Tecan’s 3-in-1 HydroFlex™ platform provides automated filtration, separation and plate washing

Tecan´s HydroFlex, the compact 3-in-1 application platform for automated vacuum filtration, magnetic bead separation and plate washing, provides increased productivity and reliable results by automating a range of 96-well format applications, including PCR clean-up and bead assays, ELISAs, cell assays and protein arrays. The HydroFlex automates key process steps including self-sealing of filtration plates, on-line vacuum control and fast dispensing of wash buffers, and offers a tunable vacuum range from -50 mbar to -850 mbar for both high and low vacuum applications.

The HydroFlex also provides automated magnetic bead separation for a broad range of applications and the washing conditions can be adjusted to suit diverse protocols. It includes a shaking mode to enhance fast mixing of beads and strong magnets to quickly settle the beads.

The platform offers highly efficient microplate washing with low residual volumes and minimal cell detachment, even with weakly adherent cell lines. Its outstanding on-line control features include a process control manifold that monitors all overflow wash steps, and a liquid level detection system to monitor filling levels in wash buffers and waste bottles.

The HydroFlex is easily operated as a stand-alone instrument with its built-in keypad, or by using the intuitive HydroControl™ software for simple pre-programming of wash cycles and plate parameters. The software has been designed to meet the FDA CFR 21 part 11 regulations, and fulfils user administration requirements, including electronic records and signatures, allowing the HydroFlex to be integrated with Tecan’s Freedom EVO^® liquid handling workstations or Freedom EVOlyzer^® ELISA analyzer.