Simultaneous, Multi-Channel Analysis

Do More with Less Time and Space

With hundreds of samples to analyze, environmental laboratories must manage time and space restraints that automated simultaneous, multi-channel analysis can help. Although sequential automation exists, it has its drawbacks. MANTECH’s automation options ensure laboratories obtain results more efficiently.

Sequential vs Simultaneous Automation

Sequential automation means actions occur one after another. For example, one sample is measured after another, or one parameter is measured before the next for a single sample.

On the other hand, simultaneous automation allows multiple actions to be automated at the same time. For instance, if two samples are measured concurrently or multiple parameters are measured at one time or even multiple samples and parameters are measured simultaneously.

Evidently, automation that occurs simultaneously saves more time than sequential automation since more actions can be completed at once. However, automated systems may operate sequentially to follow standard operating procedures, so it is not always applicable for simultaneous actions to occur.

Simultaneous Analysis Automation from MANTECH

MANTECH’s MT Series of Automated Titration and Multi-Parameter Analyzers implement some key components which enable simultaneous analyses to be possible:

• Stirrers keep samples homogenous
• Probes measure parameters directly, also used for titration methods
• Dispense tips allow sample volumes or reagents to pass through
• Sample tubes, cups and bottles contain the sample
• TitraSip vessels allow multiple parameter analysis to occur from one sample tube since volumes of samples are pipetted into them for titration analysis
• 100,000 step buret and other intelligent pumps (peristaltic and dosing available) deliver precise volumes of sample and reagents, burets used for titration method

Single vs multi-channel

Single channel refers to measuring one sample at a time while multi-channel analysis refers to 2, 3 or more samples being measured at once. Although MANTECH offers both options, multi-channel analysis automates more samples in less time.

Furthermore, a multi-channel system can save space. If a laboratory wants to increase the number of samples they analyze per day, they might acquire two systems with 40-position racks to handle 80 samples in 2 hours. One multi-channel system with a 40-position rack could measure 80 samples in half the time. MANTECH’s system software would simply notify the analyst when to switch out the first rack for the full 80 sample batch.

Multiparameter direct measurement options

Depending on the parameters, MANTECH systems can allow multiprobe analysis from one sample tube. These direct measurements can happen simultaneously, and the results are recorded in the software. Multi-channel analysis further improves analysis efficiency.

Multiparameter analysis including titrations

If titration analysis must be measured from the same sample, users can automate multiple parameters sequentially starting with direct measurement, then titration analysis. The other option is to split the sample into multiple tubes for the different parameters. These options are not ideal as they take up time and space. MANTECH’s systems solve this with the TitraSip™ vessel.

With the TitraSip vessel, users can measure multiple parameters, including titration-based tests from the sample tube. This is because a portion of the sample is pipetted into the TitraSip and receives titrants or reagents without disturbing the sample in the tube performing direct measurement analyses.

MANTECH’s MT systems accommodate multi-channel and multiparameter analysis to suit each laboratory’s unique specifications. Depending on the number of samples and parameters to analyze, the number of probes and TitraSips can vary.

Ultimately, automating the analysis of multiple parameters within multiple samples simultaneously enable laboratories to handle higher throughput while conserving bench space available. This option is the best way to maximize MANTECH’s systems’ potential.

Simultaneous Cleaning Procedures

In addition to analysis, the cleaning procedures on MANTECH’s MT systems happen simultaneously. While the probes, dispense tips and stirrers go to the automated rinse station, the TitraSip vessels are filled and drained with clean water. With IntelliRinse™, users can set up a clean threshold criterion to be met before the system proceeds to analyze the next samples.