INSTRUMENTATION • ELECTRONICS
Accurate control is crucial in API production
Tis ruled out Coriolis meters, even though the company often uses them within its processes, because of their comparatively large size, as well as the extended pipework they need. Since the requirement was flow measurement rather than mass flow, an alternative solution would also be more cost effective. In addition, the flow meter had to be capable of measuring various fluids, including water-based solvents and acids, that would flow down the same line following a flush. As some of the solvents involved have low conductivity, this would also rule out certain flow measurement technologies. Following detailed research and testing, Veranova determined that Bürkert’s FloWave flowmeter closely achieved its key requirements.
Surface acoustic wave technology provides hygienic flow measurement for pharmaceutical manufacturer
THENEW WAVE W
hen active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) developer and manufacturer, Veranova, wanted to build a new manufacturing
suite, it needed accurate control over volumetric flow to optimise process efficiency. As the suite would be installed within an existing area of the facility, the flowmeter had to contribute to a compact overall footprint. Handling various media, including solvents and acids as well as low conductivity liquids, the device also had to enable a clean in place (CIP) process. Veranova turned to Bürkert and its surface acoustic wave (SAW) technology to fulfil its requirements. At Veranova’s Edinburgh facility, the company planned a new manufacturing
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suite for high potency APIs, increasing production capacity from the lab to full- scale manufacturing. Although Veranova has developed its own portfolio of APIs, the company is moving further into contract manufacturing, which will be supported by the additional capacity of the new production suite. To optimise manufacturing at a higher scale and ensure process efficiency, Veranova needed accurate control over the total flow of raw materials for API production, as well as the flow rate of chemicals in the CIP line. Physical space is typically at a premium
in API production, and Veranova’s manufacturing suite had to fit within the footprint of its existing facility, so compact dimensions were even more important.
COMPACT AND EASY TO CLEAN “FloWave is really compact, and a key benefit is that it’s hygienic and easy to clean, giving confidence that no residue is left behind. Tis enables us to use multiple fluids down the same line, and the system can be calibrated specifically for each type of liquid, providing the accuracy we need,” explains Richard Bell from Veranova. “It’s a multi-purpose plant, and we can manufacture multiple products within the suite. Even within a single API product, multiple materials are used, and FloWave will help us to achieve that.”
Te flowmeter has a smooth bore that is completely free of mechanical obstructions, preventing retention of any residue from media or the CIP process, ensuring optimum hygiene. Te device is also constructed from 316L stainless steel, which compared to standard 316 has a lower carbon content, increasing its resistance to corrosion and improving hygiene. Tis was an important factor for
The FloWave solution has a wide flow range that can easily be adjusted
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