Leici SCH-01 Multifunctional Autosampler for Titration and Liquid Handling

Overview

The Leici SCH-01 Multifunctional Autosampler is a precision-engineered liquid handling platform designed specifically for integration with automated titration systems and compatible analytical instruments requiring repeatable, low-volume sample introduction. Unlike general-purpose HPLC or GC autosamplers, the SCH-01 adopts a fixed-position cup carousel architecture—featuring 12 stations (11 sample positions + 1 dedicated wash station)—optimized for volumetric titration workflows where sample integrity, consistent stirring dynamics, and post-injection needle hygiene are critical. Its core operation relies on a high-accuracy 3-axis robotic arm that delivers sub-millimeter positioning repeatability (±0.1 mm), enabling precise aspiration from 2 mL vials or dispensing into standard 120 mL titration cups. The device supports both top-mounted and bottom-mounted magnetic stirring modes, allowing users to select the optimal agitation configuration based on sample viscosity, precipitate formation tendency, or reaction kinetics—essential for potentiometric, redox, and complexometric titrations governed by ISO 8655, ASTM E202, and USP .

Key Features

• 12-position fixed carousel: 11 sample stations + 1 permanent wash station for continuous cleaning between runs
• Dual-stirring capability: Independent selection of top or bottom magnetic stirring; speed adjustable from 0 to 45 rpm in 1-rpm increments
• High-fidelity liquid handling: Minimum dispensing volume of 5 µL with gravimetrically verified accuracy across 65–85 mL operational range
• Integrated cleaning protocol: Solvent rinse (programmable solvent volume and dwell time) followed by compressed-air drying to eliminate carryover
• Robust mechanical architecture: Aluminum-alloy frame with corrosion-resistant polymer housing; transparent acrylic enclosure enables real-time process monitoring without compromising structural rigidity
• Embedded control system: Monochrome LCD interface with tactile membrane keypad for standalone operation—no PC dependency required for basic method execution
• Industrial-grade communications: Native support for MODBUS RTU over RS-232 and USB CDC class; configurable baud rates ensure compatibility with legacy titrators and modern SCADA environments

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SCH-01 accommodates standard 120 mL borosilicate glass or polypropylene titration cups and accepts common 2 mL screw-thread vials (e.g., Thermo Fisher Nalgene, Waters). It is validated for use with aqueous, mildly acidic/basic, and low-viscosity organic solutions (≤50 cP). While not certified for explosive or highly corrosive media (e.g., concentrated HF, fuming nitric acid), its design conforms to IEC 61010-1:2010 safety requirements for laboratory electrical equipment. All firmware logic includes watchdog timers and CRC-verified command parsing to satisfy GLP audit trails when operated under controlled document management systems. Though not FDA 21 CFR Part 11–certified out-of-the-box, its USB/RS-232 logging interface supports third-party electronic lab notebook (ELN) integration with full timestamped action records.

Software & Data Management

The SCH-01 operates autonomously via onboard firmware but also supports external control through ASCII-based command sets documented in the Leici Instrument Control Protocol (LICP) v2.3. No proprietary software installation is required—users may script sequences using Python, LabVIEW, or MATLAB via standard serial/USB drivers. All movement commands, stir settings, wash cycles, and error logs are timestamped and buffered in non-volatile memory (128 KB EEPROM), accessible via “LOGREAD” command. Firmware updates are delivered as signed .bin files via USB mass-storage mode, preserving user-defined methods during upgrade. Audit-ready output includes cycle count, total dispensed volume per position, and cumulative wash solvent consumption—exportable as CSV for QA review.

Applications

• Automated acid-base, precipitation, and redox titrations in environmental water analysis (EPA Method 310.1, ISO 9297)
• Pharmaceutical excipient assay per Ph. Eur. 2.2.20 and USP , particularly for sodium carbonate or potassium hydrogen phthalate standardization
• Quality control of industrial chemicals including caustic soda, hydrochloric acid, and EDTA solutions
• Academic research requiring reproducible reagent addition in kinetic studies or multi-step sequential titrations
• Integration with Leici ZD-2B, ZD-3B, or compatible third-party titrators supporting MODBUS RTU handshake

FAQ

Does the SCH-01 support syringe-based or peristaltic pump delivery?
No—the SCH-01 uses a fixed-volume piston-driven aspiration/dispense mechanism optimized for titration cup filling; it does not include replaceable syringes or tubing-based fluid paths.
Can the stirring mode be changed mid-titration?
Yes—stirring mode (top/bottom) and speed are programmable per sample position and can be modified dynamically via MODBUS register writes during sequence execution.
Is the wash station compatible with multiple solvents?
The system has a single solvent reservoir and air-dry line; switching solvents requires manual reservoir replacement and system priming—no automatic solvent selection valve is included.
What is the maximum allowable ambient temperature for continuous operation?
Rated for 15–35 °C ambient; extended operation above 30 °C requires reduced duty cycle (<60% uptime per hour) to maintain thermal stability of stepper motor drivers.
Does the SCH-01 meet electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards for EU deployment?
Yes—it complies with EN 61326-1:2013 Class A for industrial environments and carries CE marking per Directive 2014/30/EU.