Autoscience ATBM-400B Stomacher-Type Sample Homogenizer

Overview

The Autoscience ATBM-400B Stomacher-Type Sample Homogenizer is an engineered solution for gentle, reproducible, and contamination-free sample homogenization in microbiological, clinical, food safety, pharmaceutical, and environmental laboratories. Operating on the principle of controlled mechanical shearing—achieved via reciprocating stainless-steel paddles that rhythmically compress and release a sealed, sterile sample bag—the ATBM-400B delivers uniform dispersion without direct contact between the sample and internal mechanical components. This stomacher-style architecture eliminates cross-contamination risks, avoids thermal degradation associated with rotor-stator or ultrasonic methods, and preserves cell viability where intact single-cell suspensions are required—such as in oncology tissue dissociation (e.g., hepatocellular carcinoma, colorectal adenocarcinoma, gastric adenocarcinoma, and breast cancer specimens). The device complies with core pre-analytical requirements defined in ISO 11133 (microbiological culture media preparation), ISO 6887-1 (microbiological examination of food and animal feeding stuffs), and supports GLP-aligned workflows by enabling traceable, parameter-locked homogenization protocols.

Key Features

• Stainless-steel stomacher chamber constructed from food-grade 316L stainless steel, fully compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 110 and EHEDG hygienic design guidelines
• Reinforced aluminum alloy safety door with integrated polycarbonate viewing window—meets IEC 61010-1 mechanical safety standards and allows real-time process monitoring without interruption
• Precision-adjustable paddle-to-door gap (2–10 mm range), calibrated via front-panel rotary knob (1 mm per full rotation), enabling method-specific control over shear intensity and particle size distribution
• Triple independent LED displays: preset time, elapsed time, and beat frequency (SPS)—ensuring unambiguous parameter verification prior to run initiation
• Integrated spill containment tray beneath the homogenization chamber prevents external contamination in case of bag rupture
• Modular controller interface supports optional RS-232 or USB connectivity for remote configuration and audit-trail logging when paired with LIMS or ELN systems

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ATBM-400B accommodates standard ISO-compliant stomacher bags (e.g., 400 mL capacity, polyethylene-laminated, gamma-sterilized) and accepts viscous, fibrous, or particulate-laden matrices—including raw meat, dairy products, leafy vegetables, soil suspensions, fecal samples, and fresh tumor biopsies. Its non-invasive homogenization mechanism ensures compliance with AOAC Official Method 990.12 (microbial enumeration in foods), USP and (microbial limits testing), and EN ISO 13341 (water quality—detection of Legionella). All wetted surfaces are autoclavable or compatible with validated disinfectants (e.g., 70% ethanol, 0.5% sodium hypochlorite), supporting routine decontamination between batches under GMP Annex 1 environmental control requirements.

Software & Data Management

While the base ATBM-400B operates via standalone hardware controls, optional firmware-enabled controllers (available upon order specification) provide computer-assisted protocol management. These modules support CSV export of run logs—including timestamp, selected SPS, actual duration, and operator ID—and integrate with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) via configurable COM port settings. Audit trails comply with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed with electronic signatures and role-based access control. All stored parameters retain calibration traceability to factory-set reference values, and firmware updates are delivered via secure authenticated channels to maintain regulatory continuity.

Applications

• Preparation of homogenous suspensions for aerobic plate counts (APC), coliform enumeration, and pathogen enrichment (e.g., Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli O157:H7)
• Generation of single-cell suspensions from solid tumor tissues for flow cytometry, cell sorting, and primary culture establishment
• Homogenization of cosmetic emulsions and ointments for preservative efficacy testing (PET) per ISO 11930
• Extraction of DNA/RNA from environmental swabs and food contact surfaces under ISO/IEC 17025-accredited methods
• Routine QC sample preparation in pharmaceutical manufacturing for microbial limit tests and sterility assay support

FAQ

What types of sample bags are compatible with the ATBM-400B?

Standard 400 mL stomacher bags meeting ISO 7218 and ASTM D3951 specifications—typically gamma-sterilized, low-extractable polyethylene laminates—are recommended. Autoscience provides certified bag validation reports upon request.
Can the ATBM-400B be used for sterile processing under a biosafety cabinet?

Yes—the unit’s compact footprint (217 × 240 × 364 mm) and absence of aerosol-generating mechanisms allow safe operation inside Class II A2 cabinets when paired with appropriate bag sealing and handling procedures.
Is calibration required, and how often should it be performed?

Beat frequency and timer accuracy are factory-calibrated and verified annually per ISO/IEC 17025. Users should perform operational qualification (OQ) at installation and after any major maintenance using a calibrated digital tachometer and stopwatch.
Does the device meet international electrical safety standards?

Yes—it carries CE marking per EN 61010-1:2010 and conforms to RoHS 2011/65/EU directives. Electrical isolation and grounding integrity are validated during production and documented in the Declaration of Conformity supplied with each unit.