Spotlight on Filters
IV filter
Composed of a material that is compatible with specialty pharmaceuticals, an in-line IV filter can be used for up to 96 hours for the retention of particulates and microorganisms. The IV Express is a vented 0.22-mm filter that is suited for use with antibiotic solutions or in situations where the proper alignment of particulates and multiple admixtures is critical. The company specializes in the development of small custom filtration units for reproducible low-volume applications in OEM devices. In addition to liquid- and gas-filtration products, the firm supplies Quick Release media for diagnostic assay kits. Millipore S.A., Saint-Quentin-Yvelines, France.
Woven wire mesh filters
Woven wire mesh filters, screens, and strainers can be fabricated in a variety of materials to almost any shape or size. They are supplied in small, medium, or large production runs. Suited for engineering, processing, and OEM applications, the components can be produced to customer specifications. Design and development assistance is also available. In addition to woven wire mesh, perforated plate and other combinations can be produced. Endecotts Ltd., London, UK.
Medical venting laminates
A company provides ePTFE laminates for medical venting applications. The Gore-Tex laminates can be incorporated into transducer protectors, IV filters and spike vents, urine and ostomy bags, respiratory filters, and suction canisters. The company assists in determining the appropriate laminate for specific applications. W.L. Gore and Associates GmbH, Putzbrunn, Germany.
Microfilter
Combining high airflow and low resistance, a microfilter is suited for a variety of low-pressure air and low- to high-vacuum applications. Filter media ranging in size from 500 to ¾0.1 µm can be used. Hydrophobic properties allow free passage of air while stopping fluids. A clear plastic housing enables users to verify filter integrity and the presence of contaminants. The company also supplies a miniature gas-line filter that features the same specifications in a smaller package. Performance Systematix Inc., Caledonia, MI, USA.
Heat-moisture exchange filters
Recently developed heat-moisture exchange filters achieve 34.6-mg moisture output, reportedly one of the highest rates ever recorded. The company manufactures a range of filters that attain bacterial efficiencies
of 99.99999% for use in oxygen concentrators, anaesthesia and ventilation equipment, nebulizers, autoclaves, sterilizers, and other devices. Pleated filters are subjected to a sodium flame test to determine efficiency. High-capacity hydrophobic filters in disposable and autoclavable configurations and other special requests can also be accommodated. Air Safety Ltd., London, UK.
Pipette filters
Pipette tip filters manufactured using a fibre-conversion process provide protection from cross-contamination of samples caused by aerosol or radioactive particle transmissions. Depth-type filtration facilitates the coalescence of aerosol particles into larger droplets that are more easily captured by the Transorb filters. The products are designed and manufactured to meet customer requirements related to physical dimensions, filtration capture rates, flow resistance, and other performance specifications. Filtrona Richmond Inc., Richmond, VA, USA.
Pyrogen-free materials
Fabrics and components suited for medical filter and diagnostic applications are manufactured according to CGMP guidelines in ISO 9000–certified facilities.
No water is used to clean these pyrogen-free products.
Mesh components are fabricated in a Class 10,000 cleanroom. Plasma treatment and other surface modification processes are available. SaatiTech S.p.A., Veniano (CO), Italy.
Subminiature in-line filters
Disposable subminiature in-line filters are designed to remove most particulate contaminants
in compressed-air systems. The filtration medium—a Dutch-weave stainless-steel screen—is available in 5, 25, 43, and 73-µm sizes. Three filter models as well as filtered orifices in sizes ranging from 0.004 to 0.30 in. can be supplied. Air Logic,
Racine, WI, USA.
