FB-10T Solvent Filtration Bottle System

Overview

The FB-10T Solvent Filtration Bottle System is a benchtop vacuum-assisted filtration assembly engineered for reproducible, particle-free solvent preparation and sample clarification in life science laboratories. Designed around classical dead-end filtration principles, the system operates under controlled negative pressure to drive liquid samples through a sintered glass frit—typically rated at ISO 4793 porosity grades G3 (15–40 µm) or G4 (5–15 µm)—enabling efficient removal of particulates, precipitates, and undissolved residues from organic solvents, aqueous buffers, HPLC mobile phases, and cell culture media. Its modular architecture conforms to standard conical taper joints (e.g., 24/29 or 29/32), ensuring compatibility with common vacuum manifolds, diaphragm pumps, and vacuum controllers used across analytical, pharmaceutical, and bioprocessing workflows.

Key Features

• Robust borosilicate glass construction (ISO 3585-compliant) for chemical resistance to acids, bases, and halogenated solvents—including acetonitrile, THF, chloroform, and 1M NaOH.
• Integrated sintered glass frit disc (Ø47 mm) with certified pore size distribution and uniform flow characteristics; optional G3/G4 interchangeability supports both coarse pre-filtration and fine sterilizing-grade applications.
• PTFE-coated stopcock on the 1000 mL collection flask ensures leak-tight sealing, minimal adsorption, and smooth operation under sustained vacuum (≤ -0.095 MPa).
• Filter clamp assembly features dual-spring stainless steel design with ergonomic thumb screws—enabling rapid, tool-free assembly/disassembly while maintaining consistent compression force across the frit-to-funnel interface.
• Graduated scale (±2% accuracy per ASTM E288) etched directly onto the side wall of the collection flask supports real-time volume monitoring without interrupting filtration.
• All glass components meet USP and ISO 8536-1 specifications for laboratory glassware intended for pharmaceutical use.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The FB-10T system accommodates a broad range of sample matrices including volatile organic solvents (e.g., methanol, acetone), viscous polymer solutions (<100 cP), aqueous biological extracts, and sterile-filtered cell lysates. It is routinely employed in pre-HPLC sample conditioning, dissolution media preparation (per USP ), and buffer sterilization prior to tangential flow filtration (TFF) setup. While not certified as an autoclavable unit, all glass parts withstand steam sterilization at 121 °C for 20 min (validated per ISO 17665-1). The system complies with general laboratory safety standards (ANSI Z87.1 for eye protection during handling) and supports GLP-compliant documentation when integrated into validated workflows requiring audit trails for filter lot traceability and pressure logging.

Software & Data Management

As a manually operated passive filtration system, the FB-10T does not incorporate embedded electronics or digital interfaces. However, it is fully compatible with external process documentation systems: vacuum pressure can be logged via analog or digital gauges (e.g., MKS Baratron series), and filtration time/volume data may be recorded in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) compliant with 21 CFR Part 11 requirements. When used within IQ/OQ/PQ-validated environments—such as QC labs supporting FDA-regulated drug substance release—the FB-10T is commonly included in equipment qualification protocols alongside filter membrane certification (e.g., Certificate of Conformance per ASTM F838-22) and extractables testing reports.

Applications

• Preparation of particle-free mobile phases and standards for HPLC, UHPLC, and LC-MS analysis.
• Clarification of crude enzyme extracts and protein purification fractions prior to ion exchange or size exclusion chromatography.
• Sterile filtration of culture media, antibiotics, and transfection reagents using 0.22 µm membrane filters placed atop the sintered frit.
• Removal of carbon black or catalyst residues from synthetic reaction mixtures in medicinal chemistry labs.
• Quality control testing of injectable formulations per USP particulate matter limits, where filtration serves as a preparatory step before light obscuration or microscopic particle counting.

FAQ

Is the FB-10T suitable for filtering corrosive solvents such as concentrated sulfuric acid?
No. While borosilicate glass resists many chemicals, prolonged exposure to hot concentrated mineral acids—including H₂SO₄, HF, or aqua regia—may cause surface etching or structural weakening. Use only with solvents listed in Corning® Pyrex® Chemical Resistance Guide.
Can I replace the sintered frit with a membrane filter holder?
Yes. The FB-10T funnel accepts standard 47 mm membrane filters (nylon, PVDF, PTFE) when used with an optional adapter ring; however, direct placement without support may lead to membrane rupture under high vacuum.
Does the system include vacuum tubing or a vacuum pump?
No. The FB-10T is supplied as a standalone glassware assembly. Users must provide compatible vacuum sources (e.g., oil-free diaphragm pump) and chemically resistant tubing (e.g., Viton® or Tygon® E-3603).
What is the maximum recommended vacuum pressure?
Operational vacuum should not exceed −0.095 MPa (≈710 torr) to prevent implosion risk, especially when filtering low-boiling-point solvents near room temperature.
Are replacement frits and clamps available separately?
Yes. Autoscience supplies certified sintered glass frits (G3/G4, Ø47 mm), PTFE stopcock lubricant, and stainless-steel clamp kits under part numbers FRT-FB10-G4, STP-FB10-PTFE, and CLP-FB10-SUS, respectively.