858 Professional Sample Processor

Significance of the topic

The preparation of samples is a critical step in analytical workflows, particularly for ion chromatography. Automating tasks such as filtration, dilution, dialysis and preconcentration minimizes manual intervention, enhances reproducibility and increases laboratory throughput while reducing human error.

Objectives and overview of the manual

This manual provides detailed instructions for the 858 Professional Sample Processor from Metrohm. It covers instrument description, model variants, safety guidelines, installation procedures, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting and technical specifications. The goal is to enable users to integrate the Sample Processor seamlessly into their analytical systems under PC control software (e.g. MagIC Net).

Used methodology

The Sample Processor supports a wide range of automated preparatory techniques:

• Inline filtration and ultrafiltration to remove particulates
• Dialysis for matrix exchange and cleanup
• Dilution and partial loop-fill for concentration adjustment
• Preconcentration and inline calibration for enhanced detection
• Robotic Swing Head positioning for precision aspiration from any rack location

Used instrumentation

• 858 Professional Sample Processor base unit with tower and 786 Swing Head robotic arm
• Optional two-channel peristaltic pump (model 2.858.0020) and returnable injection valve (model 2.858.0030)
• External 772 Peristaltic or 823 Membrane Pump Units for solvent delivery and waste removal
• Metrohm Serial Bus (MSB) peripherals: 800 Dosino dosing, 801 magnetic stirrer, 802 rod stirrer, 803/804 titration stands, Remote Box
• USB connectivity for control via Metrohm MagIC Net or third-party software
• Customizable sample racks, stand plates and filtration cell or Dosino holders

Main results and discussion

The manual demonstrates straightforward assembly and configuration procedures: attaching racks, installing safety shields, routing tubing in guide chains and establishing electrical and software connections (USB, MSB, power). Configuration of the Swing Head (radius, offset, axial distance) and rack initialization ensure accurate positioning. Troubleshooting guidelines address pump pressure irregularities, blocked injection valves and system error messages. Comprehensive technical data supports informed accessory selection.

Contributions and practical applications of the method

The 858 Professional Sample Processor offers multiple practical benefits:

• Increased sample throughput and reduced hands-on time
• High reproducibility and traceability via programmable sequences and magnetically coded racks
• Enhanced workflow safety through electrical safeguards, protective shields and proper waste disposal guidelines
• Flexible integration with chromatography and titration systems via standard USB, MSB and remote interfaces
• Adaptability to user-specific protocols with modular hardware and custom rack designs

Future trends and application possibilities

Emerging developments may include advanced robotic arms with higher positional accuracy, integrated sensors for real-time sample monitoring and predictive maintenance using machine learning. Expansion of MSB peripherals and open software APIs could enable broader compatibility with life-science and petrochemical analytics.

Conclusion

The 858 Professional Sample Processor is a versatile and robust platform for automating critical sample preparation steps in ion chromatography and related analytical fields. Its modular design, precise mechanical control and comprehensive software integration deliver reliable, high-throughput performance. Adherence to installation and maintenance protocols is essential to maximize operational uptime and data quality.

References

No external literature references were provided in the source document.