Pack off systems

Why do people use it?

• To transfer potent in-process API from a process vessel into drums or bags, through a sieve

What are the issues:

• Api is highly toxic (OEL 10 µg/m3)
• Particle size can be uneven: there could be some abnormally large particles

Possible solution (open process):

• Vibrating screen fixed at the bottom of the process vessel
• Discharges into a funnel on top of drum
• Operators wear PPEs
• Have the operators control the weight

Issues with open process:

• Cleaning the room will take 1-2 shifts
• The process is very manual:
  • Very low productivity
  • Risks of human error with the weight
  • Risk of exposure to potent compound
  • Risk of cross contamination (cleaning not 100% effective)

FPS solution (closed process):

• Process is closed off
  • Cleaning time is reduced by 90%
• A coarse dosing valve is clamped at the process vessel discharge
  • provides a consistent feed to a vibrating screen
• In-line vibrating screen which only let the particles with the desired size go through
  • Powder will flow more easily
  • The coarse powder is packed out on a separate packing station, ready to be analyzed and re-processed if needed
• Fine dosing valve on the desired product line ensures accurate dosing of product
• Sieved powder is fed into drums through a continuous liner
  • Closed system: no powder floating in the air
  • Safe process for operators: no need for PPEs (better ergonomics and production time reduced)
• Automatic weighting system controlled by FPS-designed central PLC:
  • High accuracy & repeatability
  • Higher productivity
• CIP cleaning can use aggressive solvents (system is Explosion-Proof)
• Retractable spray-balls avoid risk of cross-contamination
• FDA materials and fully cleanable vibrating screen
• 1 central control system to operate all the equipment & control the cleaning

Benefits of FPS Solution:

• No risk of exposure for the operators
• Process is automated:
  • High productivity
  • 100% accuracy of weighting
• Automatic CIP system guarantees highly efficient cleaning
  • No risk of cross contamination after product change over
• Flexibility: powder can be fed to various sizes of drums