Pall launches PallSep Biotech filtration system

Pall Corporation (NYSE: PLL), a global leader in filtration, separation and purification, has introduced the PallSep Biotech system for the gentle separation of target molecules from complex biotechnology process fluids. The new system utilizes vibrating membrane filtration (VMF) technology and encapsulated hydrophilic polyethersulfone membrane filter modules. This unique combination reduces the accumulation of retained species on the membrane surface which allows for increased transmission of the target molecule.

“The new PallSep Biotech system expands processing options by allowing users to combine different process steps such as harvest and clarification within the same system, thus simplifying the process design”

The VMF principle is based on the rapid oscillation of porous membrane plates within a process feed stream to create shear at the membrane surface. The generated shear forces are limited to a narrow portion of the flow channel, reducing the amount of process fluid exposed to the shear. The cross flow requirements are much lower with the PallSep Biotech system than with other tangential flow filtration (TFF) technologies. This creates gentle processing and good product transmission.

The PallSep Biotech system supports the production of high value products like therapeutic vaccines and antigen extracts. It permits the concentration, clarification and purification of feed streams with high levels of biomass particulates and viscosity, along with difficult-to-filter solutions such as fermentation broths and lysates.

“The new PallSep Biotech system expands processing options by allowing users to combine different process steps such as harvest and clarification within the same system, thus simplifying the process design,” said Nathalie Pathier, TFF product manager, Pall Life Sciences. “The stable permeate flow and improved protein transmission we can achieve with this technology contribute to better process economics.”

The encapsulated 0.2 µm polyethersulfone membrane filter modules, available in filter areas of 0.2, 1 and 5 m², offer flexibility for scale up and scale down of processes. Typical batch sizes range from a few liters to 500 liters, depending on the process application.

Custom designed for specific requirements, the PallSep Biotech system can be operated manually or within an automated process. It includes all valves, pumps, sensors, vessel and piping elements in a process system. GMP requirements for biopharmaceutical processes are met without compromising ease of use, flexibility, cleanability, safety or operating costs.