Expansion Adapters — Borosilicate 3.3 Glass Cone-to-socket joint adapters for connecting glassware of different joint sizes Expansion adapters are essential components for a wide variety of laboratory tasks, providing secure connections between pieces of glassware with different ground joint sizes. Their ability to adapt and reconfigure lab equipment allows sophisticated setups to be assembled for different experiments — from distillation and reflux to filtration trains. When properly seated (and lightly greased where appropriate), the precision-ground joints form a reliable, leak-resistant seal for the effective execution of laboratory procedures. Each adapter features a ground glass cone (male) joint at one end and a larger ground glass socket (female) joint at the other, allowing smaller-jointed glassware to connect to larger-jointed apparatus. Key Features • Borosilicate 3.3 glass — low thermal expansion and strong resistance to thermal shock and chemical attack • Precision-ground standard taper joints for a reliable, leak-resistant fit • Connects glassware of different joint sizes without replacing existing apparatus • Suitable for distillation, reflux, rotary evaporation and general assembly work • Reusable and easy to clean with standard laboratory practice Available Sizes & SKUs Variant Cone (Male) Socket (Female) SKU Cone 14/23 – Socket 19/26 14/23 19/26 SE.EA1423-1926 Cone 14/23 – Socket 24/29 14/23 24/29 SE.EA1423-2429 Cone 19/26 – Socket 24/29 19/26 24/29 SE.EA1926-2429 Cone 14/23 – Socket 29/32 14/23 29/32 SE.EA1423-2932 Cone 19/26 – Socket 29/32 19/26 29/32 SE.EA1926-2932 Cone 24/29 – Socket 24/40 24/29 24/40 SE.EA2429-2440 Cone 24/29 – Socket 29/32 24/29 29/32 SE.EA2429-2932 Cone 19/26 – Socket 34/35 19/26 34/35 SE.EA1926-3435 Cone 24/29 – Socket 34/35 24/29 34/35 SE.EA2429-3435 Cone 24/29 – Socket 40/38 24/29 40/38 SE.EA2429-4038 Cone 29/32 – Socket 45/40 29/32 45/40 SE.EA2932-4540 Joint sizes explained: Standard taper joints are described as diameter/length in millimetres — e.g. 24/29 means a 24 mm joint diameter and 29 mm ground length. Match the cone size to your existing socket, and the socket size to your existing cone. How to Use 1. Inspect. Check the adapter for chips, cracks or star fractures before every use. Never use damaged glassware. 2. Select the correct size. The adapter's cone must match the socket of the receiving apparatus, and its socket must match the cone of the item being connected. 3. Prepare the joints. Ensure both ground surfaces are clean and dry. Apply a thin film of suitable joint grease if required (avoid grease where it may contaminate the sample; PTFE sleeves are an alternative). 4. Insert and seat. Insert the cone into the socket with a gentle push and a slight twist until it seats evenly. Do not force. 5. Support the assembly. Use clamps and stands — never let the joint carry the full weight of the apparatus. 6. After use. Separate joints promptly to avoid seizing, clean thoroughly, and store dry. Safety: Wear appropriate PPE (safety glasses, gloves, lab coat) when handling laboratory glassware. Allow hot glassware to cool before disassembly. Dispose of broken glass in a designated sharps/glass container. Specifications Property Detail Material Borosilicate 3.3 glass Joint type Ground glass, standard taper (cone × socket) Configuration Expansion — smaller cone to larger socket Sizes available 9 cone/socket combinations (see table above) (Contact us for customised sizes) Applications Distillation, reflux, filtration, general glassware assembly
