Optimizing Tangential Flow Filtration

The Importance of Tangential Flow Filtration (TFF) in the Pharma Industry

Tangential flow filtration (TFF), also known as cross flow filtration, is a critical process in the biopharmaceutical industry used for concentration, desalting and buffer exchange of biomolecules. Unlike traditional filtration, where the feed stream flows perpendicular to the filter, TFF involves a parallel flow to the membrane, which minimizes fouling and increases filtration efficiency. TFF is widely used for the purification of proteins, viruses and other biologics, making it an indispensable part of bioprocessing.

Protein Purification: TFF is extensively used in the purification of proteins, including monoclonal antibodies (MABs) and recombinant proteins. Our Quattroflow pumps and control systems ensure precise control over cross flow rates and TMP, which are essential for achieving high purity and yield. By maintaining optimal filtration conditions, our solutions enhance the efficiency and reliability of protein purification processes.

Virus Concentration: In the production of viral vaccines and gene therapies, TFF is employed for the concentration and purification of viruses. Accurate control of recirculation rates and TMP is vital for maintaining virus integrity and maximizing recovery. Our systems provide the necessary precision and reliability to support high-quality virus production.

Cell Harvesting: TFF is also used for cell harvesting in bioprocessing, where cells are separated from the culture media. Ensuring stable cross flow rates and appropriate TMP helps in achieving efficient cell retention and high recovery rates. Our Quattroflow pumps are particularly suitable for these applications, offering gentle handling of cells to maintain their viability.

Buffer Exchange and Desalting: TFF is commonly used for buffer exchange and desalting of biomolecules, where precise control over filtration parameters is crucial. Our solutions ensure that the process is conducted efficiently, with minimal product loss and optimal buffer conditions.

Batch and Continuous Processing: Our TFF systems are designed to support both batch and continuous processing, providing flexibility to meet varying production demands. The ability to seamlessly transition between different processing modes enhances operational efficiency and scalability.

Why Quattroflow/PSG Biotech Pumps are the Best Option for TFF

• Four-piston design does not require any mechanical seals or wetted rotating parts, which helps ensure total product containment with minimal risk of shear, pulsation and particulate generation occurring
• Self-priming operation with high turndown ratios that enable the creation of consistent low-shear and low-pulsation operation that is essential for a stable and steady TFF process
• Four-piston pumps require up to 50% less energy to operate: less energy = less heat input = less shear stress = less product damage = higher product yields

Explore the challenges that must be overcome for a successful TFF process and why four-piston diaphragm pumps outperform other technologies for TFF success.

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Why PSG Biotech Pump Controllers and Flow Meters are the Best Option for TFF

• The award-winning BioProTT™ FlowSU System is easily integrated with the pump via a smart connection that enables it to deliver highly accurate flow measurement with no obstructions within the flow path
• The Q-Control Integrated Pump Controller is an integrated PID controller within the pump, which gives the pump the capability to directly interface with pressure and flow sensors
• SumoFlo® Coriolis Flow Meters offer +/-1% flow-rate reading accuracy that is unaffected by flow regime or variations to the velocity profile, allowing for accurate measurements of liquids transferred in TFF applications
• BioProTT™ Clamp-On Sensors use the ultrasonic transit-time method to ensure that every measurement is non-invasive, which is a critical concern when transferring hygienic liquids in TFF applications

Discover why PSG Biotech flow sensors/meters and pump controllers have been designed to outperform competitive technologies, leading to optimized TFF performance.

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