METTLER TOLEDO Liquidator 96 Manual Liquid Handling Workstation
| Brand | METTLER TOLEDO |
|---|---|
| Origin | Switzerland |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Liquidator 96 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The METTLER TOLEDO Liquidator 96 is a precision-engineered manual liquid handling workstation designed for high-throughput, low-volume pipetting in regulated and non-regulated laboratory environments. Unlike motorized or robotic systems, the Liquidator 96 operates on a purely mechanical, spring-driven positive displacement principle—eliminating dependency on external power sources, software control, or complex calibration routines. It leverages a synchronized 96-channel parallel dispensing architecture to deliver consistent volumetric transfer across all wells of standard SBS-format microplates (96-well and 384-well), enabling rapid, reproducible liquid handling without electronic intervention. Its design prioritizes operational simplicity and ergonomic integrity, making it especially suitable for applications where speed, traceability, and operator independence are critical—such as assay setup, ELISA plate preparation, PCR master mix distribution, and QC sample dilution workflows in pharmaceutical, biotech, and academic core facilities.
Key Features
- Single-action dispensing: Completes full 96-well plate transfers in ≤20 seconds with minimal operator effort.
- Extended volume range: Accurately dispenses volumes from 0.5 µL to 200 µL per channel, validated across the entire span per ISO 8655-2 and ASTM E1154 guidelines.
- True manual operation: Requires no electrical supply, USB connection, or software interface—ideal for use inside biosafety cabinets, laminar flow hoods, or Class II/III containment environments.
- Ergonomic handle geometry and optimized lever travel reduce wrist flexion and repetitive strain, supporting sustained daily use under GLP-compliant workflows.
- Interchangeable tip combs: Compatible with universal low-retention 96- and 384-channel tips; tip ejection is fully mechanical and residue-free.
- Modular base design: Supports optional mounting brackets for benchtop stability or integration into custom lab benches without permanent installation.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Liquidator 96 is compatible with aqueous buffers, viscous glycerol solutions (up to 40% v/v), serum-containing media, and low-concentration protein solutions. It is not recommended for highly volatile solvents, corrosive acids/bases, or suspensions containing particles >5 µm. All wetted components—including piston seals and tip combs—are manufactured from chemically resistant PTFE, stainless steel, and medical-grade thermoplastics compliant with USP Class VI and ISO 10993-5 standards. The device itself carries CE marking under Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC) and 2014/35/EU (LVD), and conforms to ISO 13485:2016 requirements for in vitro diagnostic-related instrumentation. While not a regulated medical device, its performance documentation supports audit readiness for FDA 21 CFR Part 11–aligned SOPs when used within validated processes.
Software & Data Management
As a fully manual instrument, the Liquidator 96 does not incorporate embedded firmware, onboard memory, or digital data logging capabilities. However, its mechanical consistency enables seamless integration into paper-based or LIMS-linked workflows: operators record usage via handwritten logs or electronic batch records (e.g., LabWare LIMS, Veeva Vault RIM). Calibration verification reports—including gravimetric accuracy and precision assessments at three volume points (low/mid/high)—are generated per ISO/IEC 17025-accredited internal protocols and archived alongside equipment maintenance records. Optional traceable calibration certificates (NIST-traceable weights and Class S1 analytical balances) are available upon request to support GxP compliance.
Applications
- High-frequency plate replication for HTS screening campaigns
- Preparation of serial dilution series in pharmacokinetic and toxicology studies
- Distribution of cell culture reagents in stem cell and primary cell workflows
- Setup of immunoassays (ELISA, MSD, Luminex) requiring precise low-volume additions
- QC sampling for raw material testing in API manufacturing environments
- Teaching laboratories emphasizing hands-on pipetting fundamentals and error source identification
FAQ
Is the Liquidator 96 compatible with 384-well plates?
Yes—using the optional 384-channel tip comb accessory, the system supports full-plate dispensing into standard 384-well microplates with equivalent speed and precision.
Does it require routine recalibration?
No scheduled recalibration is mandated; however, users must perform periodic performance verification (e.g., gravimetric checks) per internal SOPs—typically before each shift or daily in GMP settings.
Can it be used with filtered tips?
Yes, provided the filter membrane does not impede piston travel or generate excessive backpressure; low-binding, pre-sterilized filtered tips are widely validated.
What maintenance is required?
Routine cleaning of the tip comb and piston shaft with 70% ethanol; annual inspection of spring tension and seal integrity by authorized METTLER TOLEDO service engineers is recommended.
Is technical support available globally?
Yes—METTLER TOLEDO maintains regional service centers in North America, EMEA, and APAC, offering on-site validation assistance, training, and spare parts logistics under contract-based support plans.
