Schlenk flasks (also called Schlenk tubes depending on the shape) are reaction vessels used for air- and moisture-sensitive chemistry. They are typically fitted with a side arm gas inlet (that is controlled using a ground glass stopcock or Teflon tap) that can be attached to the Schlenk line using flexible hosing. Schlenk flasks also have a ground glass joint (male or female) which can be sealed (using a stopper, Schlenk cap or septum) or be used to attach other items of glassware (addition funnel, distillation bridge, reflux condenser etc).
Ampoules (also called Schlenk bombs or pods) are vessels with a Teflon tap and side arm gas inlet which are primarily used for the storage of anhydrous solvents or sensitive liquid reagents.
Septa (singular: septum) are penetrable rubber stoppers that provide a temporary airtight seal, preventing the ingress of air and moisture for short periods of time. They can be pierced by needles or cannulae allowing liquid reagents, solvents and solutions to be transferred under an inert gas atmosphere. Septa can be secured in place using twisted copper wire.
Cannulae (singular: cannula) are hollow flexible tubes used to transfer liquids between reaction vessels. They are typically made out of stainless steel or PTFE for chemical resistance, and are available in a range of gauges (internal/external diameter) depending on the intended application.
Syringes are used to accurately measure and dispense liquids reagents, solvents and solutions. Syringes used for the manipulation of air- and moisture-sensitive reagents are typically purged with inert gas prior to use. Several types of syringes are frequently employed in the laboratory, including disposable plastic syringes, glass gas-tight syringes, and microliter syringes. Syringes fitted with a Luer-lock adapter are recommended when handling hazardous chemicals such as pyrophoric reagents.
Needles are used together with syringes to enable liquids to be transferred to or from vessels fitted with penetrable rubber septa. Disposable or reusable needles are available in different lengths and gauges depending on the intended application. Disposable needles are fitted with plastic hubs and therefore can not be heated in an oven, unlike reusable needles that are made of stainless steel.
Clips and clamps are used to secure items of glassware together that are connected via ground glass joints. Different types of clips are available, including plastic Keck clips or metals clips for higher temperature applications. Spring-loaded fork clamps are particularly well-suited for Schlenk line applications where a slight positive pressure of inert gas is employed.
The Schlenk Line Survival Guide 