As UK histopathology services continue to evolve under NHS England’s networked laboratory strategy and the broader move towards digital pathology integration, the need for high-throughput, reliable automation has never been greater. Laboratories across the UK are consolidating workloads, introducing digital slide scanning, and adopting centralised diagnostic models — all of which demand equipment capable of delivering both speed and standardisation at scale.
In this environment, the Cromatec Stainer stands out as a high-performance solution engineered to meet these operational challenges.
Exceptional capacity
With continuous loading of slide baskets — each holding up to 30 slides — the Cromatec can process up to 1,800 slides per hour, ranking among the fastest linear stainers available.
Flexible configuration
Capacity for up to 20 baskets provides adaptability for variable daily workloads.
Continuous operation
Unlike batch-based systems, the Cromatec allows staff to add or remove baskets during operation, eliminating idle time and supporting continuous workflow management.
Why It Matters
- Enables UK pathology laboratories to meet turnaround-time targets for routine H&E and special stains, in line with NHS quality and efficiency benchmarks.
- Supports regionalised and hub-based pathology models by absorbing increased case volumes without requiring multiple instruments.
- Reduce bottlenecks and speed up turnaround times for routine H&E and special stains.
- Reliable staining, faster results and smoother lab operations.
Market Comparison: How Cromatec Stacks Up
While many automated stainers prioritise flexibility for IHC or multiplex staining, the Cromatec Stainer has been purpose-built for routine, high-volume histology — a clear advantage for UK laboratories managing large specimen loads.
Throughput Comparison
| Model / System | Type | Throughput (Slides per Hour) | Key Notes |
| Cromatec Stainer | Linear (H&E / Special Stains) | Up to 1,800 | Continuous loading; 30-slide baskets; ideal for high-volume NHS and private labs |
| Staining System Competitor | Linear (H&E) | ~360 | Batch-based operation; moderate capacity |
| Generic Linear Stainer (Refurbished Models) | Linear (Routine Stains) | ~600 | Fixed cycles; limited throughput |
| IHC / ISH Automated Stainers | Specialised (Multiplex/IHC) | ~90 (per 8 hrs) | Designed for complex protocols, not high volume |
What This Means for UK Histology Labs
With increasing demand for diagnostic accuracy, efficiency, and digital readiness, UK pathology networks are prioritising automation that supports scalable throughput and consistent quality. The Cromatec Stainer delivers precisely that.
- A single unit can replace several lower-throughput systems, reducing capital expenditure and maintenance requirements.
- Its throughput and reliability make it ideal for centralised laboratories, regional networks, and private diagnostic providers seeking future-proof infrastructure.
- By expediting slide processing, the Cromatec accelerates turnaround times for reporting and digital imaging, improving diagnostic pathways and supporting faster patient outcomes.
Aligned with the NHS’s ongoing modernisation of histopathology services, the Cromatec Stainer offers a robust, high-capacity solution that supports both traditional and digital workflows. Its combination of throughput, flexibility, and operational efficiency ensures laboratories across the UK can meet rising diagnostic demands while maintaining the highest standards of quality and compliance.
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