Chengmeng SPE-24A Manual Vacuum Solid Phase Extraction System

Overview

The Chengmeng SPE-24A is a manually operated, vacuum-driven solid phase extraction (SPE) system engineered for reproducible, high-throughput sample preparation in analytical laboratories. It implements classical SPE methodology—based on selective adsorption, retention, and elution of analytes onto functionalized sorbent cartridges—to achieve efficient cleanup, concentration, and fractionation of target compounds from complex liquid matrices. Unlike automated platforms, the SPE-24A relies on regulated vacuum pressure applied across a parallel manifold to control solvent flow through 24 individual SPE cartridges simultaneously. This architecture ensures uniform flow dynamics across all channels, minimizing inter-cartridge variability and supporting method transfer consistency required for validated workflows in environmental, pharmaceutical, food safety, and clinical research applications.

Key Features

• 24-position parallel cartridge manifold with independent flow control via precision PTFE stopcock valves—enabling accurate, stepwise optimization of loading, washing, and elution steps
• Vacuum chamber fabricated from optically clear, uniform-wall borosilicate glass—designed to withstand sustained negative pressure up to –80 kPa while permitting real-time visual monitoring of solvent breakthrough and cartridge dry-down
• Chemically inert wetted path: PTFE-sealed valve bodies, 316 stainless steel nozzles, and polymer-reinforced support structures ensure compatibility with aggressive solvents (e.g., acetonitrile, dichloromethane, methanol, 0.1% formic acid) and long-term resistance to corrosion and thermal cycling
• Modular, height-adjustable collection rack system accommodating tubes of multiple diameters (10 mm, 13 mm, and 15 mm OD)—supporting diverse downstream analysis requirements including LC-MS, GC-MS, and ICP-MS
• Integrated analog vacuum gauge with dual-scale readout (kPa and inHg) for precise pressure monitoring and method documentation
• Robust polymer-based cartridge holder and tube tray—rated for continuous operation under vacuum without deformation or creep, even after repeated sterilization or solvent exposure

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SPE-24A supports standard 1 mL, 3 mL, 6 mL, and 12 mL SPE cartridges from major suppliers (e.g., Waters, Agilent, Thermo Fisher, Phenomenex). It is routinely employed for extraction of polar, non-polar, and ionizable analytes—including pesticides, pharmaceutical residues, mycotoxins, endocrine disruptors, and metabolites—from aqueous samples such as drinking water, wastewater, plasma, urine, and food extracts. While the system itself does not carry regulatory certification, its design facilitates compliance with widely adopted method standards including EPA Method 508.1, EPA Method 525.3, ISO 17993:2022 (water quality — determination of organic compounds by SPE-LC-MS/MS), and USP chromatographic separations requiring rigorous sample cleanup. All components are traceable and compatible with GLP/GMP documentation practices when paired with laboratory-controlled SOPs.

Software & Data Management

As a manual vacuum manifold, the SPE-24A operates independently of software control. However, it integrates seamlessly into digitally managed workflows: vacuum pressure values can be logged manually or via external digital gauges; flow rate calibration data (using gravimetric or volumetric timing) is retained in lab notebooks or LIMS entries; and batch-specific parameters (e.g., solvent sequence, dwell times, collection tube IDs) are documented per sample set. The system’s mechanical simplicity eliminates firmware dependencies, reducing validation burden in regulated environments where 21 CFR Part 11 compliance is required for electronic records. Its passive architecture also avoids electromagnetic interference concerns common with motorized systems near sensitive instrumentation.

Applications

• Environmental analysis: Extraction and preconcentration of trace-level organochlorines, PAHs, and PFAS from surface water and groundwater prior to GC-MS or LC-HRMS quantification
• Pharmaceutical QC: Removal of phospholipids and protein precipitates from plasma samples prior to HPLC-UV assay of small-molecule drugs
• Food safety testing: Cleanup of QuEChERS extracts prior to multi-residue pesticide screening using LC-MS/MS
• Clinical toxicology: Isolation of amphetamines, benzodiazepines, and opioids from urine specimens for confirmation testing
• Method development labs: Rapid screening of sorbent chemistries (C18, SCX, SAX, Florisil, mixed-mode) under controlled vacuum conditions

FAQ

What vacuum source is recommended for optimal performance?
A diaphragm pump capable of sustaining ≥ –80 kPa (≥ 24 inHg) is recommended. Oil-free pumps are preferred to avoid hydrocarbon contamination of samples and manifolds.
Can the SPE-24A accommodate custom or oversized cartridges?
Yes—cartridge holders accept standard industry dimensions (e.g., 13 mm × 100 mm), and optional adapter sleeves are available for non-standard formats.
Is the glass vacuum chamber autoclavable?
No—the borosilicate chamber is not designed for steam sterilization; however, it is compatible with ethanol wipe-down, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite rinse, and oven drying at ≤ 120°C.
How is flow rate calibrated on this system?
Using gravimetric measurement: collect eluate over a timed interval (e.g., 60 s), weigh mass change, and calculate mL/min based on solvent density; repeat per channel to verify uniformity.
Are replacement parts available for long-term maintenance?
Yes—PTFE stopcocks, silicone vacuum tubing (8×14 mm), 316 stainless steel nozzles, and polymer support rods are stocked and sold individually with full part numbers and material certifications.