Filter pipette tips must be used in all molecular biology applications that are sensitive to contamination. Filter tip cartridges help to reduce the possibility of fume formation and prevent aerosol contamination, which in turn serves to protect pipette shafts from cross-contamination. In addition, the filter barrier prevents the sample from being carried away from the pipette, thus preventing PCR contamination.
Notes on pipette tip installation:
With most brands of pipettes, especially multichannel pipettes, fitting the tips is not an easy task: in order to achieve a good seal, the pipette sleeve handle needs to be inserted into the tip and then tightened by turning it left and right or rocking it back and forth with force. Some people also use the pipette to tighten the tips by repeatedly hitting them, but this can lead to deformation of the tips and affect accuracy, or in severe cases damage the pipette, so it should be avoided.
