Weighing Platform System – Applitech AP-WP Series

Overview

The Applitech AP-WP Series Weighing Platform System is an engineered solution for dynamic, hygienic, and traceable mass measurement in biopharmaceutical process environments. Built on the principle of precision load cell transduction—utilizing four calibrated shear-beam sensors arranged in a symmetrical quadruped configuration—the platform delivers stable, drift-compensated weight readings under variable thermal and mechanical loads. Its design addresses core challenges in upstream and downstream processing: minimizing contamination risk, enabling rapid cleaning validation, supporting material accountability across unit operations, and integrating seamlessly into automated batch record systems. Unlike static benchtop balances, the AP-WP is purpose-built for floor-mounted deployment beneath stainless steel vessels—including media preparation tanks, buffer storage containers, harvest bags, and intermediate hold vessels—where real-time gross weight monitoring informs feed-forward control logic, gravimetric dosing, and inventory reconciliation.

Key Features

• Full 304 stainless steel construction—including load frame, top plate, base structure, and internal sensor housings—ensures corrosion resistance, non-shedding surface integrity, and compliance with ASME BPE surface finish standards (Ra ≤ 0.8 µm electropolished).
• Concealed cable routing eliminates external conduit or exposed wiring, reducing microbial harborage points and simplifying CIP/SIP validation protocols.
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack provides ≥72 hours of continuous operation at typical sampling intervals (1 Hz), with hot-swap capability and integrated state-of-charge monitoring via front-panel LED indicators.
• Modular caster assembly includes dual-locking swivel casters (150 mm diameter, polyurethane tread) and a removable, low-angle aluminum ramp (≤6° incline) rated for 1200 kg dynamic load, facilitating safe vessel transfer without lifting equipment.
• Four independently temperature-compensated shear-beam load cells deliver high linearity (<±0.03% FS), long-term stability (<0.02% FS/year), and overload protection up to 150% of rated capacity.
• Customizable structural dimensions: standard footprints range from 800 × 800 mm to 1600 × 1200 mm; height adjustable between 120–220 mm to accommodate vessel skirt clearance and drain line routing.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The AP-WP Series supports direct mounting of common bioprocessing vessels—including conical-bottom stainless steel mixing tanks (e.g., 50–1000 L), cylindrical buffer storage drums (200–2000 L), single-use bioreactor bags (with compatible support frames), and intermediate product tote containers. All configurations maintain full compatibility with ISO 9001:2015 quality management systems and align with core elements of EU Annex 1 (2022), USP , and ASTM E898-20 for weighing system qualification. The platform’s mechanical design enables IQ/OQ execution per GAMP 5 guidelines, while optional digital output modules (RS-485 Modbus RTU, Ethernet/IP, or Profibus DP) support electronic signature and audit trail functionality required under FDA 21 CFR Part 11 when paired with validated SCADA or MES platforms.

Software & Data Management

The AP-WP operates as a standalone analog/digital hybrid instrument but is fully interoperable with Applitech’s WinWeigh Pro™ software suite (v3.2+). This Windows-based application enables real-time weight trending, tare management, batch-specific calibration logging, and automatic export of timestamped weight datasets in CSV or ASTM E1382-compliant format. When deployed in regulated environments, WinWeigh Pro supports role-based access control, electronic signatures, and immutable audit trails—including operator ID, parameter changes, zero/tare events, and calibration history—with data retention configurable to meet 21 CFR Part 11 §11.10 and §11.30 requirements. Optional OPC UA server integration allows bidirectional communication with DeltaV, Siemens Desigo, or Rockwell FactoryTalk systems.

Applications

• Gravimetric feeding of culture media and buffer components during preparation and formulation steps.
• Real-time mass monitoring during tangential flow filtration (TFF) concentration and diafiltration cycles.
• Intermediate product reconciliation between bioreactor harvest and purification train entry points.
• Weighing of filled single-use bags pre-sterilization and post-thawing for lot release verification.
• Supporting PAT (Process Analytical Technology) initiatives by providing primary mass inputs for mass-balance models in continuous biomanufacturing workflows.
• Validation of volumetric dispensing accuracy through comparative gravimetric analysis per USP .

FAQ

What calibration standards are supported?
The AP-WP accepts certified test weights traceable to NIST or equivalent national metrology institutes (e.g., UKAS, DAkkS). Internal calibration routines follow ISO/IEC 17025 principles and include zero stability checks, linearity verification, and repeatability assessment at 20%, 50%, and 100% of selected range.
Can the platform be integrated into an existing PLC-controlled skid?
Yes—via optional analog 4–20 mA output (HART-enabled) or digital fieldbus modules (Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP), enabling direct interface with Allen-Bradley, Siemens S7, or Beckhoff controllers without intermediary gateways.
Is explosion-proof certification available?
Standard units are rated IP65. ATEX Zone 2 / IECEx-certified variants (II 2G Ex db IIB T4 Gb) are available upon request with modified junction boxes and intrinsically safe signal conditioning.
How is cleaning validation documented?
Surface finish data, CIP cycle parameters (flow velocity, temperature, conductivity), and post-clean visual inspection records can be linked to individual platform serial numbers within WinWeigh Pro’s asset management module, supporting ALCOA+ data integrity principles.