The Alltesta™ Autosampler

Importance of the Topic

Automation in analytical laboratories enhances reproducibility and throughput by precisely controlling sample handling. Autosamplers streamline tasks such as HPLC injection, fraction collection, reactor sampling, optical detection, microfluidics, and complex assays like seqFISH+, reducing manual intervention and minimizing cross-contamination.

Objectives and Overview of the Document

This document introduces SIELC Technologies’ Alltesta™ Mini Autosampler, highlighting its design, modular customization, and application versatility. It reviews core components, software integration, and a range of automated workflows supporting high-pressure chromatography, fractionation, reactor sampling, detector interfacing, and advanced fluorescence protocols.

Methodology and Instrumentation

• Mechanical Design: Proprietary alpha/beta configuration enabling robust valve switching and syringe control.
• Valve Options: 6x2, 7x6, and 10x9 rotary valves for various flow paths and multiplexed reagent access.
• Syringe Volumes: 150 µL for high-pressure injections, and 4000 µL for low-pressure, high-volume sampling.
• Sample Capacity: 48 vials (2 mL each) or 96-well plates; support for shaking, mixing, and multi-solution needle washes.
• Software Control: Serial commands for OEM integration, dedicated Windows software, and cloud-based HPLC.cloud for sequence storage and remote operation.

Main Results and Discussion

The Mini Autosampler reliably automates diverse workflows:

• High-Pressure HPLC Injection: Precise 1–100 µL sample loop injections at up to 5000 psi without pressure loss, rapid needle cleaning, and optional vial mixing.
• Fraction Collection: Time- or volume-based fractionation using a 4000 µL syringe, alternating between column output and waste, with in-line wash cycles to prevent carryover.
• Reactor Sampling: Periodic probe sampling from reactors or fermentors, solvent pre-rinsing, sample transfer to vials, and post-injection line cleaning.
• Optical Detector Sampling: Delivery of defined loop volumes to UV/Vis cells or conductivity detectors with multi-solution purging and mixing.
• Low-Pressure, High-Volume Collection: Loop-based sampling for archival or reanalysis, with customizable tubing volumes and controlled air purge.
• Microfluidic Device Loading: Precise sample or reagent loading into chips, with pre-purge cleaning and controlled delivery.
• seqFISH+ Workflow: Automated multiplex buffer and fluorescent probe delivery through a 10x9 valve, including DAPI, anti-bleach, SSC, strip, and wash buffers, supporting complex hybridization cycles.

Benefits and Practical Applications

• Modularity: Tailorable valve, syringe, and tray configurations for application-specific needs.
• Precision: High volume accuracy (0.1 µL at 150 µL volume; 1 µL at 4000 µL volume) and reliable pressure handling.
• Integration: Compatible with HPLC, FIA, microfluidics, optical detectors, and cloud-based data management.
• Automation: Reduces manual handling errors, increases throughput, and enables unsupervised overnight runs.

Future Trends and Potential Applications

As analytical labs evolve, combining autosamplers with AI-driven scheduling, real-time data analytics, and interconnected LIMS will optimize workflows. Miniaturized fluidics and expanded valve multiplexing will facilitate multi-omics studies, high-throughput screening, and on-site environmental monitoring.

Conclusion

SIELC Technologies’ Mini Autosampler delivers a versatile, customizable solution for liquid handling across multiple analytical disciplines. Its integration flexibility, precision control, and software options support modern laboratory demands for efficiency, reproducibility, and data connectivity.

Used Instrumentation

• Alltesta™ Mini Autosampler with 6x2, 7x6, or 10x9 rotary valves
• 150 µL and 4000 µL syringe options
• Vial plates (48 × 2 mL) and 96-well trays
• USB-B serial communication and 24 V power supply
• Materials: SS316, PEEK, PTFE, Vespel