By SYSTAG, System…
FlexyCUBE – Modular Laboratory Automation Tool
FlexyCUBE is a new concept for chemical process development; a modular tool engineered to suit all laboratory automation needs. It allows laboratories to develop drugs, API’s or intermediates easier, faster and cheaper by allowing autonomous operation of multiple parallel reactor units from a single PC, using SYSTAG’s proven Windows 7/XP-based software.
FlexyCUBE includes all necessary tools and functions to enable users to simulate complex processes, including hydrogenation, Grignard or Friedel-Crafts reactions, acetylation, nitration and esterification and many more.
It provides a powerful tool whenever the laboratory needs to process multiple experiments reliably, in a short time and under absolutely reproducible conditions. It offers a very wide range of applications, with projects being controlled individually or in parallel, for example for Design of Experiment (DoE) projects.
Functions
Every parallel yet autonomous reactor unit handles all core operations encountered in synthesis laboratories:
- Gravimetric dosing (through use of balance, pump and/or solenoid valve)
- Accurate reactor or jacket-based temperature control
- Optimal stirring efficiency
- Single-sided (standard) or optional double-sided pH control, with or without mass detection
- Fractional distillation capability
- Optimal crystallization performance
- Safe hydrogenation
- Easy inertization
- Simplified calorimetry
These functions can be run autonomously in manual operation of a single unit or in a parallel programmed run-control, involving multiple units.
Each unit occupies a small footprint and is capable of operating unattended over extended periods. Data logging is assured with consistent automatic journaling, compatible with MS Word® or Excel® (csv format).
FlexyCUBE also offers integrated calibration tools to safeguard quality- relevant signals, alarm and event recording to assist service and support, which can be done remotely via Internet.
Simplified handling
Reactors are easily detached from the heating/cooling system and exchanged, allowing the user to quickly swap reactors or employ them for further experiments. The two-part reactor approach with hermetically separated temperature jacket eliminates troublesome emptying and filling of the temperature control system and messy dripping of the heating/cooling medium.
Adaptability
Adaptation of FlexyCUBE to specific requirements is almost unlimited. The glass adaptors accept all standard laboratory equipment, such as reflux condensers, distillation heads, or water traps. Standard 250ml reactors will work under vacuum or optionally up to 6 bar pressures, while the system will also accept optional 100ml and 400ml reactors for working at atmospheric pressure and 300ml steel reactors for pressures up to 100 bars.
Other options include:
- Automatic distillation, based on detection of boiling point
- Automatic pressure-vacuum-vent control
- Automatic establishment of solubility properties through clarity or turbidity measurement
- Isothermic heat flow calorimetry for thermal process optimization
Resources
Click on modular laboratory automation tool – FlexyCUBE, for other information.