850-DS Dissolution Sampling Station - Specification

Importance of the Topic

Automated dissolution sampling plays a pivotal role in pharmaceutical development and quality control by ensuring consistent data collection, reducing manual workload, and minimizing variability. Integrating sampling, filtration, and collection within a single platform enhances laboratory productivity and data reliability, which are essential for regulatory compliance and accelerated product release.

Study Objectives and Overview

This document presents the Agilent 850-DS Dissolution Sampling Station, designed to streamline dissolution testing workflows. Key goals include delivering unattended operation, high sampling accuracy, flexible filtration options, and compatibility with diverse media types. The overview highlights environmental tolerances, power requirements, and operational capacities to meet varied laboratory demands.

Methodology and Instrumentation

The 850-DS integrates a rotary piston syringe pump capable of precise fluid handling across eight channels, adjustable between low and moderate flow rates. Filtration is achieved using interchangeable modules, including inline and cannula filters with pore sizes from micrometer scales down to submicron levels. Stainless steel anti-coring needles and PEEK valve bodies ensure chemical compatibility and reduce clogging risk. Sampling sequences, volumes, and calibration data are managed via a touchscreen interface or PC control, with on-board storage for multiple method templates.

Main Results and Discussion

Performance evaluation demonstrates sampling accuracy within a few percent of target volumes and the capacity to withdraw up to three dozen samples per run. The system supports both small vials and larger test tubes, accommodates microtiter plates, and permits media replacement and cleaning routines without manual intervention. Extended run times approaching forty days and rapid minimum intervals between samples enable extensive kinetic studies. The modular design allows adaptation to a range of dissolution apparatus configurations.

Benefits and Practical Applications

By automating filtration and collection, the 850-DS reduces analyst hands-on time and potential for human error. Laboratories benefit from improved throughput, reproducible sample handling, and the ability to program complex schedules. This versatility supports research and development, routine quality assurance in pharmaceutical manufacturing, and method validation under Good Laboratory Practice standards.

Future Trends and Opportunities

Emerging directions include integration with laboratory information management systems for real-time data logging, cloud-based analytics for predictive dissolution modeling, and expanded compatibility with novel dosage forms. Advances in sensor technology could enable inline monitoring of pH or turbidity, further streamlining workflows and enhancing process control.

Conclusion

The Agilent 850-DS Dissolution Sampling Station offers a comprehensive solution for automated dissolution testing, combining precision, flexibility, and ease of use. Its deployment can significantly elevate laboratory efficiency and data quality, aligning with evolving industry requirements for automation and digital connectivity.