SCIENCE

Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics has redesigned the standard laboratory carboy, adding a variety of ergonomic features that improve ease of use in advanced biopharmaceutical fluid handling and solution storage applications. These improvements are based on extensive input from professionals who work in laboratory and pharmaceutical environments.

Manufactured from high quality polypropylene, the carboys are resistant to chemicals and temperatures up to 275 degrees F (135 degrees C) and can be sterilized. Updated design features include:

• Slender body design that requires less laboratory space – three Bio-Simplex carboys fit in the same space as two standard carboys, yet hold 50% more fluid
• Minimum dead volume for maximum fluid recovery
• Large top handles and bottom grip areas for secure handling
• Wide mouth for easy filling and cleaning
• Volume and material identification marks
• Large, easy-to-read graduation marks with +/- 5% accuracy

Bio-Simplex carboys are available in four popular sizes – 5-, 10-, 20- and 40-liter – and can be ordered with or without a spigot. The entire system – carboy, cap and optional spigot – is autoclavable.

Performance Plastics' EZ Top closure technology expands the functionality of these advanced carboys for added versatility. EZ Top assemblies provide a single-use alternative to stainless steel that is economical, eliminates costs and labor associated with cleaning, validation and assembly, and – perhaps most importantly in a biopharmaceutical environment – solves the problem of contamination after repeated use.

EZ Top assemblies are available in two materials: C-Flex pharmaceutical-grade thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and Sani-Tech Class VI high purity platinum-cured silicone. Both provide an aseptic seal for handling sensitive fluids and extremely low levels of extractables.

EZ Top assemblies are offered in standard two- and three-port configurations. Custom designs can be ordered with alternative port and tubing configurations to meet specific customer requirements. The completed assemblies can also be sterilized prior to shipment upon customer request.