HU 6 Hydrolysis Unit

Convenient, reliable and safe hydrolysis unit, for the sample preparation prior to extraction for total fat determination.

Preliminary Hydrolysis for total fat determination

The VELP Scientifica Hydrolysis Unit HU 6 is the ideal solution for the sample preparation prior to solvent extraction for the determination of the total fat content, in order to free the fat molecules ready for extraction.

This procedure is required in a number of AOAC Official Methods to determine the fat content of food samples such as meat, cheese, seafood, chocolate, cereal flours, etc.

The HU 6 performs hydrolysis in complete safety and handles six samples at the same time in order to maximize productivity.

Fast and safe hydrolysis

The samples are heated in test-tubes in an aluminum heating block offering excellent thermal homogeneity. Hydrolysis is performed in an acidic environment (4N hydrochloric acid) and in some cases also in a basic environment (20% w/v ammonia) for about 60 minutes at a temperature of 170°C. The hydrolyzed sample is then filtered in a glass crucible and washed with warm deionized water to eliminate traces of hydrochloric acid.

The HU 6 is supplied with a vacuum pump that ensure safety thanks to the reduction of acid fumes.

The glass crucible containing the hydrolyzed and washed sample is oven dried before being placed in a desiccator. The crucible is then transferred directly to the SER 158 and SER 148 Solvent Extraction Unit avoiding any possible sample loss and ensuring improved accuracy of results.

Continuous filtration and rinsing of six samples in parallel

In some samples, direct solvent extraction is not efficient because the lipids are chemically bound to other components. The determination of the total fat content of these samples requires preliminary hydrolysis, followed by filtration and washing, in order to completely release the fat molecules.

The hydrolyzed sample is finally ready for extraction and can be easily transferred to the SER 148 or SER 158 Solvent Extraction Unit avoiding any possible sample loss and ensuring better accuracy of the results.

The HU 6 provides effective filtration and rinsing of 3 or 6 samples in parallel. The valves allow to selectively interrupt the vacuum in each position speeding up the filtration process.

TEMS™ Technology

HU 6 Hydrolysis Unit works with the innovative TEMS™ benefits, for huge savings.

Time Saving: rapid heating reduces wasted time
Energy Saving: limited energy consumption thus cutting CO_² emissions
Money Saving: cost reduction for each analysis
Space Saving: the narrow footprint saves valuable laboratory bench space