SAFE® SBS-Racks FAQ –
Structure, Compatibility & Applications
SAFE® SBS-Racks from LVL technologies are standardized storage systems for structured, automatable, and cryo-compatible organization of 2D tubes. This FAQ section answers key questions regarding SBS formats, ANSI/SBS compatibility, material stability, traceability, and applications in modern laboratory environments.
SAFE® SBS-Racks comply with the geometric requirements of the ANSI/SBS standard, supporting integration into automated storage systems, liquid-handling platforms, rack readers, and robotic solutions. Through precise grid structures, dimensionally stable polymer materials, and systemic alignment with SAFE® 2D tubes, SBS-Racks enable reproducible pick-and-place processes, reliable rack scanning, and clear assignment of each sample to its rack position.
Especially in biobanking, pharmaceutical research, clinical diagnostics, and high-throughput operations, SAFE® SBS-Racks help store samples safely, space-efficiently, and with digital traceability.
Basics & Standards
SBS stands for the ANSI/SBS standard (Society for Biomolecular Screening). It defines the external dimensions, height profiles, and grid spacing for microplates and racks.
SAFE® SBS-Racks meet these geometric requirements, making them compatible with common automation, storage, and liquid-handling systems.
SAFE® SBS-Racks are available in 24-, 48-, and 96-position formats.
These layouts match standard 2D tube configurations and allow structured sample organization in standardized automated environments.
Automated systems rely on defined gripping, scanning, and pipetting positions.
Only standardized rack dimensions ensure reproducible mechanical processes in:
- Automated storage systems
- Shuttle systems
- Pipetting robots
- High-throughput screening platforms
Deviations in geometry or grid spacing can lead to misalignment or scanning errors.
Material & Stability
SAFE® SBS-Racks are made of dimensionally stable, cryo-compatible polymer material.
The material is designed for applications from room temperature down to −196 °C and exhibits high structural stability under thermal stress.
SAFE® SBS-Racks are designed for cryogenic applications down to −196 °C.
The material minimizes thermally induced stress and reduces the risk of warping or position instability during repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
The precisely manufactured grid structure ensures 2D tubes sit in exact positions.
This design:
- Distributes mechanical forces evenly
- Increases structural rigidity
- Reduces deformation during cryogenic storage
- Supports reproducible scanning and gripping processes
Position stability is particularly critical for rack readers and robotic systems.
Compatibility & Integration
SAFE® SBS-Racks are designed for standardized 2D tubes in ANSI/SBS format.
Optimal mechanical fit is guaranteed with SAFE® 2D tubes, as rack and tube design are systemically aligned.
Each tube position is geometrically unique.
Combined with the 2D DataMatrix code on the tube bottom, this ensures clear assignment of ID to physical position.
Rack readers can capture all positions simultaneously and transfer data directly to a LIMS system.
Yes.
The standardized footprint allows integration into automated sample storage, shuttle systems, and robotic solutions.
Precise dimensional accuracy supports reproducible pick-and-place processes.
Workflow & Efficiency
SBS-Racks allow simultaneous handling of many samples.
Simultaneous rack scanning significantly reduces scan time and minimizes manual intervention.
In high-throughput environments, this supports process speed and reproducibility.
The defined grid structure allows simultaneous reading of all 2D DataMatrix codes with rack readers.
The stable geometry ensures each position is optically captured correctly.
SAFE® SBS-Racks are suitable for modular storage concepts.
Depending on the system, they can be stacked or integrated into cryoboxes or automated storage trays.
Applications & Value
SAFE® SBS-Racks are used in:
- Biobanking
- Pharmaceutical research
- Clinical diagnostics
- High-throughput screening
They provide the mechanical foundation for structured, automated sample management.
Through standardized geometry, dimensionally stable material, and precise grid spacing, SAFE® SBS-Racks reduce mechanical misalignment.
Combined with SAFE® 2D tubes, this creates a coordinated system of identification, storage, and documentation.
Design & Special Features
The honeycomb structure is a well arrangement inspired by honeybee combs.
It increases packing density by approximately +43%, allowing 138 sample tubes to be stored on the same footprint instead of 96.
This also supports stable tube positions in cryogenic applications down to −196 °C.
At extremely low temperatures, material stress can occur.
A reinforced structure reduces the risk of tube displacement.
This is particularly relevant for rack readers and automated gripping systems, as position deviations can lead to scanning or handling errors.
