven autoclavability. The amber variants protect light-sensitive samples, while the Protect models add shatter protection. A broad range of caps and closures (PP, PBT, PTFE-liner) ensures leak-tight seals and smooth process integration.

For volumetric metrology, KIMBLE supplies Class A volumetric flasks, cylinders and pipettes compliant with international tolerances, with batch certificates available. Long-life enamel markings and careful design deliver accuracy and readability — essentials in QC and R&D.

For packaging and small-scale production, WHEATON offers vials for HPLC/GC, headspace vials and serum bottles in Type I glass for sensitive applications. Cap/septa combinations (PTFE/silicone, butyl, etc.) cover seal integrity, inertness and temperature-resistance requirements. Pre-cleaned or ready-to-use versions are available depending on the reference.

The portfolio is built on recognised standards (e.g. ISO 4796 for bottles, ASTM E438 and the USP/EP pharmacopoeias for glass). Retrace Code traceability, dimensional consistency (threads GL 45, GLS 80) and accessory compatibility simplify implementation in the laboratory. By prioritising durable, reusable materials, DWK also helps reduce the footprint of operations without compromising performance.

Laboratory products from DWK, distributed by Dutscher.

DWK brand: frequently asked questions

Which brands make up DWK and what do they cover?
DWK brings together DURAN (bottles and borosilicate glassware), KIMBLE (Class A volumetric glassware) and WHEATON (vials and bottles for analytical and pharma).

Is DURAN glass autoclavable?
Yes, borosilicate 3.3 withstands autoclaving (121–134 °C). Loosen caps, avoid thermal shock and follow the cycles to preserve markings and mechanical integrity.

Are GL 45/GLS 80 caps cross-compatible?
GL 45 and GLS 80 are standardised thread forms. DWK caps are compatible within these standards. Check cap materials (PP, PBT, PTFE liner) and conditions of use.

Which certificates can DWK provide?
Depending on the reference: certificates of conformity for Class A, batch information via the Retrace Code, and material statements (Type I glass per USP/EP) available on request.

Why choose DWK for quality control?
Tight tolerances, volumetric accuracy, chemical resistance and traceability. Dimensional consistency reduces variability and safeguards your analytical and QC methods.

What sustainability actions does DWK take?
Priority to reusables, recyclable glass, extended service life (Protect, YOUTILITY) and optimised packaging. The goal: technical performance with less impact.