Raykol Vitae SPE Automated Solid Phase Extraction Workstation

Overview

The Raykol Vitae SPE Automated Solid Phase Extraction Workstation is an engineered solution for high-throughput, reproducible sample preparation in regulated and research laboratories. Built upon precision liquid handling architecture, it automates the full sequence of solid-phase extraction—including conditioning, loading, washing, and elution—using cartridge-based formats. Unlike manual or semi-automated systems, the Vitae SPE employs a dual-flow control architecture to independently regulate vacuum or positive pressure across multiple channels, ensuring consistent bed compression and solvent delivery kinetics critical for retention and recovery fidelity. Its design targets analyte classes requiring stringent matrix removal prior to LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, or immunoassay detection—particularly low-abundance biomarkers in complex biological matrices. The system operates without permanent fluid pathways; all liquid-contact surfaces are limited to single-use pipette tips, eliminating carryover and cross-contamination risks inherent in fixed-line manifolds.

Key Features

• Fully automated 4-channel pipetting system supporting both parallel and sequential operation—compatible with standard 96-well plates, vials, and SPE cartridges (1 mL, 3 mL, 6 mL formats)
• 15-position universal deck accommodating sample racks, solvent reservoirs, collection plates, and auxiliary modules without external reconfiguration
• Dedicated positive-pressure manifold for uniform cartridge conditioning and elution, minimizing channel-to-channel flow variability
• Integrated nitrogen blow-down module with programmable gas flow rate and timed desolvation cycles for post-elution concentration
• Temperature-controlled orbital shaker (ambient to 60 °C) enabling on-deck derivatization or matrix-assisted extraction protocols
• PIVOTING SPE software featuring guided workflow configuration: users select cartridge type, solvent sequence, and volume parameters; the software auto-calculates timing, pressure setpoints, and tip wash routines
• Audit-ready operation: software logs user actions, method versions, run timestamps, and module status changes—structured to support internal validation and regulatory review

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Vitae SPE accommodates diverse sample matrices including plasma, serum, urine, tissue homogenates, plant extracts, and environmental water samples. Cartridge compatibility spans C18, HLB, SCX, SAX, and mixed-mode sorbents from major suppliers (e.g., Waters, Agilent, Thermo Fisher). All wetted components—tips, adapters, and disposable manifolds—are certified DNase/RNase-free and low-binding. The system meets foundational requirements for ISO/IEC 17025 method validation and aligns with USP Analytical Instrument Qualification frameworks. Its software architecture includes electronic signature capability and configurable audit trails, facilitating compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 for pharmaceutical and clinical labs operating under GxP environments.

Software & Data Management

PIVOTING SPE is a Windows-based application developed exclusively for SPE workflow orchestration. It provides drag-and-drop deck layout configuration, real-time module status monitoring, and context-sensitive parameter guidance (e.g., recommended flow rates per sorbent mass, optimal wash volumes based on sample load). Methods are saved as encrypted .spm files containing full protocol metadata—including tip type, solvent lot tracking fields, and calibration history references. Raw log files export in CSV format for LIMS integration; summary reports include recovery check standards, tip usage counts, and runtime deviation alerts. No cloud dependency: all data remains on local or network-attached storage per institutional IT policies.

Applications

• Clinical diagnostics: extraction of 25-hydroxyvitamin D2/D3, catecholamines, acylcarnitines, and organic acids from dried blood spots or serum for tandem mass spectrometry
• Forensic toxicology: multi-analyte screening of opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and novel psychoactive substances from whole blood and oral fluid
• Pharmaceutical development: bioanalytical sample cleanup for PK/PD studies, metabolite profiling in hepatocyte incubations, and botanical extract standardization
• Multi-omics research: fractionation of polar and non-polar metabolites prior to LC-HRMS; phosphopeptide enrichment for phosphoproteomics workflows
• Environmental analysis: isolation of PFAS, pesticides, and endocrine disruptors from wastewater and soil leachates using mixed-mode cartridges

FAQ

Does the Vitae SPE support method transfer from manual SPE protocols?
Yes—the PIVOTING software includes a protocol conversion wizard that maps manual steps (e.g., “condition with 3 mL methanol, then 3 mL water”) to automated equivalents with validated timing and pressure profiles.
Can I use third-party SPE cartridges?
All standard 1–6 mL cartridge footprints are supported; no proprietary adapters required. Cartridge height and sealing interface dimensions conform to ANSI/SLAS standards.
Is preventive maintenance documentation included?
Yes—comprehensive PM schedules, torque specifications for manifold fittings, tip ejection force calibration procedures, and pressure sensor verification protocols are provided in the Technical Manual.
How is cross-contamination prevented between runs?
Each run uses new disposable tips; the system performs pre- and post-aspiration washes with solvent and air; tip eject positions are dynamically adjusted to avoid contact with waste containers or adjacent racks.
What validation support is available for regulated labs?
Raykol provides IQ/OQ documentation templates, performance qualification test scripts (including recovery, precision, and carryover testing), and a traceable calibration certificate for integrated pressure and temperature sensors.