Sempuris Automated Dual-Filter System

Overview

The Sempuris Automated Dual-Filter System is a precision-engineered, benchtop filtration platform designed for high-throughput, unattended sample preparation in environmental, clinical, and bioprocessing laboratories. It operates on a dual-channel, sequential filtration architecture grounded in positive-pressure membrane filtration principles—utilizing regulated pneumatic or peristaltic drive to deliver consistent transmembrane pressure across both independent filter paths. Unlike manual or semi-automated setups, the system integrates real-time flow monitoring, dynamic pressure feedback control, and autonomous membrane substitution—enabling continuous multi-sample processing without operator intervention. Its primary application domain includes pre-analytical treatment of aqueous matrices (e.g., groundwater, surface water, wastewater, and process streams) prior to ICP-MS, HPLC, ion chromatography, or microbial enumeration. The system conforms to core methodological requirements outlined in EPA Method 1600, ISO 7899-2, and ASTM D5116 for particulate removal and filtrate integrity assurance.

Key Features

• Dual independent filtration channels with synchronized or staggered operation modes—supporting parallel processing of two sample types or sequential pre- and post-filtration (e.g., coarse + fine)
• Intelligent filter cartridge module housing standardized 47 mm or 25 mm diameter membranes; accommodates Nylon, PVDF, PTFE, and mixed-cellulose ester (MCE) membranes with nominal pore sizes from 0.1 µm to 40 µm
• Automated membrane replacement mechanism: detects flux decline >15% over baseline or absolute pressure rise ≥30 kPa, then indexes to next unused membrane position within the same cartridge
• Chemically inert fluid path constructed entirely from PTFE tubing, PEEK fittings, and fluoropolymer-coated valves—validated for compatibility with 1 M HCl, 1 M NaOH, and 30% H₂O₂ solutions
• Integrated self-cleaning cycle: programmable rinse protocol using deionized water or solvent flush (e.g., ethanol, acetone) between samples to eliminate carryover; configurable dwell time and flow rate
• Touchscreen HMI with intuitive menu navigation, multilingual UI (English, German, French, Spanish), and audit-trail-enabled parameter logging

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The Sempuris system accepts liquid samples ranging from 10 mL to 2 L per run, including turbid, viscous, or particulate-laden matrices—with suspended solids up to 5,000 mg/L without clogging. It supports both clarified filtrate collection and retentate recovery modes. All hardware and firmware comply with IEC 61000-6-2 (EMC immunity) and IEC 61010-1 (safety for laboratory equipment). Data integrity features—including user access levels, electronic signatures, and timestamped event logs—align with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11 expectations for regulated environments. Filter cartridges are supplied with individual lot traceability and certificate of conformance per ISO 9001.

Software & Data Management

The embedded control software records all critical process parameters—including applied pressure, cumulative volume filtered, membrane index position, rinse cycles executed, and fault events—in CSV and SQLite formats. Optional Ethernet or USB export enables direct integration with LIMS platforms via HL7 or ASTM E1384 messaging. Audit trail functionality captures operator ID, parameter changes, start/stop timestamps, and system alerts with immutable hashing. Remote diagnostics and firmware updates are supported via secure HTTPS connection—requiring TLS 1.2+ and role-based authentication.

Applications

• Environmental monitoring: preparation of groundwater and wastewater samples for trace metal analysis (EPA 200.8, ISO 17294-2)
• Pharmaceutical water systems: routine TOC and endotoxin sampling per USP and Ph. Eur. 2.2.48
• Bioprocess development: clarification of cell culture harvests and buffer exchange intermediates prior to SEC-HPLC or DLS
• Food & beverage QC: particulate screening in juices, dairy effluents, and brewing wort
• Academic research: reproducible microfiltration studies requiring statistical comparability across >50 replicate runs

FAQ

Does the Sempuris system support custom filter diameters or non-standard membrane materials?
Yes—custom cartridge configurations (e.g., 13 mm, 25 mm, or 47 mm) and OEM-specified membranes (including track-etched polycarbonate or regenerated cellulose) can be integrated upon engineering review and validation.
How is filter integrity verified post-run?
The system logs pressure decay profiles during hold phases; optional integration with a calibrated bubble point tester (not included) enables post-filtration integrity testing per ASTM F838.
Can the dual channels operate with different pore sizes simultaneously?
Yes—each channel is independently programmable for distinct membrane type, pore size, pressure setpoint, and volume threshold.
Is validation documentation provided for GMP use?
A comprehensive IQ/OQ protocol package—including test scripts, acceptance criteria, and blank execution records—is supplied with each unit; PQ support is available through certified service partners.
What maintenance intervals are recommended?
PTFE tubing should be inspected every 6 months; filter cartridge magazine requires cleaning every 200 runs; full calibration verification is advised annually or after major component replacement.