Precision Sampling
The precision design of the ARS minimizes the amount of sample required from the reactor. The ARS pulls and delivers sample with outstanding consistency to ensure accurate assay results.

OPC Data Exchange
An optional OPC software package supports the collection of ARS status and process analytical data by a wide range of supervisory systems.

Modular, Flexible Design
The ARS can acquire and deliver sample from any input port (maximum of eight) to any output port (maximum of four). There is no manual configuration required. The design allows for maximum flexibility under software control.

Sanitary Interface to the Bioreactor
A Remote Interface Module is located on, at or near every reactor sample port and provides the mechanism to clean the sample transfer lines and the valves in the module (which controls flow of sample from the reactor to the ARS). This interface provides complete isolation of the reactor from the ARS and permits cleaning and flushing directly to the reactor port, protecting the reactor from contamination. The Remote Interface Module is equipped with multiple isolation valves in series (between reactor port and ARS) and has at least one drain valve. The ARS performs all functions of sample acquisition, transfer, assay and/or sample storage without contamination of the bioreactor or fermentor.

Groton offers multiple interfaces to accommodate the scale of the reactor as well as the physical properties of the reactor contents (e.g. viscosity, biomass). An in-situ probe and Dip Tube with In-line filtering is available for cell free sampling. For cell containing sampling we offer a dip tube, a dip tube with peristaltic loop and a disposable needle.

Automated Sample Prep Options
In addition to pulling the sample automatically, Groton Biosystems can prepare the sample for further processing or analysis to fit your intended purpose. If you want to send a bioreactor sample to an instrument requiring cells removed (nutrient monitor, HPLC or fraction collector), Groton provides an in situ and/or in-line filtration system. If you need to deliver samples to a cell counter, Groton can provide a cell containing sampling system with automated dilution. The dilution can be variable based on the cell density which stops the potential of cell clogging. Our sample prep options include: cell lyzing (enzymatic or chemical); sample filtration; molecular weight separation in fractions; buffer exchange; sample dilution; and reagent addition.

Online Analysis Options and Sample Collection
The ARS can interface to HPLC Systems, Nutrient Monitors, Cell Counters as well as a Fraction Collector. When interfacing to analytical instruments the ARS delivers the sample to the instrument, triggers the analysis, and displays and logs the results. The ARS automatically cleans and prepares the transfer line for the next sample.

HPLC - HPLC is one of the most widely used analytical tools in the biotechnology industry. Now perform online HPLC analysis directly from bioreactors and fermentors. If your application is biopharma, then the ARS-HPLC system allows monitoring of amino acids and/or protein. If your application is biofuels then on-line monitoring of ethanol, glycose, xylose, etc. is possible.

Fraction Collector - Automatically sample from the bioreactor and deliver to sterile, cooled, septum sealed collection tubes for post run analysis. Ideal for fermentation requiring frequent sampling over a 24 - 48 hour period. Also advantageous for cell culture whereby samples are retained.

Nutrient Monitors - Perform automated online biochemistry analysis of glucose, lactate, glutamate, glutamine, sucrose, ammonium, potassium, ethanol, lactose, methanol, and chlorine. The ARS supports several Nutrient Monitors such as the YSI 7100, YSI 2700 and the Nova BioProfile.

Cell Counting - Perform online analysis of cell counts and cell viability. Automated dilution options are available to maintain the cell counts in a desired range for the cell counter. This feature is very helpful for perfusion and cell culture reaching cell densities greater than one million cells/ml. The ARS supports several Cell Counters such as the Innovatis Cedex and the Beckman Vi-Cell.

21 CFR Part 11 Compliance Option
An optional 21 CFR Part 11 software module is available.

Comprehensive System Support Option
The technical staff at Groton Biosystems has the experience and expertise to adapt the ARS to unique operating environments and procedures.