OPSIS SX360 Automated Fat Analyzer

Overview

The OPISIS SX360 Automated Fat Analyzer is a fully integrated, CE- and ATEX-certified solvent extraction system engineered for precision, safety, and regulatory compliance in modern analytical laboratories. Based on an enhanced Soxhlet extraction principle—combining continuous reflux with programmable thermal soaking and dynamic solvent displacement—the SX360 delivers quantitative recovery of lipids and other extractable organic compounds from solid and semi-solid matrices. Unlike conventional manual or semi-automated systems, the SX360 implements a closed-loop, pressure-balanced extraction architecture where solvent vapor condensation, controlled percolation, and active solvent recovery occur within a sealed, inert environment. This design eliminates operator exposure to volatile organic solvents (e.g., petroleum ether, hexane, chloroform, or dichloromethane), while maintaining thermodynamic consistency across all six parallel channels. The instrument operates within a validated temperature range of 30–300 °C, enabling method flexibility for both low-boiling solvents (e.g., diethyl ether) and high-boiling alternatives (e.g., toluene or xylene) required for polymeric or recalcitrant matrices.

Key Features

• Full automation of all extraction phases: sample immersion, solvent reflux, rinsing, solvent recovery, cooling, and pre-drying—executed without manual intervention.
• Six independent extraction channels with synchronized thermal control, supporting batch processing of up to 6 samples simultaneously; daily throughput exceeds 42 determinations under standard operating conditions.
• Dual-stage sealing mechanism: initial manual lever compression followed by automated rotational sealing of PTFE-lined solvent cups—ensuring leak-tight integrity at elevated temperatures and pressures.
• Integrated solvent management system featuring front-accessible recovery tank (230 mL capacity), programmable valve sequencing, and real-time solvent volume modulation during rinse/dry steps.
• ATEX-certified explosion-proof construction: intrinsically safe solenoid valves, stainless-steel electronics enclosure, IP65-rated housing, and interlocked safety door with automatic process halt upon opening.
• Redundant temperature monitoring: two independent Pt100 sensors with fail-safe cutoff triggered at +30 °C above setpoint—preventing thermal degradation of analytes and solvent decomposition.
• Modular cup configuration: borosilicate glass cups (for visual process monitoring) and aluminum cups (for superior thermal conductivity and mechanical durability), available in 150 mL and 230 mL variants.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The SX360 is validated for use across diverse regulatory frameworks including AOAC Official Methods of Analysis (e.g., 920.39, 991.36), EPA Method 9071B (n-Hexane Extractable Material), ISO 1444 (Animal Feeding Stuffs), ISO 6496 (Oilseeds), and DIN EN ISO 11348 (Water Quality). It accommodates heterogeneous sample types—feedstuffs (grains, pellets, silage), food products (meat, dairy, baked goods), environmental solids (soil, sludge, sediment), polymers (PVC, rubber, plastics), pharmaceutical excipients, and textiles—within a mass range of 0.1–15 g per extraction thimble. Compatible thimble dimensions include Ø25×60 mm to Ø33×100 mm; all contact surfaces are constructed from chemically inert materials (PTFE, borosilicate glass, anodized aluminum, Viton/Butyl/Resel elastomers) to prevent leaching or catalytic side reactions. The system meets GLP documentation requirements via time-stamped audit trails and electronic signature support in LabConnect software.

Software & Data Management

LabConnect software provides native integration with analytical balances (via RS232/USB), barcode scanners, and LIMS platforms through Ethernet connectivity. All method parameters—including temperature ramp profiles, reflux duration, rinse cycles, solvent volume thresholds, and drying time—are stored as encrypted, version-controlled protocols. Each run generates a complete metadata package: sample ID, operator ID, timestamped event log, raw weight data, solvent consumption metrics, and thermal history trace. Audit trail functionality complies with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, supporting electronic records retention, user access controls, and change tracking. Data export is supported in CSV, PDF, and XML formats compatible with statistical analysis tools (e.g., JMP, Minitab) and enterprise QA/QC dashboards.

Applications

• Quantitative fat determination in animal feed, cereals, nuts, and processed foods per AOAC 991.36 and ISO 6496.
• Extraction of hydrophobic pollutants (PAHs, PCBs, organochlorine pesticides) from soil and wastewater sludge per EPA 3540C and 3550C.
• Recovery of plasticizers (e.g., phthalates) from PVC and synthetic polymers for migration testing.
• Isolation of rosin derivatives from paperboard and tannins from leather prior to HPLC or GC-MS analysis.
• Preparative solvent extraction for solid-phase sample cleanup ahead of chromatographic quantification (e.g., EPA 8081, 8270).
• Routine quality control of surfactants and emulsifiers in detergent formulations and personal care products.

FAQ

What extraction principles does the SX360 employ?
It utilizes an optimized continuous-flow Soxhlet methodology augmented with programmable thermal soaking, dynamic solvent displacement, and active reflux condensation—all within a closed, pressure-regulated chamber.
Is the SX360 compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11?
Yes—LabConnect software supports electronic signatures, audit trails, role-based access control, and immutable record archiving aligned with Part 11 requirements.
Can I use chlorinated solvents such as chloroform or DCM?
Yes—the system’s PTFE-wetted components, Viton/Resel seal options, and corrosion-resistant aluminum heating plates are compatible with halogenated solvents when operated within specified temperature limits.
How is solvent recovery efficiency verified?
Recovery rate (>90%) is validated per ASTM D5232 and internal SOPs using gravimetric balance checks and solvent-specific density calibration curves across multiple batches.
Does the instrument require external ventilation or fume hood integration?
No—the built-in recirculating condenser and internal ventilation ducting eliminate need for external ducting; however, optional connection to central lab exhaust is supported via rear-mounted vent port.