New Products
11/01/2007
Compiled by Carrie Meadows
Food scale designed to prevent contamination
|
The Combics Food Scale series from Sartorius has been designed to withstand rigorous and complete disinfection while maintaining precision and accuracy. Manufactured in accordance with European Hygienic Equipment Design Group (EHEDG) guidelines, all standard models are made entirely of high-alloy AISI type 304 stainless steel, which is ideal for food industry applications as well as chemical and pharmaceutical markets where product contact is of concern. An open design prevents contamination from inaccessible areas, and detailed cleaning instructions simplify the analysis and control of potential hazards in strict accordance with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) regulations. The complete food scale series has reliable and accurate weighing capacities from 6-150 kg; mechanical overload protection keeps the weighing system safe from both horizontal and vertical impact.
Sartorius Corporation Edgewood, NY www.sartorius-usa.com
Multi-use pump for high vacuum systems
|
Pfeiffer Vacuum offers the XtraDry dry vacuum pump for all medium vacuum applications down to 10-1 mbar where there is a need to pump dry, inert, and non-reactive gases. Operated as either a stand-alone or backing pump, XtraDry operates free of hydrocarbons and particulate matter, which prevents contamination of the process or the environment. The pump is well suited for use in semiconductor applications such as load locks and differential seals, as well as a backing pump for turbo pumps in high vacuum systems. A unique seal design prevents gas backstreaming within the pumping system, enabling gases to be pumped regardless of their molecular weight. Automatic standby mode reduces the speed of the pump by more than 30% during operation near ultimate pressure, saving energy and increasing service life.
Pfeiffer Vacuum, Inc. Nashua, NH www.pfeiffer-vacuum.com
Filter module provides leak-free protection for pharma, biotech
|
Camfil Farr has introduced a new “RFM22” ducted terminal filter module that delivers leak-free protection for ISO 5-8 applications in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. The all-welded module incorporates a gel seal HEPA or ULPA filter and is designed specifically for use where hoods must be regularly validated for performance and leak-free operation. The filter module is easily serviced from the room side for filter changeout, airflow adjustment, and filter scan testing. The RFM22 filter module is suitable for standard t-bar ceilings, gel-grid systems, and hardboard or plaster systems, and may be adapted to horizontal or reverse flow applications. It may be used in new installations or as a direct replacement for competitive modules.
Camfil Farr Riverdale, NJ www.camfilfarr.com
Ionizer controls ESD in process tool applications
|
MKS Instruments, Inc. has introduced the Ion Systems Critical Environment In-tool Ionizing Blower Model 5822i. Designed for extremely tight ion balance, the small size of the Model 5822i ionizer makes it ideal for ESD control in process tools used in the hard disk drive, backend semiconductor, and other automated manufacturing environments. The ionizer maintains a balance of <±1 V or better with an external monitor and <±3 V without. The internal automatic balance correction system ensures accurate ionization of the target. The patent-pending collimator is installed over the fan and directs ionized air to the target, improving ion delivery and shortening decay times, as well as increasing the range of the 5822i ionizer. The separate control box allows the blower to be installed in small, hard-to-reach spaces without fitting additional connections or wiring. The ionizer is cleanroom compatible and RoHS compliant.
MKS Ion Systems Wilmington, MA www.mksinst.com
Spiral-tip swabs for a range of cleaning tasks
|
Qosina presents a new, black, dual-tip cotton swab (Part # 10219). Qosina’s spiral/spiral swabs are suitable for cleaning many surfaces. The tightly wound black spiral tips grab more dust and debris and clearly show removed residue. The 3-inch biodegradable cotton and paper swabs are packaged 10 per easy-open perforated sleeve, with two sleeves per sheet. These are a sanitary and economical choice for chores requiring multiple swabs. Qosina has more than 5,000 SKUs in its inventory including swabs, brushes, connectors, tubing, valves, clamps, caps, syringes, and adapters. Call the company’s customer service specialists to obtain the latest 2007 catalog, request a sample, or place an order at 631-242-3000, fax 631-242-3230, or e-mail [email protected].
Qosina Edgewood, NY www.qosina.com
Biological safety cabinet
The “Blu Space” microbiology safety cabinet is a Class II biohazard safety cabinet with an automatic control system according to the European Standard EN 12469. It ensures the protection of the operator, product, and environment against risks from contaminated aerosol-involved applications during the manipulation of biological active or infectious substances. The cabinet is designed for use in microbiology, virology, hematology, cell culture laboratory, and recombinant DNA research applications. A front barrier prevents aerosols from passing through the inside of the cabinet to the outside. The cabinet also features ISO 5 unidirectional airflow and absolute filtration of the exhaust according to EN 1822-1.
International PBI S.p.a. Milan, Italy www.internationalpbi.it
Antimicrobial-coated adhesive contamination control mat
|
The new IdealMat from ITW ALMA is an adhesive-coated contamination control mat that captures particulates from foot traffic and equipment wheels, providing the most effective dirt and dust removal method available. The new mat offers a consistent adhesive coating on each layer, is available in 30 and 60 layers, and has an antimicrobial agent in the coating to reduce the potential for spreading germs and bacteria in the controlled area. ITW ALMA’s technical expertise and exact formulations ensure a consistent adhesive coating on each layer of the mat.
ITW ALMA Kennesaw, GA www.almainc.com
Fusion-bonded latex and synthetic polymer gloves
Sempermed is now offering the Polymed® exam glove, which features a unique “fusion” bonding of latex and synthetic polymers. This creates a multi-layer glove that combines the elasticity of latex and the strength of copolymers, which protects against cracking and/or peeling in normal usage. Polymed® contains 50 μg or less of total water extractable proteins per gram, which significantly reduces the potential for allergic reactions. This glove also offers powder-free protection that eliminates the aerosolization of glove powder as well as the powder transfer of latex proteins. The multi-layer coating provides added comfort against the skin and ease of donning for both wet and dry hands, and the micro-rough surface on the fingers and palm offers excellent sensing and a safe grip. The glove’s neutral pH balance also provides additional skin-friendliness.
Sempermed USA, Inc. Clearwater, FL www.sempermedusa.com
Instrument-quality shaft collars
|
A new line of instrument-quality shaft collars for designers of medical, pharmaceutical, and scientific instruments or precision equipment is being introduced by Stafford Manufacturing Corp. Stafford IQ Shaft Collars feature one-piece construction with radiused outside edges, a 32 RMS finish on all surfaces, and a self-locking clamping screw. Precision balanced for use on high-speed rotating equipment, these instrument quality shaft collars are offered in electropolished stainless steel, steel with a hot black oxide finish, and anodized aluminum. Available in standard sizes from 1/4 to 6 inches I.D., Stafford IQ Shaft Collars were developed to provide alternatives to conventional shaft collars that are more precise, attractive, and application-specific. Special treatments such as tapped holes and mounting flats can be provided.
Stafford Manufacturing Corporation North Reading, MA www.staffordmfg.com
Hard-mount vibration cancellation system
|
Technical Manufacturing Corporation (TMC) has introduced the FloorPlatform PZT active inertial vibration cancellation system designed for use with scanning electron microscopes (SEMs). The FloorPlatform PZT features sub-hertz vibration cancellation in an active hard-mount floor platform that fits most commercial SEMs. The system is compatible with all internal vibration isolation systems. The company says it incorporates proprietary Stacis technology in a much smaller footprint, requiring minimal tuning during installation. With vibration cancellation starting below 1 Hz, FloorPlatform PZT features extended stroke piezoelectric actuators and damped, powder-coated steel plates that sandwich four isolators and TMC’s DC 2000 digital controller. The system can support 900 to 1,600 lb and has no soft air suspension. It is available with three or six degrees of freedom.
Technical Manufacturing Corporation Peabody, MA www.techmfg.com
Closed-loop gas chiller
Brooks Automation’s Polycold® PGCL system has been tested and qualified on a PVD process for copper/tantalum barrier-seed deposition. By providing a lower chuck temperature (as low as -70°C), higher process thermal loads can be managed while maintaining the wafer at the required temperature, enabling better film uniformity, higher process yields, and wafer throughput. The closed-loop gas chiller provides cooling of wafers and chucks using an inert gas coolant. It also eliminates problems associated with liquid chillers such as leaks into the chamber that lead to significant system down time, cost of replacement fluid, safety concerns, and process contamination. PGCL also eliminates the cost of a continuous high-purity gas supply.
Brooks Automation Chelmsford, MA www.brooks.com
FT-IR metrology tool for minienvironments
|
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. has revealed its latest FT-IR metrology system, the Thermo Scientific ECO 3500. Incorporating an ISO 1 rated Spartan® equipment front-end module (EFEM) from Asyst Technologies Inc., the ECO 3500 benefits from the highest industry standards of cleanliness in microenvironments. Also featuring a proven spectrometer and enhanced analytical software, the system is designed for seamless integration into automated wafer handling facilities. The dual end-effector configuration with two 300 mm in-line load ports speeds up the wafer transfer process between the front-opening unified pod (FOUP) and the wafer stage and optimizes sample throughput. Installation is much improved with an air-cooled infrared source in place of the conventional use of cooling water. The ECO 3500 is capable of various chemical analyses and dimensional measurements such as epitaxial film thickness and SOI or MEMS thickness.
Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. Madison, WI www.thermo.com/spectroscopy
Control unit for particle monitoring systems
|
The Series DPM Particulate Monitor combines with the PMS Particulate Sensor to provide a basic baghouse and cartridge filter leak detector designed for general maintenance planning and process protection. It is easy to use and reliable. Leakage is gauged in real time, on the spot, without prior baseline data and without signal tuning. An alarm point is set by simply moving an indicator up and down the gauge with the convenient, lockable key pad. The digital readout in absolute units ensures correct interpretation of the readings and provides accurate historical comparisons. The DPM control unit is housed in a rugged cast aluminum enclosure, while an LCD displays particulate levels in bar-graph and digital forms.
Dwyer Instruments, Inc Michigan City, IN www.dwyer-inst.com
Vertical lift for storage and retrieval
|
The MegaLift FSE Vertical Lift Module (VLM) from MegaStar Systems meets OSHA standards for quiet operation, allowing it to be installed in a variety of non-warehouse type automated storage and retrieval applications. The lift uses a no-lubrication cable drive system, rather than traditional chain drive or rack and pinion systems, that provides clean, smooth, fast, and quiet operation rated at 65 dB. This “silent” operation makes the MegaLift FSE VLM suitable for installation in laboratories, offices, and other areas where noise reduction is necessary. It consists of an enclosed system of vertically arranged trays that automatically locates and retrieves stored items and delivers them to an ergonomically positioned workstation. The unit’s Flexi‑Space feature automatically scans the height of each tray and stores it in the smallest space possible, in as little as one inch increments, to significantly improve storage density. Its vertical design takes advantage of unused overhead space to save up to 85 percent of the floor space required by rack and shelving systems.
MegaStar Systems Marietta, OH www.megastarsystems.com
Shatter-resistant UV germicidal lamps
|
Shat-R-Shield’s line of ultraviolet (UV)/germicidal lamps are safety-coated fluorescent lamps that emit specific high-output UV radiation that destroys bacteria, viruses, spores, and molds. By using a physical process-rather than chemical-to inactivate pathogens, the lamps are versatile and appropriate for applications such as food packaging and product sterilization; air and water purification for HVAC areas, such as intensive care units; and use in water treatment centers instead of adding chemicals to the water supply. The lamps’ clear and tough coating will safely contain virtually all glass and lamp elements in the event of accidental breakage. Shat-R-Shield UV germicidal lamps are available as T5 and T8 fluorescents through the company’s network of electrical distributors. For more information, call 800-223-0853 or visit the company’s web site.
Shat-R-Shield Salisbury, NC www.shatrshield.com
Single-use peristaltic pumps
|
Single-use DAFPA peristaltic pumps from Flexicon America, Inc. have become an attractive alternative to replace piston pumps in production filling applications for production biologics and bio-based pharmaceuticals utilized in the treatment of specific diseases. The Flexicon Multi Filling System addresses limited-run production requirements, with gentler handling and built-in flexibility via a customized system of trolley-mounted pumpheads. In contrast to a piston pump filling system that often requires extensive and time-consuming equipment washdown and validation procedures, the trolley-mounted Flexicon Multi Filling System requires only the replacement of the fully disposable single-use tubing and filling needle. The trolley-mounted peristaltic systems are offered in configurations of 4 to 16 pump heads mounted to a stainless-steel cabinet with easy rolling casters to permit convenient access to the main filling machine.
Flexicon America, Inc. Burlington, VT www.flexiconamerica.com
Horizontal laminar flow station
|
Terra Universal’s TerraFlo horizontal laminar flow station provides an economical work environment that exceeds the most stringent contamination requirements for the pharmaceutical, biotech, electronics, and semiconductor industries. Powerful filter/blower and filter/fan modules provide a back-to-front laminar flow of filtered air across the work surface. The adjustable multi-speed, direct-drive blower lets the user control air speed to meet custom requirements. It also provides an industry-best low noise level of 50 dBA. Select the filters to meet specific requirements: HEPA filters are rated 99.99 percent efficient at removing particles 0.3 μm or larger, and ULPA filters are rated 99.999 percent efficient at 0.12 μm particles.
Terra Universal Fullerton, CA www.terrauniversal.com
Versatile depth filter capsule for small-scale operations
|
The SupraCap 100 depth filter capsule for Pall Corp. is the only intermediate-scale depth filter to be offered in a range of sizes, styles, and configurations, the company says. The filter capsule’s versatility and performance simplify scale-up and speed processing of 5-100 L applications typical of clinical batches, personalized medicines, and pilot-scale operations. The new disposable depth filter format eliminates the need for cleaning and cleaning validation of traditional stainless-steel filter housings, minimizes cross-contamination risks, and reduces capital costs, all of which are critical to smaller-scale clarification and pre-filtration applications. The capsule design also provides a lower hold-up volume than standard module housings for greater product recovery. The capsule is completely enclosed to eliminate direct operator handling of fragile filter discs. It also protects operators from high potency or biologically toxic compounds. SupraCap 100 depth filter capsules can be manifolded together or connected upstream of Kleenpak Nova filters as a fully integrated disposable system.
Pall Corporation East Hills, NY www.pall.com
Drying chamber for LED manufacturers
|
Interlab now offers a special version of its critically clean, HEPA-filtered drying console, adapted for LED manufacturing processes. The model MDS/250/LED is the result of the company’s work with a major LED manufacturer in addressing the processing and performance standards specific to that industry. It is the most recent version of Interlab’s critical evaporative drying systems. The touch-panel controlled MDS/250/LED design goes beyond the company’s patented technique of incorporating HEPA or ULPA filtration within the actual recirculating air path. It also features a laminar flow-guide that prevents formation of particle-retaining turbulent pockets in the corners of the drying chamber. The result is a miniature high-performance “inverted cleanroom” in which freedom from contamination can be assured throughout the rapid drying cycle.
Interlab Inc. Danbury, CT www.interlab-inc.com
Chemically resistant macro volume pipettor
|
Biohit, Inc., has expanded its mLINE family of pipettors with the addition of the new 1-10 ml volume range. The macro volume pipettor, along with the new 10-ml tip, provides a convenient way to handle large volumes of liquid accurately and safely. The 10-ml instrument is a suitable working tool for water, food, and environmental labs, as well as in biotech and chemical industries. The Pipettor features excellent chemical resistance and is compatible with most liquids including chloroform. Biohit Safe Cone filters installed into the tip cone can minimize the risk of contamination. The mLINE pipettor is fully autoclavable and is adjustable in 20-μl increments. It operates with a light touch for both pipetting and tip ejection. All Biohit products are CE/IVD marked following ISO standards for quality and environment standards.
Biohit, Inc. Neptune, NJ www.biohit.com
Fume hood product line designed to meet various challenging requirements
|
Duralab Corporation offers a broad line of fume hoods designed to meet all size and application requirements. Hoods are available with bypass, variable air volume, and add air designs. Special hoods designed to meet the unique needs of wheelchair operators can be supplied. Radioisotopes, perchloric acid, low bench height walk-in, demonstration, and portable models are also available. A complete line of accessories can be provided, including service and electrical fixtures, airflow monitors, sinks, exhaust blowers, and more. The Duralab engineering department is staffed to provide assistance in project planning, design, and cost estimating. Engineering drawings for approval can be provided prior to fabrication of the furniture. A factory trained labor force is available for non-mechanical installation.
Duralab Corporation Parlin, NJ www.duralabcorp.com
Web-based remote surveillance monitor
|
The NEWPORT® iSE environmental monitor provides web-based remote surveillance of environmental conditions in critical HVAC applications such as computer server rooms, cleanrooms, and laboratories, as well as critical refrigeration and cold chain applications. Users can view virtual charts and record temperature, relative humidity, and dew point over an Ethernet network or the Internet with no special software-just a web browser. Up to four years of data can be recorded on the removable flash memory. The device can trigger an alarm if temperature or humidity goes above or below a set point that the user determines. The alarms can be sent by e-mail to a single user or to a group distribution list, including text messages to Internet enabled cell phones and PDAs.
NEWPORT Electronics, Inc. Dallas, TX www.newportUS.com
Cleanroom vacuum with HEPA filtered collection container
|
Nilfisk-Advance America has developed the compact IVT 1000 CR cleanroom vacuum, available with optional Safe-Pak technology-the first disposable, HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner collection container designed for potent compound and hazardous material applications. The IVT 1000 CR addresses the cleanliness and hygiene standards required in cleanrooms in a compact machine, without sacrificing ease-of-use or worker comfort. Equipped with an ULPA exhaust filter as standard, the innovative IVT 1000 CR is also quiet, compact, and easy to maneuver and, like the trolley and all accessories, is autoclavable for simple and convenient cleaning. The system was designed to collect sub-micron particles and retain them in a HEPA-filtered container, protecting the vacuum from contamination as well as providing a safe and easy means for disposing of the collected waste. The Safe-Pak is also available with Nilfisk’s CFM 3156 and 3306 industrial vacuum cleaners.
Nilfisk-Advance America Malvern, PA www.pa.nilfisk-advance.com
High-volume microglass HEPA filter
|
Advanced Filtration Concepts introduces the new HV (High Volume) HEPA filter manufactured by Engineered Filtration Systems (EFS). The EFS HV HEPA filter is designed specifically for critical applications that require high-efficiency particulate air filtration. The mini-pleated wet laid microglass of the HEPA filter optimizes airflow; high-efficiency V-bank style media packs result in low pressure drop and energy conservation. The EFS HV has an extended media area (431 sq. ft.) that results in a longer service life and fewer replacements. The filters are rated at ASHRAE 99.99 percent. Typical applications for the EFS HV HEPA filter include cleanroom environments, semiconductor and electronics manufacturers, medical and pharmaceutical facilities, laboratories, testing facilities, and other critical applications.
Advanced Filtration Concepts Vernon, CA www.advfiltration.com
Upgradeable syringe pumps
|
Both the features and the syringe capacity of the PHD22/2000 syringe pumps can be upgraded without purchasing a new pump. The PHD 22/2000 Series is available in several models: infusion only, infusion/withdrawal, or programmable. These pumps can accommodate 4, 6, or 10 plastic, glass, or stainless-steel syringes with the addition of a multi-rack. The standard rack accommodates two syringes. Feature upgrades are performed at the Harvard Apparatus factory, but syringe rack upgrades can be performed by the user with the purchase of an upgrade kit. The PHD 22/2000 Series is accurate to ±0.35 percent and offers a broad flow rate range from 0.0001 μl/hr to 220 ml/min. These units accommodate syringes ranging from 0.5 μl to 140 ml.
Harvard Apparatus Holliston, MA www.harvardapparatus.com
Wireless medical and lab temperature monitoring
|
Accsense’s fast and easy wireless monitoring system allows medical, pharmaceutical, and laboratory applications a complete management option for keeping temperatures, CO2 levels, humidity, and any other measurements in check with constant monitoring. Receive alarm notifications via e-mail, phone, or pager if problems arise, anywhere, anytime. The out-of-the-box system is up and running in five minutes, allowing users to start recording data and receiving information immediately through web-based software. Print out reports for JCAHO and other industry compliance and prove that samples are under constant control. A complete Accsense wireless system automatically forms a secure, self-healing wireless mesh network. Sensor pods are compatible with a range of standard external plug-in sensors and probes, including thermocouples, resistance temperature detectors, and thermistors.
Accsense, Inc. Santa Barbara, CA www.accsense.com
500° cleanroom cabinet oven
|
No. 923 is an electrically heated, 500°F Class 100 cleanroom cabinet oven from Grieve, currently used for drying precision parts in baskets. Workspace dimensions measure 36x36x51 inches. The oven features an aluminized steel exterior construction, stainless-steel door cover and control panel face, and stainless-steel interior with continuously backwelded seams and 4-inch thick insulated walls. Double front doors with positive latching door hardware are also included. No. 923 has two 30x24x6-inch thick, stainless-steel, high-temperature HEPA recirculating filters and easily removable ductwork to expose the filters for inspection and replacement. Controls on the cabinet oven include a digital indicating temperature controller, manual reset excess temperature controller with separate contactors, recirculating blower airflow safety switch, and solid-state contactors.
The Grieve Corporation Round Lake, IL www.grievecorp.com
Dust-free vertical storage
|
Enclosed vertical storage cabinets from Eagle MHC are designed for critical manufacturing, assembly, and storage areas where products and components need to be securely stored in a dust- and dirt-free environment. Eagle’s NSF-approved vertical storage cabinets feature a chemically resistant, easy-to-clean stainless-steel exterior. The cabinet body is made of 18-gauge stainless steel, with interior stainless-steel shelves adjustable on 4-inch vertical increments. Double-pan, 20-gauge stainless-steel hinged key-locking doors provide long-life durability, along with secure, dust-free protection of all cabinet contents. Enclosed vertical storage shelves are available with a flat top or an alternative sloped top providing laminar flow to meet stricter cleanroom requirements. Eagle offers both stationary models and a mobile version featuring 5-inch plate casters and brakes, so the shelving unit can be moved easily from one location to another without removing the load during transport. The cabinets are 72 inches high and are offered in 36- and 48-inch lengths. Custom sizes are also available upon request.
Eagle MHC Clayton, DE www.eaglegrp.com
Total organic carbon analyzers and validation support
|
The Sievers 500 RL On-Line and the Sievers 900 Series TOC Analyzers from GE Analytical Instruments are the most sensitive TOC instruments on the market and ideal for cleaning validation applications. With the patented selective CO2 conductometric membrane detection, an autoreagent feature for complete oxidation, 21 CFR Part 11 compliance readiness, and operating ranges of 0.03 ppb to 50 ppm, the analyzers can be used for clean-in-place (CIP) rinse samples, swab recovery surface samples, and USP water releases without daily recalibration before running different levels of sample concentrations. GE Analytical Instruments also offers a comprehensive guide on using TOC methodology in lab and on-line cleaning validation applications. The Sievers Cleaning Validation Support Package (CVSP) contains examples, worksheets, templates, and sample protocols to significantly reduce the time and effort required to develop and complete cleaning validation protocols and procedures. Sievers TOC Cleaning Validation Kits, which include 72 certified (<10 ppb) TOC vials and 100 cleanroom-laundered sampling swabs.
GE Analytical Instruments, a division of GE Water & Process Technologies Boulder, CO www.geinstruments.com
Cleanroom Class 1 robots
|
Adept Technology, Inc. has announced Adept Python cleanroom Class 1 ESD modular Cartesian robots. They are the latest addition to the cleanroom and ESD product line that includes SCARA, six-axis, and Cartesian robots. The new robots are targeted at precision assembly and handling applications in the solar, disk drive, LCD, semiconductor, and life sciences markets. The Python robots provide high speed and precision motion while maintaining very clean operation. The modules run on SmartController CX controls and software platform and can be configured to fit a wide range of ESD-sensitive product applications that require speed, precision, and flexibility.
Adept Technology, Inc. Livermore, CA www.adept.com
Portable cartridge collector shows 99+ percent efficiency
The SPC-1000 from AER Control Systems is a portable cartridge-based filtration unit that complies with OSHA for multiple operations and meets the hexavalent chromium standard. Smoke, gases, fumes, exhaust vapors, and dust from industrial processes are collected and filtered up to 99+ percent efficiency at 0.5 μm. Typically used for control of low to moderate concentrations of dry contaminants, the SPC unit offers manual push-button pulsejet filter cleaning. The unit features nominal 1,000 CFM @ 5.5 inches of static pressure powered by a 115 V, single-phase 1.5 HP TEFC motor. The HEPA filter has a 177-sq.-ft. filter area and can be changed without tools.
AER Control Systems LLC New Haven, CT www.aercontrolsystems.com