FB-05T Vacuum Filtration Bottle Assembly by Autoscience

Overview

The FB-05T Vacuum Filtration Bottle Assembly is a precision-engineered, benchtop-compatible filtration unit designed for routine and critical sample preparation in life science laboratories. It operates on the principle of vacuum-assisted gravity filtration, enabling rapid, consistent separation of suspended particles, microorganisms, or precipitates from aqueous or low-viscosity organic solutions. The system integrates a borosilicate glass filter funnel with a standardized sintered frit disc (typically pore size range: 10–40 µm, depending on frit grade), an anodized aluminum universal clamp for secure sealing under negative pressure, and a calibrated 500 mL borosilicate collection bottle with graduated markings and chemically resistant PTFE-lined cap. Its modular architecture supports interchangeable filter membranes (e.g., cellulose acetate, PVDF, nylon) via standard 47 mm diameter support, making it suitable for both qualitative analysis and quantitative recovery workflows.

Key Features

• Borosilicate glass construction ensures thermal stability (up to 500 °C short-term), chemical inertness against common solvents (e.g., ethanol, acetone, dilute acids/bases), and optical clarity for real-time process monitoring.
• Sintered frit disc (Class G3 or G4, nominal pore size 15–40 µm) provides uniform flow distribution, high mechanical strength, and resistance to clogging—ideal for pre-filtration or coarse particulate removal prior to membrane filtration.
• Anodized aluminum clamp delivers uniform compressive force across the funnel-bottle interface, maintaining vacuum integrity up to –0.095 MPa (≈710 Torr), minimizing leakage risk during extended operation.
• 500 mL collection bottle features molded volume graduations (±2% accuracy), autoclavable design (121 °C, 20 min), and compatibility with standard vacuum hose barbs (6 mm ID) and manifold connectors.
• Modular compatibility: Accepts all standard 47 mm diameter filter membranes (sterile or non-sterile), allowing seamless transition between microfiltration (0.22 µm), ultrafiltration (with supported UF membranes), and clarification protocols.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FB-05T assembly is validated for use with biological buffers (PBS, Tris-HCl), cell culture supernatants, protein solutions, environmental water samples, and pharmaceutical filtrates. It complies with ISO 7207-1:2016 (laboratory glassware dimensions) and meets general requirements for GLP-compliant sample handling when used with certified sterile membranes. While the unit itself is not individually certified to ISO 13485 or FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its materials and geometry support traceable, repeatable filtration steps within auditable workflows—particularly when integrated into SOPs referencing ASTM D2972 (suspended solids determination) or USP (particulate matter testing). All components are free of detectable endotoxins (<0.03 EU/mL) when processed using standard laboratory autoclaving or ethanol sterilization protocols.

Software & Data Management

As a passive, non-electronic filtration device, the FB-05T requires no embedded firmware, drivers, or software integration. However, its operational parameters—including vacuum pressure (monitored externally via manometer), filtration time, membrane lot number, and sample volume—are fully compatible with LIMS and ELN platforms via manual entry or barcode-scanned metadata capture. Laboratories adhering to 21 CFR Part 11 may document usage through controlled electronic records that link filter batch IDs, operator initials, date/time stamps, and post-filtration integrity test results (e.g., bubble point or diffusion tests). The system’s mechanical simplicity enhances audit readiness and reduces validation burden compared to motorized or sensor-integrated units.

Applications

• Routine clarification of microbial growth media and enzyme reaction mixtures prior to HPLC or spectrophotometric analysis.
• Pre-filtration step in downstream bioprocessing workflows—removing cell debris or aggregates before sterile filtration with 0.22 µm membranes.
• Environmental monitoring: Recovery of planktonic bacteria or particulates from surface water or wastewater effluents per EPA Method 1603.
• Pharmaceutical QC: Preparation of injectable solution samples for visible particle inspection or subvisible particle counting (USP , ).
• Tissue culture lab use: Sterile filtration of serum-supplemented media using 0.22 µm PVDF membranes mounted on the sintered support.

FAQ

Is the FB-05T suitable for sterile filtration?
Yes—when paired with a certified 0.22 µm or 0.1 µm sterilizing-grade membrane and processed under aseptic conditions (e.g., laminar flow hood), the FB-05T serves as a validated sterile filtration platform.
Can the sintered frit be cleaned and reused?
Yes—the borosilicate frit disc is resistant to ultrasonic cleaning, nitric acid (20% v/v) soak, and autoclaving; however, pore integrity must be verified via bubble point testing after repeated cycles.
What vacuum pressure range is recommended?
Optimal performance is achieved at –0.07 to –0.09 MPa; pressures exceeding –0.095 MPa may compromise seal integrity or cause premature membrane rupture.
Are replacement parts available separately?
Yes—Autoscience supplies individual components including replacement frit discs (G3/G4), aluminum clamps, and 500 mL bottles, all with documented material certifications (CoA available upon request).
Does this system comply with ISO 9001 manufacturing standards?
The FB-05T is manufactured under Autoscience’s ISO 9001:2015-certified quality management system; component-level CoAs include dimensional verification, hydrostatic pressure testing, and extractables profiling.