Biotage Extrahera (Installation and Safety)

Importance of the Topic

Automated sample preparation systems like the Biotage Extrahera enhance laboratory productivity by standardizing workflows, minimizing manual errors and exposure to hazardous solvents, and ensuring reproducible results. Proper installation and rigorous safety measures are essential to protect personnel, maintain system performance, and comply with regulatory requirements.

Aims and Overview of the Document

This guide provides comprehensive instructions for authorized service engineers on unpacking, site preparation, installation, relocation, connection of utilities, software setup, and safety compliance for the Biotage Extrahera automated sample preparation system. It outlines essential steps to achieve a fully operational configuration in a laboratory environment.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The Biotage Extrahera integrates the following key components and interfaces:

• Solvent handling: Five independent inlet pumps feeding 25 mL reservoirs (optional 100 mL rack); dead volume ~4 mL.
• Pipette unit: 50–1000 µL precision pump with ≤2% error across the range.
• Pressure unit: Controlled AIR (3–6 bar) and N₂ (6 bar) ports meeting ISO 8573-1 standards, with clog detection capabilities in GLP mode.
• Vacuum interface: ≥8.3 L/min flow, <500 mbar.
• Ventilation: Integral fan or fume hood connection (6 m³/min exhaust); air duct adapter dimensions 159 mm OD/153 mm ID.
• Software: Windows-based control with touch-screen interface, Ethernet, and USB connectivity, upgradable under license agreement.

Main Features and Discussion

The system supports diverse formats (1–6 mL SPE plates and columns, 48- and 96-well plates). Technical specifications cover ambient temperature (18–32 °C), humidity (10–90 % RH), power (100–240 VAC, 300 VA), weight (75 kg), and dimensions. In GLP mode, clog detection assists monitoring of load, wash, and elute steps with common organic solvents. Safety features include an interlocked enclosure, double-pole fusing, and conformity with CE, UL, RoHS, and WEEE directives.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Key advantages for QA/QC and research labs:

• Enhanced throughput and consistency for solid-phase extraction and filtration methods.
• Reduced solvent handling risks and ergonomic strain on personnel.
• Minimized downtime through guided software maintenance routines and diagnostic functions.
• Compliance with pharmaceutical and environmental testing regulations via GLP support.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

Emerging developments may include integration with LIMS and cloud-based data platforms, expanded support for micro-elution and novel sorbent chemistries, AI-driven clog prediction, remote diagnostics, and modular upgrades for targeted workflows in metabolomics, food safety, and clinical toxicology.

Conclusion

Adherence to the detailed installation and safety procedures ensures reliable performance and longevity of the Biotage Extrahera system. By following site requirements, proper utility connections, and regular maintenance, laboratories can maximize safety, compliance, and sample throughput.

Reference

No external bibliographic references were provided in the source document.