Lab equipment for more flexible work: new mobile table series for lab devices withstands large mechanical loads

Der neue Labortisch verfügt über eine spezielle, chemikalienresistente Tischplatte, sodass verschüttete Lösemittel oder Kratzer keinen dauerhaften Schaden anrichten können. (Quelle: Sonation GmbH) / The tabletop is totally chemical-resistant, and its surface remains protected even after sustaining scratches or other superficial damage. (Source: Sonation GmbH)

Über eine Bedieneinheit an der Front lässt sich die Tischplatte nach oben oder unten fahren, wobei die robusten Hubsäulen für eine konstante Bewegung sorgen. Dabei sind bis zu vier Zwischenpositionen speicherbar, sodass verschiedene Personen ergonomisch an HPLC-Geräten arbeiten können. (Quelle: Sonation GmbH) / The tabletop can be raised and lowered through a front-fixed control panel, and the robust lifting columns allow quick movement. Co-workers of different heights who are sharing the device have the advantage of being able to store up to four different positions. (Source: Sonation GmbH)

Über das Bedienpanel sind bis zu vier Zwischenpositionen speicherbar, sodass verschiedene Personen ergonomisch an Labor-Geräten arbeiten können. (Quelle: Sonation GmbH) / Four different positions can be stored by the control-panel. This option ensures that lab workers can work comfortably and ergonomically irrespective of height. (Source: Sonation GmbH)

The modern laboratory is home to a range of different devices that vary in size and build, depending on their designated task and process. As this equipment is often extremely heavy and to be used in multiple labs at a given institute, it is best to set it up on a mobile workbench specially fitted for the device. The workbench should also offer sufficient flexibility so, for example, co-workers of different heights could all use it comfortably. For these reasons, Sonation GmbH has developed a new series of tables specifically designed to meet such challenges presented by lab equipment. The models’ reinforced base provides secure positioning for the apparatuses without sacrificing flexibility in the daily lab work. Additionally, a chemical-resistant tabletop prevents solvents and scratches from doing any permanent damage. The table can be fitted for use in any work situation thanks to its electric and infinitely variable height adjustment with freely configurable position memory, plus its modular design and optional expansions. The new lab bench has been certified according to the safety requirements of DIN EN 61010-1 and will be presented at this year’s analytica trade fair in Munich.

Such complex procedures as HPLC have become matter-of-course separation and research methods in testing, research and industry laboratories, and in the industries of analytical and clinical chemistry and biochemistry. “The devices sometimes comprise different modules, which can make their size and weight a bit daunting. That’s why the location and specifically the stability of the storage space are so critical,” says Christof Völkle, a managing director of Sonation GmbH. “The weight can quickly bend the tabletop, for example, affecting the calibration of the apparatuses and leading to malfunctions.” The modern laboratory has seen increased demand for equipment that is not only stable, but flexible. Some of the more complex test series require that devices be quickly manoeuvred into other set-ups without having to be reconfigured or completely dismantled. Sonation GmbH has met this challenge by developing a laboratory bench that can be implemented in exactly such scenarios: this mobile solution works safely and flexibly in HPLC environments and any other lab arrangement thanks to its exceptionally stable construction, chemical-resistant tabletop and modular range of functions.

Steel-reinforced tabletop supports loads up to 250 kg

The HPLC series sets itself apart from standard alternatives with its steel-reinforced base that can support an evenly distributed load weighing up to 250 kg, or lopsided loads of up to 150 kg. This stability is ensured by such design measures as V-shaped reinforcements under the tabletop. The series offers the extra advantage of  Trespa® TopLab®PLUS table panels, which provide maximum surface protection. “The tabletop is totally chemical-resistant and its surface remains protected even after sustaining scratches or other superficial damage,” Völkle explains. “Solvents won’t be absorbed even if they drip onto a scratched-up part of the surface.” Swelling and deformation of the surface, which would otherwise impact the device’s calibration, are thus eliminated.

The workbench series must also offer mobile installation, though, and still be movable even under heavy workloads. That’s where the castors come in, ball-bearing mounted and made by a premium German manufacturer. On these castors, the table can be moved smoothly and effortlessly under even the heaviest structures. The locking mechanism stops both the wheels and the slewing bearing, guaranteeing a strong hold with minimal play. “The table is also available with electronic height-adjustment for more flexible use. This option ensures that lab workers can work comfortably and ergonomically irrespective of height, and that tasks that require both sitting and standing can be carried out,” Völkle adds. “Also, solvent bottles that are usually stored higher on HPLC installations can be swapped out more easily.” The tabletop can be raised and lowered through a front-fixed control panel, and the robust lifting columns allow quick movement. Co-workers of different heights who are sharing the device have the advantage of being able to store up to four different positions. For safety reasons, the key must be pressed until the target position is reached. This eliminates the risk of damaging the device on wall units and other obstacles. The lab benches meet all the requirements of the DIN EN 61010-1 laboratory-equipment standard and were tested and confirmed by an independent test lab.

Accessories broaden area of application

The workbench is available in several dimensions. The height-adjustable models come in five different height ranges, allowing the table to be adjusted according to individual requirements. Furthermore, each model can be fitted ex works with such accessories as drawer modules, deposit trays and fixed shelves. Deposit trays, for example, safely store waste bins by moving automatically and ergonomically any time the height is adjusted. The fixed shelves, on the other hand, are ideal for holding a computer or other device in place. Cables are well-protected and housed in a spacious duct on the back for safe, discrete routing. A feedthrough at the rear of the tabletop lets the connection cables be inserted into the duct, which is situated directly underneath, and plugged into the integrated power strip. Different types of strips are available: 12 cold-device sockets are standard, but other configurations and country-specific versions can be built in according to the customer’s request. Wiring can also be fixed with integrated hook-and-loop fasteners to allow safe, unobstructed work. Last but not least, Sonation can deliver the table with a suitable uninterruptible power supply (UPS), particularly helpful for keeping the devices running while the table is being moved, and thus making the entire system more flexible. “We wanted to make this table series as modular and adaptable as possible to account for the many requirements in modern analytical laboratories. While we do offer certain standard models, they can easily be designed differently according to height and accessories. For example, we currently offer tables with widths ranging from 60 to 120 cm,” says Völkle.

Christof Völkle and the Sonation team will be available at booth 210 in hall B1 for initial conversations and any specific questions about the new table series and other products.