Beifen Sanpu SXT-6 Multi-Channel Soxhlet Extractor

Overview

The Beifen Sanpu SXT-6 Multi-Channel Soxhlet Extractor is a laboratory-grade, thermally controlled solid-liquid extraction system engineered for quantitative fat determination in accordance with standardized gravimetric methodology. Based on the classical Soxhlet principle—continuous cyclic percolation of hot solvent through a porous thimble containing solid sample—the instrument enables exhaustive lipid extraction via repeated dissolution, siphoning, and reflux cycles. Unlike single-channel systems, the SXT-6 integrates six independent extraction units within a unified chassis, allowing parallel processing of up to six samples under identical thermal and timing conditions. This architecture ensures inter-sample comparability, minimizes operator intervention, and significantly improves throughput for routine quality control laboratories in food, feed, agricultural, and environmental testing sectors. The system’s heating module employs PID-regulated resistive elements, while solvent recovery is achieved through integrated condensation and gravity-driven return pathways—eliminating manual handling and reducing solvent loss or exposure risk.

Key Features

• Six independently controllable extraction channels with synchronized heating and timing logic
• Adjustable temperature setpoint (ambient +5 °C to 100 °C) optimized for common solvents including petroleum ether, diethyl ether, and chloroform
• Integrated solvent recovery circuit with water-cooled condenser and automatic reflux return mechanism
• Digital timer with programmable extraction duration (0–999 min) and audible end-of-cycle alarm
• Stainless steel heating mantle and corrosion-resistant chamber construction for long-term chemical compatibility
• Modular design facilitating maintenance, calibration, and optional customization (e.g., flask volume, solvent trap configuration)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SXT-6 accommodates solid or semi-solid matrices requiring fat quantification by acid hydrolysis–Soxhlet coupling or direct extraction. Compatible sample types include ground cereals, oilseeds, animal tissues, dairy powders, soil sediments, and dried botanicals. Each channel accepts standard 25-mm or 33-mm cellulose thimbles; sample mass is limited to 0–5 g per thimble to ensure uniform solvent penetration and avoid channel blockage. The instrument conforms to GB 5512–1985 “Determination of Crude Fat in Cereals and Pulses,” and its operational parameters align with internationally recognized protocols referenced in AOAC Official Method 920.39 and ISO 6496:1999. While not certified to UL/CE or IEC 61010-1 out-of-the-box, the unit meets fundamental electrical safety and thermal isolation requirements for Class II laboratory equipment used in non-explosive environments.

Software & Data Management

The SXT-6 operates via an embedded digital controller with LED display and tactile membrane keypad—no external PC or proprietary software is required. All operational parameters (set temperature, run time, channel activation status) are retained in non-volatile memory across power cycles. Though not equipped with data logging or USB/Ethernet connectivity as standard, the controller supports optional RS-485 interface modules for integration into centralized lab management systems. For GLP/GMP-compliant environments, users may implement manual logbook entries or integrate the device into validated workflows where timing and temperature records are captured externally via calibrated data loggers meeting ISO/IEC 17025 traceability requirements.

Applications

• Routine crude fat analysis in food manufacturing QC labs (e.g., compliance with Codex Alimentarius standards)
• Nutritional labeling verification for packaged goods under FDA 21 CFR Part 101 or EU Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011
• Feed formulation validation in animal nutrition research (e.g., NRC nutrient requirement models)
• Environmental monitoring of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) in soil and sediment samples per EPA Method 9071B
• Research-scale lipid profiling prior to GC-FID or GC-MS analysis
• Educational use in undergraduate analytical chemistry and food science laboratories

FAQ

What solvents are compatible with the SXT-6?

Petroleum ether (boiling range 30–60 °C or 60–90 °C), diethyl ether, chloroform, and hexane are commonly used. Solvent selection must consider boiling point relative to the instrument’s max 100 °C setpoint and compatibility with thimble material.
Can the SXT-6 be used for non-fat extractions, such as pesticide residue or polyphenol recovery?

Yes—provided the target analyte is soluble in the selected solvent and the matrix does not degrade under reflux conditions. Method validation per ISO/IEC 17025 is recommended for non-standard applications.
Is the 250 mL flask volume fixed, or can it be modified?

Standard configuration uses 250 mL flasks, but Beifen Sanpu offers custom configurations—including 150 mL, 500 mL, and 1000 mL options—subject to mechanical redesign and lead-time adjustment.
Does the instrument include a solvent trap or fume hood interface?

No built-in solvent trap is provided; however, the condenser outlet is fitted with standard 10 mm tubing ports suitable for connection to external cold traps or fume hood exhaust manifolds.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?

Monthly inspection of condenser water lines, annual cleaning of heating mantles with non-abrasive agents, and biannual verification of temperature sensor calibration using a NIST-traceable thermometer.