Method Setup Quick Start Guide - Agilent 850-DS Dissolution Sampling Station

Importance of the Topic

The ability to automate dissolution sampling is critical in pharmaceutical development and quality control. By standardizing sample collection and cleaning, laboratories can achieve higher throughput, minimize manual intervention, and reduce variability between runs.

Objectives and Overview

This guide introduces the Agilent 850-DS Dissolution Sampling Station, designed to integrate with existing dissolution workflows. It outlines key parameters for method setup, demonstrates how to optimize sampling volumes and timing, and highlights benefits in unattended operation.

Methodology and Used Instrumentation

The 850-DS system supports USP dissolution apparatus 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 and accommodates collection into test tubes, HPLC vials or 96-well plates. Key method parameters include:

• Prime Volume (4–25 mL): fills the lines to overcome absorption and ensure accurate sampling.
• Purge Volume (6–25 mL): clears residual sample before the next draw to prevent carryover.
• Waste Drop (0.2–10 mL): primes needles by dispensing to waste, improving concentration accuracy.
• Estimated Minimum Transfer Time: guides sampling frequency based on pump speed and volumes.
• Aspiration Dwell Time (1–5 s): allows media to reach the syringe, especially important for viscous or surfactant-containing media.
• Pump Speed (6–12 mL/min): balances sampling speed with media viscosity and desired timepoints.
• Prime Loss Volume (4–7 mL): compensates for the fluidic path volume to ensure precise sample collection.

Main Results and Discussion

Optimization of these parameters enables repeatable, precise sampling cycles with minimal operator oversight. The self-cleaning routine after each dissolution test maintains system hygiene and reduces downtime. Method adjustments—such as longer dwell times for viscous media or modified pump speeds—directly influence cycle duration and data accuracy.

Benefits and Practical Applications

The 850-DS station delivers:

• Unattended sampling to free technician time.
• Reduced variability and improved reproducibility across dissolution profiles.
• Flexibility to work with multiple apparatus types and collection formats.
• Integrated cleaning and calibration routines to maintain performance.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging trends include integration of real-time sensors for on-line dissolution profiling, AI-driven parameter optimization, and enhanced multi-vessel throughput. Adapting the 850-DS platform to cloud-based data management and advanced analytics will further streamline laboratory workflows.

Conclusion

The Agilent 850-DS Dissolution Sampling Station offers a robust solution for automated, method-specific sample collection. By carefully optimizing sampling volumes, pump settings and timing, laboratories can achieve high precision and throughput while reducing manual intervention.

Reference

• Agilent Technologies, Inc. 850-DS User Manual. October 2021.
• Agilent Technologies, Inc. 850-DS Cleaning Procedure. October 2021.
• Agilent Technologies, Inc. 850-DS Volume Calibration Procedure. October 2021.