Since the BOD test spans from 5 to 7 days, it’s important to get accurate results, the first time. The short 48 hour holding time means there is no second chance. MANTECH’s BOD Pro Analyzers are not only capable of automating this process from start to finish, but they also include features to ensure laboratories obtain the results they need efficiently. For more information about how MANTECH automates the BOD process, check out this blog, BOD Automation: Step by Step
Robust and Modular Hardware
MANTECH’s autosamplers have self-lubricating axes which means there is no downtime to maintain the autosampler. There is only one single anchor point, hence no binding occurs. Using robotics typically used by the automative industry makes them durable for continuous use.
Although the autosamplers do not need maintenance, the tubing on the analyzer will need to be replaced with regular use which is important for the BOD test to prevent any buildup and cross-contamination that could affect DO results. The modular design of MANTECH systems makes changing the tubing easy. Since the modules are off the shelf, users have the flexibility to add more automation in the future. For example, adding automated addition of dilution water and seed to a DO read only system.
Accommodating Large Batches of Samples
MANTECH’s largest autosampler model (AM505) can contain up to 120 bottle positions on a single system; however, the system can automate unlimited batch sizes. Users simply need to switch out the racks of bottles when prompted by the software. This is also helpful for laboratories with limited bench space since they can opt for a smaller autosampler but still complete a larger batch in a single run.
Protecting BOD Samples
Safety Enclosure or Shield
To protect the samples from the environment and protect analysts from the robot movements and reagent fumes, customers have the option to add a safety shield or enclosure to their system. The shield covers the front and sides of the system while the enclosure also covers the back and top of the system.
Bottle Caps
Customers have the choice of adding and removing bottle caps manually or they can automate capping and uncapping with MANTECH’s AM500 series autosamplers. Although there is no immediate need for bottles to be capped right away, this option is available.
Speeding Up Analysis
Multi-Probe Analysis
It can be challenging to measure hundreds of samples to meet strict timelines even with automation. One option is to purchase an additional analyzer. For companies with limited bench space, MANTECH offers multi-probe analysis, allowing two, three or six bottles to be prepared and measured simultaneously, reducing analysis time per bottle on a single system.
Flexible, User-Friendly Software
MANTECH’s in-house software development team designed BOD Pro software with customers in mind with its user-friendly interface. Actions within the software are accessible even as a system is running analyses. This includes setting up new runs, retrieving historical data and more. A built-in Help Menu helps users navigate the software. It is also context-sensitive so it will automatically populate helpful tips for whatever section of the software that the user is in.
Setting up a Run
To set up a run, users have the option to import a run table from their LIMS, create a run table directly through the software and connect recurrent run templates to shortcut buttons which autogenerate sample tables quickly.
Aerating Bottles
If users need to automate bottle aeration, a script in the software made with a user-set value determines when the BOD Pro system will automatically aerate the bottle with a pump.
Controlling Stability on Oxygen Values
There are a few ways users can set up stability control in the software to perform automatic drift control on the oxygen value:
- Time setting
- Delta O2/Delta Time, plus maximum time out. The software will flag if it hits the maximum
- Option 1 and 2 PLUS
- Option to turn the stirrer on or off at different times of the stability
Correcting Salinity on Oxygen Values
As salinity affects oxygen in samples, salinity correction is important to obtain accurate results. This can be done directly through the YSI DO Meter connected to the MANTECH system. Users would manually input the salinity value into the meter with the correction setting turned on. This can also be done automatically in the software based on a conductivity reading.
Validating Results
Users can set up result validation based on Standard methods and ISO methods directly in the software. Any invalid results will be flagged in the final report generated for review.
