Autosense FB-04T Solvent Filtration Assembly
| Brand | Autosense |
|---|---|
| Origin | Tianjin, China |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Country of Origin | China |
| Model | FB-04T |
| Capacity | 30 mL |
| Filter Diameter | 25 mm |
| Components | Filter Funnel (30 mL), Central Filter Holder, Vacuum Filtration Flask, Aluminum Clamp Set |
| Price Range | USD 140 – 1,400 |
Overview
The Autosense FB-04T Solvent Filtration Assembly is a compact, manually operated vacuum filtration system engineered for routine particulate removal and sterilization-grade clarification of small-volume liquid samples in life science laboratories. Designed around the standard 25 mm diameter membrane filter format, it operates on the principle of gravity-assisted vacuum-driven flow—where differential pressure across the membrane surface enables rapid, controlled separation of suspended solids, microorganisms, or precipitates from aqueous or organic solvents. Its modular architecture integrates seamlessly with standard laboratory vacuum manifolds or diaphragm vacuum pumps (typically operating at ≤–80 kPa), supporting both single-use and reusable configurations depending on filter selection and application stringency. The FB-04T is not intended for high-pressure or tangential-flow applications; rather, it serves as a foundational tool for sample preparation prior to HPLC, LC-MS, cell culture media sterilization, buffer degassing, and analytical reagent purification.
Key Features
- Optimized 30 mL funnel capacity with conical geometry to minimize residual volume and facilitate complete sample recovery—critical for precious biological or synthetic samples.
- Precision-machined central filter holder with O-ring sealed interface ensures leak-free operation and consistent membrane seating under vacuum, preventing channeling or bypass.
- Chemically resistant borosilicate glass vacuum flask (standard 100–250 mL compatibility) with reinforced base and ground-glass joint (ISO K29/32 or equivalent) for secure, reproducible assembly.
- Anodized aluminum clamp set provides uniform compression force without deformation, accommodating both hydrophilic (e.g., PVDF, nylon) and hydrophobic (e.g., PTFE, cellulose acetate) 25 mm membranes.
- Interchangeable filter funnels compatible with certified low-protein-binding and endotoxin-free membranes—validated for USP particulate matter testing and ISO 8573-7 compressed air purity verification workflows.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The FB-04T supports filtration of aqueous buffers (e.g., PBS, Tris-HCl), organic solvents (e.g., acetonitrile, methanol, THF), and mixed-phase solutions within pH 2–12 and temperature ranges up to 60 °C (short-term). Membrane selection determines chemical compatibility: PTFE for aggressive solvents, nylon for general-purpose aqueous filtration, and PVDF for protein-rich samples requiring low adsorption. The system complies with GLP documentation requirements when used with traceable, lot-certified membranes and calibrated vacuum sources. While the assembly itself carries no CE or FDA 510(k) designation, its configuration aligns with ASTM D2974 (liquid particle counting) and ISO 13408-1 (aseptic processing) preparatory steps. All glass components meet ISO 3585 specifications for borosilicate 3.3 glass.
Software & Data Management
As a manual, non-electronic filtration device, the FB-04T does not incorporate embedded firmware, sensors, or digital interfaces. However, its use is fully compatible with electronic lab notebook (ELN) systems such as LabArchives or Benchling for procedural logging. Users may record batch numbers of membranes, vacuum pressure readings (via external gauge), filtration duration, and post-filtration turbidity measurements—all essential for audit trails in regulated environments. When integrated into QC/QA workflows, the FB-04T supports 21 CFR Part 11–compliant data capture when paired with validated pressure transducers and timestamped digital loggers.
Applications
- Sterile filtration of cell culture media, sera, and supplements using 0.22 µm pore-size membranes prior to aseptic handling.
- Clean-up of HPLC mobile phases and standards to prevent column fouling and detector contamination.
- Removal of catalyst residues or by-products from synthetic reaction mixtures in medicinal chemistry labs.
- Pre-filtration of environmental water samples before ICP-MS or ion chromatography analysis.
- Routine validation of membrane integrity via bubble point or diffusive air flow testing per ASTM F838.
FAQ
Is the FB-04T suitable for filtering viscous solutions such as glycerol or polymer solutions?
No—its design assumes Newtonian, low-to-medium viscosity liquids (<50 cP). High-viscosity samples require pressurized or centrifugal filtration alternatives.
Can I autoclave the aluminum clamp and glass components together?
The borosilicate glass funnel and flask are autoclavable (121 °C, 20 min); however, the anodized aluminum clamp must be disassembled and cleaned separately—autoclaving may degrade the oxide layer and reduce clamping consistency.
What membrane thicknesses are supported with the FB-04T central holder?
Standard support is provided for membranes 100–150 µm thick; thicker membranes (e.g., depth filters >250 µm) may require spacer rings to ensure uniform sealing.
Does Autosense provide validation protocols for the FB-04T in GMP environments?
Autosense supplies component material certifications (e.g., RoHS, REACH) and dimensional inspection reports; full IQ/OQ/PQ protocol development remains the responsibility of the end-user’s validation team.
How often should the O-rings in the filter holder be replaced?
Under normal use (≤5 cycles/week), replace fluorocarbon (FKM) O-rings every 6 months or immediately after exposure to chlorinated solvents or strong oxidizers.
