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 core promise: dimensional precision, chemical resistance and traceability, for reproducible and safe results in modern laboratories. With a coherent, well-documented portfolio, the brand streamlines purchasing and ensures 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 (primary packaging and vials) and Kimble (volumetric glassware). With more than a century of glassmaking expertise, the company is rooted in Europe and North America while operating an international manufacturing network. The objective remains the same: to deliver reliable, standards-compliant glassware engineered for everyday use. From the ergonomics of DURAN YOUTILITY bottles to the wide-neck GLS 80, practical innovation drives its development, with a high bar for quality and service. Bringing the brands together has harmonised standards, enabled investment in next-generation furnaces and provided global logistics. Every batch carries a Retrace Code giving access to manufacturing data. Over the years, DWK has expanded its ranges with amber versions for light protection, safety coatings (Protect) and ready-to-use solutions for pharma and analytical laboratories.

Expertise and Areas of Specialisation

DWK stands out for its mastery of borosilicate glass 3.3 for the demanding applications of life sciences, analytical work and quality control. DURAN bottles (GL 45, GLS 80) deliver excellent thermal and chemical resistance, hard-wearing graduations and proven autoclavability. amber versions shield light-sensitive samples, while Protect models add anti-shatter safety. A wide choice of caps and closures (PP, PBT, PTFE-liner) ensures tight sealing and process compatibility.

For liquid metrology, KIMBLE provides Class A volumetric flasks, cylinders and pipettes compliant with international tolerances, with a batch certificate available. Long-lasting ceramic-enamel markings and careful design guarantee accuracy and legibility, essential 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 requirements for sealing integrity, inertness and temperature resistance. Pre-cleaned or ready-to-use versions are available depending on the reference.

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

DWK products distributed by Dutscher.

DWK brand FAQs

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 those standards. Always check materials (PP, PBT, PTFE liner) and conditions of use.

What certificates can DWK supply?
Depending on the item: certificates of conformity for Class A, batch information via the Retrace Code, and material declarations (USP/Ph. Eur. Type I for glass) available on request.

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

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