Discrete analyzers are instruments that automate the colorometric/photometric analysis process from sample preparation to final analysis. The technology employs individual wells, enabling testing of each sample as well as automated sample preparation of new samples while analyses are being performed. Sample and reagent addition and mixing are also automated.

Discrete analyzers offer several advantages compared with manual colorimetric methods and continuous flow analyzer techniques, such as segmented flow analysis (SFA) and flow injected analysis (FIA). Increased sample throughput is one of the biggest advantages. Discrete analyzers are capable of performing 150–1,000 tests per hour. Discrete analyzers also require less reagent volume and decrease cross contamination due to automated reagent dispensing. Ease of use is another benefit. The majority of systems have pre-programmed methods, which eliminate the need to run the required sequences by specific applications, which can be error prone.

Environmental and food/agriculture labs are two of the largest end-markets for discrete analyzers. Specific environmental applications include testing of wastewater, drinking water and surface water. Realizing the potential in the food/agriculture industry, many discrete analyzer vendors have developed application-specific systems capable of analyzing wine, beer, enzymes, proteins, fertilizers, tobacco and other compounds.

There are a handful of discrete analyzers vendors. Thermo Fisher Scientific has the largest market share. It offers the Aquakem and Gallery line of discrete photometric analyzers. The Aquakem line consists of the 200, 250 and 600 models, with the model number referring to the number of tests per hour. Its Gallery line consists of the Gallery, Gallery Plus and Gallery Plus Beermaster. The Plus model analyzes up to 350 samples per hour compared with the Gallery model, which has a capacity of 200 samples per hour.

SEAL Analytical is the second largest manufacturer of discrete analyzers. It makes the AQ1 and AQ2+ discrete analyzers in addition to the high-throughput AQUA 900, which can analyze up to 900 samples per hour. OI, a Xylem business, is another major vendor in the market and offers the DA3500 system. This compact unit has 250 pre-programmed methods and can perform up to 130 tests per hour. Other manufacturers include Systea, Skalar and Astoria Pacific.

The market for discrete analyzers totaled more than $30 million in 2011 and is expected to post modest growth for the next few years, with specific environmental applications driving growth. Under most conditions, the EPA recognizes and recommends discrete analyzers as an alternative method for its Clean Water Act programs; a fact that is growing the market by enabling the replacement of manual colorimetric and SFA/FIA methods. Food/agriculture applications are also expected to be a source of growth, as the technology replaces manual and semi-automated methods.

Discrete Analyzers at a Glance:

Leading Suppliers

• Thermo Fisher Scientific

• SEAL Analytical

• OI (Xylem)

Largest Markets

• Environmental

• Agriculture/Food

• Government

Instrument Cost

• $30,000–$250,000