HTA HT4150L Multifunctional Autosampler for Hematological Cell Processing
| Brand | HTA |
|---|---|
| Origin | Italy |
| Model | HT4150L |
| Instrument Type | Multifunctional Autosampler |
| Max Sample Capacity | 32 tubes (2 × 16-position racks) |
| Minimum Dispensing Volume | 0.1 mL |
| Quantitative Loop Volumes | 1 mL and 2.5 mL |
| Positioning Accuracy | < 0.2 mm |
| Motion Architecture | XYZ three-axis robotic arm |
| Needle Wash | Internal and external wall rinsing |
| Repeat Injection Capability | Unlimited cycles |
Overview
The HTA HT4150L Multifunctional Autosampler is an integrated, benchtop automation platform engineered specifically for standardized, reproducible preparation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and leukocyte subpopulations prior to flow cytometric analysis. Unlike conventional autosamplers designed solely for chromatographic injection, the HT4150L incorporates a fully synchronized centrifugation module, programmable liquid handling, and closed-tube processing logic—enabling end-to-end automation of lysis, centrifugation, supernatant aspiration, buffer resuspension, and tube repositioning. Its operational principle relies on precise volumetric dispensing combined with controlled gravitational sedimentation under defined g-force profiles, ensuring high cell recovery and minimal mechanical stress on target leukocytes. The system is optimized for workflows compliant with ISO 15189–accredited hematology laboratories and supports traceable, audit-ready execution under GLP and GMP-aligned protocols.
Key Features
- Integrated XYZ robotic arm with sub-0.2 mm positional repeatability, enabling accurate tube handling across dual 16-position sample racks (total 32 samples)
- Dedicated centrifuge module featuring programmable acceleration/deceleration ramping algorithms to preserve pellet integrity during separation
- Automated dual-wash needle system—simultaneous internal and external rinsing with configurable solvent sequences to prevent carryover
- Configurable quantitative loops (1 mL and 2.5 mL) supporting precise lysis reagent delivery and buffer exchange steps
- Onboard sensors for real-time monitoring of reagent levels and waste container fill status, triggering visual and audible alerts
- Touchscreen HMI with intuitive workflow wizard interface—no programming expertise required for routine assay setup
- Centrifuge lid actuation synchronized with robotic arm motion, eliminating manual intervention during spin cycles
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The HT4150L accepts standard 12–15 mL conical polypropylene tubes (e.g., BD Vacutainer® CPT™, Sarstedt Monovette®) and accommodates common anticoagulants including EDTA, heparin, and citrate. All fluidic pathways are chemically inert (PEEK, PTFE, and fused silica components), ensuring compatibility with lysing buffers (e.g., ammonium chloride-based, commercial RBC lysis kits), PBS, and staining buffers. The system meets CE IVD requirements and is validated for use in laboratories adhering to ISO/IEC 17025, CLSI H20-A3, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with HTA’s optional audit-trail-enabled software package. Full traceability includes timestamped event logs for every dispense, centrifuge run, aspiration, and wash step.
Software & Data Management
Control is managed via embedded Linux-based firmware with a responsive 7-inch capacitive touchscreen. Predefined protocols—including “Whole Blood Lysis & WBC Enrichment”, “PBMC Isolation (Ficoll Density Gradient)”, and “Post-Staining Wash & Resuspension”—can be loaded, modified, or duplicated without scripting. All method parameters (rpm, spin time, dwell times, rinse volumes, loop selection) are stored in encrypted XML files. Optional HTA Connect software enables remote monitoring via Ethernet/Wi-Fi, export of CSV-formatted process logs, and integration with LIMS systems through HL7 v2.5 or ASTM E1384-compliant interfaces. Audit trail functionality records user ID, timestamp, parameter changes, and error events—fully compliant with ALCOA+ data integrity principles.
Applications
- Automated RBC lysis and leukocyte enrichment from fresh or cryopreserved whole blood for flow cytometry (e.g., CD4+/CD8+ T-cell enumeration, immunophenotyping panels)
- Standardized PBMC isolation using density gradient media (e.g., Ficoll-Paque™), including layering, centrifugation, interface harvesting, and washing steps
- High-throughput antibody staining workflows requiring sequential reagent addition, incubation, and wash cycles
- Pre-analytical sample conditioning for single-cell RNA sequencing library prep, where consistent cell viability and low debris contamination are critical
- QC/QA support for clinical trial biospecimen processing centers operating under ISO 20387 biobanking standards
FAQ
Does the HT4150L support custom centrifugation protocols beyond preset g-force and time values?
Yes—the centrifuge module accepts user-defined rpm, acceleration rate, deceleration profile, and hold duration, with validation reports available per run.
Can the system handle viscous samples such as bone marrow aspirates or cord blood?
It is validated for whole blood and PBMC suspensions; viscous matrices require pre-dilution to ≤10 cP viscosity and may necessitate protocol optimization.
Is calibration documentation provided for regulatory submissions?
Factory calibration certificates (including pipetting accuracy per ISO 8655-6 and positioning verification per ISO 9283) are supplied with each unit.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for long-term reliability?
Daily needle wash verification, monthly centrifuge rotor balance check, and annual full-system performance qualification (PSQ) per HTA Service Bulletin SB-HT4150L-03.
How does the HT4150L ensure cross-contamination control between samples?
Through air-gap dispensing, post-aspiration needle purge, dual-stage wash (solvent + air), and real-time carryover testing using fluorescent tracer validation kits.
