Behr SMA-ARB Heavy Metal Digestion System

Overview

The Behr SMA-ARB Heavy Metal Digestion System is a precision-engineered electric heating digestion workstation designed for standardized, reproducible acid digestion of environmental, geological, food, and biological samples prior to trace metal analysis by ICP-OES, ICP-MS, or AAS. Based on the classical aqua regia (HCl:HNO₃, 3:1 v/v) digestion protocol, the system enables simultaneous thermal processing of up to 12 samples under controlled reflux conditions—minimizing analyte loss, preventing cross-contamination, and ensuring compliance with ISO 11885, EPA Method 3050B, and EN 13656. Its modular architecture integrates three core functional units: the SAM temperature-controlled heating block, the ET2 programmable external controller, and the SG/B stainless steel support frame with integrated cooling infrastructure—delivering robust, GLP-aligned sample preparation for routine QC/QA laboratories.

Key Features

• Modular, scalable design supporting both 6-position (SMA-ARB 6) and 12-position (SMA-ARB 12) configurations—optimized for throughput without compromising thermal uniformity.
• SAM heating unit with precise PID-controlled temperature regulation (20–300 °C) across all positions; calibrated accuracy ±1.5 °C at 150 °C (per DIN EN 61000-4-3).
• ET2 external controller offering extended temperature range (20–450 °C), programmable ramp-hold profiles, and timer-based operation (10–999 min or continuous mode)—enabling method flexibility for alternative acids (e.g., HF, H₂SO₄) where required.
• SR2 round-bottom digestion tubes (250 mL, NS29/22 standard taper) fabricated from high-purity borosilicate glass 3.3, sealed with chemically resistant PVDF gaskets—validated for repeated exposure to boiling aqua regia.
• SFK50 spherical reflux condensers (6 units included in 12-position configuration) ensure efficient vapor condensation and return, reducing reagent consumption and enhancing digestion completeness.
• AS1 absorption vessels connected via PTFE tubing provide effective off-gas scrubbing for NOₓ, Cl₂, and other acidic vapors—meeting OSHA permissible exposure limits (PELs) and local laboratory ventilation requirements.
• SG/B stainless steel support frame (AISI 316L) features integrated coolant distribution manifold for recirculating water supply to condensers and reinforced condenser mounting points—designed for long-term corrosion resistance and mechanical stability.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SMA-ARB system accommodates solid, semi-solid, and liquid matrices including soils, sediments, sludges, plant tissues, animal tissues, and food composites. Sample mass ranges from 0.1 g to 2.0 g (depending on matrix complexity), with digestion volumes maintained between 15–25 mL per tube. All components comply with EU Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS) and are CE-marked per Machinery Directive 2006/42/EC. The system supports audit-ready documentation when paired with validated SOPs and meets essential requirements for ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories performing heavy metal testing. Optional integration with LIMS via RS232 or USB allows traceability of run parameters (temperature setpoint, duration, vessel ID) for 21 CFR Part 11-compliant environments.

Software & Data Management

While the SMA-ARB operates as a standalone hardware platform, the ET2 controller logs timestamped operational data—including target temperature, actual temperature (via external PT100 probe input), elapsed time, and error codes—to internal non-volatile memory (1000-event capacity). Data export is supported via USB flash drive (FAT32 formatted) in CSV format for post-run analysis in Excel or laboratory informatics systems. No proprietary software is required; however, Behr provides a free Windows-compatible configuration utility for firmware updates and calibration offset adjustment—fully compatible with Windows 10/11 (64-bit) and signed drivers for GxP-regulated IT infrastructures.

Applications

• Determination of Pb, Cd, Cr, As, Hg, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Co in contaminated soils per EPA SW-846 Method 3050B and ISO 11885.
• Preparation of certified reference materials (CRMs) for inter-laboratory proficiency testing programs.
• Regulatory compliance testing for RoHS, WEEE, and REACH substance restrictions in electronic waste and polymers.
• Food safety monitoring per EU Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 for maximum levels of heavy metals in cereals, seafood, and infant formula.
• Geochemical exploration assays requiring high-recovery digestion of silicate-rich rock powders using supplemental HF addition (with appropriate safety protocols).

FAQ

Can the SMA-ARB be used with hydrofluoric acid (HF)?

Yes—when equipped with HF-resistant accessories (e.g., PFA-coated SR2 tubes, quartz condensers, and fluoropolymer gaskets), though such configurations require separate validation and strict adherence to ANSI Z9.5 laboratory fume hood standards.
Is temperature uniformity verified across all positions?

Yes—each SAM unit undergoes factory verification using 6-point NIST-traceable PT100 probes; certificate of conformance includes positional deviation data (±1.2 °C max at 180 °C).
What cooling water specifications are required for the SG/B frame?

Recirculating chiller supply: 10–25 °C inlet, flow rate ≥2.5 L/min, pressure 1.5–3.0 bar; distilled or deionized water recommended to prevent scaling.
Are spare parts and consumables available globally?

Yes—Behr maintains authorized distribution networks in North America, EMEA, and APAC; SR2 tubes, SFK50 condensers, AS1 absorbers, and PVDF gaskets are stocked with typical lead time <5 business days.
Does the system support automated method recall?

No—the ET2 controller stores only runtime logs; method parameters must be manually entered per run. For full automation, integration with third-party lab automation platforms (e.g., Hamilton STAR, Tecan Fluent) is possible via digital I/O or Modbus RTU (optional module).