Sample Preparation Grinding and Polishing

High-Volume Sample Preparation System for Operator-Free Sample Preparation

The VELOX 102-JR is a completely automated and programmable system designed for effortless sample preparation. It enables high-volume sample throughput, covering everything from coarse grinding to fine grinding, polishing, fine polishing, cleaning, and drying. All you have to do is position the sample holders, choose the appropriate program number for your specific application, and press the "Start" button. With this simple process, your samples will be prepared automatically, ready for analysis.

Equipped with a powerful 1.1 kW motor, the grinding/polishing station offers adjustable variable wheel speed ranging from 50 to 600 RPM, along with a soft start-stop function. It can accommodate 250 mm grinding/polishing discs. The station includes an automatic disc cleaning feature, ensuring that the discs are always ready for subsequent use.

The fully automatic sample cleaning and drying station performs pressurised water cleaning, ethanol cleaning, optional ultrasonic cleaning, and rapid drying using filtered air. It can be programmed with consistent or varying parameters for each grinding/polishing step.

The Velox 102-JR is equipped with a built-in automatic grinding/polishing disc exchange system, capable of storing up to 10 different discs. During the cleaning process, the system automatically swaps the grinding or polishing discs according to the selected preparation recipe. The software notifies the operator to replace a disc when it has reached the end of its life cycle.

The VELOX 102-JR boasts an ultra-compact design that incorporates all the necessary components for fully automated sample preparation. With a total width of only 125 cm, it can fit comfortably in any laboratory setting.

The Automatic Head, driven by a precise motor, seamlessly progresses through each step automatically, ensuring the utmost accuracy and reproducibility. With adjustable "Central" force ranging from 30 N to 750 N, pneumatically controlled, it guarantees precise application of pressure. The head is equipped with a built-in encoder to measure the amount of material removed from the surface. It allows for setting the desired grinding depth, accommodating various sample types and applications requiring exceptional precision. The high-torque 350 W motor of the automatic head offers adjustable variable speed, ranging from 50 RPM to 200 RPM, with a gentle start-stop function. Both clockwise and counterclockwise rotations are possible. The head can accommodate sample holders with a diameter of Ø160 mm.

The VELOX 102-JR features an ultra-compact design, encompassing all the necessary systems for fully automated sample preparation. This includes a grinding/polishing station, automatic sample cleaning and drying station, automatic disc replacement system, automatic sample holder replacement system, and an automatic peristaltic dosing unit. Despite its comprehensive functionality, the VELOX 102-JR occupies a mere width of 125 cm, making it suitable for any laboratory space.

With the VELOX 102-JR, operator-free sample preparation becomes a reality. The system can perform all the required preparation steps automatically, freeing up the operator's time for other laboratory activities. This eliminates the need for manual intervention in time-consuming preparation tasks.

Efficiency is a key advantage of the VELOX 102-JR. With its fully automated operation, there is no waiting time between preparation steps as experienced in manual processes. As soon as one operation step is completed, the next step commences immediately, maximising the utilisation of time.

The robust construction of the VELOX 102-JR ensures precise sample surfaces. The automatic head is securely mounted on a strong platform, eliminating any bending or tilting during force application. This guarantees uniform and perpendicular force distribution on all samples, resulting in high-quality surface finishes, even on complex and hard materials.

Reproducibility is another notable feature of the VELOX 102-JR. Once the correct consumables and parameters are determined for a specific sample, consistent results can be obtained with every preparation cycle. Proven sample preparation recipes can be accessed from the Metkon website based on material type, or specific support can be sought from Metkon Laboratory for tailored applications.

In terms of cost-effectiveness, the VELOX 102-JR significantly reduces sample preparation expenses compared to traditional machines. It minimises preparation time and eliminates the need for manual labour. Additionally, the automatic peristaltic dosing unit reduces the consumption of polishing suspension during polishing operations, further optimising cost-efficiency.

Safety is prioritised in the design of the VELOX 102-JR. The equipment is equipped with a safety light curtain, allowing for easier process monitoring and access to the preparation area while preventing contact with moving or rotating parts. Immediate equipment cessation occurs when operators' fingers, hands, or ankles approach the operation area. A stack light on top of the equipment provides visual and audible indications of the machine's status.

Reliability is a hallmark of the VELOX 102-JR. Built for 24/7 operation and low maintenance, the machine features robust steel construction to eliminate vibration and stretching. Long-lasting mechanical parts, a Siemens PLC control unit, and modern electronics ensure continuous operation without compromising reliability.

The ENVIRO Filter Unit serves as a closed loop recirculating filter system designed for the grinding/polishing station of the VELOX 102-JR. With a 20-litre reservoir capacity and a 1-micron filter, it effectively filters and cleans the drain water from the grinding/polishing station, recycling it for cooling purposes. This system conserves water during the grinding process and is an optional accessory that can be conveniently placed inside the cabinet of the VELOX 102-JR.

For the Automatic Sample Cleaning/Drying System, an optional Ultrasonic Cleaning Unit is available. This unit offers thorough cleaning by utilising ultrasonic technology to remove contaminants that are tightly adhered or embedded on specimen surfaces. The cleaning tank is automatically filled and drained with the ultrasonic cleaning liquid. In addition to cleaning the samples, it also cleans the interior of the cleaning chamber.

To provide clear status indications from a distance, a 3-Lights Warning Beacon with Audible Signal is incorporated into the machine. This feature keeps the operator informed about the machine's status, ensuring efficient monitoring and operation.

For enhanced efficiency and error reduction, an optional Barcode Scanner can be utilised. The Barcode Scanner enables easy and quick loading of correct parameters for different samples. This eliminates the risk of loading incorrect programs due to operator error and increases overall efficiency. By implementing a barcode system for each specimen in the laboratory, fast data entry can be achieved, minimising errors. The Barcode Scanner is particularly useful when queueing different sample holders on the automatic sample holder replacement and feeding unit.