DRETOP F & AF Series Vertical Oscillators

Overview

The DRETOP F and AF Series Vertical Oscillators are precision-engineered laboratory instruments designed for reproducible, high-efficiency liquid-liquid extraction and solid-phase leaching in environmental, food safety, pharmaceutical, and agricultural testing laboratories. Operating on a vertically reciprocating or adjustable tilt oscillation principle, these units generate controlled mechanical agitation to accelerate mass transfer between immiscible phases—enabling consistent recovery of analytes from complex matrices such as soil, water, plant tissue, and edible oils. Unlike orbital shakers or vortex mixers, the F/AF series employs a linear, dual-symmetric drive mechanism that minimizes sample splashing and ensures uniform energy distribution across all vessel positions—even at maximum amplitude and frequency settings. The low center-of-gravity structural design, reinforced base frame, and brushless DC motor with programmable soft-start/soft-stop logic guarantee long-term operational stability and mechanical durability under continuous duty cycles.

Key Features

• Two oscillation modes: selectable vertical reciprocating motion or tilt oscillation (0–20° adjustable angle) for optimized phase separation and emulsion disruption
• Stepless frequency control (0–300 cycles/min) with real-time LCD display and memory function for repeatable method recall
• Extended timer range (0–9999 minutes) supporting unattended overnight extractions and multi-step protocols
• Vertically sliding universal clamp system—tool-free adjustment accommodates separatory funnels (100–3000 mL), centrifuge tubes, and volumetric flasks without reconfiguration
• Dual housing options: electrostatically powder-coated carbon steel (F-series) for general lab use; electropolished 304 stainless steel (AF-series) for corrosion resistance in acidic, alkaline, or halogenated solvent environments
• Load-flexible platform configurations: 6-position (1000 mL), 8-position (1000 mL), or 8-position (3000 mL) capacity—each engineered for balanced dynamic loading and minimal vibration transmission

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The F/AF series is validated for use with standard ASTM D3699 (petroleum hydrocarbon extraction), EPA Method 3510C (separatory funnel extraction), ISO 1833-1 (textile fiber analysis), and GB/T 5009.199 (Chinese national standard for pesticide residue detection). Its mechanical design conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for laboratory equipment. All models operate within GLP-compliant workflows when paired with audit-trail-enabled LIMS integration via optional RS-232 or USB data export. The AF-series stainless steel variants meet FDA-recommended material criteria for extractables/leachables studies involving food-contact simulants (e.g., 10% ethanol, 3% acetic acid, olive oil).

Software & Data Management

While the base unit features standalone LCD operation, optional firmware upgrade supports PC-based control via DRETOP Oscillation Manager v2.1—a Windows-compatible application enabling method library storage, real-time parameter logging (frequency, time, cycle count), and CSV-formatted output for traceability. All logged data include timestamp, operator ID (via keyboard input), and instrument serial number—meeting minimum requirements for 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when deployed with institutional electronic signature policies. Remote monitoring is achievable through optional Ethernet module (sold separately), permitting integration into centralized lab automation networks.

Applications

• Environmental analysis: PCBs, PAHs, organochlorine pesticides, and heavy metal chelates from aqueous and sediment samples per EPA SW-846 methods
• Food safety testing: Mycotoxin (aflatoxin B1, ochratoxin A) and veterinary drug (chloramphenicol, sulfonamide) extraction from cereals, dairy, and meat homogenates
• Phytochemical isolation: Curcuminoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids from botanical matrices using ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, or methanol/water biphasic systems
• Soil and sludge remediation studies: Leaching kinetics of arsenic, lead, and cadmium under varying pH and redox conditions
• Reference material preparation: Homogenization and equilibration of certified reference materials (CRMs) prior to ICP-MS or GC-MS quantification

FAQ

What is the maximum load capacity for the AF8-3000 model?

The AF8-3000 supports eight 3000 mL separatory funnels simultaneously, with total payload capacity up to 24 kg (including clamps and vessels). Dynamic balance is maintained across the full frequency range.
Can the oscillator be used with aggressive solvents like chloroform or concentrated HCl?

Yes—the AF-series stainless steel housing and PTFE-coated clamp components resist corrosion from halogenated solvents and dilute mineral acids. For prolonged exposure to >10% HCl, we recommend periodic inspection of fasteners and gasket integrity.
Is validation documentation (IQ/OQ/PQ) available?

DRETOP provides factory-issued IQ/OQ protocols compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017. PQ templates are customizable per user-defined test parameters and can be executed with NIST-traceable stopwatch and calibrated digital tachometer.
Does the unit comply with electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards?

All F/AF models meet EN 61326-1:2013 Class B emission limits for laboratory environments and carry CE marking under the EU Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU.