Sterile filtration has proven itself to be a key process in the final filtration of plant extracts and water in life science applications as well as in the separation of microorganisms in the cosmetics industry. To aid in this task, the Filtration Division of the energy management company Eaton is proud to introduce the BECO MEMBRAN PS Pure DL™. This membrane filter cartridge for sterile filtration features double-layer membranes and achieves an absolute retention rate of 0.1 µm.

The first membrane layer of the filter cartridge, which has an absolute retention rate of 0.2 µm, acts like a pre-filter that optimally protects the second membrane which provides an absolute retention rate of 0.1 µm. This retention rate, together with the maximized filter area of 8.6 ft² (0.8 m²) per 10-inch element, results in a particularly efficient process. The asymmetric hydrophilic pore structure of the pleated polyethersulfone (PES) membrane optimizes the flow rate and ensures an effective flow combined with a low differential pressure. At the same time, this structure ensures a high level of microbiological retention.

In the separation of microorganisms, the BECO MEMBRAN PS Pure DL membrane filter cartridge achieves an LRV (log reduction value) of > 7/cm². "This makes membrane filter cartridges one of the safest types of filtration media on the market," says Hans Peter Discher, Product Manager Filter Media at Eaton's Filtration Division. These filter cartridges are also characterized by their great chemical compatibility with a wide range of cleaning agents (pH values 1 to 14). "Considering the increased filter surface due to the pleated design, filter cartridges are available for versatile use in a wide variety of applications," added Discher. "This includes the separation of very small microorganisms in the final filtration of water and plant extracts."

The maximum operating temperature of the membrane filter cartridge is 80 °C (176 °F). For sterilization with steam, a temperature of 273 °F (134 °C) at a differential pressure of 0.5 bar, (50 kPa, 7.25 psig) is permissible. The high level of microbiological retention can be checked and ensured by means of an integrity test. The easy wettability of the membranes simplifies the implementation.

The BECO MEMBRAN PS Pure DL membrane filter cartridge is available in lengths of 10, 20 and 30 inches, corresponding respectively to filter areas of 0.8, 1.6 and 2.4 m² (8.6, 17.2 and 24.8 ft²). The membranes are protected by polypropylene (PP) support fleeces. Cage and core made of PP help guarantee maximum mechanical stability. All versions are equipped with adapter 7 (SOE — single open end).