CTC Analytics HTC-Pal Liquid Chromatography / LC-MS Compatible Multi-Function Autosampler

Overview

The CTC Analytics HTC-Pal is a high-precision, multi-function autosampler engineered for seamless integration with liquid chromatography (LC) and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) platforms. Built upon CTC’s proprietary XYZ gantry architecture—driven by micro-stepping motors with 0.10 mm positional resolution—the system delivers exceptional spatial repeatability and mechanical robustness. Unlike conventional carousel- or tower-based samplers, the HTC-Pal employs a robotic arm design that enables true random-access sampling, independent of vial position or sequence order. This architecture eliminates mechanical hysteresis and minimizes carryover through precise syringe-driven aspiration and dispensing, coupled with active needle wash stations and programmable rinse cycles. The system is designed for unattended operation over extended shifts, supporting up to 24-hour continuous sample processing under GLP-compliant workflows.

Key Features

• XYZ robotic arm with stepper-motor-driven positioning (0.10 mm step resolution) for sub-millimeter reproducibility
• True random-access sampling: no fixed sequence dependency; supports dynamic reordering during run time
• Dual-syringe configuration optional for simultaneous solvent delivery and sample injection (e.g., for online derivatization or internal standard addition)
• Integrated needle wash station with configurable solvents, dwell times, and purge cycles to minimize cross-contamination
• Temperature-controlled sample tray (4–40 °C) with optional cooling module for thermally labile analytes
• Full IQ/OQ documentation package included—validated against ASTM E2500 and ISO/IEC 17025 principles
• Modular expansion capability: compatible with solid-phase extraction (SPE), dilution, mixing, and derivatization modules

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HTC-Pal accommodates standard 2 mL vials (9 mm and 11 mm crimp/snap caps), 4 mL scintillation vials, and 96-well microtiter plates. It supports both aqueous and organic solvent matrices, including acetonitrile, methanol, and chloroform-based extracts. All fluidic pathways are constructed from chemically inert materials (e.g., PEEK, stainless steel, and sapphire components) to ensure compatibility with aggressive mobile phases and high-salt buffers. The system complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when operated with validated CTC PAL Software v3.5 or later—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and user-level access controls. It meets ISO 17025 calibration traceability standards when deployed in accredited testing laboratories.

Software & Data Management

Controlled via CTC’s PAL Software Suite (v3.5+), the HTC-Pal supports method-driven automation with full scriptability using PAL Script Language (PSL). The software integrates natively with major LC and LC-MS data systems—including Thermo Fisher Chromeleon, Waters Empower, Agilent OpenLab, and SCIEX OS—enabling bidirectional communication for method synchronization and result annotation. Audit trail logging records all parameter changes, user actions, and instrument events with timestamped, immutable entries. Data export conforms to ASTM E1381 and E1462 standards, supporting CSV, XML, and vendor-neutral .mzML (for LC-MS-linked workflows) formats. Remote monitoring and diagnostics are available via secure HTTPS interface.

Applications

• High-throughput quantitative bioanalysis (e.g., PK/PD studies in regulated preclinical labs)
• Residual solvent testing per ICH Q3C guidelines in pharmaceutical manufacturing
• Environmental contaminant screening (e.g., PFAS, pesticides) requiring low-level detection and minimal carryover
• Metabolomics and lipidomics workflows involving large cohort sample sets with variable injection volumes
• Method development labs requiring flexible sample conditioning (dilution, filtration, pH adjustment) prior to injection
• Reference material certification programs demanding traceable, repeatable injection precision (RSD < 0.3% for peak area)

FAQ

Is this unit fully refurbished and tested prior to shipment?
Yes. Each HTC-Pal undergoes functional validation at SpectraLab Scientific’s ISO 17025-accredited facility, including positional accuracy verification, injection volume linearity (5–100 µL range), carryover assessment (< 0.01%), and thermal stability testing.
Does the 6-month warranty cover parts and labor?
Yes—the warranty includes all mechanical, electronic, and firmware components, plus on-site or depot-based technical support as required.
Can the system be integrated with non-CTC mass spectrometers?
Yes. Standard RS-232, Ethernet, and USB interfaces enable interoperability with all major LC-MS vendors via native driver support or third-party middleware (e.g., LabArchives, Dotmatics).
Are original IQ/OQ documents provided with the instrument?
Yes. A complete set of installation qualification (IQ) and operational qualification (OQ) protocols—executed and signed per ASTM E2500—is supplied with each unit.
What is the typical lead time for delivery?
Units are held in ready-to-ship inventory; delivery typically occurs within 5–7 business days following order confirmation and payment clearance.