Watson-Marlow GmbH

Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group has unveiled the new Flexicon FPC60 highly accurate peristaltic fill/finish system. A wide variety of modules are available for the system, allowing users to create their own bespoke filling solution to suit small-batch applications. The modules include vial infeed, filling, stoppering, capping, auto-reject, gas purging and product outfeed.

Capable of handling vial sizes between 2R and 100H the FPC60’s unique servo-driven auto adjustment allows for minimal tools and quicker set-up between batches. Moreover, when supplied with in-line check weighing, the FPC60 offers unique dynamic prime, no-intervention initial calibration and dynamic recalibration, meaning every vial, from first to last, is confirmed to be within specification. With the addition of dynamic prime, users will benefit from no loss of valuable product.

High speed, low downtime

With throughput of up to 45 vials per minute, and options for automatic segregation of rejects, speed is optimised and downtime kept to an absolute minimum. What’s more, highly accurate filling is assured from less than 0.2ml up to 100ml.
Designed for users seeking production flexibility, the entire FPC60 fluid path has been developed for single-use, making cleaning validation extremely simple, and facilitating fast changeover between liquid types. Further aiding ease-of-use, the new horizontally mounted pumphead allows simple, one-handed interaction, while operation requires minimal intervention with menu-driven, auto-adjust settings providing users with clear value in time and consistency between operators.

Advanced data management

Major functionality includes highly advanced data management and retrieval. Using a secure internet-based tool, the FPC60 allows remote operation from outside a cleanroom or distant location. With each batch recorded in full compliance with 21 CFR Part 11, this capability makes the FPC60 ideal for contract filling and development applications. The advanced data management system is SQL server-based and fully accessible from any web device.
Further advanced features of the FPC60 include the option for independent validation of force used during the capping process. If the capping force is less or more than specified, the vial is automatically placed in the reject station for further inspection.
The FPC60 is built to fit a small footprint with machine guarding as standard, while the integration of laminar airflow, restricted-access barrier systems or isolators is also available.
Flexicon has an excellent record in working to short and reliable delivery times, and providing seamless FAT and IQ/OQ tests, all of which helps to avoid costly project delays.



 

The Flexicon PF7 peristaltic tabletop aseptic liquid filling machine is optimized for operation in GMP regulated industries such as biotechnology, pharmaceutical and diagnostics. The PF7 offers repeatable filling of volumes from as low as 0.2ml up to 250ml, with accuracy better than ±0.5%.

Control could not be easier. The PF7 comes programmed with recommended filling parameters based on Flexicon’s 30 years of experience. Users can adapt filling parameters to achieve optimum accuracy for their application needs, up to 200 user programmable ‘recipes’ can be stored and password protected for future use. A simple and powerful user interface featuring large keys and a colour display, aids operation while working in gloves or behind glass within a RABS or LAF unit. Well connected Connectivity is another aspect of the PF7 that brings a number of user advantages. For instance, the unit can connect to a range of balances and printers for error-free calibration and batch reporting to help compliance with GMP and regulatory demands. The PF7 will also connect to a variety of bottle handling systems such as the FlexFeed 15, 20, and 30, or other third-party systems, to facilitate integration with automated filling lines. Flexicon’s PF7 comes with a five year warranty, while IQ/OQ documentation is available on request to assist with process validation.

 

Innovative Qdos metering pumps from Watson-Marlow Pumps are suitable for all applications in a variety of industries including paper and cardboard production where chemicals need to be metered with high accuracy and reliability. Odos pumps offer precise, linear and repeatable flows of up to 120 litres per hour at pressures up to 7 bar, irrespective of viscosity. Qdos pumps eliminate the need of ancillary equipment such as valves or pulsation dampeners. The only consumable part is the patented WatsonMarlow ReNu pumphead which can be replaced in a few minutes with no tools or special skills required. Thus, Qdos guarantees minimum maintenance compared to other metering pumps.

With high accuracy, Qdos significantly optimises the consumption of chemicals compared to other pump types. The contained pumphead design with integral leak detection guarantees operator safety. Intuitive operation is facilitated via a menu-driven interface featuring a 3.5" TFT colour display with high visibility status indication making pump calibration very easy.

Designed as a drop-in replacement for diaphragm pumps, Qdos is available in four different sizes and for manual operation through to PROFIBUS integration. All models are ideally suited for demanding tasks in process water purification and disinfection and metering of dye, anti-foam agents, retention agents, additives,  and reagents and chemicals.
 

The Watson-Marlow cased pump models 530 and 630 offer highest levels of accuracy for all demanding metering applications where purity is essential. The new peristaltic pumps offer easier operation and control. A bright colour HMI-display, an intuitive menu structure and visual status indication allow operation with fewer key presses. Three-level PIN protection guarantees maximum process safety.

The pumps offer flow rates from 0.0001 ml/min to 18.7 litre/min at pressures up to 7 bar and a control range of 2,200:1 and 2,650:1. They allow for easy system integration and are offering four drive options, enabling users to choose from manual operation to fully automated control. Up to 16 pumps can be linked up via real-time communication. IP31 and IP66 protection options make the 530 and 630 cased pumps suitable for all environments. Control options include manual, remote, analogue and RS485 digital communications, along with integrated PROFIBUS networking capabilities. Depending on a user’s process needs, the pumps can feature LoadSure tube elements, which fit into position for simple, error-free tube loading.