1. Why Automate?
Automation of manual analysis techniques for either
discrete samples for laboratory analysis or on-line sampling for
process monitoring has been an important development in routine
analysis over recent decades.
Clearly when involved with routine day to day manual
analysis it is not hard to understand the many possible benefits
of an automated technique for a particular procedure. But before
automating a manual method certain questions need to be answered
to decide whether automation will provide a cost effective solution.
If a laboratory is running a routine manual analysis
automation may offer numerous benefits these may include greater
accuracy and reproducibility of results due to the samples being
analysed in a closed system free from contamination and all subject
to the same constant analytic process or due to reduced operator
errors that often occur in manual analysis or the analysis of results.
Automation may enable procedures not previously practicable,
such as greater and more in-depth data analysis, and may also open
up possibilities for completely new procedures. Automation uses
smaller sample and reagent volumes and this reduces costs. Perhaps
the greatest benefit from a user point of view is the removal of
tedious routine procedures.
Similarly, in industrial processes greater quality
control can be obtained through continuous accurate monitoring.
You could also centralise control, via a remote telemetry system,
for a number of control points throughout the process system. This
can reduce waste and maintenance and allow operator free monitoring
which all adds to product profitability.
Cost effectiveness is a key factor in considering
whether automated analysis would be worth while. Often the reduction
in operational cost means that the initial equipment expenses are
recouped within a surprisingly short time span. Please feel free
to call us to discuss your requirements and obtain a quotation.
Our chemists are continually developing new applications
for automated analysis. We offer method development, software alternatives
and updates. Installation, comprehensive training and maintenance
are provided by specialist technicians.
Summary of benefits
- Faster analysis up to 120 samples per hour and up to 300 samples
analysed in a batch.
- Analysing to lower detection levels (ppb) with the latest techniques
such as selective ion analysis.
- Automatic data recording and preparation.
- A closed system which reduces contamination (for example from
atmospheric gases, etc.) and all samples are subject to the same
processes, therefore allowing much greater accuracy and reproducibility
of results.
- Smaller sample and reagent volumes , reducing costs.
- Out of hours operation with automatic start-up and shut-down
procedures.
- Automatic range changing (for over-range samples), drift control
and automatic sample preparation.
- Modular systems design which allows expansion to incorporate
new methods as the need arises.
- Centralisation of data via a telemetric data system for multiple
process control points.
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