Metrohm 800 Automated Dispensing System
| Origin | Switzerland |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | 800 |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
| Instrument Type | Electrochemical Sample Handler / Reagent Dispenser |
Overview
The Metrohm 800 Automated Dispensing System is an integrated, precision-engineered reagent delivery module designed specifically for electrochemical analytical workflows requiring high repeatability in liquid handling. It operates on a gravimetric and/or volumetric dispensing principle—depending on configuration—and is engineered to execute sequential, programmable additions of standard solutions, titrants, buffers, complexing agents, or supporting electrolytes directly into electrochemical cells or sample vials. The system is not a standalone analyzer but a critical automation component within Metrohm’s modular electrochemical platform, enabling rigorous implementation of standardized methods such as standard addition, calibration curve generation, multi-step potentiometric titration, and controlled-potential coulometric analysis. Its architecture supports traceable, low-volume (µL–mL range), air-free liquid transfer with minimized carryover and cross-contamination risk—essential for trace-level ion quantification and electrode conditioning protocols.
Key Features
- Modular scalability: Up to three 800 dispensing units can be daisy-chained and synchronized under a single control interface via Metrohm’s tiamo™ software.
- Multi-channel reagent management: Independent syringe-driven channels support simultaneous handling of up to four distinct reagents (e.g., standard stock, buffer, masking agent, rinse solution) per unit.
- Programmable dispensing logic: Supports fixed-volume, incremental, or concentration-gradient additions; compatible with conditional triggers based on real-time potential or current feedback from connected potentiostats.
- Chemical resistance: Fluidic pathways constructed from PTFE, FEP, and sapphire components ensure compatibility with aggressive media including strong acids (e.g., HNO₃, HCl), bases, chelating agents (e.g., EDTA), and organic solvents commonly used in electrochemical sample pretreatment.
- Traceability & audit readiness: Integrated event logging records timestamped dispensing events, volume dispensed, syringe position, and error codes—structured to align with GLP and ISO/IEC 17025 documentation requirements.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The 800 system accommodates standard electrochemical cell formats—including 10–100 mL volumetric flasks, Metrohm’s 6.120x series cells, and custom-designed microcells—with optional adapters for non-standard geometries. It interfaces natively with Metrohm Autolab PGSTAT series potentiostats and 915/916 Ti-Touch titrators. All dispensing operations comply with ASTM D6414 (standard addition for trace metal analysis), ISO 10523 (pH determination), and USP environmental control guidelines where reagent sterility and consistency are critical. The system’s mechanical design meets IEC 61010-1 safety standards for laboratory equipment, and its firmware supports 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures when deployed in regulated QC environments.
Software & Data Management
Control and sequencing are managed exclusively through Metrohm’s tiamo™ software (v3.2+), which provides a graphical method editor for building multi-step dispensing routines—including loops, conditional branches, and dynamic volume adjustments based on prior measurement outcomes. Raw dispensing logs are exported in CSV or XML format, with metadata embedded for full traceability (operator ID, method version, instrument serial number, calibration certificate reference). Audit trails record all user-initiated changes to dispensing parameters, with immutable timestamps and digital signature verification. Data integrity is reinforced via automatic checksum validation upon file export and optional integration with LIMS via OPC UA or ODBC drivers.
Applications
- Standard addition calibration for ion-selective electrode (ISE) measurements of F⁻, Cl⁻, NO₃⁻, NH₄⁺, and heavy metals in environmental water samples.
- Automated preparation of multi-point calibration curves for voltammetric analysis (e.g., ASV, DPASV) of Cd²⁺, Pb²⁺, Cu²⁺ in digested soil extracts.
- Precise buffering of sample pH prior to potentiometric titration of carbonate alkalinity or fluoride complexation studies.
- Controlled addition of complexing agents (e.g., TISAB, DTPA) to mitigate matrix interference in direct ISE measurements.
- Reproducible conditioning of working electrodes (e.g., mercury film, bismuth-film) via automated deposition solution delivery.
FAQ
Can the 800 system be used with non-Metrohm electrochemical instruments?
Yes—provided the external instrument supports analog voltage or digital TTL trigger input/output for synchronization; however, full method integration and error-handling require tiamo™ software and native Metrohm hardware handshake protocols.
What is the minimum dispensing volume accuracy achievable?
Accuracy is dependent on syringe size and fluid properties; typical performance across 1–10 mL syringes is ±0.5% RSD for volumes ≥100 µL under calibrated conditions.
Is routine maintenance required between sample batches?
Yes—automatic rinse cycles (programmable pre- and post-dispense) are mandatory; syringe and tubing wear is monitored via tiamo™’s usage counter, with recommended replacement after 5,000 cycles or upon observed drift in delivery volume.
Does the system support temperature-controlled dispensing?
No—the 800 operates at ambient laboratory temperature; for thermally sensitive applications, users must precondition reagents externally or integrate with Metrohm’s 859 Titrotherm module for inline heating/cooling.
How is calibration verified?
Calibration is performed gravimetrically using certified weights and Class A volumetric glassware; Metrohm recommends annual third-party verification aligned with ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratories.
