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, via vials and serum bottles, to Class A volumetric flasks, DWK supplies R&D, quality control and pilot-scale production. Its focus: dimensional accuracy, chemical resistance and traceability, for reproducible, safe results in modern laboratories. With a coherent, well-documented portfolio, the brand streamlines procurement and ensures 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). With over a century of glassmaking expertise, the company is rooted in Europe and North America while operating a global manufacturing network. The goal remains the same: to provide reliable, standards-compliant glassware designed for everyday use. From the ergonomics of DURAN YOUTILITY bottles to the wide-neck GLS 80, purposeful innovation drives its development, backed by demanding quality and service standards. Consolidating the brands has harmonised specifications, enabled investment in next-generation furnaces and delivered worldwide logistics. Every batch carries a Retrace Code giving access to manufacturing data. Over the years, DWK has expanded its lines with amber versions for light protection, safety coatings (Protect) and ready-to-use solutions for pharma and analytical applications.

Expertise and areas of specialism

DWK stands out for its mastery of borosilicate glass 3.3 for the demanding needs of 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 protect light-sensitive samples, while Protect models add a shatter-safe coating. A wide range of caps and closures (PP, PBT, PTFE-liner) ensures leak-tightness and process compatibility.

For volumetric measurements, KIMBLE provides volumetric flasks, cylinders and pipettes Class A compliant with international tolerances, with a batch certificate available. Long-life markings (enamel) and careful design ensure accuracy and readability, essential in QC and R&D.

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

The portfolio is underpinned by recognised standards (e.g. ISO 4796 for bottles, ASTM E438 and the pharmacopoeias USP/EP 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 environmental footprint of operations without sacrificing performance.

DWK products supplied by Dutscher.

Frequently asked questions about the DWK brand

Which brands form part of 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 validated cycles to preserve markings and mechanical integrity.

Are GL 45/GLS 80 caps compatible across references?
GL 45 and GLS 80 are standardised threads. DWK caps are compatible within those standards. However, check the materials (PP, PBT, PTFE liner) and 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/Ph. Eur. Type I for glass) available on request.

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

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