Interesting - API Test kit issue found

It so happen that I am a paramedic and my wife is a nurse practitioner so we both have experience and access to syringes and exact dosing (fluid) amounts.. Something we found very interesting, the API reef master kit only had 1 of the 4 test vials with a fill line that was correct...

After getting an instant ocean test kit and comparing water parameters I found the API had consistently different readings.. API clearly states the test are designed to use 5ml (cc) test water, along with a 5ml fill line on the vial.. Using a 5ml syringe, I filled each vial with exactly 5ml.. 3 of the 4 water levels in the test vial were over the fill line (one was .8ml off and the other 2 .5ml).. Visually it appears the glass tubes have imperfections (thickness of the walls or bubbled areas) in them that could account for the line being off as I am sure the line is placed by a standard measurement... I trust the 5ml of a medication dispensing device over the API fill line so now I ignore the fill line.. (I did test with 2 additional syringes just to confirm ;D;D;D)

I then tested my water with 5ml of test water with the API kit and guess what - The tests results then match my Instant Ocean kit.. Wow - go figure huh..

I also went ahead and tested the fill level of the iInstant Ocean test kit and found the fill line to be correct....

I am not stating or accusing that all API test kits (vials) are off but I would really recommend you to test them if you have a concern or want to see for yourself..

Just as an offer..... If you decide to test your kits and do not have access to a syringe, feel free to pm me and I can send you one.. YES, free of charge and I'll even pay for the postage. Only 1 per user and no needles will be sent...

Why would I do that.. Well since I cant contribute much to the forum as I am such a newbie and have received so much help here, its my way of helping...

 

Very interesting find. Now I need to check my test tubes. You are really offering to send out syringes? I will take you up on that offer if you would be so kind.

 

Pm or email me your address and it will go out later today...

to email jaymstella [COLOR="Blue"]AT[/COLOR] gmail.com and use: 3reef syringe as the subject

Post edited so a spambot doesn't nab your email address.

 

I'll also take you up on that. I just tested with my API kits like 10 minutes ago. :/

 

I don't have a 5cc/ml syringe.....all of mine are 6cc but I just pull back to the 5cc line for exactly this reason. In addition, when water testing is easier, I will do it more often. That's the reason I ordered even more cuvettes at the LFS. At any point in time I have at least 10 clean ones.

Since you are using API, remember this......if you want accurate readings for nitrates, SHAKE THE LIVING DAYLIGHTS OUT OF BOTTLE #2. The zinc oxide settles in the bottom of the bottle. If the zinc oxide is not in suspension, you will get incorrect readings.

BTW, Karma to you for doing this for 3Reefers. (I would suggest editing your original post and limiting the number of syringes to the first XX people who respond. Otherwise someone might pull up this thread and ask you for one).

 

Hopefully I don't get laughed out of here but....could you do a video of the proper way to fill a syringe? I mean where exactly do you stop the plunger? The black rubber on the plunger being thicker then the line. Is the liquid supposed to be exactly on the line?

 

The only stupid question is one not asked. I thought this would be easy....just find a close up shot of a syringe and post it here...I had to look through a BUNCH of pictures and this one is copyrighted so I can only provide a link.

On this picture, there is 2.4 cc/ml of fluid in the syringe. You line up the top of the plunger with the line. Note that syringes sometimes have removable tips.....those should be removed. Disposable 5ml syringe close up isolated | Stock Photo © lucy baldwin #4700519

 

Thanks Curt... Yeah the picture says it all.. If you still need further clarification I can still add a video..

Thanks for the karma I appreciate it..

Currently I am not limiting the number of people getting a syringe but I will limit the time frame (not to say I wont extend later).. SO officially, through the end of June 2012 you can get one for free if you message or email me.. One per user and your user name must be included in a email if thats the way you contact me...

Currently I will be sending 21 out as of the last email and message I got..

 

Good catch Jay,many use api because of thier price and I see many,many people talk about how incosistant they are.I have access and use a medical syringe myself on both my sw master and reef master kits,and have a total of 4 vials that are incorrect as 5ml goes almost .5 ml over the line.And if not known better by using just the fill line,it's very easy to get inaccurate readings.+1

 

I have mailed a syringe to all that have requested... Enjoy and post your finds if you like...