Automated colony picking system

Compatible with a wide range of source and destination formats, it delivers picking accuracy in excess of 98.5% at up to 2800 colonies per hour. Available in three configurations, with options for single or dual lane destination plate automation and automated source tray handling. 

• Picking accuracy in excess of 98.5% 
• Up to 2800 colonies per hour 
• Up to 220 standard destination plates and up to 60 deep well blocks 
• Compatible with Petri dishes, microplates, Omni-style trays and bio assay trays 
• Available in three configurations 

The K8

The K8 is an automated colony picking system designed for medium throughput laboratories requiring reliable, consistent colony identification and extraction for sample recovery. It works with a wide range of source and destination formats, including microplates in 96 and 384 well shallow and deep well formats, Petri dishes from 4 to 15cm, Omni-style trays, multi-well growth plates and bio assay trays. 

Picking accuracy is in excess of 98.5%, with imaging carried out via a USB3 camera system and full positional feedback throughout. Different pin types allow transfer volumes to be defined, and all pins are manufactured in 316 stainless steel for ease of cleaning and longevity. 

The K8 offers increased operational capacity compared to the K6³. One or two destination plate automation lanes can be fitted, supporting up to 220 standard destination plates and up to 60 deep well blocks per run. Second stage automation allows automatic handling of up to 8 source tray locations. 

The K8 is available in three configurations. The K8 picker only is the base system. The K8 XT adds automated destination plate handling in single or dual lane configuration. The K8 XL extends this with automated source tray handling alongside automated destination plates, also in single or dual lane configuration. 

The K8 requires both an electrical supply and a compressed air supply at the point of installation. It is designed and manufactured by Kbiosystems, part of Porvair Life Sciences, and carries UKCA and CE certification. 

Key features 

• Multi plate
• Scalable

Request a quote or an expert consultation 

Want to learn more about the K8, discuss which configuration suits your throughput requirements, or request a quote? Speak directly to one of our engineers — the person you speak to can assess your requirements and advise on the right system in a single conversation.