Ezi-Dock
Originally launched in 2009, the Ezi-Flow CSV transfer system offered a number of desirable benefits over traditional split butterfly valves or other commonly used contained transfer systems. Three years on, more then 500 systems have been deployed worldwide and 11 of the top 12 pharmaceutical companies are using Ezi-Flow CSV within their operations. Now a new model offers further performance enhancements based on operators’ hands-on experience.
The original Ezi-Flow CSV was developed by UK-based pharmaceutical packaging specialist Ezi-Dock Systems to provide a range of much-needed improvements in the transfer of sensitive or hazardous powders, solids, steriles, tablets and wet cake. The system the company developed is now in use within the operations of almost all of the world’s major pharma manufacturers throughout Europe and in North America, Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan and India.
Ezi-Dock Systems’ MD Steve McAleavy explained: “We were well aware that existing contained transfer systems were far from satisfactory. Manufacturers either used outmoded split butterfly valves, which required lengthy, cumbersome and potentially hazardous cleaning, or newer single-use systems, which often delivered inadequate levels of containment, high cost and long lead times for systems and consumables.
“Given the ever-increasing potency of active ingredients, it was clear that an improved system, offering much higher levels of containment, lower cost and trouble-free supply, would find a ready market.”
Key features of the Ezi-Flow system proved popular from the outset. Ezi-Flow offers a full-bore for faster and easier discharge and is available in both 4 and 6” formats. Both the passive connection and the chargebag are disposable, drastically reducing or removing the need for cleaning and revalidation. Attractively, the Ezi-Flow system is at least four to five times less expensive than equivalent split valve equipment. The cost of consumables, which use anti-static materials as standard, is around 40% less than is common in the industry.
Ezi-Dock’s Mike Brimson said: “Ezi-Flow CSV was developed specifically to provide class-leading performance and ease-of-use alongside a welcome cost advantage. The original product did just that and our Mk 2 version brought further benefits. Now that we have so many units in use throughout the world, we have been able to channel feedback from users to develop the CSV Mk 3, which is even simpler to operate and is totally liquid tight, allowing safe and easy flushing or the trouble-free addition of liquids.
“We have poured thousands of hours and significant development budget into this system and have worked hand-in-hand with our customers to develop the products they need, rather than the ones it is convenient for us to produce. We believe the result is the finest and best-specified contained transfer system available and it’s all been done here in Nottinghamshire, in the heart of the UK.”
Ezi-Dock Systems Ltd, +44 870 041 0326, sales@ezidock.com, www.ezidock.com.