Dual CTC HTS PAL Liquid Chromatography Autosampler System
| Origin | Canada |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported Instrument |
| Model | CTC HTS PAL |
| Price Range | USD 6,800 – 13,600 (FOB) |
| Product Category | Chromatography |
| Operational Age | 4–5 years |
| Warranty | 6 months limited parts and labor |
Overview
The Dual CTC HTS PAL is a high-throughput, robotic liquid chromatography autosampler system originally developed by CTC Analytics AG (now part of LEAP Technologies) and widely deployed in pharmaceutical QC laboratories, contract research organizations (CROs), and academic core facilities. Engineered for precision liquid handling and unattended operation, the system implements a dual-needle, dual-carrier architecture that enables simultaneous sample loading and needle washing—significantly reducing cycle time per injection while maintaining reproducible injection volumes across wide dynamic ranges (typically 0.1–1000 µL). Its core mechanism relies on syringe-driven positive displacement metering, ensuring high accuracy and minimal carryover (< 0.005%) even with viscous or volatile solvents. Designed for integration with major HPLC/UHPLC platforms—including Agilent 1200/1260/1290, Waters Acquity/Alliance, and Thermo Vanquish—the Dual CTC HTS PAL supports both standard vial racks and 96-/384-well microplates, making it suitable for method development, stability-indicating assays, and regulated bioanalysis workflows.
Key Features
- Dual independent sampling probes with synchronized wash stations—enabling true parallel processing without cross-contamination risk
- Modular carrier design supporting up to four interchangeable sample trays (e.g., 100 × 1.5 mL vials + 2 × 96-well plates)
- Integrated solvent selection valve for automated needle rinsing with up to three cleaning solvents per probe
- Temperature-controlled sample compartment (4–40 °C, optional Peltier cooling) to preserve labile analytes during extended runs
- Robust stepper-motor-driven XYZ gantry with optical position feedback for sub-microliter positioning repeatability
- Compliance-ready firmware with audit trail logging, user access levels, and electronic signature support aligned with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Dual CTC HTS PAL accommodates standard 1.5 mL and 2.0 mL screw-thread vials (Agilent, Waters, Thermo), crimp-top vials, and ANSI/SLAS-compliant microplates (96-well and 384-well formats). It handles aqueous buffers, organic solvents (acetonitrile, methanol), and moderately viscous mobile phases without degradation in aspiration accuracy. All refurbished units undergo full functional validation per ICH Q2(R2)-aligned protocols, including linearity (R² ≥ 0.999), precision (RSD ≤ 0.5% at 10 µL), carryover assessment, and temperature uniformity mapping. Documentation includes Certificate of Conformance, IQ/OQ summary report, and traceable calibration records against NIST-traceable standards. The system meets ISO/IEC 17025:2017 laboratory competence criteria when operated under documented SOPs.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via CTC CombiPAL software (v3.5 or later), the system supports both standalone scheduling and seamless integration with third-party chromatography data systems (CDS) such as OpenLab CDS, Empower, Chromeleon, and Analyst. All sequence methods, injection logs, maintenance events, and error codes are timestamped and stored locally with automatic daily backup to network drives. Audit trails are immutable and exportable in CSV/PDF format; user roles enforce separation of duties (e.g., analyst vs. administrator). For GLP/GMP environments, optional 21 CFR Part 11 compliance packages include digital certificate management, biometric login support, and electronic signature workflows validated per Annex 11 guidelines.
Applications
- High-volume routine QC testing of APIs and finished dosage forms under USP and Ph. Eur. 2.2.46
- Pharmacokinetic sample analysis in preclinical studies requiring >500 injections/day
- Method robustness evaluation across multiple column chemistries and gradient profiles
- Automated derivatization workflows coupled with post-column reactors
- Stability-indicating assays tracking degradation products over accelerated storage conditions
- Support for LC-MS/MS quantitation in regulated bioanalytical labs compliant with FDA Bioanalytical Method Validation Guidance
FAQ
Is this unit fully refurbished and tested prior to shipment?
Yes. Each Dual CTC HTS PAL undergoes comprehensive mechanical inspection, fluidic integrity verification, positional accuracy validation, and 24-hour continuous runtime stress testing. A full test report is provided with shipment.
What documentation accompanies the instrument?
You receive a Certificate of Conformance, IQ/OQ summary, calibration certificates (traceable to NIST), software license transfer confirmation, and warranty terms.
Can this system be integrated with my existing Agilent 1290 Infinity II?
Yes—native driver support is included for all Agilent ChemStation and OpenLab versions from B.04.04 onward. Hardware handshake and timing synchronization are verified during installation.
Does the 6-month warranty cover on-site service?
Warranty includes remote diagnostics and parts replacement. On-site technician dispatch is available under separate service agreement (quoted upon request).
Are spare parts and consumables still available?
CTC PAL components—including syringes, septa, wash vials, and carrier modules—are actively stocked by authorized distributors globally and remain supported through 2027 per LEAP Technologies’ product lifecycle policy.
