PerkinElmer OilPrep 8 Oil Dilution System
| Brand | PerkinElmer |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Manufacturer Type | Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) |
| Import Status | Imported |
| Model | OilPrep 8 |
| Pricing | Available Upon Request |
Overview
The PerkinElmer OilPrep 8 Oil Dilution System is an automated, high-throughput liquid handling platform engineered specifically for standardized dilution of lubricating oils and hydraulic fluids prior to elemental analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) and particle characterization via Single Particle Optical Sizing (SPOS). Based on precision positive-displacement pipetting and solvent-controlled dilution protocols, the system delivers reproducible 1:10 to 1:100 dilutions using kerosene or other approved hydrocarbon solvents—ensuring compatibility with Avio® series ICP-OES instruments and LPC 500™ Liquid Particle Counters. Its design adheres to core principles of analytical sample preparation integrity: volumetric accuracy, contamination control, and procedural traceability—critical for laboratories operating under ISO/IEC 17025, ASTM D6595 (wear metal analysis), ASTM D7690 (particle counting in used oils), and regulatory frameworks requiring documented workflow adherence.
Key Features
- Eight-channel Varispan® pipetting arm enabling simultaneous aspiration from up to eight vials or test tubes—reducing cycle time per batch by >70% compared to single-channel systems.
- Ultrasonic liquid level detection technology for real-time, non-contact volume sensing—supporting unattended operation across variable sample volumes (0.5–10 mL) without manual calibration or operator intervention.
- Disposable, low-retention polypropylene pipette tips certified for hydrocarbon compatibility—eliminating carryover risk and obviating tip washing or autoclaving steps.
- Integrated solvent delivery module with pressure-regulated kerosene reservoir and inert gas purging—preventing oxidation and ensuring consistent diluent purity across runs.
- Rugged, corrosion-resistant chassis designed for continuous operation in industrial lab environments; meets UL 61010-1 and CE safety directives.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The OilPrep 8 accommodates a broad range of petroleum-based matrices including engine oils (SAE 0W–60), turbine oils, gear oils, hydraulic fluids, and diesel fuel. It supports standard container formats: 12 × 75 mm glass or plastic vials, 15 mL conical centrifuge tubes, and 30 mL HDPE bottles. All fluid pathways are chemically inert (PTFE, PEEK, borosilicate glass), minimizing adsorption of transition metals (e.g., Fe, Cu, Al) and preserving analyte integrity. The system complies with ASTM D5185 (ICP determination of additives), ASTM D6792 (elemental analysis of used lubricants), and supports audit-ready documentation required under GLP and GMP environments—including electronic signature capability and full audit trail logging per FDA 21 CFR Part 11.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via PerkinElmer’s proprietary OilPrep Control Software (v3.2+), the system offers intuitive graphical workflow programming with pre-validated templates for common methods: ASTM D5185 dilution, ISO 4406 particle count prep, and custom multi-step protocols. All method parameters—including pipette volume, diluent type, mixing cycles, and tip ejection logic—are stored with version control and user access logs. Raw dilution records (timestamp, operator ID, source/sink positions, actual dispensed volumes) export directly to LIMS via CSV or ASTM E1384-compliant XML. Software validation packages—including IQ/OQ documentation and cybersecurity assessment reports—are available upon request for regulated laboratories.
Applications
- Routine wear metal monitoring in predictive maintenance programs for power generation turbines and marine engines.
- Quality control of new lubricant batches prior to distribution—verifying additive package consistency and absence of particulate contaminants.
- Research-scale formulation studies evaluating anti-wear additive degradation kinetics under thermal stress.
- Third-party testing labs performing ISO 17025-accredited analyses for OEMs and fleet management providers.
- Regulatory compliance testing for aviation oil certification (SAE AS5780) and military specification MIL-PRF-2104G.
FAQ
What solvent types are compatible with the OilPrep 8?
Kerosene is the primary recommended diluent; however, naphtha, mineral spirits, and other low-aromatic hydrocarbons may be used subject to method validation and compatibility testing with downstream instrumentation.
Can the system handle viscous oils above 100 cSt?
Yes—pre-heating modules (optional accessory) maintain sample temperature at 40–60°C during aspiration, ensuring accurate volumetric transfer of high-viscosity fluids without clogging or under-delivery.
Is remote monitoring supported?
The system includes Ethernet connectivity and SNMP-enabled status reporting; integration with enterprise SCADA or lab-wide dashboard platforms is achievable via Modbus TCP or REST API (available under extended support contract).
How is calibration verified?
Gravimetric verification per ISO 8655-6 is performed quarterly using certified weights and Class A volumetric flasks; automated self-diagnostics run prior to each run to confirm pipette seal integrity and solvent pressure stability.
Does the software support multi-user role-based access?
Yes—administrator, analyst, and reviewer roles enforce segregation of duties, with password complexity policies, session timeouts, and automatic lockout after five failed login attempts.
