855 Robotic Titrosampler

Importance of the topic

Automated titration and sample handling significantly increase laboratory productivity by reducing manual intervention, enhancing precision, and ensuring consistent results. In industrial and research environments, efficient automation supports high-throughput analysis, reliable quality control, and compliance with regulatory standards such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11.

Objectives and study overview

This documentation presents the 855 Robotic Titrosampler as part of the Metrohm Titrando system. It guides users through installation, configuration, safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures to maximize performance and data integrity.

Used methodology and instrumentation

The 855 Robotic Titrosampler integrates:

• Turntable and lift with a 786 Swing Head for precise sample positioning in up to 999 locations.
• Galvanically isolated measuring interface for potentiometric, polarographic, and temperature measurements.
• Robotic arms designed for titration, sample transfer, Polytron homogenization, and special applications, including beaker detection sensors.
• Membrane pumps (and optional external pump interface), stirrer connectors for rod or magnetic stirrers, and distributor for rinsing and aspiration lines.
• Metrohm Serial Bus (MSB) connectors for dosing modules (Dosino, Dosimat), additional stirrers, and a Remote Box for external I/O control.
• USB ports to connect Touch Control, PC, barcode reader, printer, and other peripherals.

Main results and discussion

The 855 Robotic Titrosampler delivers seamless integration into the Titrando system, enabling synchronized titrant dosing, stirring, and data acquisition. Configuration options for robotic arm geometry, rack recognition via magnetic coding, and axial distance ensure accurate sample access. Safety measures include a mandatory shield, overload detection, and automated beaker presence verification. Comprehensive software support simplifies instrument updates and method programming.

Benefits and practical applications

• High-throughput, unattended operation in QA/QC, environmental monitoring, pharmaceutical analysis, and industrial quality control.
• Reproducible automated workflows for titration, sample dilution, reagent addition, and vessel rinsing.
• Regulatory compliance facilitated through electronic record keeping and signature control.
• Labor cost reduction, minimized human error, and improved laboratory safety.

Future trends and potential applications

Advances in laboratory automation will incorporate real-time process analytics, spectroscopic and chromatographic coupling, and adaptive control algorithms powered by machine learning. Miniaturized sample handling and microfluidic integration promise lower reagent consumption and faster turnaround times. Enhanced digital connectivity will enable fully networked laboratories and predictive maintenance.

Conclusion

The 855 Robotic Titrosampler is a versatile, robust solution for automating titration and sample processing. Its modular hardware, intuitive software, and safety features meet the demands of modern analytical laboratories, delivering reproducible, compliant, and efficient workflows.

References

• 855 Robotic Titrosampler Manual, Metrohm AG, Document No. 8.855.8001EN, February 2020.