The U‑2D™ Micro‑Sample Management System is designed to interoperate with common 96‑well solid‑phase extraction (SPE) manifolds, filtration plates, and transfer devices that follow ANSI/SLAS microplate standards for footprint and well spacing. In most laboratories, the system integrates smoothly with both benchtop and automated platforms built around these standards. 

Standards & Form Factor

• ANSI/SLAS 96‑well compatibility: The U‑2D plate conforms to standard on‑center well spacing and plate footprint, enabling drop‑in use with manifold decks and automation fixtures that expect a 96‑well microplate. 
• Assembly height (Rack + Base):
  • 350 µL and 500 µL formats: ~1.625 in total height.
  • 1 mL format: ~2.0 in total height.
    Confirm that manifold lids, gaskets, and deck clearances accommodate these heights. 

Manifold Integration Guidance

• Gravity‑assisted elution: The Rack may be used without the Base when you are relying on gravity flow rather than a sealed pressure/vacuum environment. 
• Pressurized manifolds (positive or negative):
  • Verify seal integrity before running samples; make gasket adjustments (adding/removing seal adapters) as needed to maintain an airtight fit across the full plate. 
  • When a sealed environment is required, mate the Rack to the U‑2D Base for mechanical stability and uniform load transfer. 

Stacking & Mechanical Load

• The top of the U‑2D plate includes four shallow recesses designed to nest subsequent Racks; however, do not allow an SPE/filtration plate to physically contact or load the U‑2D plate. Transferring mechanical stress from an over‑plate can lead to anomalies or failure. Keep a small clearance to avoid load transfer. 

Centrifugation & Vortexing Limits

• For centrifuge use, the Base must be mated to the Rack. The U‑2D assembly has been validated to 2,500 × g under normal conditions. Always check rotor/adapter compatibility, especially when placing an SPE/filtration plate above the U‑2D; user assumes risk if physical contact occurs during spin.
• For vortex mixing, avoid exceeding ~3,000 RPM to reduce the risk of insert displacement or mechanical stress at the plate/gasket interface. 

Automation Notes

• Because the U‑2D follows ANSI/SLAS geometry, automation units and manifolds that honor the standard typically integrate without custom adapters. Validate deck height, gantry Z‑limits, and gripper clearances using the heights above prior to full‑scale runs. 

Good‑Practice Checklist (SPE & Filtration)

1. Confirm plate height against manifold lid/gasket stack‑up (1.625 in for 350/500 µL; 2.0 in for 1 mL). 
2. Gravity elution: Base optional; for pressurized operation, use Rack + Base and qualify seal. 
3. Keep upper plates off the U‑2D (no physical load/pressure transfer). 
4. Do not exceed 2,500 × g (centrifuge) and ~3,000 RPM (vortex). 
5. Pilot test with water or surrogate matrix to verify seal and flow before committing valuable samples. (Rationale derived from the pressurization/sealing guidance above.)