Leap CTC PAL HTX-xt Used Autosampler

Overview

The Leap CTC PAL HTX-xt is a high-precision, modular autosampler engineered for seamless integration into liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and HPLC workflows. Built on CTC Analytics’ proprietary robotic XYZ-gantry architecture, the PAL HTX-xt employs syringe-based liquid handling with active wash stations and temperature-controlled sample storage to deliver sub-microliter injection precision, low carryover (<0.005%), and reproducible retention time stability—critical for regulated bioanalytical laboratories. Designed specifically for demanding applications in pharmaceutical development, clinical toxicology, and combinatorial chemistry, this second-hand unit has undergone full functional validation at SpectraLab Scientific’s ISO 17025-accredited calibration facility. All motion axes, valve sequencing, syringe actuation, and thermal modules were verified against original factory specifications prior to resale.

Key Features

• Modular XYZ robotic platform supporting dual-needle operation for simultaneous sample loading and column equilibration
• Integrated sample cooler maintaining 4–15 °C across 120-position vial racks (2 mL or 1.5 mL formats)
• Dedicated column oven with programmable range of 5–90 °C and ±0.2 °C stability for retention time reproducibility
• On-board needle wash station using solvent-switching capability (up to 4 solvents) with pressure-controlled rinse cycles
• CTC’s PAL Control Software v4.5+ compatible; supports method-driven scheduling, sequence logging, and audit-trail generation
• Rugged stainless-steel chassis and sealed linear guides optimized for continuous 24/7 operation in GLP-compliant environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The PAL HTX-xt accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-format microtiter plates (96-well, 384-well), screw-cap vials (1.5 mL, 2 mL), and custom tube racks. It supports aqueous, organic, and corrosive mobile phases—including TFA, formic acid, and ammonium acetate buffers—via chemically resistant PEEK and sapphire components. The system meets core requirements for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when operated with validated software configurations and electronic signature protocols. Full traceability is maintained through instrument-generated run logs, error codes, and timestamped maintenance records—all exportable as CSV or PDF. This refurbished unit includes documented evidence of performance qualification (PQ) per ASTM E2500-13 and ICH Q2(R2) guidelines for analytical instrument verification.

Software & Data Management

Control and method development are executed via CTC’s native PAL Control Suite, which provides intuitive graphical workflow builders, real-time status monitoring, and remote diagnostics via Ethernet or USB. Data integrity is enforced through role-based user accounts, password-protected method editing, and immutable audit trails compliant with ALCOA+ principles. Raw acquisition files (.pal, .csv, .xml) integrate natively with major chromatography data systems (CDS), including Thermo Chromeleon, Waters Empower, Agilent OpenLab, and Shimadzu LabSolutions. Optional upgrades include LIMS connectivity (via HL7 or REST API) and automated report generation aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 reporting standards.

Applications

• Bioanalytical quantitation of small-molecule drugs and metabolites in plasma, urine, and tissue homogenates (LC-MS/MS)
• High-throughput screening (HTS) of compound libraries in lead optimization campaigns
• Stability-indicating assays for forced degradation studies under ICH Q1–Q5 conditions
• Residual solvent analysis in APIs per USP and Ph. Eur. 2.4.24
• Peptide mapping and intact protein analysis requiring precise, low-volume injections
• Environmental analysis of emerging contaminants (e.g., PFAS, pharmaceutical residues) using UHPLC–HRMS platforms

FAQ

Is this unit eligible for extended warranty or service contracts?**
Yes—SpectraLab Scientific offers optional 12- or 24-month extended service agreements covering parts, labor, and preventive maintenance visits.