As milk-testing laboratories face increasing economic pressure and the need to optimize workflows, Milchprüfring Bayern e.V. (mpr Bayern) evaluated BactoScan™ 5 to assess how it performs in daily operation under their routine conditions. The evaluation was carried out by the technical team at mpr Bayern and summarized by Christine Röhrl, Head of Technical Operations, based on their practical experience during the assessment phase.
Their evaluation shows how BactoScan™ 5 helped speed up daily readiness, prevent unplanned interruptions through built-in automation, and reduce hands-on work for operators, contributing to improved efficiency, reduced downtime, and simpler operational routines.
More efficient startup and automated performance checks
Mpr Bayern reports that the BactoScan™ 5 startup routine has been reduced from approximately 1 hour to around 30 minutes, compared to Bactoscan™ FC. This allows laboratories to begin processing samples much faster. Automatic valve testing during initialization also identifies potential issues before measurements begin, helping prevent delays and support a stable workflow.
Improved mechanical reliability and fewer interruptions
On the BactoScan FC, a plugged sample could cause the pipette unit to collide with the sample lid. In daily laboratory work, this often led to unplanned stops, additional cleaning cycles, and in some cases mechanical damage, such as bent stirrers, before testing could continue. During its evaluation, mpr Bayern found that BactoScan 5 avoids these situations. The redesigned pipette unit detects an obstacle early, moves back automatically, and informs the operator via the system. Once the cause is corrected, the analysis can continue without further restrictions. According to mpr Bayern, this results in fewer workflow interruptions, less wear on mechanical parts, and a significant reduction in spare part consumption, helping the laboratory maintain a smoother and more predictable daily operation.
Streamlined standardisation and reduced operator workload
On the BactoScan FC, determining the LED setpoint required multiple repeat measurements and manual calculations, making the process time consuming and dependent on operator experience. In daily laboratory work, this could lead to longer setup times and variation between users. Mpr Bayern found that BactoScan 5 simplifies this task through fully automated BCS standardization. The target value is determined automatically, without manual calculations, and independently of the operator. In practice, this supports more consistent routines, less hands on work for staff, and fewer opportunities for user error, making standardization easier to manage as part of daily operation.
Optimized reagent usage and lower operating costs
Mpr Bayern highlights several benefits related to the improved reagent concept in BactoScan 5:
• Shorter chemical inspection routines
• Reduced storage requirements
• Fewer potential error sources
• Minimal leftover chemicals
• Lower disposal and special waste handling costs.
Together, these improvements help reduce overall running costs and supporta more sustainable workflow.
More robust vacuum system and simplified troubleshooting
On the BactoScan FC, the vacuum buffer was placed below several functional components, increasing the risk of liquid entering the pump and causing moisture related damage. According to mpr Bayern, BactoScan 5 places the vacuum container above all components, which significantly reduces this risk.Mpr Bayern also reports that the design of BactoScan 5 makes troubleshooting clearer and faster, helping operators identify error causes more efficiently and maintain a more stable daily operation.
Conclusion: Proven improvements for milk-testing labs
Mpr Bayern’s experience demonstrates that BactoScan 5 delivers clear operational improvements compared with previous generations. These include faster startup, smarter automation, fewer mechanical interruptions and lower consumable usage. For labs aiming to increase throughput while reducing manual effort and operating costs, BactoScan 5 offers a reliable and modern solution that has been validated under real operating conditions.
