As analytical processes become more complex, achieving consistency is increasingly challenging. At the same time, laboratories seek to minimize manual steps while maintaining accuracy, driving demand for automated sample preparation. Sustainability is also a growing priority in HPLC and other analytical workflows, with a focus on reducing solvent and sample consumption.
The new KNAUER Liquid Handler LH 8.1 is designed to address these evolving needs, integrating automation, precision, and modularity for improved liquid handling. In this interview, Juliane Kramer, Senior Application Scientist Analytical at KNAUER Wissenschaftliche Geräte GmbH, discusses how the LH 8.1 enhances ease of use with its modern, intuitive software.
How does the LH 8.1 differ from a traditional autosampler, and what advantages does it offer?
The KNAUER Liquid Handler LH 8.1 is a fully customizable XYZ autosampler, meaning its syringe tower moves in all three dimensions for maximum flexibility. Though its primary function is sample introduction into an analytical instrument, such as an HPLC system, it also offers highly customizable settings to accommodate a wide range of sample types, concentrations, and volumes.
Compared with traditional autosamplers, which may have fewer adjustable parameters, the LH 8.1 provides greater versatility across applications. It also features a sandwich injection mode – an advanced technique that prevents sample loss and peak broadening.
Sandwiches in liquid chromatography… Tell us more.
It may sound a little strange, but sandwich injection is a key feature of the LH 8.1 that ensures precise sample delivery. In this mode, the sample is trapped between air gaps and transport solvent plugs, preventing peak broadening during the injection process. The result? True zero sample loss.
High-throughput analysis is crucial in many laboratories. How does the LH 8.1 optimize cycle times?
One way to optomize cycle times with the LH 8.1 is to configure it according to your specific needs, such as optimizing module combinations and ensuring wash and method steps are as efficient as possible. The LH 8.1 also features “overlapped injections,” which allow the instrument to optimize sequence runs by enabling the next run to start before the current one is finished. For high-throughput applications, sample capacity is crucial. When paired with a robotic cooler, the LH 8.1 can accommodate up to six sample racks, holding up to 390 sample vials per cooler. With the long rail version (887 mm), up to four robotic coolers can be integrated, expanding the total sample capacity to 1560 x 1.5 ml vials or 24-well plates.
Can the LH 8.1 adapt to different LC system configurations?
Yes! The LH 8.1 is highly flexible and compatible with various liquid chromatography systems and chromatography data system software packages. Such flexibility is essential for high-throughput labs, where configurations and setups must be adaptable for different analyses.
What types of laboratories and industries will benefit the most from integrating the LH 8.1 into their workflows?
The LH 8.1 is ideal for contract laboratories or, more generally, laboratories where high throughput is essential. Common applications include clinical and environmental – but really, the LH 8.1 is also suitable for any workflow that requires direct injection into the mass spectrometer.
How have (analytical) scientists reacted to the LH 8.1?
The system has already been showcased at exhibitions and conferences, where industry professionals have welcomed the arrival of a genuinely new and modern liquid handling solution.
For laboratories considering an upgrade, what would you say is the best reason to choose the LH 8.1?
The main reason is undoubtedly sample capacity. It is the best solution for storing thousands of samples in cool conditions and analyzing them automatically without any further user intervention. Additionally, its customizable injection workflows provide a flexible and efficient alternative to conventional autosamplers.
For laboratories looking to enhance throughput, precision, and sustainability, the LH 8.1 represents a cutting-edge liquid handling solution.
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