02 November 2011
GEA Pharma Systems - Lyophil™ has developed an alternative to the traditional method of steam sterilization for freeze dryers: The VAPOVAC™ sterilizer that uses H2O2 gas (Hydrogen Peroxide).
The VAPOVAC™ steriliser works under a vacuum and so provides superior sterilant distribution within the freeze dryer vessels and all associated piping. At the end of the process all residual H2O2 gas is eliminated leaving no harmful residues.
Steam sterilisation, by comparison, uses much more energy, requires pressure vessels and requires time-consuming cooling before re-use.
In December 2010 the first pharmaceutical production line including the VAPOVAC™ sterilizer was approved by the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) for the US market. GEA Lyophil is the only supplier offering this unique technology; international and European patents are pending.
Cost reducing and environment-friendly combined with better plant reliability The VAPOVAC™ steriliser uses less energy than steam sterilisation and is, therefore, more cost efficient and environmental friendly. Since high pressure and temperature are not applied to the freeze dryer chamber and condenser can be built significantly lighter. Stress of gaskets and other wearing parts is significantly reduced and therefore leading to a higher fail safety level of the equipment. After sterilisation H2O2 disintegrates into water and oxygen and is absolutely safe for user and environment.
Higher efficiency for faster turnaround During the cycle the plant is not up-heated and re-cooled as is required during the steam sterilization method. H2O2 gas sterilisation can be performed in approximately three hours for an average production freeze dryer, compared with approximately eight hours for steam sterilisation. Consequently the time available for the production of pharmaceuticals is maximized thereby achieving higher productivity and efficiency within the plant.
| Fast Facts |
| Product: |
VAPOVAC™ H2O2 Gas Sterilisation |
| Application: |
Sterilisation for pharmaceutical freeze dryers |
| Advantages: |
• Gentle plant sterilization method
• Low investment and operational costs
• Very short process time resulting in higher plant productivity
• No toxic residues |
| Contact: |
GEA Lyophil GmbH
Hubert Kluetsch - Director Sales and Marketing
Kalscheurener Str. 92
50354 Huerth, Germany
Tel.: +49 (0)2233 6999 220
lyophil@geagroup.com |