News

Transform Your Lab with the Power of Digitalisation!

In today’s fast-paced, data-driven world, laboratories must operate with precision and agility to stay ahead. That’s where digitalisation and lab automation step in redefining workflows, driving innovation and unlocking untapped potential.

At HF Innovation, we’ve witnessed the incredible impact of digitalisation firsthand, especially in fields such as oil and lubricant testing to empower smarter, safer and faster operations.

The future of lab automation is here. Are you ready to embrace it? Let’s discuss how digitalisation can elevate your lab to new heights.

Transform your lab with the HF Lab Desk Test Tube Receiving Station!

The HF Lab Desk Test Tube Receiving Station is a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance test tube handling at the lab bench. Combining sleek aesthetics with robust, corrosion-resistant construction, it ensures long-lasting performance in modern laboratories.

By automating test tube delivery, minimising manual effort, and integrating seamlessly with LIMS and HF systems, this innovative solution boosts productivity and ensures accuracy.

Whether handling labelled or unlabelled test tubes, it’s a versatile, future-ready addition for labs focused on precision, efficiency and operator comfort.

Transform Your Lab Operations with the HF Test Tube Sorter!

The HF Test Tube Sorter is a game-changer for laboratories focused on boosting efficiency, flexibility, and safety. This compact, automated system is designed to revolutionize workflows, handling high volumes of test tubes with minimal operator interaction.

Free up valuable lab staff time, improve ergonomics, and accelerate sorting with unparalleled accuracy.

Equipped with a step conveyor and a specialised rotation and positioning unit, the Test Tube Sorter automatically positions test tubes in the desired orientation, making them immediately ready for further processing.

With a capacity of up to 1,500 test tubes and a cycle time of approximately 10-15 seconds per tube (depending on feed length), it ensures efficient sample preparation, minimises manual handling and supports an uninterrupted workflow.

Introducing the Decapper, Aliquoting and Analysis Unit - Redefining Precision and Efficiency in Laboratory Sample Processing!

We’re thrilled to unveil HF’s Decapper, Aliquoting and Analysis Unit, a breakthrough solution designed to enhance laboratory workflows by automating the complex, repetitive tasks of sample decapping, aliquoting and preparing for a range of critical analyses.

Purpose-built for processing oil and coolant samples, this module seamlessly handles everything from decapping to aliquoting and analysis even placing lids—either back on the bottles or into dedicated trays.

With a high-speed XYZ gantry robot and dual decapper lines for speed and redundancy, the module completes each sample in just 60 seconds.

That’s over 1400 samples per day, all handled with the consistency and precision that only industrial-grade robotics can deliver. With compatibility for critical tests such as FTIR, viscometry, ICP, and even optional particle counting and crackle analysis, the Decapper, Aliquoting and Analysis Unit is a comprehensive solution adaptable to a variety of laboratory needs.

Automated Double Decker Tumbler Mixer for Oil Analysis Delivered to OELCHECK in Germany

HF is proud to announce the delivery of our first-of-its-kind automated double decker tumbler mixer for oil analysis to OELCHECK GmbH in Brannenburg, Germany.

This innovative system automates the mixing process for bottles and test tubes, ensuring precision, consistency and safety with every use.

According to Dr. Thomas Fischer, Scientific Manager at OELCHECK, "HF has been the perfect partner in delivering this innovative solution. It enhances lab safety by minimising exposure to hazardous substances and ensures consistent mixing, leading to more reliable data. Additionally, it boosts productivity by allowing our laboratory personnel to focus on other critical tasks while effectively managing our resources."

Automated Oil Analysis Lightning PQ for WesTrac

WesTrac in Western Australia had two discontinued automated PQ’s. These systems were very slow, taking around ~1 minute per sample. It often dropped samples and frequently stopped, reducing productivity and increasing the turnaround time of customer results.

The customer reached out to HF to see how we could assist them in improving their productivity and also help to create safer working conditions.

HF provided a new PQ that is four times faster and more reliable. It also integrated perfectly with WesTrac’s existing Analex PQL instrument.

According to Peter Harrison, Fluid Analysis Manager, "We are extremely satisfied with the Lightning PQ, which has significantly boosted productivity and enhanced safety in our laboratory. This cutting-edge technology allows us to deliver faster and more accurate results."

Exciting News! HF’s Automated Lightning PQ for Oil Analysis has reached a significant milestone—over 3 million samples processed!

With the ability to analyse 4 samples per minute (over 5,700 per day), the HF Lightning PQ sets the standard for speed, reliability, accuracy and efficiency.

Its advanced features and key benefits, including automatic calibration, AI-driven particle measurement and dual high-resolution cameras, deliver unmatched precision.

This robust system adapts to various bottle sizes, performs turbidity and color measurements and integrates seamlessly with HF’s automation solutions.

HF will exhibit at Lubricant Expo Europe 2024

Visit the HF team at Booth 656 in Hall 9, Messe Düsseldorf, Germany, from September 17-19, and discover how our cutting-edge, tailor-made sample preparation and analysis equipment can improve productivity and safety, taking your oil and lubricant testing lab to the next level.

Don't miss this opportunity to explore how our innovative solutions can enhance your laboratory operations.

We look forward to meeting you!

HF's Use of Large Gantry Robots in Laboratory Automation!

Large gantry robots are advanced robotic systems equipped with two or more axes of motion, allowing them to move over expansive areas or volumes with precision. Renowned for their power, stability, and scalability, these robots are particularly suited to tasks such as sample storage, retrieval and transportation.

These robots efficiently streamline the movement of trays or multiple racks of samples, transporting them from input or storage to various machines or instruments for preparation, analysis and subsequent storage.

By seamlessly integrating with existing laboratory workflows, these automated systems significantly boost operational efficiency and enable a higher degree of automation throughout the laboratory.

Automated Lightning Viscometer for Oil Testing Supplied to WesTrac in Australia!

WesTrac in Western Australia had two existing automated viscometers that were several years old, and not operating at optimal efficiency.

Laboratory technicians were required to constantly attend to these instruments, otherwise, they would quickly run out of samples to analyse.

An automated process was implemented by HF to improve the efficiency, speed, safety, and overall capacity of these viscometers.

"According to Peter Harrison, Fluid Analysis Manager, we are very satisfied with the Lightning Viscometer module, as it has enhanced productivity and improved safety at our laboratory. With this technology at our disposal, we can now deliver faster, more accurate results whilst prioritising the well-being of our team.”

HF Uses Many Different Types of Robots in its Laboratory Automation Solutions: Here is a look at HF 6-axis Robots!

These robotic arms have six degrees of freedom, allowing them to move in any direction and orientation with ease.

Their versatility and precision make them the perfect solution for handling complex tasks such as sample preparation, liquid handling and instrument integration.

Moreover, 6-axis robots can easily reach hard-to-access areas and work in confined spaces, simplifying your workflow and increasing efficiency.

An Automated System for Analysing Moisture, Ash, Volatile and Sulphur - and Automated Weighing of Samples for CV, CHN/O and More.

Built with industrial automation components, this robust system is fast, safe, and reliable.

The unit is tamper-proof and has a complete audit trail of all parameters and measurements ensuring the integrity and quality of results, making it the first of its kind in the industry.

The automated sample registration system and LIMS integration eliminate the need for manual paperwork, providing you with effortless tracking and data integrity.

The system enables compliance with industry standards and regulations, such as quality control and environmental compliance.

Oil Testing - Auto Image Particle Counter and Density Measurement

The HF automated PC D machine provides unparalleled precision in particle counting analysis, density determination, and sample dispensing for many other tests all at the same time.

Trays containing sample bottles are inserted into the machine and automatically registered. A cartesian robot transfers the bottles to a mixing station where samples are mixed and then degassed using ultrasonics.

Once degassed to remove air bubbles, the sample bottles are automatically decapped. The automated RoboPipette 6 removes aliquots for each of the tests from the open bottle.

One of these aliquots is pipetted into an automated Camera-based Canty Particle counter. One aliquot is pipetted into the density meter for analysis.

Automated Mixer for Oil Analysis

Revolutionise your oil analysis process with our state-of-the-art automated mixer.

Say goodbye to time-consuming and injury-prone manual mixing and embrace the precision and efficiency of automation.

This robust mixer automates the mixing bottle or test tube mixing process and ensures accurate and consistent results every time, saving you time, risk of injury and resources.

Whether you choose to use it as a standalone or integrate it into your automation system, this machine is guaranteed to optimise your workflow.

Its speed and mixing time are fully adjustable, allowing you to tailor it to your specific needs.

HF-i Laboratory Automation Solutions Uses a Wide Range of Robots - Here is a look at HF-i XYZ Cartesian Robots

Cartesian XYZ Robots are robotic systems with three degrees of freedom, allowing them to move along the X, Y, and Z axes.

What sets the XYZ robots apart is their remarkable simplicity, ease of maintenance, and very fast performance.

Whether it’s pipetting, diluting, sample weighing, or washing, these robots excel with unmatched efficiency and effortlessly perform basic laboratory tasks while minimising costs and maximising throughput.

Additionally, their seamless integration with other devices and software empowers you to customize workflows and enhance productivity like never before.

HF-i Uses Many Different Types of Robots in its Laboratory Automation Solutions: Here is a look at HF-i SCARA Robots

SCARA robots with their four degrees of freedom, can move horizontally and rotate around a vertical axis, making them super-fast, highly accurate, and extremely reliable.

They can handle a wide range of tasks, including plate handling, dispensing, sorting, and placing with ease.

Moreover, SCARA robots are designed to work in harsh environments and can handle heavy loads, making them perfect for demanding high throughput laboratory applications.

Navigating People Challenges in the Transition to Automated Laboratories

Are you preparing for the shift from manual to fully automated laboratory processes?

Let’s delve deeper into the people challenges that arise and explore strategies for success in this transformative journey.

By addressing people’s challenges and embracing a culture of continuous improvement, organisations can navigate the transition to automated laboratories successfully.

Investing in technical upskilling, fostering a culture of innovation, and prioritising inventory management are key steps toward unlocking the full potential of automated systems in laboratory operations.

A proven industrial-grade automated system for precise ICP dilution, viscosity and FTIR analysis of oil samples

Revolutionise your oil sample analysis with the HF-LVFI. It provides unmatched precision and reliability for diluting ICP samples (by mass or volume) and performing viscosity and FTIR analysis within the same system, all in under 60 seconds per sample.

Automating viscosity measurement along with FTIR analysis and ICP sample preparation for oil samples is a game-changer, offering you numerous benefits for your lab.

This robust system streamlines your operation, improves productivity, saves time, and delivers accurate results. With many units already in operation in major commercial laboratories, it is a proven performer.

Automated Postage Sample Bottle Decapper System for Oil Testing Delivered to WesTrac in Australia

WesTrac in Western Australia was receiving thousands of samples per day that arrived inside a secondary plastic bottle to keep them secure during transportation. These postage bottles needed to be opened so the sample bottles inside could be removed and registered in their Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS). Operators occasionally were suffering from wrist and hand injuries from unscrewing thousands of bottles per day. WesTrac wanted to automate this process ergonomically to protect their staff from injuries and ensure a safer working environment.

“According to Peter Harrison, Fluid Analysis Manager, we express our utmost satisfaction with the system's speed and reliability. The system has successfully decapped hundreds of thousands of bottles to date, which is an innovative solution that has not only increased the overall throughput of the laboratory but also ensured the safety of our lab personnel. With this robust system in place, our lab personnel can now focus on registering the samples into LIMS instead of spending time decapping the bottles, which has resulted in better efficiency, faster turnaround times, and improved productivity.”

Considering Automation in Routine Laboratories: Advancing Efficiency, Quality and Safety

In the realm of routine laboratories—whether environmental testing, soil analysis, oil analysis, mining or any other routine laboratories —automation does prove transformative.

Embracing automation can be a game changer in your laboratory.

Embrace the efficiency, consistency, and safety that automation brings to routine laboratories. It’s not just a technological upgrade; it’s a strategic investment in the reliability and success of your testing processes to improve productivity and maximise profitability.

Your Trusted Laboratory Service Partner!

Equipment not maintained may start to exhibit signs of reduced efficiency and reliability. This can be a major cause of concern since you need to trust your equipment to function optimally and not let you down.

Regular maintenance and repairs can help reduce the effects of aging, ensuring that your lab equipment runs at optimal levels to meet your production goals and boost your profitability.

We have a proven track record in increasing efficiency, accuracy, and improving safety within the lab.

Whether you need support or maintenance for small automated systems or a fully automated laboratory, our experts have the capacity and know-how to deliver top-quality service and exceed your expectations.

A New Automated Lightning PQ for a Major Oil Analysis Laboratory in Australia

Our customer in Western Australia had two automated PQ machines supplied by another vendor that were discontinued. These systems were very slow, taking around ~1 minute per sample. It often dropped samples and frequently stopped, reducing productivity and increasing the turnaround time of customer results. The customer reached out to HF to see how we could assist them in improving their productivity and also help to create safer working conditions.

HF provided a new PQ that is faster, more reliable and doesn’t drop samples. It also integrated perfectly with their existing Analex PQL instrument. The new PQ is four times faster than their existing systems, meaning both old systems could be replaced with a single Lightning PQ, and there would still be excess capacity for future growth.

Fully Automated TGA System for Cawood (NRM) in the UK

Cawood in the UK was previously processing samples manually for thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which involved dosing and weighing thousands of samples per day, placing them into TGA’s, and then removing them from the TGA’s after analysis. These tasks were time-consuming and repetitive. Their goal was to improve efficiency, increase capacity, and allow unattended operation.

“Alison White, Soil Analytical Manager, expressed great satisfaction with the new system which has significantly improved productivity at our laboratory. This innovative technology has enabled us to provide efficient and reliable services to our customers.”

Robotic Acid Digestion System Delivered to FLS for a Mining Customer

A gold mining customer in Canada was preparing and processing samples for analysis manually, which was time-consuming, repetitive, and hazardous (e.g., hot objects and strong acids). Their goal was to combine all these steps into a single automated system, eliminating the operator’s exposure to the hazards and allowing them to perform other more valuable and safer tasks within the laboratory.

Sample processing also needed to be faster and more efficient due to the high number of samples. The customer approached us for a solution to their challenges.

HF is exhibiting at the CAT DSG Global SOS Conference

We are excited to announce that HF Innovation will be exhibiting at the CAT DSG Global SOS Conference, taking place at the Virginia Tech Conference Center in Blacksburg, USA from 9 to 12 October 2023.

Our team of experts will be available at booth 210 to discuss how our innovative solutions can help you boost productivity, improve safety, and maximise profitability.

We look forward to meeting you and establishing new partnerships!

Hastings Deering acquires two HF Automated Viscometers

Hastings Deering operated sixteen Cannon CAV 2000 Series Automatic Viscometers which provided analysis as individual units. This method of operation was time-consuming requiring laboratory technicians to constantly attend to these instruments. Without constant attention, these instruments would quickly run out of samples to analyse.

Automation of the process had the opportunity to improve the analysis efficiency while reducing the labour required to operate these units.

Hastings Deering required a solution that significantly improved the operating efficiency of these units. They reached out to HF-Innovation for a cost-effective solution to automate their fleet of existing kinematic viscometers, allowing for unattended operation.

“Craig Boyden, Manager of Laboratory Services, expresses his utmost delight as these systems have greatly enhanced productivity and improved safety at our laboratory.”

Fully Automated Opacity, Colour, and Crackle Analysis System Delivered to OELCHECK in Germany

HF is proud to supply this first-of-its-kind system to OELCHECK GmbH in Brannenburg, Germany. OELCHECK laboratory routine was time and labour consuming by manually performing colour and opacity tests, by placing samples in front of a camera and taking pictures for analysis. OELCHECK decided to invest in a new Lightning Opacity, Colour, and Crackle analysis system from HF.

According to Dr. Thomas Fischer, Scientific Manager at OELCHECK, “we purchased other innovative equipment from HF. Therefore, we knew that HF is the right partner to develop and deliver this first-of-its-kind technology. We value the individual design that meets our specific demands. In addition, we appreciate the reliability and the high level of automation supplied with each HF equipment. This system managed to improve productivity at our facility.”

Exciting News! The HF-innovation PQS oil analyser, supplied to ALS, has successfully processed over 2.3 million samples.

This accomplishment showcases how HF Innovation continues to revolutionize oil testing laboratories with industrial automation.
By leveraging industrial components, HF Innovation is challenging traditional sample processing methods in the laboratory. Our innovative approach fully automates various testing methods, making them reliable and robust.

This system empowers laboratory technicians to focus on critical tasks while automated systems efficiently handle repetitive work. Not only does this reduce the risk of injury from repetitive tasks, but it also eliminates human error, enhancing the precision and accuracy of results.

Automated used oil testing methods to increase productivity and maximize profitability

We are pleased to announce that HF Innovation GmbH, a leading pioneer in industrial automation, has successfully automated all test methods for waste oil testing.

We have revolutionized the laboratory testing process by integrating state-of-the-art equipment from renowned manufacturers such as Perkin Elmer, Bruker, Parker Kittiwake, Cannon, Spectro and many others.