WIGGENS BioVac341 Quick-Connect Multi-Position Vacuum Filtration System
| Brand | WIGGENS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | BioVac341 |
| Filter Positions | 3 |
| Filter Diameter | 47/50 mm |
| Effective Filtration Area | 9.6 cm² |
| Tubing ID | 8 mm |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 50 × 15 × 23 cm |
| Filter Flask Material | SS316 Stainless Steel |
| Filter Flask Volume | 100 mL |
| Sterilization Compatibility | Autoclave, Dry Heat, Flame |
Overview
The WIGGENS BioVac341 Quick-Connect Multi-Position Vacuum Filtration System is an engineered solution for high-integrity, parallel liquid filtration in life science laboratories, pharmaceutical QC environments, and academic research settings. Designed around the principles of controlled vacuum-driven membrane filtration, the BioVac341 employs a precision-machined SS316 stainless steel manifold with three independently operable filter ports. Each port integrates a bayonet-style quick-connect interface—eliminating the need for clamps, O-rings, or torque-sensitive assembly—thereby reducing setup time and minimizing cross-contamination risk during repeated use. The system operates under standard laboratory vacuum sources (typically –80 to –100 kPa), delivering consistent flow rates across all positions while maintaining pressure stability critical for reproducible sample recovery and particle retention studies.
Key Features
- SS316 stainless steel construction throughout the manifold, filter holders, and flasks—ensuring exceptional resistance to corrosion from organic solvents, acids, bases, and oxidizing agents commonly used in biological and chemical workflows.
- Bayonet-lock (rotary snap-fit) connection mechanism between filter holder and flask—enabling tool-free, one-handed attachment/detachment with audible tactile feedback confirming secure sealing.
- Independent on/off control per filtration position via integrated PTFE-coated stainless steel stopcocks—allowing selective filtration without interrupting ongoing processes at other ports.
- Modular compatibility with interchangeable SS316 filter flasks (100 mL, 300 mL, and 500 mL volumes)—all sharing identical neck geometry and sealing interface for seamless scalability within the BioVac platform (e.g., BioVac341, BioVac343, BioVac345).
- Validated thermal stability: fully compatible with autoclaving (121 °C, 20 min, saturated steam), dry-heat sterilization (180 °C, 2 h), and direct flame sterilization—supporting strict aseptic technique requirements in GMP and GLP-regulated applications.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The BioVac341 accommodates standard 47 mm or 50 mm diameter membrane filters—including mixed cellulose ester (MCE), polyethersulfone (PES), nylon, PVDF, and track-etched polycarbonate—across diverse sample matrices: aqueous buffers, cell culture supernatants, fermentation broths, environmental water samples, and clarified protein solutions. Its inert SS316 wetted path meets USP Class VI biocompatibility criteria and complies with ISO 10993-5 for cytotoxicity testing. The system supports documentation traceability required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when integrated with validated electronic lab notebook (ELN) platforms. All components are manufactured in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9001-certified processes at WIGGENS’ German production facility.
Software & Data Management
While the BioVac341 is a manually operated hardware system without embedded electronics or firmware, its mechanical design enables full integration into digitally managed workflows. Lab managers may log usage, sterilization cycles, and maintenance events via LIMS or ELN systems using standardized asset identifiers (e.g., order number 167111-31). The consistent dimensional footprint and repeatable handling protocol facilitate SOP development aligned with ISO/IEC 17025 method validation guidelines. Optional accessories—including vacuum pressure gauges with analog outputs or digital controllers with RS-485 interfaces—can be deployed to enable real-time vacuum monitoring and audit-trail generation.
Applications
- Routine microbiological analysis: membrane filtration of water, beverages, and pharmaceutical preparations per ASTM D5673, ISO 9308-1, and USP .
- Cell harvesting and clarification: gentle concentration of mammalian or microbial cells prior to lysis or cryopreservation.
- Particle removal in HPLC mobile phase preparation and buffer formulation.
- Pre-filtration of samples destined for ICP-MS, AAS, or TOC analysis where metallic leaching must be minimized—leveraging the low-solubility profile of passivated SS316.
- Environmental monitoring labs performing EPA Method 1603 (E. coli) or ISO 16266 (coliforms) requiring multi-sample throughput with individual process control.
FAQ
Can the BioVac341 be used with non-WIGGENS filter flasks?
Yes—provided the flask features a standard 47/50 mm filter support ring and a 29/32 or 32/40 conical ground-glass joint matching the BioVac manifold’s sealing interface. However, only WIGGENS SS316 flasks are certified for autoclaving and flame sterilization.
Is the system suitable for vacuum levels below –90 kPa?
The BioVac341 maintains structural integrity and seal performance down to –100 kPa; however, flow rates will vary depending on membrane pore size, viscosity, and applied vacuum. For ultra-low-pressure applications (e.g., gel filtration under reduced headspace), consult WIGGENS Application Note AN-BV-02.
How often should the PTFE stopcock seals be replaced?
Under typical daily use and proper cleaning (e.g., ethanol rinse followed by autoclaving), PTFE components exhibit service lifetimes exceeding 500 cycles. Visual inspection for cracking or deformation is recommended prior to each sterilization cycle.
Does the BioVac341 meet EU RoHS and REACH requirements?
Yes—the entire assembly is RoHS-compliant (2011/65/EU) and free of SVHC substances listed under REACH Annex XIV (as of current revision). A full declaration of conformity is available upon request with valid order reference.
