Accurate results start with precise blood sampling
The sampling technique is a critical part of laboratory measurements and is reflected in the accuracy of every result you report. An exact volume of blood needs to be precisely diluted in a highly repeatable manner.
Commonly used sampling techniques
Two different sampling techniques are commonly used in today’s hematology analyzers: (i) a micro-pipette connected to a vacuum-generating, step motor-controlled syringe pump or (ii) a rotating shear valve. The suction process of the syringe pump is often time-based, and the technology is considered less complex and therefore a more cost-efficient solution. However, a syringe doser is more sensitive to variable pressure conditions and requires a mechanism for moving the sample probe in horizontal and vertical directions.
In contrary, the rotating shear valve allows cutting an absolute volume for analysis and is not sensitive to altitude and other factors that might affect pressor conditions. On the other hand, shear valve technology is considered more complex and therefore a more expensive solution. Many shear valves also have a design that makes them sensitive to environmental impurities that might cause leakage and thus will require regular cleaning.
Boule shear valve technology
Every Boule Swelab Alfa Plus, Medonic M32 and Exigo H400 hematology analyzer comes equipped with a high-precision shear valve. Not only is the shear valve extremely precise to deliver accurate results, it is also maintenance-free for you to enjoy significantly reduced maintenance costs: