UXS AQE Series Automated Sample Preparation Workstation
| Brand | UXS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Direct Manufacturer |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | AQE Series |
| Solvent Capacity | 10 solvents |
| Vortex Speed Range | 1–3000 rpm |
| Centrifuge Speed Range | 500–4500 rpm |
| Software Capability | Fully programmable method editor with unlimited module repetition per method |
| Preloaded Methods | Integrated QuEChERS protocols (AOAC 2007.01, EN 15662:2018) |
Overview
The UXS AQE Series Automated Sample Preparation Workstation is an integrated, benchtop platform engineered for high-throughput, reproducible sample preparation in analytical laboratories performing residue analysis, food safety testing, environmental monitoring, and pharmaceutical quality control. Based on a modular robotic architecture, the system automates sequential execution of critical pre-analytical steps—including solvent dispensing, vortex-assisted extraction, centrifugation, and supernatant transfer—minimizing manual intervention while maintaining strict adherence to validated workflows. Its design follows core principles of analytical method robustness: precise liquid handling accuracy (±1.5% CV at ≥100 µL), consistent mechanical agitation under controlled thermal conditions (ambient operation with optional temperature-stabilized vortex block), and gravimetric or volumetric dispensing traceability aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 requirements for method validation.
Key Features
- Modular automation architecture supporting up to 10 independent solvent reservoirs with sealed, low-evaporation caps and integrated level sensing for real-time reagent monitoring.
- Programmable vortex module delivering 1–3000 rpm with digital speed regulation and acceleration/deceleration ramping to prevent sample splashing or emulsion disruption.
- Refrigerated centrifuge module (optional) operating from 500 to 4500 rpm with rotor recognition, automatic imbalance detection, and configurable brake profiles to preserve analyte integrity during phase separation.
- Method-driven software interface compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements, featuring electronic signatures, audit trail logging (user actions, parameter changes, run timestamps), and method version control.
- Dedicated QuEChERS workflow engine with pre-validated AOAC 2007.01 and EN 15662:2018 method templates, including automatic calculation of salt addition ratios, acetonitrile volume scaling, and dSPE cleanup step sequencing.
- Open API support for LIMS integration (via HL7 or ASTM E1384-compliant messaging) and external instrument triggering (e.g., autosampler start signal upon supernatant transfer completion).
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The AQE workstation accommodates standard 15 mL and 50 mL polypropylene centrifuge tubes, 2 mL HPLC vials, and 96-well deep-well plates (with optional plate carrier). It supports solid matrices including fruits, vegetables, cereals, meat homogenates, soil slurries, and wastewater extracts. All wetted components comply with USP Class VI biocompatibility standards and are resistant to common organic solvents (acetonitrile, acetone, ethyl acetate, methanol). The system meets ISO 17025:2017 clause 5.4.2 (equipment verification) and supports GLP/GMP documentation packages, including installation qualification (IQ), operational qualification (OQ), and performance qualification (PQ) protocols upon request.
Software & Data Management
The AQE Control Suite is a Windows-based application built on a SQL Server database backend, enabling centralized method storage, user role management (administrator, analyst, reviewer), and secure data export in CSV, PDF, and XML formats. Each run generates a digitally signed report containing raw instrument logs, executed method parameters, error flags (e.g., lid open during centrifugation, insufficient solvent volume), and timestamped event history. Audit trails are immutable and exportable for regulatory submission. Software updates are delivered via encrypted firmware bundles with SHA-256 hash verification.
Applications
- Pesticide multiresidue analysis in food commodities using QuEChERS-based LC-MS/MS workflows.
- Pharmaceutical impurity profiling requiring matrix-matched calibration standards prepared via automated dilution and spiking.
- Environmental analysis of PAHs and PCBs in sediment extracts following EPA Method 3550C and 3630C.
- Clinical toxicology sample cleanup prior to GC-FID or LC-UV quantification of drugs of abuse.
- High-volume screening of veterinary drug residues in milk and muscle tissue per EU Commission Decision 2002/657/EC.
FAQ
Does the AQE Series support custom solvent delivery sequences beyond the preloaded QuEChERS methods?
Yes. The method editor allows full customization of solvent selection order, volume, dispensing rate, dwell time, and mixing duration per step.
Can the system be validated for GxP-regulated environments?
Yes. IQ/OQ/PQ documentation templates, traceable calibration records, and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance features are included in the Validation Support Package.
Is remote monitoring or troubleshooting supported?
The workstation includes Ethernet connectivity and optional VPN-enabled remote desktop access for technical support personnel, subject to customer IT security policy approval.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for the vortex and centrifuge modules?
Vortex motor calibration is recommended annually; centrifuge rotor balancing and bearing inspection are required every 6 months or after 10,000 runs, whichever occurs first.
Are consumables such as tips, tubes, and rotors supplied by UXS?
UXS provides OEM-certified consumables including low-bind polypropylene tubes, universal centrifuge adapters, and positive-displacement pipette tips compatible with ISO 8655 specifications.
