Medical translucent PET, Manifold block

Manifold blocks in chromatography systems for bioprocessing

In the manufacture of chemical fluid handling equipment, it is often necessary to machine parts that act as junctions between components in the fluid handling system in order to regulate fluid flow. These “junction parts” are usually referred to as manifold blocks, and can often be seen in chromatography systems for bioprocessing. Ideally they are transparent in order to verify fluid flow. They must have excellent chemical resistance, so as to not modify or introduce any leachable compound or chemical into the fluids they are handling. Special additional performance needs within the medical or biopharmaceutical industries may also require the material to be gamma stable for sterilisation purposes. Polycarbonates and acrylics have been the staple materials for years, however, chemical resistance is often lacking at times. Polyetherimides (PEI), provide the additional chemical resistance needed, but they also tend to sacrifice clarity due to the deep amber coloration of the polymer.  

High material exposure

In this application in the bio pharmaceutical processing industry, there was an additional need for the manifold block to be clear as well as gamma stable after exposure to 45 kGy of radiation. Previous polymers the manufacturer had tried suffered the negative response of cross linking in the presence of certain chemicals, and further changed on a molecular level, causing the exposed material to physically change in appearance, as well as in chemical and mechanical properties, thus reducing part functionality and life. There was also concern for what leachable materials in the plastic such as bisphenol A might transfer into the process solutions.  Picking a material that was stable when exposed to processing fluids, plus maintaining chemical stability after gamma exposure was extremely important.

Medical grade PCT-G

TECADUR MT TR natural was chosen as a viable substitute over the previous manifold materials because it is a water clear plastic with high toughness and chemical resistance. It is gamma stable and will not color shift like polycarbonate after chemical exposure. The material, having been tested for compatibility with solvents specified in the BioPhorum Oerations Group (BPOG) Standard Extractable Protocol, offered another significant advantage. Specific tests to solvents found in the bio pharma process showed no change would occur in the material. Because of the unique combination of clarity combined with high impact properties, low extractables and high chemical resistance, TECADUR MT TR natural was the best choice to insure proper devise functionality for the life of the machine.  

TECADUR MT TR natural

TECADUR MT TR natural is made from Eastman Tritan copolyester resin, and is a clear, high impact resistant plastic, with very low extractables under various solvents.