How do Automated Sample Preparation work?
An automated sample preparation system performs the steps that normally precede analysis, using robotic motion, precise liquid handling and sensors under software control. A robotic arm or a moving bed picks a sample container, identifies it by barcode, and presents it to modules that weigh, add solvent, mix, heat, centrifuge, filter or extract. Liquid volumes are measured by syringe pump or positive displacement and verified by gravimetric checks, while temperature, time and agitation are controlled by the method. Solid-phase extraction modules condition cartridges, load sample, wash and elute under controlled flow. Digestion modules add acid and apply a heating program. Each step is recorded for traceability, and error handling detects missing containers, low liquid levels and clogs. The result is a prepared sample or extract delivered to a vial for analysis, with a documented chain of actions.
Which Automated Sample Preparation variants are available?
- Automated Sample Preparation Workstation — An automated sample preparation workstation performs pipetting, dilution and mixing of samples and standards under software control.
- Robotic Weighing and Dilution System — A robotic weighing and dilution system weighs solid or liquid samples and dilutes them to a target concentration automatically.
- Automated Solid-Phase Extraction System — An automated solid-phase extraction system conditions, loads, washes and elutes SPE cartridges or plates under controlled flow.
- Automated Digestion System — An automated digestion system adds acid and applies a heating program to decompose samples for elemental analysis.
- Automated Filtration and Transfer System — An automated filtration and transfer system moves prepared samples through filters into analysis vials.
How do I choose the right variant?
Define the preparation steps and the range of sample types first, then choose a system that covers them without custom work. Confirm compatibility with your tubes, plates and vials, because format changes force method rewriting. Check volumetric accuracy and precision at the working volumes, and verify that the weighing module meets the readability your method needs. Review heating, mixing and extraction capabilities against the standard methods you follow, and confirm the software supports method editing, audit trails and LIMS import of sample lists and export of results. Consider throughput, walk-away time and the number of samples per run. Ask about validation packages, carry-over testing and service response, since sample preparation errors propagate into every downstream result.
Where are Automated Sample Preparation used?
Automated Sample Preparation are specified in sample preparation for elemental analysis, dissolution sample handling, bioanalytical extraction, food and environmental testing, clinical and toxicology prep and stability study preparation.
Which standards and certifications apply?
Work with Automated Sample Preparation is commonly governed by IEC 61010-1 (safety requirements for electrical equipment), ISO 8655 (piston-operated volumetric apparatus), ISO/IEC 17025 (testing and calibration laboratories), USP <1058> (analytical instrument qualification), 21 CFR Part 11 (electronic records and signatures) and ANSI/SLAS microplate standards. Instrument certifications such as CE marking are confirmed per configuration and never assumed.
What are the key considerations before purchase?
Validate the system for the intended methods, covering accuracy, precision, carry-over and robustness, and repeat validation after major changes. Keep an inventory of consumables, calibrants and check standards, and run system suitability checks before critical batches. Clean and calibrate weighing, liquid handling and heating modules on schedule, and verify tip and probe alignment to avoid partial transfers. Control environmental conditions, since temperature and humidity affect small volumes. Back up methods and data, restrict software access by role, and retain audit trails. Train operators on error messages and recovery, and define what the system may do unattended. Review performance data to detect drift before it affects results.
