Powder transfer containment rings
The containment of powders during transfer provides the pharmaceutical industry with a daily challenge. PSL, based near Liverpool in the UK, has developed the ChargePoint split butterfly valve to address the issues of containing product transfer between processes. The unit does not require additional control systems or services, and its low profile makes it ideal where space is at a premium.
It works on the principle that one half of the coupling is contained in the active part and the other half in the passive. When the two halves are docked, the coupling becomes a single unit and can be opened to allow the contained transfer of product. When the transfer is complete, the coupling is closed and then undocked, leaving two clean surfaces.
During powder transfer a direct metal-to-metal seal is deployed, which minimises the gap between the two discs. The simplicity of the design means that other arrangements such as 0 Ring seals between the two discs, adhesives, inflatable seals or vacuum purging are unnecessary. The basic systems provide containment of <10mg/m3. With the addition of an extraction ring or vortex systems, optimum containment levels of <1mg/m3 can be assured. The Vortex system achieves OEL levels of <0.65mg/m3/h by injecting a mist in between two faces of the ChargePoint discs while the unit is being uncoupled, trapping any remaining powder in a damp state.
David Potter, sales and marketing director at PSL, said: 'The ChargePoint provides a flexible, simple and secure system for the handling of potent powders throughout a range of pharmaceutical processes including mill charging and discharging, dispensing, and charging of granulators and tablet presses.' It is available in a range of sizes and is designed to work in conjunction with a range of IBC systems.