CTC HTS PAL Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) Multi-Function Automated Sample Introduction System
| Origin | Canada |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported Instrument |
| Model | HTS |
| Age | 5–7 Years |
| Warranty | 6 Months |
| Condition | Refurbished & Fully Tested |
Overview
The CTC HTS PAL Automated Sample Introduction System is a high-throughput, multi-functional autosampler engineered for seamless integration with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) platforms. Designed around CTC Analytics’ proprietary robotic XYZ gantry architecture and dual-needle syringe-based sampling technology, the HTS PAL enables precise, contamination-free sample handling across diverse workflows—including vial-to-vial transfer, derivatization, dilution, mixing, and online solid-phase extraction (SPE). Its modular design supports both single- and multi-position configurations, allowing flexible adaptation to analytical laboratories performing quantitative bioanalysis, metabolomics, pharmaceutical QC, and environmental screening. The system operates under ambient or temperature-controlled conditions (4–40 °C), maintaining sample integrity through programmable needle wash cycles, inert gas purging, and low-dead-volume fluidic pathways. As a refurbished unit certified by SpectraLab Scientific, each HTS PAL undergoes full functional validation—including syringe accuracy verification, carryover assessment (<0.005%), positional repeatability (±0.1 mm), and communication handshake testing with common LC-MS controllers (e.g., Thermo Fisher, Waters, Agilent).
Key Features
- Robust XYZ robotic arm with integrated dual-syringe modules for parallel sample aspiration and dispensing
- Support for up to 10 standard 96-well plates or 384-well microplates per run, plus optional vial racks (up to 300 × 2 mL vials)
- Programmable temperature-controlled sample compartment (4–40 °C) with independent cooling/heating zones
- Integrated needle wash station with solvent selection (up to 4 solvents), ultrasonic cleaning option, and real-time pressure monitoring
- Modular add-ons available: online SPE cartridge handler, derivatization reactor module, microfluidic interface kit
- Compliance-ready firmware supporting audit trail logging, user access levels, and electronic signature capability
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HTS PAL accommodates a broad range of sample formats: 1.5–2.0 mL screw-thread vials, 0.2–2.0 mL crimp-top vials, 96- and 384-well plates (flat, V-bottom, round-bottom), and custom tube racks. It handles aqueous, organic, and mixed-solvent matrices without cross-contamination, validated per ASTM D7242-21 guidelines for autosampler carryover performance. All refurbished units are requalified against ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements for calibration traceability and measurement uncertainty estimation. Firmware supports GLP/GMP-aligned operation, including 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records when paired with validated third-party LIMS or CDS software.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via CTC CombiPAL software (v4.5 or later), the HTS PAL offers method-driven workflow automation with drag-and-drop sequence building, conditional logic scripting (e.g., “if peak area < X, re-inject”), and real-time status dashboarding. Raw method files (.pal) and audit logs (.log) are stored in encrypted local directories with configurable backup intervals. Integration with major chromatography data systems—including Thermo Chromeleon, Waters Empower, and Agilent OpenLab—leverages standardized instrument control protocols (ICP, ASCII over RS-232/Ethernet). All refurbished systems ship with licensed software media, activation keys, and documented installation qualification (IQ) reports.
Applications
- High-volume clinical toxicology screening using LC-MS/MS with automated protein precipitation and phospholipid removal
- Pharmaceutical stability-indicating assays requiring repeated injections across multiple timepoints
- Untargeted metabolomics studies involving sequential derivatization and dual-column analysis
- Environmental residue analysis with online SPE enrichment prior to LC-HRMS detection
- Method development labs leveraging the HTS PAL’s programmable flexibility for assay optimization and robustness testing
FAQ
Is this a factory-refurbished unit or third-party refurbished?
All HTS PAL systems supplied by SpectraLab Scientific are professionally refurbished in-house following CTC Analytics’ technical service bulletins, including replacement of wear-prone components (syringes, seals, drive belts) and full electrical safety certification.
What documentation accompanies the system?
Each unit ships with a Certificate of Refurbishment, IQ/OQ test reports, calibration certificates traceable to NIST standards, and a complete set of operational manuals (English).
Can the system be integrated with my existing LC-MS platform?
Yes—the HTS PAL supports native drivers for Thermo Fisher, Waters, Agilent, Sciex, and Bruker mass spectrometers; compatibility verification is performed prior to shipment.
What warranty coverage is included?
A 6-month limited warranty covers parts and labor for defects in materials or workmanship, excluding consumables and damage from improper installation or misuse.
Are spare parts and service support available post-purchase?
SpectraLab Scientific maintains an inventory of genuine CTC spare kits (e.g., PAL syringe assemblies, XYZ motor modules) and provides remote diagnostics and on-site service contracts globally.

