REMEX IFIS Series Intelligent Flow Injection Sampler

Overview

The REMEX IFIS Series Intelligent Flow Injection Sampler is a precision-engineered digital fluid handling platform designed for integration into automated flow injection analysis (FIA), sequential injection analysis (SIA), and continuous flow analytical systems. Based on the fundamental principles of segmented flow hydrodynamics and controlled dispersion kinetics, the IFIS system enables reproducible, time-resolved delivery of reagents, standards, and samples into reaction manifolds with sub-second temporal resolution. Unlike conventional manual or timer-driven samplers, the IFIS architecture embeds an onboard microprocessor that governs all actuation events—including pump rotation, valve positioning, and signal synchronization—ensuring deterministic timing critical for kinetic assays, gradient elution, and multi-step derivatization protocols. Its core design adheres to ISO/IEC 17025-aligned instrumentation architecture, supporting traceable calibration and audit-ready operation in regulated QC/QA laboratories.

Key Features

• Dual high-fidelity peristaltic pump module with microstepping stepper motor control: delivers stable flow rates from 0 to 99 rpm with <±0.5% speed repeatability over extended duty cycles; forward/reverse capability enables in-line oscillatory mixing, phase separation, and solvent extraction without external valves.
• 10-channel fluid routing capability (5 channels per pump), supporting simultaneous multi-analyte introduction, on-line dilution (dilution ratios up to 1:99), and reagent pre-mixing prior to reaction coil entry.
• Dual 16-position programmable switching valves—operable in automatic or manual mode—with mechanical indexing accuracy ≤ ±0.1° and switching time < 150 ms; supports up to 8 independent fluid path selections per valve, enabling complex manifold reconfiguration for multi-step assays.
• Full-parameter programmability: each of up to 15 stored methods contains up to 10 discrete operational steps, with independent control over pump speed, duration, direction, cycle count, start position, valve port assignment, analog/digital readout trigger, and termination logic.
• Embedded non-volatile memory retains user-defined sequences, calibration offsets, and system configuration across power cycles; firmware supports field-upgradable functionality via USB interface.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The IFIS Series accommodates aqueous, organic, and mixed-solvent streams within standard fluoropolymer (e.g., PTFE, FEP) or silicone tubing configurations (ID 0.5–1.6 mm). It is compatible with common FIA-compatible detection modules—including UV-Vis spectrophotometers, electrochemical cells, chemiluminescence detectors, and ICP-MS sample introduction systems. The system conforms to CE electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. While not certified under FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its software architecture supports ALCOA+ data integrity principles—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and role-based access control—when deployed with validated third-party LIMS or ELN platforms compliant with GLP and GMP environments.

Software & Data Management

The IFIS-D is operated via Windows-compatible control software (v3.2+, compatible with Windows 10/11 64-bit) providing a graphical method editor, real-time pump/valve status visualization, and synchronized analog signal capture (via optional DAQ integration). All method parameters—including step definitions, timing logs, and hardware state transitions—are timestamped and exported in CSV or XML format for traceability. The software supports batch export of raw acquisition files with embedded metadata (operator ID, instrument serial number, method version, UTC timestamps), satisfying requirements for ISO 17025 Clause 7.7 (result reporting) and ASTM D8084-17 (standard practice for FIA data recording).

Applications

• Automated nutrient analysis (NO₃⁻, NO₂⁻, NH₄⁺, PO₄³⁻) in environmental water matrices per EPA Method 353.2 and ISO 11905-1.
• Pharmaceutical assay development requiring precise reagent staging and reaction quenching—e.g., dissolution testing, enzyme kinetics, and stability-indicating assays.
• Food safety screening for preservatives (sorbate, benzoate), sulfites, and nitrites using colorimetric or fluorometric endpoints.
• On-line standard addition and internal standard correction routines for matrix-matched calibration in soil extract and wastewater digestate analysis.
• Integration with autosamplers and chromatographic systems for automated fraction collection and post-column derivatization.

FAQ

Is the IFIS Series compatible with third-party FIA manifolds and detectors?
Yes—the system uses industry-standard tubing dimensions and pressure-tolerant fluidic interfaces; analog TTL/RS-232 triggers enable synchronization with most commercial spectrophotometers and electrochemical workstations.
Can the IFIS-D perform unattended overnight operation?
Yes—its solid-state microcontroller maintains timing fidelity during extended runs; however, uninterrupted power supply (UPS) and periodic tubing inspection are recommended for >8-hour sequences.
Does the software support method validation documentation per ICH Q2(R2)?
The software provides raw parameter logs and exportable audit trails; full method validation must be performed by the end user in accordance with their SOPs and regulatory framework.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Pump tubing should be replaced every 500–1,000 operating hours depending on chemical compatibility; valve rotor seals require inspection every 6 months under continuous use.
Is remote monitoring or networked deployment supported?
Local Ethernet-to-serial conversion is possible via external adapters; native TCP/IP control is not implemented but can be enabled through custom API wrappers developed under NDA.