Biotage® Extrahera (Site Requirements)

Importance of the topic

Automated sample preparation platforms have become essential in modern analytical chemistry laboratories to streamline workflows, reduce manual errors and ensure reproducible results. Proper site preparation and adherence to manufacturer specifications are critical to secure operational safety, maintain instrument performance and maximize uptime.

Goals and overview

This document defines the site requirements for installing the Biotage Extrahera system. It outlines spatial, environmental and utility prerequisites, describes installation responsibilities and provides guidance on testing to verify correct setup.

Methodology and instrumentation

The primary approach involves detailing all infrastructure and utility specifications needed for the instrument. Key instrumentation covered is the Biotage Extrahera automated sample preparation unit, including its accessories: ventilation adapter, gas regulators and tubing connections.

Main results and discussion

The installation requirements can be grouped into the following categories:

• Ventilation: Exhaust capacity of at least 6 m3/min via a fume hood or dedicated ducting with a 159 mm outer diameter adapter.
• Space and load capacity: Package weight 120 kg, unpacked system 75 kg; bench or hood footprint up to 860 × 570 mm and height 730 mm.
• Operating environment: Ambient temperature 18–32 °C, 10–90 % relative humidity, low dust and pollutant levels.
• Electrical supply: 100–240 V AC, 50/60 Hz, 300 VA on a grounded outlet.
• Gas supply: Filtered air (6 bar, 5 L/min) and nitrogen (6 bar, 1 L/min during processing; 70 L/min for plate drying) via 6 mm OD tubing.
• Vacuum supply: <500 mbar partial pressure, ≥ 8.3 L/min flow through 6 mm OD tubing.
• Fire protection: External measures per local safety regulations when unattended operation is required.

Installation options include single or dual gas supply configurations, with pressure regulators provided. A system checkout using a 0.0001 g–accuracy balance ensures compliance with performance specifications.

Benefits and practical applications

Compliance with these requirements enables:

• Safe operation and reduced exposure to harmful emissions.
• Optimal instrument performance and consistent sample processing.
• Minimized downtime through proper infrastructure planning.
• Scalable workflows for routine QA/QC and high‐throughput laboratories.

Future trends and potential uses

Advances in laboratory automation will drive tighter integration of sample prep units with digital lab information management systems, remote monitoring capabilities and AI‐based scheduling. Optimized utility consumption and modular ventilation adapters will enhance flexibility in multi‐instrument laboratories.

Conclusion

Thorough site preparation following the detailed requirements for ventilation, space, environmental conditions and utilities is essential to fully leverage the capabilities of the Biotage Extrahera system. Proper planning ensures safe, reliable and efficient operation.