Validated Autoclave Vent Filter for Critical Applications

Porvair Filtration Group, leaders in the design and manufacture of filtration and separation materials and products, has announced the launch of VentafilTM, a hydrophobic ePTFE membrane filter specifically designed for sterile venting of autoclaves and storage tanks.

VentafilTM cartridges, designed with an easy to fit ∏" BSP male thread, act as a sterile vacuum break at the end of autoclave sterilisation cycles commonly used in Biopharmaceutical and healthcare applications.

Independently validated in accordance with PDA, HIMA and ASTM F838-05 guidelines, VentafilTM has proven to be 100% retentive during rigorous liquid bacterial challenge tests. To mimic conditions of use, VentafilTM cartridges have also been validated to retain air-borne bacterial spores and viruses.

The design of the VentafilTM cartridges provides exceptional mechanical strength as demonstrated through repeated steam sterilisation in-situ at temperatures of up to 135°C (275°F) for 100 cycles at 20 minutes per cycle.

Steam sterilisation in the reverse direction for in excess of 70 cycles in a venting application, without loss of integrity, has been independently validated by customers.