Dust Containment Systems
The use of highly potent APIs (HPAPI) in pharmaceutical manufacturing is increasingly prevalent. These drugs need to be properly contained because they are highly toxic. This includes any dust that is generated from the manufacturing process.
Dust containment systems are designed to keep hazardous dust out of the environment for operator safety, to prevent cross-contamination and guarantee the safety and quality of the final product. Any necessary system processes and maintenance, such as product changeover and system cleaning, is guaranteed as dust-free.
The occupational exposure band / limit (OEB / OEL) of the product is key to deciding whether to pursue a dust containment system over a standard filter system (which is commonly used in producing less-toxic drugs). Typically, when the product is classed as OEB Level 3 or higher then a dust containment system should be used.
Cyclone Powder Separator Systems
Connect a Cyclone Powder Separator to the extraction line of a process machine (e.g. tablet press or capsule filling machine) to capture 90-99.9% of waste powder. As almost all of the powder is captured in the catchpot at the base of the unit, it enables easy product reconciliation at the end of a run.
For high dust containment processes, the following features are recommended for the cyclone.
- Safe Change System: An isolation valve discharges product into a bag which is fully contained when removed – allowing for safe material removal between batches. Read more about safe change >>>
- Spray Ball: Used to wet the inside of the cyclone and captured material to prevent the dust becoming airborne.
- HEPA Filters: Fitting a HEPA filter between the vacuum source and the cyclone captures the remaining dust particles. It is also recommended that a second (police) HEPA filter is used to act as a back-up in case the first one fails.
Cyclone Separator Benefits
Cyclones use vortex separation to cause solid particles to hit the outside wall of the cyclone, de-accelerate and fall to the catchpot at the base of the unit. This allows ‘clean’ air to pass downstream to the dust extraction source and provides the following benefits.
> High efficiency design capturing 90 – 99.9%
> Prevents blinding and replacement of expensive filters in central dust extraction system or vacuum cleaner
> Improved batch reconciliation and yields
> Easy disposal of hazardous materials
> Almost zero maintenance costs with no moving parts or filters
> Recovered powder can be reintroduced (where protocol permits)
> Minimising material loss and saving money
Get in Touch
If you would like to speak to one of our experts regarding our Vacuum Transfer Systems or you would like a quote for one of our products, send us a message using our Contact Form or call us on +44 (0)1702 549 777.
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