GC, Sample Preparation
IndustriesManufacturerThermo Fisher Scientific
Importance of Topic
Automated sample handling is critical in modern analytical laboratories to ensure high throughput, reproducibility and traceability of GC and GC–MS analyses.
The integration of advanced robotics reduces manual intervention, minimizes human error and enhances data integrity in regulated environments.
Objectives and Study Overview
This document introduces the Thermo Scientific TriPlus RSH SMART Autosampler system designed to automate comprehensive sample preparation workflows.
It describes two configuration levels (Standard and Advanced), SMART consumable management, and compatibility with various sampling techniques to optimize laboratory productivity.
Methodology and Instrumentation
The TriPlus RSH SMART employs a robotic XYZ sample-handling platform with SMART-chip-enabled syringes and fibers for consumable tracking.
Key features include automatic tool change (ATC), integrated dilution, mixing, heating, cooling, vortexing and optional centrifugation modules.
Customizable workflows are programmed via the Sampling Workflow Editor software.
Instrumentation
- TriPlus RSH SMART Standard and Advanced autosamplers
- SMART syringes (0.1 μL to 10 mL) and SMART SPME/SPME Arrow fibers
- Chromeleon Chromatography Data System for consumable tracking and instrument control
- Optional modules: vortexer, incubator/agitator, dilutor, centrifuge and flow-cell adapters
- Compatibility with GC inlets (SSL, PTV, COC, PKD, PPKD)
Main Results and Discussion
Implementation of SMART consumables ensures usage-based maintenance scheduling and full traceability, reducing downtime and overuse risk.
Advanced ATC delivers fully unattended sequences with multiple syringes or extraction tools, supporting dilutions, calibrations and multi-step preparation.
High-capacity trays (up to 972×2 mL vials) enable 24/7 operation; liquid injection repeatability achieves RSD<0.3%, headspace RSD<0.7%.
Benefits and Practical Application
- Enhanced laboratory efficiency through end-to-end workflow automation
- Improved data quality and confidence via precise, documented consumable usage
- GLP-compliant traceability of every sample and consumable
- Scalable configurations for liquid, headspace, SPME, ITEX-DHS and µSPE applications
- Flexible upgrade options to expand capacity or add sample prep modules
Future Trends and Possibilities
Integration with laboratory information management systems and cloud-based data analytics can further streamline operations.
Advanced AI-driven scheduling and predictive maintenance may optimize consumable lifecycles.
Emerging sample-prep techniques, such as online micro-extraction and real-time monitoring, are poised for robotic automation.
Conclusion
The TriPlus RSH SMART Autosampler represents a versatile, high-performance platform for automating GC and GC–MS sample workflows.
Its SMART technology, modular design and robust automation capabilities support improved precision, productivity and compliance across diverse analytical laboratories.
Content was automatically generated from an orignal PDF document using AI and may contain inaccuracies.