What is Automated Liquid Handling?

From drug development and DNA sequencing to high throughput PCR testing, automated liquid handling has revolutionised the way modern laboratories operate. Next-generation technologies have made workflows more efficient than ever, allowing scientists to focus on innovation, data analysis and other critical tasks.

Below, we take a closer look at automated liquid handling and how the concept has transformed laboratories around the world.

Increasing walk-away time

Once of the key benefits of automated liquid handling systems has been the capacity to increase walk-away time for scientists. This allows scientists to spend less time carrying out manual tasks and more time utilising their unique skillsets.

Accelerating workflows

Automated liquid handling has been especially valuable for the drug development industry, allowing scientists to carry out the high throughput screening needed to discover new therapies. Automated liquid handling systems have also proved useful during the COVID-19 pandemic, with PCR testing labs relying on robotic systems to process huge volumes of samples.

Minimising human error

Even the most qualified and experienced scientists make errors in the laboratory. Automated liquid handling technologies minimise the risk of human error by delegating tasks to machines. This improves accuracy acros the board. 

Reducing contamination

Automating liquid handling systems instantly reduce the risk of sample contamination by eliminating the need for human contact.

The role of automated liquid handling systems

Modern automated liquid handling systems are used to carry out a range of tasks, some simple and other more complex. Here’s a glimpse at some of the roles they take on in the laboratory:

• Pipetting

Automated pipetting systems have eliminated the need to manually aspirate and dispense liquids in the laboratory. For example, epMotion 5070 and 5075 Automated Pipetting Systems from Eppendorf North America slash the time needed to transfer samples from individual tubes to microplates.

• Sample preparation

Stem cell research is just one field where automated liquid handling systems are used to prepare samples. Automated liquid handling technologies are also used for Solid-Phase Extraction (SPE), a popular sample preparation method used for the food analysis and other applications.

• Microplate washing

From cell-based assays to ELISA applications, automated liquid handling has made microplate washing faster and more efficient.

• Liquid chromatography

The latest liquid chromatographic systems feature built-in automated injection modules to fast-track the process. Automated liquid handling technology is particularly useful for high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in food analysis applications. The ultra-sensitive technique is used to detect additives and contaminants, identify ingredients, quantify nutritional components and carry out other analytical tasks.

Automated liquid handling systems have become a mainstay in laboratories of all calibres. By 2025, analysts predict the robotic liquid handling systems market will grow by 7% to reach US$4.65 billion. Find out more about the booming market in ‘Liquid Handling - What, Why & How?’