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 for laboratory glassware and primary packaging. From GL 45 media bottles to Class A volumetric flasks, and including vials and serum bottles, DWK equips R&D, quality control and pilot-scale production. Its focus: dimensional accuracy, chemical resistance and full traceability, delivering reproducible, reliable results in modern laboratories. With a coherent, well-documented portfolio, the brand streamlines purchasing and guarantees accessory compatibility.

A leading innovator forged by three pioneers

DWK was forged 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 expertise, the company is rooted in Europe and North America while operating an international manufacturing network. The goal remains the same: deliver reliable, standards-compliant glassware designed for everyday use. From the ergonomics of the DURAN YOUTILITY bottles to the wide-neck GLS 80, purposeful innovation drives its development, underpinned by high standards of quality and service. Bringing the brands together has helped harmonise standards, fund state-of-the-art furnaces and provide global logistics. Every batch carries a Retrace Code that gives access to manufacturing data. Over the years, DWK has expanded 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 the demanding needs of the life sciences, analytical and quality control. DURAN bottles (GL 45, GLS 80) offer excellent thermal and chemical resistance, durable graduations and proven autoclavability. amber variants safeguard light-sensitive samples, while Protect models add shatter protection. A broad range of caps and closures (PP, PBT, PTFE-liner) ensures leak-tightness and process fit.

For liquid metrology, KIMBLE supplies volumetric flasks, graduated cylinders and Class A pipettes that meet international tolerances, with batch certificates available. Long-lasting markings (ceramic enamel) and thoughtful design guarantee accuracy and readability — essential in QC and R&D.

For packaging and micro-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 seal integrity, inertness and temperature resistance. 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 make laboratory implementation straightforward. By prioritising durable, reusable materials, DWK also helps reduce the operational footprint without sacrificing performance.

DWK laboratory 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 pharmaceutical applications).

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

Are GL 45/GLS 80 caps cross-compatible between ranges?
GL 45 and GLS 80 are standardised thread types. DWK caps are compatible within these standards. However, check the materials (PP, PBT, PTFE liner) and the intended conditions of use.

What 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) available on request.

Why choose DWK for quality control?
Tight tolerances, accurate volumes, chemical resistance and full traceability. Dimensional consistency minimises variability and safeguards your methods in analytical labs and QC.

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