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5 tips to streamline your single-use system in biopharma

By Viktor Fredriksson

Single-use-system in biopharma

Making your single-use system more efficient in biopharma is crucial to reduce costs, save time and achieve higher sustainability. Here are our top five tips to help you create a system that fits your needs while improving both efficiency and safety.

1. remove unnecessary connections for a sustainable single-use system

Standard biopharma solutions are often designed to fit many different applications and customers, which can result in more connections than necessary. This not only creates unnecessary complexity but can also lead to higher costs and material consumption.

With a customized system, tailored to your specific needs, you can save time, money and materials while making your system more durable and easier to manage.

For more information on single-use technology, check out this article, which explains how single-use systems streamline production in biopharma.

2. Choose the right level of sterilization for your system

Does your single-use system need to be sterile according to SAL 10-⁶, or is a controlled dose of gamma radiation of 25-40 kilograys sufficient?

For many applications, gamma irradiation is sufficient, especially if it is not for critical steps in the downstream process, such as final fill. Choosing the right level of sterilization for your single-use system can save both time and resources.

3. use the right materials and dimensions to streamline your single-use system

Is your single-use system optimized in terms of dimensions and materials? Oversized systems and expensive material choices can quickly increase costs.

One example is pump hoses, which are often a major cost burden. But are they really necessary? If pumping cycles are short, simpler materials or shorter hose lengths can be just as effective and significantly cheaper - without compromising functionality.

4. Customize connections for greater security

What type of connection is best for your application? Options such as cable ties, Oetiker clamps and Barblocks have different advantages and disadvantages depending on the application.

In some cases, overmold technology may be a smarter choice to minimize the risk of leakage. By choosing the right connection, you can optimize both the safety and functionality of your system.

Read more about overmolded technology in this blog post, where we look at how technology can improve the functionality of the system.

5. Work with a trusted partner to optimize your system

Single-use-system offers endless possibilities and configurations, but finding the right solution can be a challenge.

An experienced partner, like Colly Flowtech, can help you develop sustainable and user-friendly systems that make your production more reliable. We always strive to exceed your expectations and deliver solutions that really make a difference.

Learn more about our customized single-use systems here.

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

Frequently asked questions about Single-use-system

What is a single-use system?

A single-use system is a disposable solution, usually made of plastic, used for the safe and sterile handling of liquids in, for example, pharmaceutical production. The system is delivered pre-sterilized from the manufacturer and discarded after use to minimize the risk of contamination.

What are the benefits of using single-use technology?

Single-use technology reduces the risk of product contamination, eliminates the need for cleaning between batches and simplifies the transition between different processes. It can also lower operating costs by reducing the need for cleaning equipment, water and chemicals.

Which industries use single-use solutions?

Single-use is mainly used in biotechnology, pharmaceutical production and parts of the food industry - especially where purity and hygiene are crucial. It is also well suited for small batch production and rapid product changeovers.

How quickly can a single-use system be implemented?

Because single-use systems do not require extensive installation or cleaning, they can be put into operation quickly. This makes them ideal for companies that want to quickly scale up production or test new processes at short notice.

Is it possible to recycle single-use components?

Most single-use parts are intended for one-time use and need to be managed as industrial waste according to local regulations. However, some manufacturers offer return or recycling programs to reduce the environmental impact.

Do you have any questions?

Viktor Fredriksson

Viktor Fredriksson

Product Manager
Hoses and tubing
Quick couplings
Single-Use
Sterile sampling
Sales and marketing
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