858 Professional Sample Processor - Manual

Importance of Integrated Sample Processing in Analytical Chemistry

The reliability and efficiency of analytical results often hinge on robust sample preparation. Automated processing solutions minimize manual intervention, reduce human error and cross-contamination, and support high-throughput workflows. By integrating filtration, dilution, injection and stirring steps, modern sample processors ensure consistent preparation of a wide range of matrices, from environmental waters to industrial process streams. This level of automation is vital for laboratories tasked with routine monitoring, quality control and research where reproducibility and uptime are priorities.

Objectives and Overview of the 858 Professional Sample Processor

The 858 Professional Sample Processor is designed to streamline and automate preparatory operations for ion chromatography and related techniques. Key goals include:

• Support for inline filtration, dialysis, dilution, preconcentration and calibration.
• Flexible adaptation to different vessel sizes and rack formats.
• Seamless integration with PC-based control software (e.g. MagIC Net) via USB.
• Expandable connectivity to peripheral dosing units, stirrers and remote control elements.

The instrument combines a precision lift and rotary turntable with a Swing Head robotic arm, enabling unrestricted access to up to 999 sample positions.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

Preparation routines rely on coordinated mechanical and fluidic subsystems:

• Turntable and Interchangeable Racks: Accommodates racks up to 420 mm diameter, magnet-coded for automatic recognition.
• 786 Swing Head with Robotic Arm: Offers adjustable swing radius, offset and angular range for precise needle placement.
• Peristaltic Pump (optional): Two-channel design with selectable tubing cartridges and adjustable contact pressure for flow rates from <0.3 mL/min upward.
• Injection Valve (optional): Return-loop valve enabling sample loop fill and injection sequences.
• Interfaces: Three MSB ports support Metrohm Dosino dosing devices and stirrers; two USB ports accommodate printers, barcode readers or additional IC peripherals; remote I/O module for external equipment interlock.
• Accessories: Filtration cell and Dosino holders, stand plate for external vessels, safety shield for user protection.

Main Features and Discussion

The 858 processor excels in versatility and precision:

• Comprehensive Sample Workflows: Inline filtration and dialysis modules protect chromatography columns and extend instrument uptime by preventing particulates and macromolecules from entering the system.
• Flexible Fluid Paths: Peristaltic and membrane pumps handle diverse solvents and sample types; disposable pump tubings ensure quick changeovers.
• High Precision Handling: Lift speeds of 5–25 mm/s and swing rates up to 55°/s deliver consistent sample uptake; magnetic rack coding enables accurate positioning.
• Modular Connectivity: Daisy-chainable MSB bus architecture allows up to four dosing or stirring devices on a single port; external pumps and remote boxes extend control to additional laboratory equipment.
• Maintenance Strategies: Modular tubing cartridges, replaceable filters and easy-access syringe needle holders simplify routine service, reducing downtime.

Benefits and Practical Applications

Implementing the 858 processor can transform laboratory productivity:

• Reproducibility and Data Quality: Automated dosing and sample transfers eliminate operator variability.
• Throughput Enhancement: Continuous rack operation with up to hundreds of samples limits idle time between runs.
• Adaptability: Configurable racks and custom rack definitions support non-standard vessels and specialized workflows.
• Integration: Centralized control via PC software aligns sample prep with analytical sequences, enabling unattended batch processing in QA/QC, environmental analysis and industrial monitoring.

Future Trends and Possibilities

As laboratories adopt digital transformation, sample processors will evolve toward predictive maintenance and AI-driven scheduling. Enhanced sensor integration may enable real-time monitoring of tubing wear, fluid pressure and contamination. Cloud-based data logging can support remote diagnostics and compliance reporting. Miniaturized fluidics and modular add-ons will expand applications into microscale analysis and point-of-use testing.

Conclusions

The 858 Professional Sample Processor represents a mature platform for automating complex sample preparation in chromatographic and titrimetric workflows. Its combination of mechanical precision, modular interfaces and software integration delivers reproducible results, high throughput and reduced labor. By incorporating this instrument, laboratories can significantly elevate quality assurance, workflow flexibility and operational efficiency.

References

• Metrohm AG. 858 Professional Sample Processor: Manual 8.858.8002EN (2020-02-29).