Auto Sampler for PerkinElmer Spectroscopy Systems

Overview

The AS-100 Series Auto Sampler is an OEM-integrated sample introduction system engineered specifically for PerkinElmer atomic absorption (AA), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) instruments. It operates on a precise XYZ robotic arm architecture with programmable syringe-driven aspiration and dispensing, enabling reproducible, low-volume liquid handling (1–500 µL per injection) under inert gas purge conditions. Designed to replace manual pipetting in high-throughput elemental analysis laboratories, the system minimizes carryover (<0.005%), reduces operator variability, and supports unattended operation for up to 144 samples per run—critical for compliance with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited testing workflows and GLP-regulated environmental or clinical trace metal analysis.

Key Features

• Triple-axis (X-Y-Z) stepper-motor-driven positioning with ±0.1 mm repeatability across 144-position polypropylene or quartz vial racks
• Gas-tight, corrosion-resistant PTFE-coated syringe pump delivering 1–500 µL volume accuracy within ±0.8% RSD at 100 µL
• Integrated argon purge manifold to suppress oxidation of labile analytes (e.g., As(III)/As(V), Cr(III)/Cr(VI)) during sampling
• Modular rack interface compatible with standard 12 × 12 or 8 × 12 vial configurations (13 mm × 100 mm or 16 mm × 150 mm formats)
• Real-time status LED indicators and hardware interlocks synchronized with PerkinElmer’s WinLab32 and Syngistix software suites
• CE-marked enclosure with IP20 ingress protection and UL/CSA-listed power supply for laboratory-grade electrical safety

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AS-100 accommodates aqueous, acidic (up to 5% HNO₃ or HCl), and organic solvent-based matrices—including methanol, ethanol, and acetone—without seal degradation. Vial compatibility extends to borosilicate glass, polypropylene, and fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP) containers. The system conforms to ASTM D5683–22 (standard test method for determination of metals in water by ICP-OES), ISO 17294-2:2016 (water quality — detection of elements by ICP-MS), and USP / (elemental impurities in pharmaceuticals). Full audit trail logging—including timestamped sample ID, aspiration volume, rinse cycle count, and error codes—is retained for FDA 21 CFR Part 11-compliant data integrity requirements when paired with validated Syngistix instrument control software.

Software & Data Management

Control is fully embedded within PerkinElmer’s native instrument software environments: WinLab32 for AA platforms and Syngistix for ICP-OES/ICP-MS systems. No third-party drivers or middleware are required. Method templates support multi-step protocols—e.g., internal standard addition, matrix-matched calibration bracketing, and automated dilution series generation. All sequence files (.seq) are stored in encrypted SQLite databases with SHA-256 checksum verification. Raw log files (CSV format) include full metadata: operator ID, instrument serial number, ambient temperature/humidity (via optional external sensor integration), and syringe wear counter—enabling predictive maintenance scheduling per ISO 13485 QMS frameworks.

Applications

• Regulatory environmental testing: EPA Method 200.8, 200.9, and 6020B for drinking water, wastewater, and soil digests
• Pharmaceutical quality control: Elemental impurity screening in active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and excipients per ICH Q3D guidelines
• Geochemical research: High-precision rare earth element (REE) profiling in rock leachates using ICP-MS
• Clinical toxicology: Multi-element blood/urine analysis for heavy metal exposure assessment (Pb, Cd, Hg, As)
• Food safety surveillance: Detection of Ni, Cr, and Co migration from stainless-steel food contact materials (EU Regulation 10/2011)

FAQ

Is the AS-100 Series compatible with non-PerkinElmer ICP-MS instruments?
No—it is mechanically and electronically locked to PerkinElmer’s proprietary communication protocol (PE-Link v4.2) and requires firmware-level handshake authentication.
What is the maximum recommended acid concentration for routine use?
5% (v/v) nitric or hydrochloric acid; concentrations above this require optional Hastelloy C-276 syringe components (ordered separately).
Does the system support isotopic ratio measurements in multi-collector ICP-MS?
Yes—when used with PerkinElmer’s NexION 5000 MC-ICP-MS, the AS-100 delivers sub-0.2% RSD on repeated ¹¹⁵In/¹¹³In ratio measurements over 8-hour sequences.
Can the auto sampler be retrofitted to older PerkinElmer AA800 models?
Yes—hardware retrofit kits (PN: AS-100-RF-KIT) include updated controller boards and mechanical adaptors for AA800 units manufactured after 2009.
How often must the syringe seals be replaced under continuous operation?
Every 6 months at 12-hr/day usage; the onboard diagnostic module logs cumulative actuation cycles and triggers maintenance alerts at 250,000 strokes.