Sample vessel capping applicator or applicator system

A method comprising:

• capping an analytical sample tube by performing acts comprising:
• providing an automated applicator or applicator system for applying a capping material to an opening of an analytical sample vessel, the applicator or applicator system comprising a dispenser configured to dispense a substantially continuous length of a capping material, such that a region of the substantially continuous length of capping material is located on or about an opening of an analytical sample vessel held in a predetermined orientation,
• providing an analytical sample vessel having an opening and a sample disposed therein,
• the automated applicator or applicator system disposing a region of the substantially continuous length of capping material onto and/or about the opening of the analytical sample vessel, comprising:
• the automated applicator or applicator system urging the region of thee substantially continuous capping material onto and/or about the opening of the analytical sample vessel so as to cap the analytical sample vessel, and
• the automated applicator or applicator system cutting the substantially continuous length of capping material,
• wherein the act of cutting is performed between the disposing act and the urging act, or after the urging act.