Cleanert M96 Automated Sample Preparation Workstation
| Brand | Agela |
|---|---|
| Origin | Tianjin, China |
| Model | Cleanert M96 |
| Type | 96-Well Plate-Based Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE) and Protein Precipitation Platform |
| Configuration | Benchtop, Vacuum-Driven or Positive-Pressure Assisted |
| Intended Use | High-Throughput Biological Sample Cleanup Prior to LC-MS, HPLC, or ELISA Analysis |
Overview
The Cleanert M96 Automated Sample Preparation Workstation is a benchtop, plate-based sample cleanup system engineered for reproducible, high-throughput pretreatment of biological matrices—including plasma, serum, urine, tissue homogenates, and cell lysates. It operates on vacuum-assisted or positive-pressure–driven fluid handling principles to enable parallel processing of up to 96 samples per run. Designed specifically for compatibility with standard SBS-format 96-well plates, the system supports two primary workflows: protein precipitation (PPT) using organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile or methanol), and solid-phase extraction (SPE) using Cleanert® SPE sorbent plates (e.g., C18, SCX, MCX, or mixed-mode chemistries). Its architecture integrates precise manifold control, adjustable vacuum regulation, and plate-sealing compatibility—ensuring consistent flow rates, minimal channel-to-channel variability, and reduced risk of cross-contamination. The Cleanert M96 is not a standalone analytical instrument but a critical front-end automation module that enhances method robustness and throughput in regulated bioanalytical laboratories.
Key Features
- Vacuum manifold with digitally adjustable pressure control (0–760 mmHg range) and real-time feedback monitoring for uniform elution across all 96 channels
- Modular design supporting interchangeable plate adapters for 96-well deep-well, shallow-well, and filter-bottom SPE plates (0.5–2 mL well capacity)
- Integrated sealing interface compatible with aluminum foil, silicone mats, and pressure-sensitive seals to prevent solvent evaporation during PPT incubation
- Ergonomic height-adjustable platform accommodating stacked plate configurations and downstream integration with nitrogen blow-down systems such as the Cleanert V96
- Chemically resistant construction (anodized aluminum frame, PTFE-coated gaskets, stainless-steel manifolds) ensuring long-term stability in aggressive solvent environments (e.g., acetonitrile, methanol, ethyl acetate)
- No internal pumps or consumable-driven actuators—designed for low-maintenance operation and compatibility with external vacuum sources meeting ISO 8573-1 Class 2 air quality standards
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Cleanert M96 accommodates a broad spectrum of biological specimen types and preparation chemistries. It is routinely validated for use with human and animal plasma/serum (EDTA, heparin, citrate anticoagulants), urine (diluted or undiluted), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and homogenized soft tissues. When paired with Agela’s Cleanert® SPE plates, it supports methods aligned with ASTM D8167 (standard practice for SPE of biological fluids), USP chromatographic system suitability requirements, and ICH M10 bioanalytical method validation guidelines. While the workstation itself does not generate electronic records, its operational consistency supports GLP- and GMP-compliant workflows when integrated into documented SOPs—including traceable parameter logging (vacuum setpoint, dwell time, plate batch ID) via external lab information management systems (LIMS).
Software & Data Management
The Cleanert M96 is a hardware-only platform with no embedded firmware, touchscreen interface, or proprietary software stack. This design prioritizes interoperability, audit readiness, and regulatory flexibility: all process parameters (e.g., vacuum level, hold time, plate orientation) are defined and recorded manually within laboratory notebooks or electronic batch records (EBRs). Users maintain full control over metadata capture—enabling alignment with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when deployed alongside validated LIMS or ELN platforms. No device-level user access controls, electronic signatures, or audit trail generation are provided; responsibility for data integrity rests with the laboratory’s procedural controls and documentation practices.
Applications
- Routine bioanalysis of small-molecule therapeutics (e.g., antibiotics, antivirals, oncology agents) prior to LC-MS/MS quantification
- High-volume clinical toxicology screening involving multi-analyte panels (benzodiazepines, opioids, stimulants)
- Extraction of endogenous biomarkers (cortisol, testosterone, vitamin D metabolites) from serum under CLIA-certified protocols
- Sample cleanup for immunoassay interference reduction—removing phospholipids and hemoglobin from whole blood-derived extracts
- Preparative-scale isolation of nucleic acids or peptides in discovery proteomics workflows where column-free, plate-based purification is preferred
FAQ
Is the Cleanert M96 compatible with non-Agela 96-well SPE plates?
Yes—provided they conform to ANSI/SBS standard dimensions (127.76 × 85.48 mm footprint) and feature uniform well geometry and base thickness. Users must verify seal integrity and flow uniformity empirically.
Does the system include vacuum source or nitrogen supply?
No. The Cleanert M96 requires connection to an external vacuum pump (≥25 L/min free air displacement, ultimate vacuum ≤5 mbar) or regulated compressed air/nitrogen line (4–6 bar, oil-free, particle-filtered per ISO 8573-1 Class 2).
Can it be used for liquid–liquid extraction (LLE)?
Not natively—its manifold design is optimized for solid-phase retention and vacuum-driven filtration. LLE workflows require phase separation centrifugation or manual transfer steps prior to loading onto the M96.
What maintenance is required?
Monthly inspection of gasket elasticity and manifold port cleanliness; annual calibration of vacuum gauge against NIST-traceable reference; replacement of PTFE gaskets every 6–12 months depending on solvent exposure frequency.

