Automated sample preparation system FLEX SWILE DSC

roboticfor sample preparationreagent dispensing

Overview
Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is a standard thermal analysis technique used to quantify enthalpy changes linked to physical and chemical transitions as a function of temperature or time. It is routinely applied in chemical and pharmaceutical laboratories to analyze glass transition, melting, crystallinity, phase transitions, protein denaturation and decomposition, reaction monitoring, and effects of additives or processing. Fast acquisition and sensitive detection make DSC curves valuable for QC and material characterization.

Challenge addressed
Manual preparation of DSC crucibles (filling and closing) is time-consuming, error-prone and ties up skilled operators. Small sample masses and contamination risk increase variability and reduce throughput.

Solution — FLEX SWILE DSC (SWILE technology)
FLEX SWILE DSC automates one-to-one gravimetric "pick & decision dispense" of solids into crucibles using Chemspeed’s overhead gravimetric dispensing tool and an on-deck analytical balance. A modified 4-Needle Head Liquid Handling tool places and pushes lids to close crucibles automatically, then transfers closed crucibles into DSC autosampler racks. Disposable glass tips (SWINs) prevent cross-contamination; SWIN diameters are selectable and adjustable for target dispense amounts. A tilt/shake rack improves powder loosening and pick-up efficiency.

Workflow

• Optional barcode read of source vial
• Transport source vial to tilt/shake rack to loosen powder
• Gravimetric pick & decision dispense of solid into crucible
• Move crucible MTP to holder
• Place lid on crucible
• Push lid to close crucible
• Transfer closed crucible to DSC autosampler rack
• Repeat for subsequent samples

Benefits

• Decision dispensing for high accuracy and precision
• Dispense range from hundreds of μg up to ~5 mg with ~±10 μg resolution (with optional on-deck balance)
• No cross-contamination (disposable glass tips)
• No dead volume and fully inert glass flow path
• Unattended operation to increase throughput
• Modular robotic tool interface for multi-workflow support
• Optional ventilated hood and trolley for safety
• Compact footprint (~90 x 90 cm) to optimize laboratory space
• Support for barcode reader, multigripper and additional tools
• AUTOSUITE software for experiment setup, execution and basic data handling; LIMS/ELN integration interfaces

Technical features / specifications

• Model name: FLEX SWILE DSC
• Automated gravimetric "pick & decision dispense" for solids
• Dispense range: hundreds of μg up to ~5 mg (typical) with ~±10 μg resolution (with optional on-deck analytical balance)
• Disposable glass tips (SWINs) in various diameters; adjustable to target amounts
• Tilt/shake rack for powder loosening and improved pick-up
• Modified 4-Needle Head Liquid Handling tool for automated lid placement and crucible closure
• On-deck analytical balance for dispensing verification and decision logic
• Reformatting capability to transfer closed crucibles into DSC autosampler racks (support for multiple rack types)
• Support for barcode reading, multigripper and additional robotic tool integrations
• Optional ventilated hood and trolley
• Optimized footprint approximately 90 x 90 cm (3 x 3 ft)
• Software: AUTOSUITE for experiment design, execution and basic data analysis; integration options for LIMS/ELN