CETAC APS-7650G Gravimetric Sample Preparation System
| Brand | CETAC |
|---|---|
| Origin | Imported |
| Model | APS-7650G |
| Dilution Range | 10–100× |
| Max Sample Viscosity | 1000 cSt |
| Weighing Precision | ±0.1 mg |
| Integrated Balance | Yes |
| Pipetting Technology | Zero-Residue Integrated Dispenser |
| Software | OilEase™ |
| Compliance | ASTM D5185, ASTM D4951, NB/SH/T 0824–2010 |
| Sample Handling | Automated Gravimetric Dilution, Homogenization, Weighing, and Data Logging |
Overview
The CETAC APS-7650G Gravimetric Sample Preparation System is an automated, high-precision laboratory instrument engineered for the rigorous demands of lubricating oil elemental analysis workflows. Designed specifically to support inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and ICP–optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), the APS-7650G implements true gravimetric dilution—measuring sample mass directly on an integrated analytical balance rather than relying on volumetric assumptions. This approach eliminates density-related errors inherent in volumetric methods and ensures metrological traceability per ISO/IEC 17025 requirements. The system automates the complete sample preparation sequence: aspiration, gravimetric weighing, solvent addition, homogenization, and final mass verification—all under programmable method control. Its architecture aligns with the fundamental measurement principle defined in ASTM D5185 and ASTM D4951: quantitative determination of additive metals (e.g., Ca, Zn, Mg, P, B, Mo) and wear metals (e.g., Fe, Cu, Al, Cr, Pb) in new, used, and base oils via ICP-based techniques.
Key Features
- Zero-residue integrated positive-displacement pipetting module—minimizes carryover and cross-contamination between high-viscosity lubricant samples
- Onboard high-resolution analytical balance (±0.1 mg repeatability) calibrated to NIST-traceable standards
- Gravimetric dilution capability across a 10× to 100× range, accommodating both concentrated additives and low-level wear metal quantification
- Viscosity-tolerant fluid handling—validated for homogeneous processing of oils up to 1000 cSt at ambient temperature
- Modular sample rack configurations—including 48-position vial trays, custom tube holders, and solvent reservoir integration—for flexible lab deployment
- Full audit trail generation with timestamped weight logs, pipette actuation events, and user authentication metadata
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The APS-7650G supports a broad spectrum of petroleum matrices, including mineral-, synthetic-, and bio-based lubricants; engine, gear, hydraulic, and turbine oils; and base stocks (Group I–V). It complies with the procedural requirements of ASTM D5185 (multielement determination in lubricants by ICP-AES), ASTM D4951 (additive element analysis), and the Chinese national standard NB/SH/T 0824–2010. All gravimetric operations are designed to meet GLP and GMP documentation expectations, including electronic signature support, data integrity safeguards, and alignment with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles for regulated environments. Calibration records, balance verification logs, and method validation reports are exportable in CSV and PDF formats for regulatory submission.
Software & Data Management
Controlled exclusively via OilEase™ software—a Windows-based application built for petroleum laboratories—the APS-7650G provides intuitive method creation, real-time process monitoring, and comprehensive data archiving. OilEase™ enables batch method programming with conditional logic (e.g., viscosity-dependent aspiration speed, dynamic weighing stabilization thresholds), automatic calculation of final analyte concentrations using gravimetric mass ratios, and direct integration with LIMS through ODBC-compliant database exports. Audit-ready reports include raw mass values, dilution factors, uncertainty propagation estimates (based on balance calibration data and pipette accuracy specifications), and full electronic signatures compliant with ALCOA+ principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate, Complete, Consistent, Enduring, Available).
Applications
- Routine quality control of additive package consistency in formulated lubricants prior to release
- Used oil analysis (UOA) programs for predictive maintenance—quantifying wear metal accumulation and additive depletion trends
- Base oil certification and supplier qualification testing per OEM technical specifications
- Method development and validation studies supporting ICP instrument qualification (IQ/OQ/PQ)
- Regulatory compliance testing for environmental reporting (e.g., heavy metal content in industrial lubricants)
- Research applications involving multi-element spiking studies, matrix-matched calibration, and interlaboratory comparison trials
FAQ
Does the APS-7650G require external balance integration?
No—the system includes a factory-integrated, NIST-traceable analytical balance with internal calibration weights and automatic drift compensation.
Can the system handle samples containing suspended solids or sludge?
Yes, provided the sample is pre-homogenized (e.g., via vortex or ultrasonic bath); the APS-7650G’s positive-displacement pipettor avoids clogging issues common with air-displacement systems.
Is OilEase™ compatible with enterprise LIMS platforms?
Yes—via configurable ODBC drivers and structured CSV/XML exports; custom API extensions are available under CETAC’s Enterprise Integration Program.
What maintenance protocols are recommended for long-term precision?
Daily balance verification with certified check weights, monthly pipette performance checks using gravimetric verification kits, and annual factory recalibration per ISO 17025-accredited service schedule.
How does the system ensure compliance with ASTM D5185’s “gravimetric dilution” definition?
By enforcing mass-based calculations only—no volume-derived concentration conversions are permitted in method definitions, and all intermediate and final masses are recorded and validated prior to result generation.
