In the Spotlight September 2007

Robust module facilitates filter changes

The "RFM22" ducted-terminal filter module from Camfil Farr (Riverdale, NJ) features a design that facilitates filter changes. The unit has retainer clips that hold a filter securely in place and can be adjusted to remove a filter. The RFM22 filter module is the first in the pharmaceutical industry to use such clips to secure a filter, according to Charlie Seyffer, manager of technical materials at Camfil Farr. The module's static pressure port helps users evaluate filter-pressure drop and sample the upstream aerosol concentration during filter-scan testing, thus facilitating filter change and airflow adjustment.

RFM22 ducted-terminal filter module (Camfil Farr)

The RFM22 module is constructed of aluminum with welded seams on the room side to ensure structural rigidity and prevent leaks from the contaminated side to the cleanroom side. The unit's hanging tabs are welded to the hood, thus blocking a common leak path.

Rupture disks provide high-volume flow

The "Sigma Series" rupture disks from BS&B Safety Systems (Tulsa, OK) enable high gas and liquid volume flow. The disks achieve operating pressures as high as 95%. The units' ability to withstand these high pressures reduces fatigue, allows the disks to last longer between replacements, and minimizes plant downtime.

Sigma Series rupture disk (BS&B Safety Systems)

The Sigma Series disks incorporate BS&B's "SAF" technology, which allows them to accurately achieve various burst pressures. The technology also provides a damage–safety ratio of ≤1, thus ensuring that an inadvertently damaged disk will rupture at or below its marked burst pressure. The disks' circular score prevents fragmentation when the units do burst.

In addition, the units incorporate a pretorqued "SRB-7RS" safety holder that allows them to be removed and inspected without requiring the values to be retorqued. The rupture disks are available in several sizes, and models are made of corrosion-resistant materials.

Auger feeder avoids cross contamination

The "PureFeed AP-300" auger feeder from Schenck AccuRate (Whitewater, WI) features a recyclable and disposable feed hopper to prevent cross contamination when users change materials. The flexible feed hopper and programmable external dual-arm agitation system enable the device to handle various materials. The disposable feed hopper is designed to reduce cleaning time.

PureFeed AP-300 auger feeder (Schenck AccuRate)

The unit is available in volumetric and gravimetric configurations for applications that require 0.5–150-kg/h feed rates. Extension hoppers and covers are available in 4-, 12-, and 36-L sizes.

The feeder's connections are made using sanitary quick-release clamps. These characteristics facilitate disassembly, cleaning, and maintenance. The unit has 316 L stainless steel parts and 32-microinch RA finishes on all contact surfaces.