MetalLab: Standard automation for non-ferrous samples

MetalLab

The HERZOG MetalLab is the state-of-the art solution for automatic preparation and analysis of non-ferrous samples. Both optical emission and X-Ray spectroscopy analyzers can be integrated. The outstanding features of the MetalLab are flexible configuration of all components, adaptability to the specific requirements of the customer and the small footprint. The MetalLab is available in conventional laboratory design or as a container version.

The operator registers the samples using a registration terminal, barcode scanner or the batch-registration function of the PrepMaster. Various input options are available including, e.g., conveyor for normal and high-priority samples, spiral magazines or trays for sample batches. The MetalLab fits into a standard size container and can be stored next to the production site to allow immediate analysis. In this case, the operator registers the production sample using the registration terminal outside of the container and inserts the sample via an input flap. Within the MetalLab, an industrial robot takes care for handling of production, recalibration and control samples.
The MetalLab includes the HN-FF milling machine for coarse and fine miling of the sample surface. Alternatively, the HN-SF can be integrated for cutting of, e.g. mushroom-type samples and subsequent surface milling. After preparation the sample is transported to the analyzer. Optionally, the automated vision system of the SparkPoint module of PrepMaster checks the sample surface for pass/fail detection and spark point determination. Following analysis, the sample is transferred to an output magazine or container. As an option, the sample can be marked using a label, laser, inkjet, or matrix printer.

The functions of the MetalLab have been streamlined to guarantee the highest possible analytical performance as well as fastest possible sample preparation and analysis time. Furthermore, the mechanical systems and automation software have been tuned to reduce the operator’s intervention to a minimum.

Handling of production samples

• Management of priority samples: The control software PrepMaster Entry allows the easy definition of production samples with high priority for sample preparation and analysis. As a consequence, these samples are given preferential treatment over normal-priority samples.
• Buffer magazine: The buffer magazine is part of the standard equipment and allows temporary storage of introduced production samples. Interim buffering might become necessary if several samples are registered in a short period of time or processing of the recent sample is delayed due to specific analytical circumstances. The PrepMaster screen displays clearly the samples waiting for processing. The number of buffer magazine positions is scalable according to the requirements of each customer.
• Archive magazines: After completion of analysis, production samples can be sorted in different pull-out boxes. The PrepMaster automatically monitors the number of samples within the boxes and issues a warning in case of overfilling.

Handling of recalibration and control samples

• Configuration of samples: The PrepMaster software provides powerful tools for configuration of recalibration, type and control samples. Based on the sample diameter, the operator can determine the number and spatial distribution of spark points on the surface, the order of sparking, the period of time before re-milling of the sample surface and more.
• Management of samples: The PrepMaster software monitors all relevant key data of recalibration and control samples like, e.g., sample height and number of free spark positions. The sample height is measured within the milling or grinding machine and the value is transferred automatically to the PrepMaster. All data are easily accessible and clearly presented. Generally, the number of recalibration and control samples that can be administered is infinite and only limited by the available space.
• Scheduling of monitor samples: It is very easy for the operator to configure daily, weekly and other cyclic plans for analysis of control samples. In order to facilitate the management, various control samples can be summarized in groups. The outcome of the control sample analysis determines whether and which kind of recalibration is necessary.
• Various recalibration strategies: The PrepMaster can initiate both a full and selective recalibration. Selective recalibration will be initiated if only some instrument channels are out of limits. Full calibration might become necessary if more channels are out of limits or selective recalibration fails. The operator can choose whether incoming production samples will be processed between setting-up samples. Otherwise, production samples will be blocked until the instrument is again under control.

Registration of samples

• Interface to level-2-system: The PrepMaster sets up an interface to the superordinate level-2-system for receiving the sample identification. The PrepMaster contains all standard interfaces commonly used in production plants. In the rare occasion that the customer’s ID protocol is not available in the default settings of the PrepMaster it can be integrated without problems. If an interface to the level-2-system is not necessary the sample ID can be typed manually, read by a barcode scanner or chosen from a proposal list generated by the PrepMaster.
• Different registration devices: The samples can be registered using different HMI’s like, e.g., input terminal in the container wall, barcode reader, registration PC or PrepMaster PC.

Worksheets

• Generation of worksheets: In order to have full control of all processes for sample preparation and analysis, the operator can generate, modify or delete worksheets of all samples types. Editing of worksheets is simple and can be done by every authorized operator.
• Overview about worksheets: The PrepMaster provides a comprehensive overview about all worksheets including history as well as scheduled preparation and analytical steps of each sample in the system.