The special feature of the Minofiltertube is the possibility of operating with different process modules on the same filter device. The different process modules vary in filter area, filling volume, filter media and materials of construction. Using clamp connections, the Minofiltertube can be easily opened and closed, and if necessary, alteration and adaptation of the filter unit to actual process requirements can be carried out rapidly.
Mino Engineering developed the Minofiltertube filter device especially for the filtration of small quantities and for labo- ratory test work. The unit consists of a support module, a basic vessel, process modules and the filter body. On the one hand the support module carries the entire apparatus; on the other hand it serves as the operating panel, and also accommodates the instrumentation and valves for the service media. Using the basic vessel support, the apparatus is mounted as one unit. The vessel can therefore be tilted continuously from the normal vertical position to the horizontal position. The basic vessel accommodates the different process modules, which vary in size and design. The filter body, containing the hub for the filter media as well as the discharge valve for the filtrate, completes the unit. The basic vessel and filter body are compatible with all process modules.
Wide range of different filter areas
The modular concept permits a wide range of filter areas in one and the same filter device. The available areas vary from DN 38 (approx. 12 cm2) to DN 200 (approx. 300 cm2), which is equivalent to batch sizes of approx. 0.6 to 16 l. Various meshes, made of materials like metal, ceramics, plastics or textiles, can be used in the unit as filter media. If desired, the use of jacketed process modules enables either cooling or heating of the process. The process modules can additionally be executed in different materials and designs, according to actual process requirements. Glass, stainless steel or special materials can be selected for construction. Regarding the design parameters, the device can be delivered either as a conventional type or as a GMP model according to FDA or other guidelines.
Complete pipework and instrumentation
Completely pre-assembled, and equipped with all pipework and extensive instrumentation, the Minofiltertube unit only has to be connected to pressure gas (compressed air, nitrogen, etc.) and to hot and cold water, to be ready for operation. By means of an integrated pressure reducing station and a control valve for fine tuning, filtration pressure can be regulated according to actual process requirements. The cooling or heating temperature and the flow can be adjusted by means of an integrated mixing valve with an indicator. Additional instruments, such as temperature and pressure sensors for controlling and recording process parameters, are integrated in the basic vessel. Furthermore, glass process modules permit easy observation of the process. A safety valve protects the unit against overpressure, the admissible operating pressure being 3 to 5 bar. The use of electric energy was rejected when the Minofiltertube was developed, assuring absolute safety in hazardous areas.
One unit – many opportunities
In addition to classic pressure filtration (filtration, washing), the Minofiltertube can also be used to carry out processes which precede or follow filtration, such as chemical reactions, precipitation, crystallisation, extraction and vacuum or convection drying. Various accessories and options, including a filling funnel, agitator, reflux condenser, filtrate collector, etc., increase the operating scope of the Minofiltertube. In addition, the unit is ideal for operating processes under cover gas, and inerting of the Minofiltertube by nitrogen is also possible. Due to the pressure-resistant design, the device can be sterilised by saturated steam, and with the help of suitable equipment the filtrate can be discharged free of contamination. Moreover, the compact table-top design enables operation under laminar flow in the presence of toxic or reactive substances.
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Filtration and Separation Portal
Filtech 2005
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