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

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

A cutting-edge innovator 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). Heir to over a century of glassmaking expertise, the company is rooted in Europe and North America while operating an international manufacturing network. The objective remains constant: to deliver reliable, standards-compliant glassware designed for everyday use. From the ergonomics of DURAN YOUTILITY bottles to the wide-neck GLS 80, practical innovation guides its development, underpinned by stringent quality and service. Brand consolidation 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 enriched its ranges with amber versions 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 the demanding needs of life sciences, analytical work and quality control. DURAN bottles (GL 45, GLS 80) offer excellent thermal and chemical resistance, durable graduations and proven autoclavability. Amber variants protect light-sensitive samples, while Protect models add shatter protection. A wide range of caps and closures (PP, PBT, PTFE liner) ensures leak-tight sealing and process fit.

For volumetric measurement, KIMBLE provides Class A volumetric flasks, cylinders and pipettes compliant with international tolerances, with batch certificates available. Long-life markings (fired-on) and a refined design ensure accuracy and legibility—essential in QC and R&D.

On the packaging and micro-production side, 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, inertness and temperature resistance. Pre-cleaned or ready-to-use versions are available depending on the reference.

The range is anchored in 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 streamline implementation in the laboratory. By favouring durable, reusable materials, DWK also helps reduce the operational footprint without compromising performance.

DWK products distributed by Dutscher.

Frequently asked questions about the DWK brand

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 use).

Is DURAN glass autoclavable?
Yes. Borosilicate 3.3 tolerates autoclaving at 121–134 °C. Loosen the caps, avoid thermal shock and follow validated cycles to preserve markings and mechanical integrity.

Are GL 45/GLS 80 caps cross-compatible?
GL 45 and GLS 80 are standardised threads. DWK caps are compatible within those standards. Always check the materials (PP, PBT, PTFE liner) and the intended conditions of use.

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

Why choose DWK for quality control?
Tight tolerances, accurate volumes, chemical resistance and traceability. Dimensional consistency reduces variation and safeguards your analytical and QC methods.

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