CTC Analytics HTC-PAL High-Throughput LC-MS Autosampler

Overview

The CTC Analytics HTC-PAL is a high-precision, refurbished front-end automation system engineered specifically for liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) workflows requiring robust sample throughput, reproducible injection performance, and seamless integration into regulated laboratory environments. Based on CTC’s proven PAL (Preparative Auto-sampling Logic) architecture, the HTC-PAL implements dual-needle syringe-based sampling with independent wash stations, enabling parallel sample handling and minimized carryover in high-volume screening applications. Its core operational principle relies on precise robotic XYZ motion control combined with pressure-assisted aspiration and dispense cycles, ensuring sub-microliter accuracy and <1% RSD for repeated injections across microplate formats. Designed for unattended operation over extended duty cycles, the system supports full method-driven scheduling—including vial-to-vial, plate-to-plate, and hybrid sampling sequences—making it suitable for laboratories engaged in quantitative bioanalysis, metabolite identification, and automated method development.

Key Features

• High-density benchtop footprint (≤50 cm depth) accommodating up to 24 standard microplates (96-well or 384-well), maximizing lab space efficiency without compromising accessibility.
• Integrated Peltier-cooled sample storage zone (4–40 °C adjustable, ±0.5 °C stability) with real-time temperature logging compliant with GLP audit requirements.
• Dual independent syringe modules with active needle wash (solvent + purge) and customizable rinse protocols to ensure <0.001% carryover between samples—critical for low-abundance analyte detection in DMPK and ADME studies.
• Universal LC-MS interface architecture supporting analog TTL, RS-232, and Ethernet-based communication protocols; validated interoperability with Agilent 6400/6500 QQQ, Thermo Fisher Q Exactive, Waters Xevo TQ-S, and Shimadzu LCMS-8060 platforms.
• Refurbishment includes full mechanical recalibration, firmware update to latest CTC PAL OS v4.3.x, replacement of all fluidic seals and tubing, and comprehensive performance verification per ASTM E2656-20 (Standard Practice for Calibration of Liquid Chromatography Autosamplers).

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The HTC-PAL accepts standard ANSI/SLAS-compliant microplates (96-, 384-, and 1536-well), individual vials (1.5–2.0 mL), and custom racks via configurable carrier adapters. It supports aqueous, organic, and mixed-solvent matrices without degradation of syringe seal integrity. All refurbished units undergo full traceable calibration using NIST-traceable standards, with documentation provided per ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Annex A.4 requirements. The system meets baseline functionality for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with validated CTC PAL Control Software v4.3 and an approved electronic signature workflow—supporting audit trails, user access levels, and data integrity controls required for GxP-regulated environments.

Software & Data Management

Control is executed via CTC PAL Control Software (v4.3), a Windows-based application offering intuitive sequence building, real-time status monitoring, and error logging with timestamped event records. Sequence files (.pal) are ASCII-readable and exportable for LIMS integration. Raw injection logs—including cycle time, needle position, temperature setpoints, and wash status—are stored in CSV format with SHA-256 hash validation for data integrity assurance. Optional add-ons include remote diagnostics via secure SSH tunnel and scheduled health-check reports delivered to designated email endpoints.

Applications

• High-throughput pharmacokinetic (PK) and toxicokinetic (TK) sample analysis in preclinical and clinical bioanalytical labs.
• Automated combinatorial chemistry support for rapid compound library screening and structure–activity relationship (SAR) profiling.
• Flow injection analysis (FIA) coupling with mass spectrometry for reaction monitoring and kinetic parameter estimation.
• ADMET profiling workflows requiring strict adherence to sample integrity, temperature stability, and injection repeatability across multi-day campaigns.
• Method transfer and validation studies where cross-platform autosampler comparability must be demonstrated under ICH Q2(R2) guidelines.

FAQ

Is this unit fully refurbished and tested prior to shipment?
Yes. Each HTC-PAL system undergoes a complete functional refurbishment at SpectraLab Scientific’s ISO 9001-certified facility, including mechanical inspection, fluidic integrity testing, thermal calibration, and 72-hour continuous runtime validation.
Does the 6-month warranty cover both parts and labor?
Yes—the warranty includes onsite or depot-level technical support, replacement of defective components, and remote software assistance for configuration-related issues.
Can the system be integrated into an existing LIMS environment?
Yes. The HTC-PAL supports standard ODBC and HL7 interfaces; API documentation and sample integration scripts are available upon request for custom LIMS deployment.
Are original CTC service manuals and calibration certificates included?
Yes—all units ship with digitized service documentation, full calibration history, and a Certificate of Refurbishment signed by a certified CTC Field Service Engineer.
What consumables are recommended for routine maintenance?
CTC-approved syringe seals (Part #PAL-SEAL-01), stainless steel needles (PAL-NEEDLE-250), and wash solvent kits (PAL-WASH-KIT-STD) are stocked and available with lead times under 5 business days.