Sanseries Automated Wet Chemistry Analyzer - Continuous Flow Analyzer (CFA)
The Sanseries of Automated Wet Chemistry Analyzers also known as Continuous Flow Analyzers have been designed as modular systems to meet the needs of laboratories which process a few samples or large volumes of samples. Based on the Continuous Flow Analysis (CFA) or also called Segemented Flow Analysis (SFA) technique, up to 16 analytical measurements (depending on the model) can be made on a single sample simultaneously. With the addition of rinsing valves and software the Sanseries of analyzers can automate; start-up, shut-down, dilutions, re-runs, clean-up, and raw data storage.
Skalar, the world leader in wet chemistry technology, offers over 300 proven applications utilizing various combinations of automatic dilutions, additions, mixing, heating, dialysis, extractions, distillation, digestion, phase-separation, hydrolysis, ion-exchange/reduction and more. Skalar has developed a proven systematic approach to provide a quality system starting with complete applications engineered on customer samples to provide the best possible configuration to the customer needs and requirements, training and installation by qualified specialists and complete application and service support.
| Sanseries range of continuous flow analyzers: | |
| The NEW San++ Compact continuous flow analyzer is specifically designed for smaller laboratories. The modern and compact design of the unit gives laboratory the opportunity to save on valuable laboratory bench space, whilst incorporating all the features of the San++ series. The chemistry section is now fitted with a larger peristaltic pump unit with 21 pump tube positions and can accommodate up to three chemistry modules. |  |
 |
|
The Skalar range of autosamplers offer for each routine laboratory and application the perfect match saving operators time and errors. With the unique automatic standard preparation and over range dilution facility, high workloads are fully automatically analyzed outside working hours, without any operator supervision.
Skalar Samplers offer the highest degree of automation available today with:
- Real Automatic pre- and post dilution runs
- Full automatic standard preparation
- XYZ/XYθ Random access
- Automatic multiple range operation
- Built in rinse pump
- Customized sample containers and racks
- Automatic barcode reader
- Multiple sample probes
- Extended operation outside working hours with automatic start up and shut down
- Full analyzer control
| 1100/1150 Sampler | |
|---|---|
 | The SA1100 and SA1150 samplers accommodate up to 2 x 50 sample positions, with built in rinse pump. Optionally, 10 dedicated standard positions are available for working standards. Furthermore, they can be equipped with a second needle for dual needle sample pick-up and extended sample positions (up to 100 positions). The samplers are random access and computer controlled, the SA 1150 sampler is extended with a soft keypad to run in or computer or manual control mode. |
| 1050 Sampler | |
 | Computer controlled RØZ sampler, series 1050, for up to 140 samples with separated standard and QC sample positions, built in rinse pump, optional automatic diluter station with dual dilutor for automatic pre- and post run dilutions, and automatic standard preparation, with optional dual sample pick up (SA 1053) and optional stirrer. |
| 1074 Sampler | |
 | Computer controlled XYZ sampler series 1074, for 300 samples, with separate positions for standards and QC samples, with container volumes of 35 mL. Build in rinsing pump. Optional automatic diluter station with multiple dilutors for automatic pre- and post run dilutions and automatic standard preparation, Extendable with 2 to 4 needles for simultaneous sample pick up with different matrices, with optional stirrer and automatic bar code reader and customized sampler container racks also available with larger footprint for more then 300 samples. |
| 1075 Sampler | |
 | The SA1075 Random Access auto sampler carries standard 576 sample positions, divided over 6 racks of 96 samples each. In addition, there are 26 positions available in a separate tray for working standards, QC samples and drift control samples, with container volumes of 35 ml. Extendable with 2 to 4 needles for simultaneous sample pick up with different matrices. Optional automatic diluter station with multiple dilutors for automatic pre- and post run dilutions and automatic standard preparation. |
The unique concept of the chemistry section has proven its performance for hundreds of applications, with maximum operator convenience and lowest routine maintenance. The latest developments in Continuous Flow Analysis (CFA) have been integrated into the chemistry modules.
The throughput of the analyzer depends upon application and can vary from 25 to 120 analyses per hour. Complex manipulations such as distillation, in-line UV digestion, extraction, etc. are incorporated on the chemistry modules.
- Robust unique double radius pump deck for accurate dosing with up to 32 or 16 pump tubes (San++)
- 2 separated pump decks for 2 x 2 channel concept (San++)
- Single pump deck wit 21 pump tube positions (San++ Compact)
- Controlled synchronized 10 channel air injection with separated build-in compressor for increased flow stability and fast start up.
- Easy access to chemistry modules with flexible ultra low carry-over connections between dialyzers, reactors, coils, flow cells and other components.
- Leak detection
- 3 – Cuffs long life pump tubes.
- Manual operated and automatic software controlled rinsing valves for easy automatic start up and overnight operation.
The chemistry section is compact and easy to handle. It houses up to 5 chemistry modules with build in robust dosing pump and air injection system, up to 5 easy interchangeable modules with built-in photometric detectors and up to 5 separated waste receptacles (depending on the Sanseries model).
The Skalar Sanseries range of detectors comprises digital dual channel colorimetric detectors, the unique digital matrix correction detector with automatic background correction for specific sample matrixes, but also covers a range of detectors for I.R., UV, Fluorimetry, ISE, Flame Photometry, pH meter, Density meters, etc. The Skalar range of detectors covers all detectors required for the hundreds of Skalar field tested SFA applications available today.
Special features of the detectors for the San series Continuous Flow Analyzers (CFA) are:
- Compact design and software controllable
- Allows the implementation of bubble gating
- Easy access and no alignment of robust flow cells
- Increased stability, sensitivity and auto-scaling by digital detectors
- Automatic matrix and blank correction
- Wide linear measuring range
The Sanseries FlowAccess™ V3 data acquisition Windows® software package controls the complete analyzer, with auto start-up and shut down, hardware functions control, detector auto-scaling, pre-and post run sample dilutions, result calculation and statistics. 1 to 16 channels, with multiple samplers and multiple needles are handled simultaneous. Each chemistry can be grouped for analysis. As of it GUI the package is extremely users friendly and easy to operate, and will integrate easily into a network.
Some features highlights:
Table wizard
The “Table wizard” tool can be used to create easily and quickly a complete sample workload table with a standard layout. The table’s structure and fields can be customized by stepping through the wizard. Values for the drift/wash, calibration standards and CLP intervals for the samples can be defined. By adding the total number of samples the final analysis table is automatically made. The sample table will be displayed and for each type of sample an editable field for user comments is available if required. The table can be exported to an ASCII/Excel file. Sample workloads can also be imported from a LIMS file or ASCII/Excel.
Dilutions
FlowAccess™ V3 includes the function of automatic preparation of pre- and post dilutions with enhanced settings. The pre- and post dilutions factors can be defined by the user per chemistry parameters. Advanced settings for automatic post-dilutions are available like series of post-dilutions where the user can define the maximum number of times a diluted sample has to be re-diluted and re-analyzed.
Real time
During the run, all the analysis peaks can be viewed, each channel separately in detail or multiple channels simultaneously, maximum of 16, in one single screen view. Peak marking, sample ID and calculated results are displayed in real time. Advanced peak diagnostics is available. Real time results are calculated by 1st, 2nd order calibration curve according to ISO 8466 or 3rd order and inverse logarithm for use with Ion Selective Electrodes.
Contract Laboratory Program (CLP)
The software complies with CLP protocols ensuring accuracy and precision of analytical results. The CLP protocol allows automatic actions by the San++ system if QC and CLP limits are exceeded. These QC and CLP limits are user definable and have to be set for each parameter individually. Generally the following CLP samples are defined like initial Calibration Verification (ICV), Continuing Calibration Verification (CCV), Laboratory Control Sample (LCS), Spike Recovery (SR) etc.. When a CLP sample is calculated to be outside the set limits, the analyzer executes the required action. It is possible to define up to four actions, which are for example for ICV: Re-run ICV, Re-run Standards, Abort run and show messages and Continue run and flag results.
Optional add-on software programs:
FlowReport™
FlowReport™ is a powerful reporting tool to generate customized reports from the results obtained in FlowAccess™. These reports allow customized set up with different configurations for data and graphics. The software enables reports to be generated quickly and easily. The design possibilities are extensive. A report consists of four parts: Methods, Results, Real Time and Calibration Curve, which have to be set up separately. All parts of the custom made report can be viewed, printed and exported to an ASCII/Excel file or in a picture format.
The Skalar Sanseries analyzers are operating worldwide for hundreds of different applications. It is for decades the reliable “workhorse” for many routine laboratories; analyzing waters, soils, fertilizer, detergents, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages such as beer, wine, milk, etc. Skalar methods meet standard methodology whenever possible, such as EPA, ASTM, ISO, AOAC, Standard Methods, EBC, Coresta, etc., etc. and are tested in our well equipped application laboratory. Skalar Sanseries analyzers are supplied with detailed method description of reagent make up, flow diagram and any information required running a specific application trouble free for many years.
The amount of available Continuous Flow Analysis applications is nearly unlimited; popular ones are listed below:
| Acetaldehyde | Density | Nitrogen (TKN) |
| Acetic Acid | Diacetyl | Dissolved Organic Carbon |
| Total Acidity | Digoxin | Penicillin |
| Total Alkalinity | Enzyme Activity | Perborate |
| Aluminium | Ethanol | pH |
| Amino Acids | Fluoride | Phenol |
| Free Amino Nitrogen | Formaldehyde | Total UV digestable Phosphate |
| Ammonia | Formic Acid | Phosphate (ortho/total) |
| Amylase | Fructose | Polyphenols |
| Amylose | Galactose | Potassium |
| Anionic Surfactants | Glucose | Total UV digestable Nitrogen |
| Ascorbic Acid | L-Glutamic Acid | Protein |
| Benzoic Acid | Glycerol | Pyruvate |
| Total Bicarbonate | Total Hardness | (Total) Reducing Sugars |
| Bitterness | Hydrazine | Riboflavin |
| Boron | Hydrogen Sulphide | Silicate |
| Bromide | Hydroxymethylfurfural | Sodium |
| Caffeine | Hydroxyproline | Sorbitol |
| Calcium | Iodine | Starch |
| Calcium pantothenate | Iron | Sucrose |
| Carbohydrate | L-D-Lactic Acid | Sulfate |
| Carbon | Lactose | Sulfite |
| Citric Acid | Magnesium | Sulfur Dioxide (free/total) |
| Chloride | L-Malic Acid | Tartaric Acid |
| Chlorine | Maltose | Thiamine |
| Cholesterol | Manganese | Urea |
| Cholinesterase Inhibition | Methanol | Volatile Acidity |
| Chromium | Methanamine | Zinc |
| Cobalt | Niacinamide | And many more… |
| Color | Nickel | |
| Copper | Nicotinic Acid | |
| Creatine | Nitrate | |
| Cyanide | Nitrite |
BluVision™ Discrete Analyzer - Automation of basic colorimetric parameters
Skalar will launch a new automation technology; The BluVisionTM discrete analyzer, for the analysis of basic colorimetric parameters.
The BluVisionTM is specially designed for environmental labs that have a wide variety of sample types and matrices for analysis. The Skalar discrete analyzer automates the sample & reagent pipetting into the cuvettes, mixing, heating and measuring of the reaction product.
With the BluVisionTM discrete analyzer we complement our range of products for the automation of colorimetric analysis, which already consists of the San++ continuous flow analyzer and the SP2000 test kit robotic analyzer.
The BluVision has 100 sample positions divided over 5 racks of 20 samples each. Sample volumes can range from 3.5 up to 10 ml. For reagents, (stock) standards and QC’s the analyzer has 24 positions of 50 ml and 8 positions of 10 ml. The sample and reagent racks can be cooled during the analysis run.
The analyzer is equipped with a cuvette tray of 160 test positions. The cuvette blocks are automatically loaded into the cuvette tray via an autoloader system. The autoloader holds additional cuvette blocks, giving a total of 640 tests running without any operator intervention. The cuvette tray is temperature controlled.
The cuvette blocks are disposable, which eliminates any carryover between tests. Used cuvette blocks are automatically stored in a waste bin for safe removal after analysis. The BluVision has a separate waste container for toxic reagents, selectable per method.
The instrument uses one needle for dispensing sample and reagent into the cuvettes. The needle can pre-heat the samples and reagents before dispensing. A long-life and high-precision pump is used for sample and reagent pipetting.
The detector of the BluVision analyzer is equipped with a halogen light-source and a filter wheel containing 8 filters with different wavelengths. The BluVision is therefore capable of running more than 8 different parameters in one run without any operator intervention. The filters can be easily changed for different parameters.
The cuvette has an optical path-length of 15 mm which allows accurate low ppb level detection.
The BluVision provides a true “walkaway” automatic analyzer, which creates calibrations from stock solutions, auto-dilutes over-range samples or performs re-analysis of samples all in one run.
The BluVisionTM discrete analyzer is fully computer controlled. The instrument has got an integrated touch screen display, which provides all relevant instrument information, for example analyzer status, temperatures of the cuvette and sample trays. In addition, a range of tasks can be executed from this display, like loading cuvette blocks, changing filters etc.
For running the analysis, data collection and calculation the analyzer uses a comprehensive software package, DiscreteAccessTM , which complies with all current laboratory requirements. An easy-to-use user interface allows the operator to start up the analyzer within seconds. Each analysis run can be set-up batch-wise or random access. For each sample, the user types in the sample ID’s or uploads them from LIMS, then selects the desired analytical parameters to be analyzed and starts the analyzer.
The analyzer automatically pre-dilutes samples or if a sample goes over-range during analysis, the sample is automatically re-run in a different analytical range or re-run after automatic post-dilution.
Extensive QC protocols are available such as CLP and 21 CFR part 11, which includes password protection, data integrity, data safety and audit trails. Final results can be printed using a user-definable report format or exported to LIMS for further data handling.
The BluVisionTM is ideal for the analysis of many different colorimetric analyses on a variety of sample types and matrices found in today’s environmental laboratories. Typical application areas for the BluVision are for example drinking water, wastewater, ground water and surface water.
Parameters include:
| Alkalinity | Chloride | Magnesium | Phenols |
| Aluminum | Chromium VI | Nitrate+Nitrite | Silicate |
| Ammonia | Cyanide | Nitrite | Sulfate |
| Calcium | Iron | Ortho Phosphate | Total Hardness |
Our applications conform to regulatory bodies such as ISO, EPA, Standard Methods for Water and Wastewater.
FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Total Nitrogen analyzers
The FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon (TOC) / Total Nitrogen analyzers offer the perfect solution when there is a need for rapid and reliable tests for carbon and/or nitrogen in samples coming from a variety of natural, domestic and industrial sources. A choice of analyzers is available offering the High Temperature Combustion technique or the UV-promoted persulfate digestion methodology.
High Temperature TOC Analyzer
The FormacsHT Total Organic Carbon high temperature catalytic combustion system features a versatile modular design and excellent performance for the analysis of Total Carbon (TC), Total Inorganic Carbon (TIC), Total Organic Carbon (TOC), Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) and Non-Purgeable Organic Carbon (NPOC). This design was developed to conform to the latest customer requirements and allows the determination of TOC in clean waters such as pharmaceutical – and drinking waters but also performing equally well for the analysis of waste, surface, seawater and soil extracts.
The Total Organic Carbon analyzer can be operated as a stand-alone analyzer where sample and standard solutions are introduced directly through a rotary septumless injection port for analysis of TC and TIC. For larger sample numbers an optional random access auto-sampler is available for complete automation of the TOC determination. The auto-sampler is available with different carrousels for vials with different volumes. Sample pre-treatment for NPOC determination is fully controlled by the operation software and can be set in preferred mode by the operator. The instrument has the possibility with a dual needle set-up to acidify and purge the following sample while analyzing the current one, which saves valuable analysis time.
The FormacsHT-I TOC/TN analyzers provide fast, reliable analysis of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Total Nitrogen (TN) in liquid samples by direct sample injection in a high temperature catalytic combustion furnace. The units are especially designed for particulate laden samples (suspensions), but can handle the concentration of nitrogen and/or carbon fractions from various other sample matrices.
Total Nitrogen Analyzer
The FormacsTN Analyzer uses the ND25 Total Nitrogen detector for the analysis of Total Nitrogen (TN). Total Nitrogen can be measured in a range from low ppb levels to high ppm levels with high accuracy in a short analysis time using chemiluminescence detection (CLD).
The sample is injected into the high temperature furnace where it is catalytically combusted at 850°C. Oxidative pyrolysis causes the chemically bound nitrogen to be converted to nitric oxide, which is measured by CLD The FormacsTN analyzer also provides a unique cost-effective and safer alternative for Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN) analysis, by an integrated NN-reactor for the analysis of NO3 + NO2 (NN). The TKN value is determined in two steps, i.e. the analysis of TN and the analysis of NN via chemical reduction, where NO3 and NO2 are reduced to nitric oxide (NO) and detected via CLD detection. The TKN value is obtained automatically by subtraction: TKN = TN – NN. This unique alternative method of TKN analysis results in a very fast analysis time (5 min.), and eliminates the use of hazardous digestion acids.
The FormacsHT Total Organic Carbon analyzer can also combine the automation of TOC, TN and TKN all in one system by extending the system with a Total Nitrogen detector (ND25). For detailed information about the measurement of TOC and TN/TKN please check the FormacsHT and FormacsTN description.
TOC add-on module for solid samples
The FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon / Total Nitrogen analyzers have now been extended with the new PrimacsMCS add-on module for Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analysis for solid materials such as soil, sediments and sludges. The PrimacsMCS operates in combination with the FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon analyzer (liquid samples), offering an economical concept to environmental laboratories for Total Organic Carbon analysis on aqueous samples as well as solid materials.
The PrimacsMCS is equipped with a dual-oven design, allowing separate analysis of Total Carbon (TC) and Inoragnic Carbon (IC). Total Carbon is determined by catalytic oxidation of the sample at 1100°C, converting the carbon present in the sample to CO2, which is detected by the NDIR detector of the FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon analyzer. Inorganic Carbon is determined by acidification of the sample in the IC reactor, which converts the Inorganic Carbon present to CO2. The Windows based PrimacsMCS software collects the data and calculates the TOC concentration of the sample by substraction ( TC – IC = TOC). The PrimacsMCS analyzes TC, IC and TOC in a range of 100 µg to 40 mg absolute carbon in up to 3 g of sample weight. Due to the automatic low-to-high range switching IR detector of the FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon analyzer, the combination of the FormacsSERIES analyzer with the PrimacsMCS add-on module offers environmental laboratories a powerful tool to analyze TOC from low ppb concentrations in aqueous samples up to % levels in solid materials. The PrimacsMCS conforms to international regulations such as EPA, CEN, ISO, NEN-EN 13137 and US EPA 9060
FormacsHT/TN TOC/TN analyzer is controlled by HTAccess™ V5. This intuitive and flexible software package is used for data acquisition and instrument control. It includes easy to use templates for routine analysis, multi point regression, automatic exclusion of results, recalculation, statistics etc.
Extensive QC protocols are available such as CLP and 21 CFR part 11, which includes password protection and audit trails. Final results can be printed using a user-definable report format or exported to
LIMS for further data handling.
Features HTAccess™ V5
- Smart NPOC and Smart sparging
- Smart dilution functions with fixed or dynamic dilution factor
- Specific optimized analysis methods can be assigned to individual sample or batch-wise
- User defined alarm levels for safe and unattended operation
- User defined access levels to prevent unauthorized actions
- Automatic preparation of working standards
- Real-time graphs of analysis integration data for calibration
- Dual or single screen views of Carbon and Nitrogen
- Possibility of opening multiple analysis runs
- Availability of peak editing mode, during or after analysis
- Possibility of using Quality samples and creating QC Charts
- Possibility of exporting results during analysis
Use it for:
| Drinking water |
| Cooling water |
| Surface water |
| Ground water |
| Waste water |
| Pharmaceuticals |
| Industrial control |
| Process waters |
| Seawater |
| and many more |
Primacsseries Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Total Carbon (TC) analyzer
The PrimacsSERIES Carbon / Nitrogen Analyzers have been designed to offer a true solution of Carbon and Nitrogen analysis in solid samples. Depending on the requirement of the laboratory and the applications a variety of analyzers is available.
Total Organic Carbon and Protein-Nitrogen analyzer for Solid & Liquid samples
The PrimacsSNC-100 is our latest, modern and flexible sample analyzer with integrated 100-position autosampler for determination of Nitrogen (N), Protein, Total Carbon (TC), Total Elemental Carbon (TEC), Total Inorganic Carbon (TIC) and Total Organic Carbon (TOC) all in one unit.
The analyzer provides fast, reliable, accurate and low level analysis of these parameters in applications such as soil & plant, sludges & sediments, animal feed & grain, food, malt & wort, fertilizer etc.
The PrimacsSNC-100 contains an extra large integrated autosampler with 100 positions covered with a transparent lid. The sampler can analyze large daily sample loads in one batch. The sample rack is removable and re-usable quartz crucibles are used for sample weights up to 3 g of solid material. Samples are introduced in the analyzer through a unique vertical sample introduction system. Sample ashes remain in the crucible after the analysis and are taken out of the instrument with removal of the crucible. This avoids sample ash build-up in the combustion zone and therefore reduces maintenance.
High temperature combustion with Non Dispersive Infrared detection (NDIR) is used for the analysis of TOC, TEC and TIC. The temperature settings are variable to get optimum combustion for different sample matrices and to allow the analysis of TEC.
The determination of TN/Protein is based upon DUMAS methodology and detection with Thermal Conductivity (TCD). The DUMAS method is fast, safe and a good alternative for the old fashioned Kjeldahl.
TIC can also be analyzed using automatic acidification and purging.
The instrument is delivered with a modern and flexible software package.
TOC add-on module for Solid samples
The PrimacsSERIES Carbon / Nitrogen analyzers also include the PrimacsMCS add-on module for Total Organic Carbon (TOC) analysis for solid materials such as soil, sediments and sludges. The PrimacsMCS operates in combination with the FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon analyzer (liquid samples), offering an economical concept to environmental laboratories for Total Organic Carbon analysis on aqueous samples as well as solid materials and sludges.
The PrimacsMCS is equipped with a dual-oven design, allowing separate analysis of Total Carbon (TC) and Inoragnic Carbon (IC). Total Carbon is determined by catalytic oxidation of the sample at 1100°C, converting the carbon present in the sample to CO2, which is detected by the NDIR detector of the FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon analyzer. Inorganic Carbon is determined by acidification of the sample in the IC reactor, which converts the Inorganic Carbon to CO2. The Windows based PrimacsMCS software collects the data and calculates the TOC concentration of the sample by substraction ( TC – IC = TOC).
The PrimacsMCS analyzes TC, IC and TOC in a range of 500 µg to 40 mg absolute carbon in up to 3 g of sample weight. Due to the automatic low-to-high range switching IR detector of the FormacsSERIES Total Organic Carbon analyzer, the combination of the FormacsSERIES analyzer with the PrimacsMCS add-on module offers environmental laboratories a powerful tool to analyze TOC from low ppb concentrations in aqueous samples up to ppm levels in solid materials. The PrimacsMCS conforms to international regulations such as EPA, ISO, NEN-EN 13137 and US EPA 9060
- Food & Animal Feed
- Soil & Plant
- Grains & Seed
- Solid Waste
- Industrial control
- Process control
- Sludges
- Sediments
- …and many more
Robotic analyzers Turnkey or custom-made automation solutions
Skalar’s sophisticated SP2000 robotic platform offers dedicated and flexible automation solutions for routine analytical testing. Automation is available for a variety of applications including: BOD, COD, Test kit applications (ST-COD, TP, TN etc.), pH, Conductivity (EC), Alkalinity, Carbonate/Bicarbonate, Turbidity, Color, Ion Selective Electrodes (ISE) applications and Particle size distribution analysis in soil, Automatic weighing and filtration of the sample, Automatic sample pipetting etc.. Combinations of analyses or custom-made applications are also possible. All applied methods are in compliance with international regulations ISO, EPA, Standard Methods, DIN etc.
The modular design and flexible user-defined automation allows the instruments to meet your exact requirements resulting in increased productivity and accuracy of results, while reducing the sample turn-around time, costs per sample and eliminating errors and operator/sample interaction.
The instruments can be built with one or two robotic arms giving a total of 8 independent movable manipulators. With this second arm it is for instance possible to increase the sample throughput by using multiple probes or to perform two applications at the same time such as BOD and COD or other combinations.
The complete platform is enclosed with a protective front and side covers to comply with applicable CE regulations. The analyzers are controlled by RoboticAccessTM, a very practical software package, including pre-set application files, analyses scheduler, user definable sample table set up, user definable print & export options to LIMS/Excel and extensive QC features.
The SP2000 platforms are upgradeable and can be modified according your changing needs, making your initial investment even more valuable.
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) analysis is one of the most common applications for water laboratories. The test is used as an indication of the organic quality of water. With the SP2000series Skalar introduces the most flexible Robotic BOD platform available today. Besides the modern design and latest technology innovations, it has a flexible set up from 18 up to 198 BOD bottles. The analyzer is developed to fit your exact laboratory requirements with respect to sample throughput, level of automation, sample capacity etc. Analysis are carried out in accordance with all (inter) national regulations such as EPA 405.1/ISO 5815-1/ EN-1899-1/2, Standard Methods 5210 B, DIN 38409 etc. as well as customer specific methods.
The basic system:
The smallest and most basic Skalar Robotic BOD analyzer consists of a XYZ sample handling platform, a bottle tray with 18 BOD bottle positions, an oxygen probe and meter (accommodates optical or membrane style electrodes,) a manipulator, a stirrer, rinsing station and protective front and side covers.
In addition to this basic configuration the following automatic steps are available for complete BOD automation:
- Automatic addition of dilution water
- Automatic ATU dispensing
- Automatic Seed dispensing
- Automatic capping/ de-capping
- Automatic sample pipetting
- Automatic incubation
The systems can be extended to hold up to a maximum of 11 BOD racks and the use of multiple oxygen probes allow a higher sample throughput. A second arm can also be implemented to increase sample throughput or to perform additional tasks such as automatic sample pipetting into the BOD bottles or pH setting of the sample. The analyzer can be used with all available standard BOD bottles, and a wide range of sample trays can be provided for various incubators. A completely closed cover is also possible for incubation purposes.
A typical BOD analysis sequence:
Steps of Automation
- Pipetting of the sample
- pH setting of the sample
- Addition of Nitrification inhibitor (ATU) and/or Seed
- Addition of dilution water
- Sample homogenization
- Measurement of initial Dissolved Oxygen value (DO1)
- Probe/stirrer rinsing between each measurement
- Bottle capping/de-capping
- Measurement of final DO2 value
- Calculation of BOD according required regulations
Samples are pipetted, either manual or automatically, into the BOD bottles and the identity and the dilutions are entered or downloaded from LIMS into the sample table. Bottles are placed in the racks and placed on the Robotic Analyzer. Analyzer is started by operator. The bottle is decapped and filled with Nitrification inhibitor (ATU) and/or seed and dilution water. Sample is then stirred and the initial Oxygen value is measured. The bottle is capped and the Oxygen probe and stirrer are rinsed before going to the next sample. The same procedure is followed until a value is recorded for all samples. The sample racks are placed in a 20°C incubator for 5 days. After incubation the racks are placed on the Robotic analyzer. The operator starts the analyzer again. The bottle is de-capped. The sample is stirred and the final Oxygen value is measured. The BOD value is calculated. The bottle is capped. This procedure is repeated until all samples are measured. The data can be presented on screen, printed or converted to a file compatible with other software and LIMS’s.
If there is a requirement for other analyses such as pH, Conductivity, Alkalinity and Turbidity then these methods can be combined with BOD on the same robot.
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) analysis is commonly used to determine the amount of organic pollutants found in surface water and waste water. The COD value is a useful indicator for measuring the water quality. Skalar’s SP2000 analyzers can be configured to automate COD according to the sealed tube (ST-COD) method ISO 15705 and EPA 410.4 or to the classical titration method ISO 6060
1. ST-COD according to ISO 15705 / EPA 410.4
The ST-COD method is based on exactly the same reaction as described in the classical method, but instead of titration, a photometric detection is used. An advantage of the ST-COD method is the use of pre-prepared tubes, which minimize handling of toxic and hazardous reagents.
The SP2000 ST-COD analyzer
The analyzer consists of a XYZ sample handling system and is equipped with removable sample tube- and test tube racks, so additional sample loads can be easily prepared and inserted during the analysis run. The analyzer can be built to accommodate 24 up to 336 tubes in one batch. The analyzer has a robotic arm with two manipulators, one with a gripper and the other with sample needle and stirrer. Furthermore the analyzer has a (de)-capping device, a vertical shaker for easily dissolving solid reagents of the test kit and mixing the sample, as well as a rotating shaker for mixing the tubes before measuring. The analyzer has a compartment for additional reagents and if digestion is required the analyzer with two temperature adjustable thermo reactors is available. A photometer takes care of the measurement and the results are sent to the RoboticAccess™ software for further data handling and control.
The analyzers can be used with commercial available or self-made COD reaction tubes and is compatible with several photometers. Besides single test kit analysis such as described above the same platform can be used to combine COD analysis with other test kit applications such as Total Phosphate, Total Nitrogen etc. For example a combination of 48 COD, 24 Total Phosphate and 12 Total Nitrogen tubes in one batch.
Steps of Automation
- Sample tube pick up
- Sample tube (de) capping
- Pipetting of the sample
- Sample mixing
- Sample positioning in heating reactor
- Sample heating for two hours at 150˚C
- Sample transfer to cool down rack
- Sample homogenizing
- Measurement COD concentration
A typical ST-COD analysis sequence:
Tubes are placed in the sample racks and transferred to the analyzer. The analyzer picks-up the tubes and the tubes are decapped. The sample is automatically pipetted into the reaction tubes. The reaction tubes are capped and transported to the vertical shaker. The reaction tubes are mixed and transferred to the reactor, where they are heated for two hours at 150 °C. The analyzer keeps track of the reaction time. When the reaction is completed the analyzer places the tubes in a sample rack to cool down to 60 °C, after which they are mixed whilst still being warm. When the samples are cooled down to ambient temperature they will be measured with a photometric detector at the required wavelength. The concentration is shown in the result screen of the software and the data can be transported to the LIMS system.
2. COD according to ISO 6060
The SP2000 analyzer provides the automation of the classical COD method. After refluxing, the samples are cooled and are automatically titrated with iron-ammonium-sulfate to determine the excess of oxidizing agent.
The SP2000 COD analyzer
The analyzer has got a XYZ sample handling system and can be built with 4 up to 6 interchangeable sample racks with 20 positions each. The samples can remain in the same vials from digestion to titration. Furthermore the analyzer is equipped with a titrator, burette tip, probe and stirrer. The analyzer can be equipped with two titrators for range expansion, without changing the burette.
A typical COD analysis sequence:
Steps of Automation
- Sample preparation
- Sample homogenization
- Sample titration
- Rinsing burette tip/stirrer in between each measurement
- Calculation of COD value
After digestion, the operator can place the interchangeable racks with the digested samples directly onto the SP2000 Robotic analyzer. This saves the operator time and avoids sample handling with dangerous reagents. The identities and the dilutions are entered into the sample table. The analyzer is started by operator. The sample is stirred and automatically titrated against ferrous ammonium sulphate until the equivalence point is reached. The burette tip, probe and stirrer are rinsed and go to the next sample and the same procedure is followed until a value is recorded for all samples. The COD value for each sample is calculated. The data can be presented on screen, printed or converted to a file compatible with other software and LIMS.
Ready-to-use photometric tests are being used by many water laboratories around the world. A lot of suppliers offer these kits for many important parameters in water and wastewater analysis such as COD, Total Phosphate, Total Nitrogen, Ammonium, Nitrite etc. The usage of these kits is simple and safe, but still requires many different manual handling steps in the analysis procedure such as sample pipetting, (un)screwing of the tube caps and tube transfer. Especially when the sample amount increases or different parameters have to be analyzed; this process can be very tedious and time consuming. In response to this, Skalar has developed the new SP2000 robotic analyzer series for the complete automation of ready-to-use test kits. The analyzer is a fully automated solution for handling the sample pipetting, mixing, heating, cooling and measurement of any water or wastewater sample using photometric test kits.
The SP2000 robot can be built to accommodate 24 up to 336 tubes in one batch. The analyzer can process multiple applications in parallel or sequentially at an individual sample level. The analyzer can be configured with a second robotic arm to increase sample throughput by using a second gripper and sample needle and stirrer or to perform additional tasks such as test kit analysis combined with another application such as BOD. The platform has protective front and side covers to comply with applicable CE regulations and is powered by the very practical and flexible RoboticAccess™ software package, which includes pre-installed application files containing the analysis sequence, user definable sample table set up and extensive QC features. The analyzer can handle test kits and photometers from different suppliers.
The Skalar Robotic Analyzers can handle the automation of pH, conductivity, titrations, turbidity and color combined into one system for sequential or simultaneous analysis. Custom-made configurations are available to meet the requirements of any laboratory. These include the choice of various applications, the running sequence and the integration of a variety of sample racks and sample beakers.
When the system is configured for the analysis of drinking water, pH, EC, Alkalinity and Turbidity, it can be user-defined whether the applications are required to run simultaneously or sequentially. The system also allows the selection of the analysis performed on each individual sample.
There is a special configuration of the SP2000 platform for pH measurement in well plates. The manipulator carries two separate special pH electrodes for simultaneous pH measurement of two different samples. The analyzer has a sample capacity of up to 768 samples per batch, distributed over eight 96-well-plates.
Depending on the application, calibration of the instrumentation can be performed automatically to ensure an accurate performance. Quality control checks and standards can be placed in between samples and probes can be re-calibrated automatically.
This flexible design of the Skalar SP2000 Robotic Analyzers allows combinations of various applications like Alkalinity, Dissolved oxygen, Conductivity, Color, pH, Hardness, Turbidity, Titrations, Ion Selective Electrode (ISE) in one economical system.
The pH of soil influences the availability of minerals for the plants. Each plant has a certain pH at which it is optimally grown and produced. The pH analysis is the most common parameter carried out on soil samples. Specialized laboratories analyze the soil and provide farmers with the required information. Based on the analysis results, the best method can be selected to improve the soil quality resulting in increased crop quantities and cost reduction.
The SP2000 pH-soil analyzer
The Robotic Analyzer can be configured for measurement of soil-pH in water extracts as well as in KCl, CaCl2 or other extracts. The procedure includes the automatic calibration of the probe and addition of extraction solutions, automatic stirring, pre-defined sample settling times and measurement. The analyzer can have a capacity of up to 792 containers (50 ml). For extremely large batches the analyzer can be configured with two robotic arms each with multiple pH electrode configurations, up to a total of 8 electrodes.
Steps of Automation
- Addition of extraction solution
- Sample stirring
- Automatic probe calibration
- Probe rinsing
- Measurement of pH
- Result calculation
A typical soil-pH analysis sequence:
After weighing, the samples are placed in a rack. The racks are transferred to the analyzer. The analyzer adds extraction solution and stirs all the samples. Between each operation the analyzer rinses the probe. After a pre-defined settling period the samples are again stirred. The pH value of each sample is measured. The measured values of each sample is calculated and stored.
In addition to pH analysis, also parameters such as conductivity (EC), can be added to the soil-pH configuration.
Classification of soil is important for environmental control and construction purposes. Soil classification is based on several factors such as absorption, the ability to shrink or swell, water retention and permeability. Most of these factors independently correlate with the particle size of the soil. The clay fraction, the smallest fraction (0-2 micron), is indispensable in assessing soil quality. The clay fraction is measured according to for instance ISO 11277 and allows the soil to be categorized within stated classes.
The analysis is carried out in three steps:
- Weighing the sample and separating the fractions
Removal of Organic Matter and Carbonates- Determination of the clay fraction
Skalar has developed a concept to automate the second and third step in this process using a Skalar Robotic analyzer. Automation of these steps is of particular interest because they can now be carried out fully automatic and with precise timing and pick up heights.
A typical Organic Matter/Carbonates removal sequence:
Steps of Automation
- Removal of Carbonates
- Removal of Organic matter
- Rinsing of the sample
After weighing, the samples are placed in a bottle. The bottles are placed in the Skalar SP50 Robotic analyzer and an amount of water is added. The bottles with sample are heated until the boiling point has been reached. A sample is boiled for 30 min. During heating and boiling every 30 min, 5 ml of hydrogen peroxide is added to remove the organic matter. Afterwards the sample is cooled down and the same process is started but now with the addition of hydro chloric acid to remove the carbonates. During the complete process water is added in intervals to avoid excessive boiling of the sample.
A typical Clay fraction analysis sequence:
Steps of Automation
- Addition of pyrophosphate
- Addition of dilution water
- Sample homogenizing
- Sample take up
- Sample transferring
- Sample dispensing
- Sample drying in aluminum cup
The sample is transferred into a volumetric cylinder of 500/1000 ml. The system, a Skalar SP2000 robotic analyzer automatically adds Sodium pyrophosphate solution and brings the suspension to volume by adding distilled water. During a user-definable time, the sample is homogenized. After a settling period of several hours a fraction of the suspension is taken at a predefined depth from the cylinder and this fraction is transferred to an evaporation dish by the system. After drying the remainder of the sample is weighed and the Clay fraction is calculated via the software.
This procedure can also be performed unattended allowing for overnight operation. In addition, it is also possible to determine other fractions.
RoboticAccess™ is designed as a flexible and multitasking program for controlling the Skalar robotic analyzers. While analyzing the samples, already obtained results are processed and new analyses can be prepared and scheduled. An access code and password are required before operation to prevent unauthorized operation and data modification.
The application files, which contain the instructions for the analyzers to perform the specifications, are pre-set in the software by Skalar, according to (inter) national regulations or can be in accordance with user defined requirements.
Runs can be easily started by selecting the required application and simply creating a user defined sample table by dragging the racks to the analyzer. When the sample table is completed and the analysis sequence is defined, the run can be started or scheduled for another start time. All applications can be programmed to be analyzed. The status of the running analysis can be followed on the screen and the results are displayed in real-time. During the run it is possible to add priority samples or exclude samples from measurement.
Results can be printed in user defined print reports and exported to a txt, excel or LIMS. Finished runs can be archived as well as backed up and restored later.
Integrated Quality Control features assure accurate results and full compliance with required regulations. QC samples can be analyzed and Quality Control charts together with other valuable statistical information can be created. Also CLP protocols can be included, which allow automatic actions of the Robot analyzer itself if QC and CLP limits are exceeded. This guarantees the production of highly accurate results and automatic quality control on the Robotic analyzer’s performance.
