Sievers TOC Analyzer Autosampler

Overview

The Sievers TOC Analyzer Autosampler is a compact, high-precision robotic sampling module engineered to extend the automation capability of Sievers M9 and M5310 C laboratory and portable total organic carbon analyzers. Designed in accordance with ASTM D7573–22 and ISO 8245–1999 standards for TOC determination in water, this autosampler implements precise liquid handling via three-axis Cartesian motion control, enabling position-independent sample access across heterogeneous rack configurations. Its architecture supports both high-sensitivity ultratrace analysis (sub-ppb detection) and routine quantification up to 50 ppm—critical for applications spanning pharmaceutical water system validation, environmental compliance monitoring, and semiconductor process water qualification. The device operates exclusively under DataPro2 software, ensuring synchronized method execution, real-time status reporting, and full audit trail generation.

Key Features

• Three-axis robotic arm with programmable XYZ positioning for true random-access sampling—no fixed sequence constraints imposed by rack layout
• Modular rack compatibility: accommodates up to 63 × 40 mL or 60 mL vials, 120 × 17 mL vials, or 35 mL test tubes; optional five-position standard rack for repeated access at user-defined intervals
• Ultra-compact footprint: only 28.2 cm (11.1 in) deep; combined benchtop space requirement with Sievers M9 analyzer is just 0.24 m² (2.6 ft²)
• Low-maintenance design with sealed peristaltic pump tubing and self-calibrating syringe positioning—no routine alignment or lubrication required
• Fully integrated control via DataPro2 software running on Windows OS, supporting method-driven scheduling, error logging, and event-triggered re-runs

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The autosampler handles aqueous samples across a broad conductivity range (0–5 mS/cm) and pH spectrum (2–12), including purified water (PW), water for injection (WFI), clean steam condensate, wastewater effluents, and groundwater extracts. It maintains sample integrity through inert fluid path materials (PFA tubing, quartz injector, ceramic valves) and minimizes carryover (<0.05%) via multi-stage rinse protocols. For regulated environments, optional DataGuard software enables 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic records—including role-based user authentication, biometric or digital signature capture, and immutable audit trails with timestamped operator actions. All firmware and software revisions are documented per ICH Q9 quality risk management principles and support GLP/GMP inspection readiness.

Software & Data Management

DataPro2 serves as the unified control interface for both the TOC analyzer and autosampler, executing preconfigured SOPs with deterministic timing and error recovery logic. Each run generates a structured .csv/.xml data package containing raw detector signals, calibration verification logs, blank subtraction metadata, and instrument diagnostic snapshots. Raw data files are digitally signed and stored with SHA-256 hash verification. Audit trails record every parameter change, sample ID assignment, and maintenance event—including timestamps, operator IDs, and rationale fields where applicable. Export modules support LIMS integration via ASTM E1467-compliant HL7 or ASTM E2500-07 XML schemas.

Applications

• Pharmaceutical water system surveillance per USP , EP 2.2.44, and JP 2.59—supporting periodic testing, trend analysis, and alert-level investigations
• Environmental compliance reporting under EPA Method 415.3 and ISO 7827 for surface water, drinking water, and wastewater treatment plant influent/effluent
• Microelectronics ultrapure water (UPW) monitoring per SEMI F63 standards, particularly for particle-free TOC detection in sub-10 ppb regimes
• Academic and contract laboratory high-throughput screening where unattended overnight operation (>24 h continuous analysis) reduces manual labor and inter-operator variability

FAQ

Is the autosampler compatible with legacy Sievers models such as the 900 or M8?
No—it is certified only for use with Sievers M9 and M5310 C analyzers due to hardware-level communication protocol requirements and firmware handshake specifications.
Can custom rack geometries be programmed outside the standard configurations?
Yes—users may define arbitrary rack coordinate maps using DataPro2’s Rack Editor, supporting non-uniform spacing, mixed vial sizes, and nested sample groups.
Does the autosampler include onboard temperature control for chilled samples?
No—ambient-temperature operation only. For thermally sensitive samples, external refrigerated racks or pre-chilled vial storage must be used in conjunction with validated hold-time studies.
What is the maximum allowable sample viscosity?
Up to 10 cP at 25 °C; higher viscosities require dilution or alternative sampling strategies to maintain volumetric accuracy and prevent tubing occlusion.
How is calibration verification performed during unattended runs?
Automated mid-run calibration checks can be scheduled at user-defined intervals using certified TOC standards; results are logged alongside sample data and trigger alerts if drift exceeds ±1.5% of expected value.