Snorkel: Automated Sample Repository - Laboratory Freezer -80°C

Developed by Genepoint , the Snorkel system has been recognized with the prestigious iF Design Award 2025 , confirming its excellence in design and technological innovation and cryogenics .

• Complete automated system for sample storage
• Capacity up to 150,000 vials in compact model
• Automatic sample retrieval in seconds
• Integrated moisture-proof technology
• Liquid nitrogen backup system
• SampleAtlas management software pre-installed
• Facial recognition for user-dedicated space
• Compatibility with various tube and plate types

What is the Snorkel Sample Repository and How It Works

Snorkel is a next-generation automated sample repository , fully customer-oriented. The equipment uses automation design that allows storage and retrieval of samples at low temperatures in a completely automated manner.

Operation is simple and intuitive:

The automated system locates and delivers the requested sample without needing to manually open the storage compartment, maintaining stable temperature and protecting the other samples.

This functionality prevents unnecessary freeze-thaw cycles, a critical factor for preserving sample quality. Studies demonstrate that repeated freeze-thaw cycles cause progressive DNA degradation, with molecules larger than 100 kb being more sensitive , according to research published in Biopreservation and Biobanking ² . The same study showed that after 18 cycles, DNA fragments to approximately 25-35 kb regardless of initial size.

Available Sample Repository Models

The Snorkel sample repository is available in four distinct configurations to meet different laboratory needs:

Basic Snorkel (SAUF-1000/SAF-1000)

Sample repository with automatic rack retrieval, internal volume of approximately 1,000L and maximum capacity of 39,000 cryo boxes or more than 90,000 vials in SBS racks.

Snorkel Max (SAUF-1500/SAF-1500)

Expanded version with internal volume of approximately 1,500L, offering maximum capacity of 63,000 cryo boxes or more than 150,000 vials in SBS racks.

Snorkel Pro (AUF-1000/AF-1000)

Professional automated sample repository with automatic retrieval of both racks and individual vials , maintaining the capacity of 39,000 cryo boxes. Includes standard sample management system.

Snorkel Pro Max (AUF-1500/AF-1500)

The most complete sample repository, combining automatic vial retrieval with capacity for up to 150,000 samples , ideal for large-scale biobanks.

Technical Specifications of the Sample Repository

All Snorkel sample repository models operate in the adjustable temperature range of -50°C to -80°C for ultra-low storage, or -10°C to -40°C for applications requiring less extreme temperatures.

Sample Repository Security

This redundancy is fundamental considering the real risks faced by biobanks. Documented cases include the Karolinska Institute which lost 34,400 samples representing decades of research in December 2023 , when temperatures rose unnoticed in 16 cryogenic tanks. Studies document ³ similar failures that damaged one-third of the National Autism Brain Bank samples, even with redundant alarm systems.

In emergency situations, the sample repository's external door supports emergency opening for sample transfer. The automated mechanism can be quickly removed without impacting the storage environment, allowing manual access when necessary.

International Society for Biological and Environmental Repositories (ISBER) guidelines recommend that biobanks have backup units with at least the same capacity as the largest freezer, always operating at the required temperature . The Snorkel system goes beyond these recommendations with its multi-level protection architecture.

Moisture-Proof Technology in the Sample Repository

The Snorkel automated sample repository incorporates advanced moisture-proof technology through thermal stratification design that creates a natural barrier against convection and minimizes humidity. The front compartment is equipped with an air-cooled dehumidification system, significantly eliminating the need for defrosting.

Integrated SampleAtlas Management Software

The system offers Research Mode and Biobank Mode, supporting different information traceability requirements according to the laboratory's specific application.

For samples without DM code, the sample repository offers top-view snapshots that easily locate target samples before samples leave the storage location, preventing freeze-thaw cycles due to prolonged searching.

This functionality is especially important considering that studies show sample identification error rates between 1% to 10% in laboratories , and can reach up to 50% in some surgical pathology cases, according to a meta-analysis published by the CDC ¹ . Additionally, barcode labels can detach at low temperatures, compromising sample identification.

Innovative Intelligent Terminal

The equipment features an advanced intelligent terminal that facilitates operation and increases laboratory efficiency. The integrated facial recognition system allows each user to have their own exclusive space in the sample repository , ensuring sample quality and security. Personal operational preferences can also be automatically registered.

Compatibility with Various Sample Types

This versatility makes the Snorkel sample repository suitable for clinical analysis laboratories, research institutes, biobanks, pharmaceutical industry, and university research centers.

Effective Management Tool for Sample Repository

The Snorkel sample repository offers support for defragmentation and cycle counting at low temperature. Statistical data such as inventory fragmentation rate and storage utilization rate can also be provided, allowing continuous optimization of storage space usage.

Implementation Ease

Working conditions: 220V, 50Hz; standard RJ45 network port; recommended ambient temperature of 15°C-28°C.

Sample Repository Applications in Laboratories and Biobanks

The Snorkel automated sample repository is especially suitable for:

• Large-scale biobanks needing to store thousands of samples
• Research laboratories working with valuable samples
• Clinical analysis institutes with high processing volume
• Pharmaceutical research requiring complete traceability
• Longitudinal studies with need for long-term storage

Available Accessories and Shelves

The system offers various optional accessories for maximum flexibility:

• Integrated rack reader (SK-TS) for SAUF/SAF series
• Integrated low-temperature operation platform (SK-MO)
• Specific shelves for different rack and vial heights
• Customized configurations according to laboratory needs

Frequently Asked Questions about Snorkel Sample Repository

What is the difference between Snorkel models?

Basic models (Snorkel and Snorkel Max) offer automatic rack retrieval. Pro models add automatic retrieval of individual vials and include the standard management system.

Does the equipment need liquid nitrogen to operate?

Not for normal operation. Liquid nitrogen is used only as a safety backup system in case of emergency.

How long does it take to locate a sample?

The system locates and delivers racks or vials in a matter of seconds through a simple touch on the screen.

Is special training required to operate?

The system has a friendly and intuitive interface. SampleAtlas software comes pre-installed and ready to use.

What types of tubes are compatible?

The system is compatible with cryo boxes, SBS racks, EP vials, ELISA plates, PCR plates, 15-50mL centrifuge tubes, and cryopreservation boxes.

How does the security system work?

Features independent dual cascade systems, liquid nitrogen backup, and emergency door for manual access when necessary.

What is the equipment's energy consumption?

The system operates at 220V, 50Hz with standard RJ45 network port. Recommended ambient temperature between 15°C-28°C.

Related Readings

To deepen your knowledge about automated storage solutions, we suggest:

• LIMS systems for laboratories
• Automated biobanks
• Ultra-low temperature freezers

References

¹ Snyder SR, Napolitano LM, Mahajan V, et al. Effectiveness of barcoding for reducing patient specimen and laboratory testing identification errors: A Laboratory Medicine Best Practices systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Biochem. 2012;45(13):988-998. doi: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2012.06.019

² Shao W, Khin S, Kopp WC. Characterization of effect of repeated freeze and thaw cycles on stability of genomic DNA using pulsed field gel electrophoresis. Biopreserv Biobank. 2012;10(1):4-11. doi: 10.1089/bio.2011.0016

³ Shabihkhani M, Lucey GM, Wei B, et al. The procurement, storage, and quality assurance of frozen blood and tissue biospecimens in pathology, biorepository, and biobank settings. Clin Biochem. 2014;47(4-5):258-266. doi: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2014.01.002

This product is intended only for industrial or scientific research purposes, not for medical use. It should not be used directly or indirectly for clinical diagnosis or other unauthorized clinical medical purposes.