Automation

interactive support of working steps, actions, processes for analytical, technical or scientific tasks and applications.

Automation

Definition

In the field of liquid-handling single or multiple process steps can be performed by automation. Higher accuracy and improved quality are obtained by machine assistance or automation in comparison to manual processing. This is less vulnerable to failures. Comprehensive applications can be realized completely within one system. As result, there is more time for the end-user to spend in higher valued work.

Process steps of automation

If you follow a sample along the way from creation to the end of the chemical analysis then you can divide the process steps into groups. Each group stands for typical activities to be executed which are processed interactive or automatically by the use of suitable modules. In the technical field you can find them often in production lines or in test rigs and in the scientific field in experimental setups. For the chemical analysis in laboratory, they are typically used for automation of sample preparation, sequence-processing and further treatment.

Process / Manufacturing

Pumping
Dosing
Spraying
Vaporization
Glueing
Coating

Sample Extraction

Sample Storage
Distribution / Allocation

Sample Preparation

Dilution
Standards
Reacting agent
Detergent
Filtration
Mixing
Concentration
Stirring
Derivatization

Sample Processing

Samle injection
Solvent selection
Path selection
Concentration
Dissolve

Post Treatment

Fractioning
Derivatization
Storage
Regeneration

Modules of Automation

For individual projects you have clarify the particular, necessary process steps. There are suitable modules for each process action and they are arranged in classes. One is dedicated to deliver liquids, another is specific to switch or select flow paths. Sample stations and autosamplers are used for sample allocation and storage or to provide additional media like standards, buffers or reagents. The devices are operated and controlled on by external computer systems (e.g., PC or SPS), by manual controllers or by integrated micro-processors. Even complex applications can be realized by smart selection of the suitable devices and their controller. Integrated probes ensure safety and redundance for the whole system by monitoring or recording physical values like liquid level, pressure, temperature, conductivity or flow-rate.

Applications

Standard applications and special solutions implemented by DURATEC

Standard application

Automated sample dilution

With a two-syringe diluter and a sample station, dilutions, standard additions, dilution series and fillings can be performed with the help of an easy-to-use software (Liquid Station). These steps are performed quickly and with highest precision.

Liquid Station

Standard application

Automated sample introduction & photometric measurement

Automated processing of sample sequences can be realized on the Cary 60 photometer by connecting an autosampler with a peristaltic pump. Settings and sequence are performed within the Cary WinUV software without the need to start a separate software. Sample vials are positioned in the racks of the autosampler and the liquid sample is transferred by the peristaltic pump to the flow-through cuvette of the photometer for automated measurement. At a rinse port, the sample needle can be cleaned between two samples to prevent contamination and carryover. User interaction during the run is not required, which means time and resources are available for other tasks.

ASAP-4-Cary