Spectrum's new single and dual flowpath MiniKros Plus Systems are
designed for process-development scale filtration as well as continuous perfusion of
cell cultures and bacterial fermentation. These new autoclavable systems allow you
to process volumes ranging from 300 ml to 100 liters on the single flow-path system
and 300 ml to 200 liters on the dual flowpath system, as well as optimize critical
parameters for process scale-up. Total filtration can be achieved in 30 minutes to
6 hours depending on the application.
The adjustable support-stand features an inlet block and outlet block that easily slide
and lock in place on a pair of support rails. This allows the MiniKros Plus Systems the
flexibility to be used with Spectrum's full range of 1X, 2X and 3X length MiniKros Plus modules
(205 to 9,900 cm2) and CellFlo® Plus modules (500 cm2
to 4.1 m2), as well as other process filtration modules with
lengths up to 32".
The MiniKros Plus Systems come with two pairs of interchangeable support rails of different lengths,
30" for 1X and 2X modules and 40" for 1X, 2X and 3X modules. This allows a single system
the adaptability to be used in various confined spaces like sterile hoods, incubators and coolers.
Spectrum offers 5 different system configurations of the MiniKros Plus system for a
variety of applications and processes. Both the single flow-path system and dual
flow-path system are available with and without a peristaltic pump. The dual flow-path
system is also available with two pumps for independent flow-path operation.
The MiniKros Plus system with dual flow-path and 2 pumps offers the ultimate
in versatility, allowing you the capability of many different filtration processes and
modes of operation with just one system.
Spectrum designed the new MiniKros Plus Systems to make
standard operation easier as well as encourage the optimization
of many unique modes of operation at the process development
scale. Since many of these complex process modes are utilized
in manufacturing, Spectrum engineered the MiniKros Plus
System for the scale-up of specific process modes as well as
parameters. Complex process modes are derived from the basic
operational modes: batch concentration or clarification, topped off
batch concentration or clarification, diafiltration and any combination
thereof.
Single Filtration: Both the single flow-path and dual flow-path
MiniKros Plus systems can be set-up for single filtration using
one of the standard process modes. The peristaltic pump circulates
the process stream through the filter while clarified filtrate
passes through the fiber walls, the retentate is re-circulated for
further processing. More solution is pulled into circulation from
the feed reservoir at the same rate filtrate passes through the filter,
maintaining constant volume.
Dual Filtration: The dual flow-path MiniKros Plus system allows
for two independent single filtrations to be operated on the same
stand by two different pumps. Because the flow-paths are completely
separate, two different applications, process modes and
sets of parameters can be performed concurrently.
Parallel Filtration: Using a single pump at double the rate, the
inlet stream splits and flows through two identical filters while the
retentate streams merge prior to recirculation. The two filtrates
can be separated or joined. The process mode doubles the membrane
surface area while preventing the fouling of a single filter
from stopping filtration. The mode is ideal for concentrating viscous
samples like proteins or latex diagnostic particles.
Diverted Filtration: Using the same system and flow-path set-up
as parallel filtration, shut-off clamps are used to direct the flow
stream through one filter at a time. If the first filter fouls, the
clamps can be used to divert the flow through the second filter.
Perfectly suited for continuous cell perfusion, diverted filtration
extends the process duration without having to start over and risk
breaching sterility when replacing a plugged filter.
Series Filtration: A single pump drives the process stream
through the first filter. The retentate continues as the inlet stream
for a second filter. The second filter retentate returns to the
process reservoir for re-circulation. The two filtrates can be separate
or joined. Shear sensitive cells benefit from doubling the
membrane surface area without doubling the pumping rate. Also,
filter fouling is not a problem.
Simultaneous Filtration: A process stream is recirculated
through a microfiltration membrane in a topped-off batch or diafiltration
mode. The filtrate is simultaneously re-circulated by a second
pump through a second ultrafiltration membrane with the downstream filtrate
going to waste. Being the most complex, this
process mode is ideal for the simultaneous clarification and
concentration/purification of samples like virus and proteins.
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