ZFB-01 Buchner-Type Vacuum Filtration Assembly by Autoscience

Overview

The ZFB-01 Buchner-Type Vacuum Filtration Assembly is a modular, gravity- and vacuum-assisted laboratory filtration system engineered for rapid, reproducible separation of suspended solids from aqueous or organic liquid samples in life science, bioprocessing, and quality control workflows. Unlike single-use filter holders or membrane-only assemblies, the ZFB-01 integrates a precision-machined polypropylene (PP) or borosilicate glass filtration cup with a standardized Luer-Lock or threaded interface, enabling secure coupling to both vacuum manifolds and peristaltic pumps. Its design follows classical Büchner filtration principles—utilizing negative pressure across a supported membrane to accelerate solid–liquid phase separation—while incorporating ergonomic enhancements such as anti-splash baffling, graduated volume markings (±5% accuracy), and chemical-resistant sealing gaskets compliant with USP Class VI materials. The system operates within ambient temperature ranges (10–40 °C) and supports vacuum pressures up to −95 kPa, delivering consistent flow rates without membrane collapse or channeling under typical biological sample loads (e.g., cell lysates, clarified fermentation broths, or buffer-exchanged protein solutions).

Key Features

• Modular three-part architecture: removable filtration cup (standard 100–500 mL capacity), conical filter base with integrated support frit (porosity: 10–40 µm sintered PP or stainless steel), and stable base unit with dual vacuum port options (8 mm ID barbed or 1/4″ NPT)
• Chemically inert construction: all wetted parts conform to ISO 10993-5 cytotoxicity standards; optional borosilicate glass cups meet ASTM E438 Type I, Class A specifications
• Sealing integrity verified per ISO 13485:2016 Annex C—tested for leak rates <1.0 × 10⁻³ mbar·L/s at −80 kPa
• Interchangeable membrane compatibility: accepts standard 47 mm or 90 mm diameter disc membranes (cellulose acetate, PVDF, PTFE, nylon) with flat or track-etched configurations
• Ergonomic handling: non-slip base geometry, finger-grooved cup rim, and stackable footprint (diameter ≤120 mm) for benchtop space optimization

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ZFB-01 is validated for use with low-viscosity biological fluids (e.g., PBS washes, centrifuged supernatants, dialyzed fractions) and low-particulate culture media. It is not recommended for high-viscosity samples (>100 cP), particulates >100 µm, or solvents incompatible with polypropylene (e.g., chloroform, concentrated DMSO). All components comply with ISO 15223-1 labeling requirements and bear CE marking for in vitro diagnostic (IVD) ancillary use. When used with certified sterile membranes and autoclaved at 121 °C for 20 minutes (max. 3 cycles), the assembly meets GLP-aligned documentation standards for traceability in regulated QC environments. Filter integrity testing (bubble point or diffusion test) may be performed post-assembly per ASTM F838-22.

Software & Data Management

As a passive mechanical filtration platform, the ZFB-01 does not incorporate embedded electronics or firmware. However, it is fully compatible with digital lab infrastructure: vacuum manifold controllers (e.g., KNF N860.3FT.18) can log pressure profiles via analog 4–20 mA output; integration with ELN systems (e.g., LabArchives, Benchling) is supported through manual entry of batch IDs, membrane lot numbers, and filtration duration. Audit trails for sterilization cycles and membrane lot traceability align with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements when documented using electronic signatures and controlled access protocols.

Applications

• Routine clarification of microbial culture harvests prior to chromatography or ultrafiltration
• Pre-filtration of HPLC mobile phases and buffer stock solutions
• Particulate removal from vaccine formulation intermediates under GMP Annex 1 conditions
• Environmental water analysis (EPA Method 160.1) for total suspended solids (TSS) quantification
• Cell debris removal during plasmid DNA purification workflows

FAQ

Is the ZFB-01 suitable for sterile filtration of cell culture media?
Yes—when paired with 0.22 µm sterilizing-grade membranes and validated autoclave cycles, it meets ISO 13408-1 sterility assurance level (SAL) of 10⁻⁶.
Can the filtration cup be autoclaved repeatedly?
Polypropylene cups withstand up to three autoclave cycles at 121 °C; glass cups are rated for unlimited cycles per ASTM E438.
What vacuum source is recommended for optimal throughput?
A diaphragm pump delivering ≥30 L/min free air displacement and stable −90 kPa suction is advised for 47 mm membranes; larger formats require ≥60 L/min capacity.
Does Autoscience provide validation documentation for GMP use?
Yes—IQ/OQ templates, material certifications (RoHS, REACH), and dimensional inspection reports are available upon request for qualified purchasers.
Are replacement seals and frits available separately?
Yes—Autoscience supplies OEM-certified gasket kits (AS-ZFB-GSKT) and replaceable stainless-steel frits (AS-ZFB-FRIT-316L) with full traceability.