Evolving operational conditions are the order of the day in today's biotech labs.  That's why Sartorius Stedim Biotech developed SARTOFLOW® Alpha plus - the flexible modular benchtop crossflow filtration system.  SARTOFLOW® Alpha plus provides semi-automatic micro, ultra und diafiltration and is especially suited for process development, clinical testing and for smaller production processes.  Thanks to its standardized options, the system can be adapted quickly and easily to the changing production demands of downstream processing. 

Intelligent Modules

The unique SIP (steaming-in-place) module for thermal sterilization gives users the option to run all crossflow processes aseptically.  For such applications, heat-resistant Sartocon® filter cassettes are available along with custom-built valves and sterile connectors.  This makes in situ sterilization of the entire system possible.  The SARTOFLOW® Alpha plus system is cGMP-compliant and self-draining.

The system operates with both disposable bag technology or permanently installed tank. So equipped, the new SARTOFLOW® Alpha plus features the ultimate in flexibility.  Thanks to consistent modularity and wide-ranging accessories like conductivity sensors, pH electrodes, peristaltic pumps and 21 CFR part 11 compliant software, the SARTOFLOW® Alpha plus is adaptable to every process. 

The crossflow system is equipped with a well-established DCU4 control module, which allows communication with the SCADA MFCS/WIN data logging and control software from Sartorius Stedim Biotech and makes integration with existing networks effortless.  Thanks to pre-programmed sequences, the MFCS software is easy to operate and enables semi-automatic workflows.  Start-up is thus faster than ever. 

The Ultimate in Flexibility

The filter holder takes up to five Sartocon® Slice cassettes, each of which has a filter surface of 0.1m².  The hydrodynamic properties of the filtration cassettes can be transferred to larger cassettes in the Sartocon® family.  All available SARTOFLOW® Alpha plus modules are designed for a minimum recirculation volume of 300 ml (with a 0.1m² Sartocon® Slice cassette).

Thanks to its IP54 rating for pump and the control module, the complete system can be used in refrigerated rooms and rough production climates.  The system is easy to install; it only needs an electrical connection and cooling water access, and optionally a steam generator.  Other components, such as compressed air, are not required for operation.

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A profile of Sartorius Stedim Biotech

Sartorius Stedim Biotech is a leading provider of cutting-edge equipment and services for the development, quality assurance and production processes of the biopharmaceutical industry. Its integrated solutions covering fermentation, filtration, purification, fluid management and lab technologies are supporting the biopharmaceutical industry around the world to develop and produce drugs safely, timely and economically. Sartorius Stedim Biotech focuses on single-use technologies and value-added services to meet the rapidly changing technology requirements of the industry it serves. Strongly rooted in the scientific community and closely allied with customers and technology partners, the company is dedicated to its philosophy of "turning science into solutions".

Headquartered in Aubagne, France, Sartorius Stedim Biotech is listed on the Eurolist of Euronext Paris. With its own manufacturing and R&D sites in Europe, North America and Asia and a global network of sales companies, Sartorius Stedim Biotech enjoys a worldwide presence. Its key manufacturing and R&D site is in Germany. The company employs approximately 2,400 people, and earned in 2009 sales revenue of 401,2 million euros according to preliminary figures.