{"column":{"component":"Media","content":{"media":{"src":{"mobile":"/media/wbrnm3hl/serie-inside-factor-renaming-is-mandatory-54.jpg?width=668\u0026height=0\u0026format=webp\u0026v=1db892789a0aca0","tablet":"/media/wbrnm3hl/serie-inside-factor-renaming-is-mandatory-54.jpg?width=1145\u0026height=0\u0026format=webp\u0026v=1db892789a0aca0","desktop":"/media/wbrnm3hl/serie-inside-factor-renaming-is-mandatory-54.jpg?width=1642\u0026height=0\u0026format=webp\u0026v=1db892789a0aca0"},"alt":"Production of a mass flow meter in cleanroom","type":"image","link":{},"width":668,"height":0},"caption":""}}}
Application requirements
Pharmaceutical companies and testing laboratories make use of isolators to prepare and process compounds and agents under clean and sterile conditions. The chambers, configured in various sizes of modules, are literally 'isolated' from their surroundings, so that biological, chemical, and pharmaceutical actions can be conducted safely, and contamination-free, for aseptic applications. The Swiss based company SKAN AG, a global player in the field of cleanrooms and isolators for the pharmaceutical industry, asked Bronkhorst to help them with calibrating the air flow of the different microbial air sampler types that are required from the process owner. The required clean room conditions for the aseptic processes are supplied by the HEPA - highly efficient particulate air - filter system of the Isolator. For good manufacturing practices cleanroom Class A (equivalent to ISO 5) a specified maximum number of micro-organisms (colony forming units, cfu) and particles are allowed per cubic meter of volume. Isolators normally utilize a unidirectional - laminar - air flow filtered by HEPA filter to comply with these cleanroom conditions. Calibration of the flow rate of air through the sampler is important to be sure that the collected micro-organisms are associated to the correct volume. Therefore, the air flow must be measured accurately. Calibration must be conducted on a regular basis.
Important topics
Important topics
One master reference for all air sampler types.
Reference offers robust and compact design for safe and convenient transport.
Build-in multifunctional display for easy read-out and operation.
Simple calibration installation.
Process solution
A Bronkhorst MASS-STREAM mass flow meter is used to calibrate the air flow in the microbial air samplers used in the isolators. To this end, the flow meter is connected in series in between the collection head and the air sampler, so that the same controlled air flow goes through both devices. By comparing the read-out of the controlled flow from the air sampler with that of the flow meter, calibration is conducted by correcting the read-out of the former to the latter. In this setup calibration is done at 100 l/min.
To comply with the low-pressure level in process (100 Pa at 100l/min) the decision of a suitable flow meter model was made in favor of a small pressure drop profile over the sensor. Combined with the additional improvement of accuracy the customers’ requirements are fulfilled.
The flow meter complies with IP65 and is equipped with an integrated multi-functional and multi-color display. As this device operates with an inline thermal mass flow sensor based on CTA (Constant Temperature Anemometry) technology, it is less sensitive to humidity and contamination. There is no risk of clogging if a gas flow loaded with particles passes this device.
This calibration setup is characterized by a simple installation, a compact size as well as high measurement accuracy and stability. These procedures take place during service and maintenance cycles and allow the user to monitor the air sampler's reliability.
"Due to the simple installation of the calibration setup, it is possible for us to perform the calibration during service and maintenance cycles."
- SKAN AG
Recommended products
MASS-STREAM
In-line Mass Flow Meter/Controller for industrial gases
For 0.01 - 10000 ln/min
Accuracy ***
On board gas database
Low pressure drop
View range
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