Agela SPE-10 Fully Automated Solid Phase Extraction Workstation

Overview

The Agela SPE-10 Fully Automated Solid Phase Extraction Workstation is an engineered solution for high-throughput, reproducible sample preparation in regulated and research-intensive laboratories. Built upon classical solid-phase extraction (SPE) principles—comprising conditioning, loading, washing, and elution steps—the SPE-10 automates the entire workflow using gravity-assisted or positive-pressure-driven fluid handling, ensuring consistent bed packing and solvent delivery across all channels. Its architecture supports method standardization across analytical workflows where trace-level analyte enrichment, matrix removal, and sample clean-up are critical prior to downstream analysis by LC-MS/MS, GC-MS, HPLC-UV, or ICP-MS. Designed for compliance-ready environments, the system integrates hardware-level safeguards—including sealed solvent delivery paths, PTFE-wetted components, and independent channel isolation—to minimize carryover and ensure inter-run integrity.

Key Features

• Modular platform architecture: Each SPE-10 module processes up to 6 samples simultaneously, with seamless scalability via additional modules—enabling parallel processing of 12, 18, or more samples without software reconfiguration.
• Valveless metering pump technology: Eliminates solenoid valves and associated maintenance points; delivers precise, pulse-free flow control from 0.1 to 30 mL/min with long-term stability and low dead volume.
• True multi-solvent capability: Integrated 5-solvent selection manifold enables automated sequential use of conditioning, wash, and elution solvents—reducing manual intervention and method transfer time.
• Zero-cross-contamination design: Physically isolated fluid paths per channel, combined with PTFE-lined tubing, frits, and cartridge adapters, prevent analyte carryover between samples—even during high-concentration or viscous matrix applications.
• Dual-waste collection system: Independently routed aqueous and organic waste lines support environmentally compliant disposal and simplify solvent recovery protocols in GLP/GMP settings.
• Automated cartridge sealing and pressure monitoring: Ensures consistent column packing integrity and detects blockages or dry-bed conditions before elution, preventing method failure and sample loss.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SPE-10 accommodates a broad range of SPE cartridge formats (1 mL to 6 mL bed volumes), including silica-based, reversed-phase (C18, C8), ion-exchange (SCX, SAX), and mixed-mode sorbents. It handles complex biological matrices (plasma, urine, tissue homogenates), environmental water extracts, food homogenates, and pharmaceutical formulations. All wetted materials—including pump diaphragms, tubing, manifolds, and cartridge holders—are certified PTFE, ensuring chemical inertness against aggressive solvents (e.g., DCM, THF, concentrated acids/bases) and minimizing extractable interference. The system supports audit-trail-enabled operation when paired with compliant LIMS or ELN systems and meets foundational requirements for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 (when deployed with validated electronic records), ISO/IEC 17025 method validation, and USP Analytical Instrument Qualification.

Software & Data Management

Controlled via Agela’s proprietary SPE-Link™ software (Windows-based), the workstation provides intuitive method building with step-wise parameter definition—flow rate, dwell time, solvent sequence, fraction trigger logic, and waste routing. Methods are stored with full version history and user-access logs. Export options include CSV and PDF reports containing run timestamps, solvent consumption, pressure profiles, and error flags. Raw method files are digitally signed and exportable for third-party integration or regulatory submission. Optional API access supports orchestration within broader automation frameworks (e.g., robotic liquid handlers or autosampler-triggered workflows).

Applications

• Pharmaceutical QC/QA: Residual solvent removal, impurity enrichment, and dissolution sample clean-up per ICH Q2(R2) guidelines.
• Clinical toxicology: Simultaneous extraction of opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants from whole blood and oral fluid matrices.
• Food safety testing: Multi-residue pesticide analysis in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products per EU SANTE/11312/2021 criteria.
• Environmental monitoring: PAHs, PCBs, and PFAS enrichment from surface water, wastewater, and soil leachates (EPA Methods 508.1, 525.3, 1633).
• Forensic chemistry: Hair and nail digestate clean-up prior to LC-HRMS quantification in doping control labs (WADA-accredited workflows).
• CRO/CDMO support: Method transfer consistency across client sites due to deterministic fluid handling and minimal operator dependency.

FAQ

Does the SPE-10 support method validation per ICH or ISO standards?
Yes—the system’s deterministic flow control, channel independence, and PTFE fluid path enable rigorous repeatability and intermediate precision testing required for ICH Q2(R2) and ISO/IEC 17025 validation.
Can it be integrated with autosamplers or LIMS platforms?
Yes—via TCP/IP command protocol and optional OPC UA interface; full integration documentation and driver packages are provided for Thermo Fisher, Waters, and Shimadzu platforms.
What maintenance is required for the valveless pump system?
No routine valve replacement or seal lubrication is needed; only periodic inspection of PTFE tubing and cartridge adapters per 500 runs or quarterly, whichever occurs first.
Is remote monitoring or unattended overnight operation supported?
Yes—SPE-Link™ includes email/SNMP alerting for completion, error, or low-solvent conditions; system remains operational for >16 hours on standard configuration.
Are application notes or SOP templates available for regulated environments?
Agela provides GxP-aligned SOP templates, IQ/OQ protocols, and application-specific method files for pharmaceutical, clinical, and environmental use cases—available under NDA upon request.