DRK-24 Automatic Gravimetric Dispensing System with Integrated Liquid Metering

Overview

The DRK-24 Automatic Gravimetric Dispensing System is an integrated benchtop instrument engineered for high-throughput, traceable mass-based sample preparation in analytical and quality control laboratories. It combines dual-function operation—precision gravimetric weighing and automated liquid dispensing—within a single synchronized platform. The system operates on the principle of real-time mass feedback control: a high-resolution analytical balance (0.1 mg readability, internal calibration) continuously monitors weight gain during liquid addition, enabling closed-loop volumetric delivery calibrated against mass. This gravimetric approach eliminates reliance on pipette accuracy or fluid density assumptions, delivering superior reproducibility for critical applications such as reference standard preparation, formulation dilution series, and QC sample spiking. Designed for routine use in regulated environments, the DRK-24 supports audit-ready workflows compliant with GLP and GMP principles.

Key Features

• 24-position carousel with indexed sample placement for parallel processing of vials, flasks, or custom containers (max height: 150 mm, max diameter: 65 mm)
• Integrated dual-sensor architecture: high-stability electromagnetic force compensation balance + peristaltic/piston-driven liquid handling module with selectable pump heads (aqueous, organic, viscous-compatible)
• Programmable dispensing protocols: define target mass, tolerance window (±0.5–5.0 mg), dispense step size, pause intervals, and post-dose stabilization time
• Automatic tare and drift compensation algorithms to mitigate environmental vibration and air current effects
• Modular design allowing field-upgradable components: balance module, liquid path manifold, and container gripper assembly
• RS-232 and USB-C interfaces for direct connection to LIMS or laboratory informatics systems; optional Ethernet module for network integration

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DRK-24 accommodates standard 4–20 mL glass or polypropylene vials, scintillation vials, and low-form beakers. Liquid compatibility spans water, buffers, ethanol, methanol, acetone, and aqueous acid/base solutions (pH 2–12); optional chemically resistant tubing (PharMed BPT or PTFE-lined) extends compatibility to aggressive solvents. All wetted materials meet USP Class VI biocompatibility requirements. The system adheres to ISO 9001:2015 manufacturing standards and incorporates design elements aligned with ASTM E2656 (Standard Practice for Gravimetric Calibration of Volumetric Delivery Devices) and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 clause 6.4.3 (equipment verification). Full traceability is enabled via built-in calibration log storage and NIST-traceable weight certificate support.

Software & Data Management

Controlled via DrickLab™ v3.2 software (Windows 10/11 compatible), the interface provides intuitive method editor, real-time mass vs. time plotting, and automated report generation in PDF/CSV formats. Each run logs timestamp, operator ID, balance serial number, calibration status, ambient temperature/humidity (via optional external sensor input), and full dispense event history—including intermediate mass readings at each increment. Audit trail functionality complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when configured with user authentication, electronic signatures, and immutable data archiving. Raw data files are stored in open XML schema for third-party analysis interoperability.

Applications

• Preparation of certified reference material (CRM) dilutions in environmental testing labs (e.g., EPA Method 525.3)
• Accurate spiking of internal standards in LC-MS/MS bioanalysis workflows
• Formulation development in pharmaceutical R&D requiring strict mass-based ratio control
• Calibration standard generation for ICP-OES and AAS instrumentation
• QC batch release testing in food safety labs (e.g., mycotoxin or pesticide residue analysis)
• Method validation studies requiring gravimetric uncertainty budgeting per EURACHEM/CITAC Guide CG4

FAQ

What is the minimum dispensable volume per channel?
The system achieves ≤10 µL minimum incremental delivery with ±0.8% RSD (n=6) using water at 25°C, verified per ISO 8655-6.
Can the DRK-24 be integrated into a robotic sample prep line?
Yes—API support (RESTful JSON over HTTP) and hardware trigger I/O (TTL-level start/stop signals) enable synchronization with third-party automation platforms.
Is balance recalibration required before each run?
No—internal motorized calibration uses factory-certified weights; users may schedule automatic daily verification or perform manual calibration via software command.
Does the system support non-aqueous liquids like DMSO or glycerol?
Yes—with optional high-viscosity pump head and heated manifold (up to 40°C), viscosity range extends to 1,200 mPa·s.
How is data integrity ensured during power interruption?
All active runs write to non-volatile memory every 200 ms; upon recovery, the system resumes from last validated mass point without data loss.