Several Uses for Tangential-Flow Filtration in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Abstract

The versatility and economic feasibility of tangential-flow (cross-flow) filtration are demonstrated by its application to four common types of filtration problems. The use of tangential flow as pre filtration for a Water For Injection system allows long-term filtration without the need for constant filter changes. In addition, the fact that the filter can be repeatedly regenerated reduces replacement costs to a minimum. Clarification of a solvent system confirms that throughputs with cross-flow filtration are many times greater than with conventional dead-end methods. Recovery of an enzyme from mucoid fermentation broth, traditionally time-consuming due to the need for several prefiltration steps, proceeds quickly because of the self-cleaning action of the cross-flow filter. The flexibility of the cross-flow concept lies in its ability to concentrate suspended material in the recirculation stream. It is therefore ideal for the harvesting of bacterial cultures, as the closed system offers little opportunity for contamination.