How to solve the challenges of tube welding and freezing applications in biopharma

In biopharma, biological materials such as cells, tissues and proteins are handled with the utmost precision. A critical part of the process involves cryopreservation - freezing biological samples at extremely low temperatures to preserve their function.

But working with such materials presents several challenges. First, there is the need to create sterile connections between tubes and containers to minimize the risk of contamination. Secondly, the materials must withstand extreme temperatures without cracking or losing their properties.

Hose welding - a time-consuming and costly process 

Tube welding has long been the standard for creating sterile connections in biopharma. It allows the safe transportation of liquids and biological samples. But when it comes to deep freezing and small volumes, several problems arise: 

• Time-consuming process - Welding requires accuracy and training, making it both labor-intensive and time-consuming. 
• High costs - Specialized equipment is required to weld the hoses correctly, which involves both initial investment and ongoing maintenance. 
• Limited flexibility - Welded hoses are not always as flexible as needed, which can make them difficult to handle in processes that require quick changes. 
• Risk of weld defects - Failure to weld correctly can lead to defects that affect sterility and product quality. 

Freezing applications - challenges of extreme cold 

Freezing biological materials to temperatures of -80°C or below poses additional problems:

• Materials become brittle - Common plastic components can crack in extreme cold, leading to leakage and contamination. 

• Difficult to handle small volumes - Handling small amounts of biological material requires precision to avoid losses and ensure samples are properly preserved. 

• Connections in case of cold - Traditional hose welds and couplings become stiff and difficult to handle at low temperatures. 

• Sterility and integrity in freezing - Biological samples must be protected throughout the freezing and thawing process, especially at temperatures below -130°C. 

To meet these challenges, both materials and connection techniques need to be carefully chosen. Plastics such as polyolefin and polyethylene perform better in the cold, while PVC can easily become too brittle. Connectors must also be able to withstand cryoprotectants such as DMSO and glycerol, which protect cells during freezing.

MicroCNX® Nano - an innovative solution 

To address these challenges, the CPC (Colder Products Company) developed MicroCNX® Nano, a quick-release coupling that eliminates the need for hose welding and works even at extreme temperatures. 

That's how MicroCNX® Nano solves problems: 

• Quick and easy connection - The connections can be made in seconds, without the need for special equipment. 

• Works in extreme cold - Reliable down to -190°C, while withstanding cryoprotective substances. 

• Ideal for small volumes - With a small footprint and connections down to 1/16″, it is ideal for applications that require high precision. 

• Minimizes contamination risk - The unique design reduces the risk of leakage and ensures sterility.

Tubing welding and freezing applications in biopharma present several challenges - from time-consuming welding to materials that risk cracking in extreme cold. Choosing the right connection technology and materials reduces these risks and makes processes both more efficient and safer.

With extensive experience of the demands of the biopharma industry, I can clearly see how innovative solutions, such as MicroCNX® Nano, can change the way things are done and eliminate many of the problems associated with traditional methods. If you want to know more about how this technology can improve your business, don't hesitate to get in touch - I'm happy to share my knowledge and experience. 

This text was written by Viktor Fredriksson (viktor.fredriksson@colly.se), Product Manager at Colly Flowtech.