SAFE® 2D Tubes FAQ –
Formats, Applications & Benefits
SAFE® 2D tubes from LVL technologies are specialized sample containers designed for secure, automatable, and traceable storage of biological and chemical samples. In this FAQ section, we answer key questions regarding formats, material properties, traceability, and areas of application.
The SAFE® 2D tubes meet the requirements of modern laboratory environments, particularly in biobanking, pharmaceutical research, and diagnostics. Thanks to ANSI/SBS compatibility, they integrate seamlessly into automated storage systems, liquid-handling platforms, and rack readers. The 2D DataMatrix code embedded in the tube bottom enables unambiguous machine-readable identification of each sample and supports digital traceability from sample receipt to long-term archiving.
The tubes are made of SAFE® L3 Medical Polypropylene and, in combination with a validated closure system, ensure reliable sealing even during cryogenic storage down to −196 °C. This FAQ demonstrates how SAFE® 2D tubes reduce errors, meet regulatory requirements, and streamline daily laboratory workflows.
Formats & Technical Basics
SAFE® 2D tubes are available in 24-, 48-, and 96-position formats. The arrangement complies with ANSI/SBS geometric requirements, ensuring compatibility with automated storage systems, rack readers, and liquid-handling platforms.
Depending on the application, variants with internal or external threads are available. For cryogenic applications, external threads are preferred as they reduce the risk of sample liquid entering the thread area.
“2D” refers to the 2D DataMatrix code embedded in the tube bottom.
The code is engraved directly into the material using a fiber laser. Engraving depth is approximately 50 µm, creating a three-dimensional, abrasion-resistant structure.
The codes achieve ISO 15415 quality grades A or B and remain reliably readable even after mechanical stress and cryogenic storage.
Each tube ID is individually generated, checked against the complete historical production database, and verified by rack. Duplicate codes are therefore excluded.
Compared to manually labeled standard tubes, SAFE® 2D tubes provide machine-readable, unique identification.
They are additionally designed for:
- Automated pick-and-place processes
- Simultaneous rack scanning
- Validated cryostability
- Documented material purity
- Reproducible capping – suitable for high-throughput and long-term archival workflows
Yes. The tubes and racks meet the geometric requirements of the ANSI/SBS standard, allowing use in common automated storage and robotic systems.
Cryogenic Storage & Material Properties
SAFE® 2D tubes are designed for cryogenic applications down to −196 °C.
In validation tests, they were exposed to 168 hours of LN₂ vapor. No nitrogen ingress was detected. Measured mass loss was below 0.1%.
Material, threads, and seals remained functionally stable.
SAFE® 2D tubes are made of SAFE® L3 Medical Polypropylene.
This polymer is additive-free and contains no slip agents, mold release agents, or co-monomers. It is USP Class VI compliant and has a homogeneous polymer structure.
Analytical tests using GC-MS and LC-MS showed no relevant leachables or extractables. ICP-MS analyses confirmed the absence of detectable heavy metals above the detection limits.
SAFE closure systems use an axially acting TPE seal concept. O-rings are intentionally omitted, as they may lose elasticity or develop compression set under cryogenic conditions.
Sealing performance was validated at a defined torque of 7 Ncm (for SBS 96) and 15 Ncm (for SBS 48 and SBS 24).
After 15 automated open/close cycles, mechanical stress, and cryogenic exposure, no leakage, thread abrasion, or seal surface damage was observed.
Traceability & Data Integration
The deeply engraved 2D code enables unambiguous machine-readable identification of each individual sample.
Combined with rack readers and LIMS systems, this creates a consistent digital sample history from receipt to archiving or analysis.
Yes. The codes are standardized for reading and can be directly transferred to LIMS systems. This reduces manual entry errors and supports the digital documentation chain.
Optionally, a 1D or HR side label can be added alongside the 2D code.
Additionally, a SAFE® Tube Laser Marker (TLM) can apply a material-integrated laser marking. This remains permanently readable at −196 °C and, unlike labels, is not affected by condensation or cold stress.
Applications & Benefits
SAFE® 2D sample tubes are used in biobanking, pharmaceutical research, molecular diagnostics, high-throughput screening, and forensic applications.
They are suitable for environments requiring long-term archiving, automation, and digital traceability.
SAFE® 2D tubes enable automated scanning, handling, and archiving.
In a validated pick-and-place test with 3,465 cycles, an error rate of 0.086 % was measured. No process interruptions occurred.
Through unambiguous machine-readable identification, precise dimensional accuracy, validated sealing systems, and systemic tube–cap–rack validation, confusion and interface risks are minimized.
In GMP-adjacent environments, traceable documentation is essential.
SAFE® 2D tubes support this through unique ID generation, documented validation, consistent LIMS integration, and material-integrated marking.
