Watson-Marlow has announced that Lab21 has installed two semi-automatic Flexicon FF series tabletop filling machines to automate diagnostic operations.
The Flexicon equipment is being used to improve accuracy and relieve repetitive manual operations at two diagnostic product facilities in Suffolk.
The investment allows Lab21 to better support screening and diagnostic laboratories with technically advanced diagnostic products.
Ian Christopher, operations director at Lab21, said: 'Previously our viral/bottle handling and filling/capping operations were predominantly manual.
'However, with growth comes a responsibility to evolve processes accordingly.
'We knew that by automating these operations we would improve accuracy and consistency, as well as ensure the ongoing health and safety of our employees,' he added.
Christopher said the criteria used in the search for suitable automation equipment were price, compatibility and size.
The model selected - a Flexicon FF30 semi-automatic tabletop filling and capping machine - was initially specified to handle all of the mainstream products (blood grouping reagents) at Lab21's Ipswich facility.
However, a rise in demand for one particular product contained in a 10ml bottle has seen it become a virtually dedicated resource.
