i-Lab i-Lab Fully Automated Fat Extraction and Concentration System
| Brand | i-Lab |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) & Assembler |
| Regional Classification | Domestic (PRC) |
| Model | Fully Automated Fat Extraction and Concentration System |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
Overview
The i-Lab Fully Automated Fat Extraction and Concentration System is an integrated sample preparation workstation engineered for precision, reproducibility, and regulatory compliance in food safety and quality control laboratories. Based on the Soxhlet extraction principle—combined with accelerated solvent extraction (ASE)-informed fluid handling architecture—the system automates the complete workflow for lipid isolation from solid or semi-solid matrices, including extraction, filtration, quantitative transfer, vacuum concentration, and solvent recovery. Designed to replace manual, multi-step benchtop procedures, it eliminates operator variability, reduces exposure to hazardous organic solvents (e.g., petroleum ether, chloroform/methanol mixtures), and ensures traceable, auditable processing under GLP and GMP-aligned operational frameworks.
Key Features
- 20-position sample carousel supporting simultaneous batch loading of solid or homogenized food samples (e.g., nuts, baked goods, meat products, dairy powders)
- Automated robotic arm with precision gripper and liquid-handling module for sequential solvent addition, percolation, filtration, and supernatant transfer
- Parallel vacuum concentration capability for up to 4 samples at once, with programmable temperature ramping (30–80 °C) and pressure control (1–25 mbar)
- Integrated solvent recovery unit featuring condensation-cooled distillation and collection reservoirs, minimizing waste disposal volume and operational cost
- Modular time-scheduling engine enabling segmented workflow execution—e.g., overnight extraction/filtration followed by daytime concentration/solvent recovery—without interruption or manual intervention
- Sealed, ventilated enclosure with solvent vapor monitoring (optional VOC sensor integration) compliant with laboratory fume hood safety standards
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The system accommodates a broad range of food matrices requiring lipid quantification or oxidative stability assessment—including edible oils, fried snacks, confectionery, infant formula, and animal feed. It is validated for direct implementation of Chinese National Standards GB 5009.227–2023 (Determination of Peroxide Value in Foods) and GB 5009.229–2017 (Determination of Acid Value in Foods). Method equivalence to AOAC Official Methods 993.21 and ISO 6886:2016 has been demonstrated through interlaboratory studies. All hardware components contacting solvents are constructed from chemically resistant materials (PTFE-lined valves, borosilicate glass vessels, stainless-steel 316 manifolds), ensuring long-term integrity and minimal analyte adsorption.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via i-Lab LabManager™ v3.2 software—a Windows-based platform with role-based user access, electronic signature support, and full 21 CFR Part 11 compliance. Each run generates an immutable audit trail recording timestamps, setpoints, actual process parameters (temperature, pressure, solvent volume, cycle duration), error logs, and operator ID. Raw data exports in CSV and PDF formats; optional LIMS integration via ASTM E1384-compliant API. Calibration and maintenance records are stored within the system database with configurable reminders and certificate generation.
Applications
- Routine determination of total fat content (per GB 5009.6–2016) in food surveillance and QC labs
- Preparation of lipid extracts for downstream analysis: GC-FID for fatty acid profiling, HPLC-UV for tocopherol quantification, or spectrophotometric assays for peroxide/acid value
- Stability testing of frying oils and processed foods under accelerated oxidation protocols
- High-throughput screening in R&D settings for lipid-modified formulations (e.g., plant-based dairy alternatives, functional foods)
- Supporting ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing workflows where method validation, uncertainty estimation, and procedural traceability are mandatory
FAQ
Is the system compatible with non-aqueous solvents commonly used in fat extraction, such as hexane or diethyl ether?
Yes—fluidic pathways and seals are rated for Class II flammable solvents per NFPA 30 and IEC 61000-6-4 electromagnetic compatibility standards.
Can method parameters be saved and recalled for routine use across different sample types?
Absolutely. Up to 99 user-defined methods can be stored with unique identifiers, version control, and change history tracking.
Does the system support remote monitoring or unattended operation over weekends?
Yes—scheduled runs execute autonomously; system status (temperature, pressure, door interlock, solvent level) is viewable via secure HTTPS interface with optional SMS/email alert configuration.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for optimal performance?
Daily: Visual inspection of seals and glassware; weekly: calibration verification of vacuum sensor and temperature probes; biannual: full fluidic path cleaning and robotic arm lubrication per i-Lab Maintenance Protocol MP-FECS-02.
Is third-party validation support available for laboratory accreditation purposes?
i-Lab provides IQ/OQ documentation templates, validation protocol drafting assistance, and on-site PQ execution support aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 and CNAS requirements.
