Armfield FT110X Benchtop High-Pressure Ambient-Temperature Solid-Liquid Extractor

Overview

The Armfield FT110X Benchtop High-Pressure Ambient-Temperature Solid-Liquid Extractor is an engineered solution for rapid, non-thermal extraction of bioactive compounds from natural matrices. Unlike conventional Soxhlet or reflux methods—where prolonged heating risks thermal degradation—the FT110X employs pressurized solvent penetration at ambient temperature, preserving thermolabile phytochemicals such as flavonoids, terpenes, polyphenols, and anthocyanins. Its operational principle relies on controlled hydrostatic pressure (up to 100 bar) to enhance solvent diffusion kinetics through porous solid substrates, thereby accelerating mass transfer without inducing oxidative or photochemical decomposition. This makes the system especially suited for R&D laboratories engaged in nutraceutical development, botanical standardization, and green chemistry process optimization.

Key Features

• Microprocessor-controlled extraction cycle with real-time monitoring of pressure, elapsed time, and system status via integrated LCD interface
• Automated pressure regulation with closed-loop feedback ensures consistent solvent penetration force across batches
• Integrated safety interlocks prevent over-pressurization and initiate immediate shutdown upon parameter deviation
• Modular stainless-steel extraction chamber (1 L nominal volume) designed for rapid disassembly and residue-free cleaning
• Compatible with GRAS-listed solvents—including aqueous ethanol, glycerol-water mixtures, and purified water—supporting ICH Q5C and USP <467> residual solvent compliance
• Scalable process parameters: users define pressure ramp rate, hold duration, and number of static/dynamic cycles to match matrix porosity and target analyte polarity

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FT110X accommodates heterogeneous solid samples including dried plant powders, milled herbs, fruit pomace, algae biomass, and fungal mycelia—with particle size ranges from 100 µm to 2 mm recommended for optimal bed permeability. All wetted components meet ASTM F899 stainless steel specifications and are electropolished to Ra ≤ 0.4 µm surface finish, minimizing adsorption losses and enabling repeatable recovery studies. The system adheres to ISO 5725-2 guidelines for method precision and supports documentation workflows compliant with GLP (OECD Principles), GMP Annex 11, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when interfaced with validated LIMS or ELN platforms. Extraction validation protocols—including blank runs, spike recovery tests, and intermediate precision assessments—are fully supported by the instrument’s deterministic control architecture.

Software & Data Management

While the FT110X operates as a standalone benchtop unit with embedded firmware, its RS-232 and optional USB interfaces enable seamless integration with third-party laboratory data systems. Exportable CSV logs capture timestamped pressure profiles, cycle progression states, and alarm events—structured to align with ALCOA+ data integrity principles (Attributable, Legible, Contemporaneous, Original, Accurate). When deployed in regulated environments, the device can be qualified under IQ/OQ protocols using Armfield’s documented test scripts and traceable calibration certificates (NIST-traceable pressure transducer calibration included). Audit trails generated during operation satisfy requirements for electronic record retention under 21 CFR Part 11 Subpart B.

Applications

• Development of standardized herbal extracts for pharmacopoeial monographs (e.g., EP, USP, ChP)
• Recovery optimization of heat-sensitive antioxidants from berry pomace or citrus peels
• Comparative extraction efficiency studies across solvent systems (e.g., ethanol/water vs. glycerol/water)
• Pilot-scale process mapping: FT110X-derived kinetic models inform downstream scale-up to 10–100 L continuous extractors
• Quality-by-Design (QbD) studies supporting ICH Q8(R2) design space definition for botanical manufacturing
• Eco-toxicological screening of solvent residues in final extracts per OECD TG 443

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable operating pressure of the FT110X?

The system is rated for continuous operation up to 100 bar, with mechanical safety margins exceeding EN 13445-3 requirements.
Can the FT110X be used with chlorinated solvents such as dichloromethane?

No—only GRAS- or food-grade solvents compatible with 316L stainless steel and fluoropolymer seals are permitted; chlorinated organics may cause stress corrosion cracking.
Is method transfer from FT110X to industrial-scale equipment feasible?

Yes—extraction kinetics, pressure-dependent partition coefficients, and mass transfer coefficients derived from FT110X data are directly applicable to larger high-pressure extractors using identical solvent-matrix combinations.
Does Armfield provide installation qualification (IQ) documentation?

Yes—comprehensive IQ/OQ templates, calibration records, and user training materials are supplied with each unit upon request.
How often does the pressure transducer require recalibration?

Annual recalibration is recommended; Armfield provides NIST-traceable calibration services with certificate of conformance.