Qiagen releases new sample preparation automation system

The new system is said to facilitate the handling of liquid-based cytology and other types of liquid samples that are processed by clinical laboratories across the globe.

According to the company, QIAensemble Decapper enables laboratories to automate many tedious manual steps required for unscrewing (or decapping) the lids of clinical sample vials, extracting the sample material and pipetting it into testing vials and then recapping the clinical sample vial.

In addition, the instrument will also help reduce the risk for injuries to laboratory staff from repetitive motions, while also eliminating the risk for variation among laboratory staff and improving productivity.

Furthermore, it is believed to improve laboratory workflow by providing an automated solution for transferring clinical samples from closed primary vials to compatible tubes for downstream processing.