Agela QUEX-06E Portable Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) Manifold

Overview

The Agela QUEX-06E Portable Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) Manifold is an engineered solution for high-throughput, reproducible sample cleanup in analytical laboratories performing pesticide residue analysis, environmental contaminant screening, and food safety testing. Unlike vacuum-driven benchtop manifolds requiring external vacuum sources or complex plumbing, the QUEX-06E integrates a compact, battery-operated vacuum pump with a precision pressure-regulated control system—enabling consistent flow dynamics across all six channels without manual intervention. Its core function relies on controlled negative pressure to drive liquid-phase sample matrices through solid-phase sorbent beds (e.g., Cleanert® NANO carbon nanomaterial columns), facilitating selective retention of analytes while removing co-extracted interferences such as pigments, fatty acids, and organic acids. This principle aligns with ASTM D7066–18 and ISO 17025–2017 requirements for method robustness in extraction-based sample preparation.

Key Features

• Six independent, parallel SPE channels with individual flow-path isolation—ensuring cross-contamination-free operation and channel-specific optimization.
• Integrated, brushless DC vacuum pump with digital pressure feedback loop; maintains stable vacuum levels between –20 kPa and –80 kPa (adjustable in 1 kPa increments) for precise elution control.
• Modular mounting interface compatible with standard 3-mL and 6-mL SPE columns, IC cartridges, and 13-mm syringe filters—no adapters required.
• Height-adjustable tube rack (range: 40–120 mm) with tactile locking mechanism for secure positioning of 12–16 mm diameter sample vials and collection tubes.
• IP54-rated enclosure with corrosion-resistant 304 stainless steel frame and PTFE-coated fluid-contact surfaces—suitable for use with acetonitrile, methanol, ethyl acetate, and dichloromethane.
• On-device parameter interface with dual-button navigation and LCD display for setting vacuum hold time, purge duration, and cycle count—data logged internally for audit trail generation.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The QUEX-06E supports a broad range of sample matrices including homogenized fruit/vegetable extracts, tea infusions, honey dilutions, and aqueous environmental samples. It is validated for use with Agela’s Cleanert® NANO carbon nanomaterial columns, whose surface-modified graphitic structure exhibits reduced non-specific binding toward polar pesticides (e.g., carbendazim, thiabendazole, imidacloprid) while retaining high affinity for chlorophyll and triglycerides. Method validation data per EU SANTE/11945/2023 guidelines demonstrate ≥85% average recovery (n = 6) and RSD ≤ 8% for 120+ multiclass pesticides in QuEChERS-extracted apple, spinach, and green tea samples. The device conforms to ICH Q2(R2) expectations for equipment qualification in regulated environments and supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant software integration via optional RS-232/USB interface.

Software & Data Management

While operating autonomously via front-panel controls, the QUEX-06E supports optional connectivity to Agela’s SPETrack™ PC software (v3.2+) for remote protocol deployment, real-time vacuum monitoring, and electronic batch record generation. All run parameters—including start/stop timestamps, applied vacuum setpoints, and cycle completion status—are timestamped and exportable as CSV or PDF reports. Audit trails are immutable and include operator ID, instrument serial number, and firmware revision—fully traceable for GLP/GMP inspections and internal QA reviews.

Applications

• Routine multi-residue pesticide analysis in agricultural commodities using QuEChERS–SPE hybrid workflows.
• Cleanup of lipid-rich extracts prior to GC-MS/MS or LC-MS/MS analysis—reducing ion suppression and column fouling.
• Pre-concentration and matrix removal in veterinary drug residue testing (e.g., sulfonamides, tetracyclines) from milk and muscle tissue hydrolysates.
• Standardized sample prep for proficiency testing schemes accredited under ISO/IEC 17043.
• Field-deployable sample conditioning in mobile labs conducting rapid food surveillance during harvest seasons.

FAQ

Is the QUEX-06E compatible with third-party SPE columns?

Yes—it accepts any 13-mm diameter column or syringe filter with standard Luer-lock or friction-fit interfaces. No proprietary consumables are required.
Does it support gradient elution or sequential solvent delivery?

No—the QUEX-06E is optimized for single-solvent, pressure-controlled percolation. Gradient protocols require manual solvent switching between steps.
What maintenance is required for long-term reliability?

Annual calibration of the vacuum sensor and replacement of the integrated particulate filter (P/N: QUEX-FIL-01) are recommended. Pump lifetime exceeds 10,000 operational hours under typical lab conditions.
Can it be used in Class II biosafety cabinets?

Yes—the unit operates silently (<45 dB(A)) and generates no heat or exhaust—making it suitable for containment environments without airflow disruption.
Is firmware upgradable in the field?

Yes—via USB flash drive using Agela’s certified firmware package; upgrade logs are automatically appended to the device’s audit trail.