ATR AutoPro SPE 200 Fully Automated Solid Phase Extraction System
| Brand | ATR |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | AutoPro SPE 200 |
| Automation Level | Fully Automated |
| Number of Channels | Dual-Channel (upgradable to 20-channel) |
| Extraction Format | Cartridge-Based SPE |
| Flow Rate Control | 0–60 mL/min |
| Solvent Selection | Up to 8 Pre-Installed Solvents |
| Sample Capacity | 2 Samples Simultaneously |
| Sample Loading Volume | 1–100 mL (extendable to 1000 mL) |
| Wetted Materials | PTFE Only |
Overview
The ATR AutoPro SPE 200 is a dual-channel, fully automated solid phase extraction (SPE) system engineered for high-throughput, reproducible sample preparation in regulated and research laboratories. It operates on the fundamental principle of selective adsorption and elution using disposable SPE cartridges—typically packed with silica-based or polymeric sorbents—to isolate, purify, and concentrate target analytes from complex aqueous or diluted biological matrices. Designed for compliance-critical environments, the system integrates precision fluid handling via dual high-accuracy syringe pumps, enabling consistent flow control across all SPE steps: conditioning, loading, washing, and elution. Its architecture eliminates manual intervention while maintaining full traceability of method parameters, solvent usage, and run history—key requirements for GLP, GMP, and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited workflows.
Key Features
- Dual independent syringe pump modules with PTFE-wetted pathways ensure chemical compatibility with aggressive organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile, methanol, dichloromethane) and prevent cross-contamination between samples.
- Programmable flow rate control (0–60 mL/min) allows optimization for diverse sorbent chemistries and cartridge formats (1 mL, 3 mL, and 6 mL standard cartridges).
- Integrated solvent selection manifold supports up to eight pre-installed solvents, with automatic solvent switching and on-the-fly pre-mixing capability for gradient or multi-step elution protocols.
- Real-time leak detection and automatic fault response—including immediate pump stoppage, valve reconfiguration, and audible/visual alerts—protect both sample integrity and instrument longevity.
- Transparent, fully enclosed processing chamber enables visual monitoring without requiring fume hood installation, while maintaining operator safety and environmental containment.
- Automated needle wash station with dual rinse cycles (solvent + air dry) ensures zero carryover between injections, validated per ICH Q2(R2) guidelines for method robustness.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AutoPro SPE 200 accommodates a broad range of sample types including drinking water, wastewater, plasma, urine, food homogenates, soil extracts, and agricultural commodity rinsates. It supports EPA Methods 508.1, 525.3, and 8270D; ASTM D7292; ISO 17923:2019; and USP chromatographic system suitability criteria when coupled with LC-MS/MS or GC-MS analysis. All hardware and firmware comply with IEC 61000-6-2 (EMC immunity) and UL 61010-1 safety standards. Audit trail functionality—including user login, method versioning, parameter change logs, and electronic signatures—meets FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements for electronic records and signatures in regulated laboratories.
Software & Data Management
The embedded Windows-based control software provides a graphical workflow editor with drag-and-drop method building, real-time progress visualization, and estimated time-to-completion forecasting. Each method stores complete metadata: cartridge type, solvent sequence, flow profile, fraction collection mapping, and calibration timestamps. Export options include CSV, PDF, and XML formats compatible with LIMS integration. Built-in diagnostic tools perform daily self-tests on pump accuracy, valve actuation timing, and pressure sensor drift—generating automated maintenance reminders and error-code-linked troubleshooting guides. Remote monitoring via secure HTTPS interface enables off-site system status review without compromising network security.
Applications
This system is routinely deployed in environmental testing labs for trace-level pesticide residue analysis in surface water; in pharmaceutical QC for residual solvent removal prior to HPLC assay; in food safety programs for mycotoxin enrichment from cereal extracts; and in clinical toxicology for opioid metabolite isolation from urine specimens. Its scalability—from dual-channel validation runs to 20-channel production batches—makes it suitable for method development, routine QA/QC, and contract testing services. When interfaced with automated nitrogen evaporators or TurboVap® concentrators, it forms a seamless front-end to quantitative LC-MS workflows without manual tube transfer.
FAQ
What cartridge formats are supported?
The system accepts standard 1 mL, 3 mL, and 6 mL SPE cartridges from major vendors (e.g., Waters, Agilent, Thermo Fisher), with optional adapter kits for custom or stacked-bed configurations.
Can the system handle viscous or particulate-laden samples?
Yes—pre-filtration modules (0.45 µm PVDF) and adjustable backpressure thresholds allow robust processing of turbid extracts, though centrifugation or filtration prior to loading is recommended for >5% suspended solids.
Is method validation support available?
ATR provides IQ/OQ documentation templates, performance qualification protocols, and application notes aligned with AOAC 2020.01 and SANTE/11813/2021 recovery criteria.
How is data integrity ensured during long unattended runs?
All method executions generate immutable digital logs with SHA-256 checksums, synchronized timestamps, and redundant local/cloud backup options via optional NAS integration.
What maintenance is required for routine operation?
Daily needle cleaning, monthly syringe lubrication, and quarterly valve inspection—documented in the built-in maintenance scheduler with automated service alerts.
