Wet and dry system biochemistry analysers are different technological devices used in laboratories to perform various biochemical tests.
Wet and dry system biochemistry analysers have significant differences in terms of sample preparation, reaction environment and result accuracy.
Sample Preparation
- Wet System Analysers: In wet system analysers, the biochemical reactions to be tested are provided with liquid reagents. Liquid reagents are mixed with the sample and the reaction takes place. Such analysers work especially with liquid samples such as blood sera, plasma and urine. For each individual analysis, the instrument automatically measures the amount of reagent required and combines it with the sample. This increases the reaction sensitivity required for detailed analyses.
- Dry System Analysers: Dry system analysers do not use liquid reagents. Instead, the reagents are placed in solid or dried form on test strips or slides. In this system, the sample is applied directly to the surface containing the reagent and the reaction takes place there. As the reagents are in dry form, there is no mixing with the liquid, making the process faster and more practical.
Precision and Accuracy
- Wet System Analysers: Generally offer higher precision and accuracy. The homogeneous mixing of liquid reagents with the sample ensures that measurements provide more detailed and reliable results. It is therefore preferred for tests that require more comprehensive and precise analyses.
- Dry System Analysers: Can provide adequate accuracy in some biochemical tests, but are generally more limited than wet systems. The dry form of the reagents can make it difficult to achieve the desired accuracy, especially in some tests where high sensitivity is required. Nevertheless, it provides sufficient accuracy for some clinical applications and gives fast results.
Ease of Maintenance and Operation
- Wet System Analysers: These systems require more maintenance. The use of liquid reagents can lead to problems such as clogging or reagent build-up inside the instrument over time. Therefore, regular cleaning and maintenance is important. In addition, wet systems are often more complex to install and operate.
- Dry System Analysers: It is very easy to maintain and operate. Since liquid reagents are not used, there are no problems such as accumulation or clogging inside the device. This makes cleaning and maintenance of the instrument simpler. It is especially preferred in laboratories that are not busy or in environments that require practical use.
Areas of Use
- Wet System Analysers: Generally preferred in large-scale hospitals, research laboratories and specialised clinics requiring extensive testing. It is ideal for critical biochemical measurements where high-precision results are required, for example in disease diagnosis and treatment. It is also used in complex analyses that require multiple combinations of reagents and assays.
- Dry System Analysers: It is widely preferred especially in outpatient clinics, emergency situations, field work or small laboratories when practical and fast results are required. Due to their easy portability and low maintenance requirements, these analysers are also frequently used in areas where rapid diagnosis is required in emergency situations.
Speed and Cost
- Wet System Analysers: They are generally more expensive devices and maintenance costs are high. However, the wide range of tests they offer and their high accuracy is the reason why many laboratories prefer this system. Also, the processing time can be longer because the liquid reagents for each test need to be prepared, added and the reaction completed.
- Dry System Analysers: Provides lower cost and fast results. It is especially preferred when performing low-cost tests. Since the cost per test is lower, it is advantageous to use in routine analyses in hospitals or in emergency situations requiring rapid diagnosis.
These differences are of great importance for the selection and use of biochemistry analysers. Considering factors such as the analysis sensitivity, test volume and budget required by laboratories, the choice of wet or dry system analyser is decided.
Published on: 18 October 2024Edited on: 18 October 2024