PSL
Raise and lower drum hoist of PSL’s multi-drum Monocell.Given the trend for ever increasing potency of pharmaceutical powders, project engineers are continually faced with the challenge of upgrading the containment of their charging process to a new or existing reactor. Powder Systems Ltd (PSL) has refined a complete range of contained vessel charging solutions that will protect both the operator and the product down to nanogramme containment level.
PSL’s glovebox isolators are suitable for charging slurry and powder into reactors and other vessels from small-scale synthesis to bulk production. Many aspects have to be taken in consideration prior to design the appropriate charging solution:
• assessment of powder transfer method and powder handling characteristics
• evaluation of materials handling, including manual or mechanically assisted requirements
• vessel isolation method
• assessment of pressures or SIP requirements.
PSL recently enhanced its SlurryBox to enable charging of highly potent slurry into reactors through pressured vessels. The SlurryBox can be used as a central dispensing and weighing station, servicing numerous reactors within the manufacturing site.
The vessels are specifically built for high potent processes with a CIP spray ring to clean each nozzle and minimum product retention design. The powder is charged safely into the vessel from the SlurryBox and then liquid is brought in through nozzles to create the slurry. This method presents less risk of contamination with high potency powder as the product is moved within the site in a liquid state. Finally, the slurry is directly transferred from the vessel into the reactor under pressure for a better flow control. This also avoids using valves that demand a more complex cleaning procedure.
The multi-drum monocell is specifically engineered to charge a reactor from different size drums containing potent powder.
The monocell drum hoist is a pneumatic raise and lower system for multiple height adjustment with a 98˚ rotating actuator for a 50 kg maximum lift. The docking ring seals the drum chamber to the monocell using inflatable seals. The operator can then safely open the back door and reach into the drum without effort. The enhanced ergonomics allows minimum manual handling from the operator.
The Multi-Drum Monocell achieves an OEL of less than 1 μg/m³ eight hours TWA.
Powder Systems Ltd, +44 151 448 7700, info@powdersystems.com, www.powdersystems.com.