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Tangential Flow Filtration

With the rapid development of the biopharmaceutical industry, the application of tangential flow filtration (TFF) in the separation and purification of biomolecules is increasing.

As a key process in a tangential flow filtration system, flow measurement directly affects the separation efficiency.

Compared with the traditional flow meters, the CG series clamp-on ultrasonic flow sensor, as a new type of flow measurement component, has the advantages of high accuracy, good stability, no contamination, etc., which makes it ideal for TFF flow rate measurement.

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Industry Challenges

Variable Flow Rates

In TFF, flow rates are dynamic and can fluctuate throughout the filtration process. This variability stems from concentration polarization, membrane fouling, and changes in fluid viscosity.

01
Viscosity Change

As the feed fluid is filtered, the concentration of solutes increases, which in turn elevates the viscosity of the liquid. These changes affect the flow characteristics, necessitating frequent adjustments or recalibration of flow meters to maintain accuracy.

02
Sludge and Particulate Matter

In some applications, feeding liquids may contain suspended solids or particulate matter. Such debris can block or interfere with mechanical flow meters, resulting in erroneous readings and possible damage to the sensors involved.

03
Bubble Formation

Bubbles can significantly disrupt fluid flow within the system. Not only can bubbles lead to inaccurate flow measurements, but they may also cause cavitation in flow meters, risking errors and potential damage to the flow sensor.

04
Calibration and Maintenance

To ensure accuracy in flow measurement, regular calibration of flow sensors is essential, particularly in environments with fluctuating process conditions. However, frequent calibration and maintenance can increase operational costs and add complexity to TFF device management.

05

Application Overview

The role of ultrasonic flow sensors in tangential flow filtration systems.

Flow Rate Measurement
Based on the flow rate feedback, the filtration system can accurately adjust the pump speed to control the filtrate volume for better filtration efficiency.

Process Monitoring and Optimization
During the filtration process, it can continuously monitor the volume of filtrate to determine whether the filtration process is normal.

Filtrate Collection Control
Based on the real-time flow feedback from the sensor, the amount of filtrate collected can be accurately controlled to avoid overflow or insufficiency. At the same time, users can also set a target filtrate volume and automatically stop the filtrate collection when the set value is reached.

Early Warning of Clogging of the Filter Membrane
CG series ultrasonic flow sensor can monitor the filtrate flow changes to determine whether the membrane is clogged. Once an abnormal drop in flow rate is detected, the TFF will be promptly checked to avoid damaging the membrane and other tubing components.

Application Highlights

Hygienic and Sterile Design

The CG series clamp-on ultrasonic flow sensors feature a non-invasive design that ensures no direct contact with the measured liquid, maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and sterility.
Compact and Efficient

With a compact size that integrated circuits and advanced computing systems, CG series are designed for flexible installation, making them ideal for TFF flow measurement.
Minimal Pressure Loss

The clamp-on design eliminates clogging, steering, and dead space, resulting in minimal fluid pressure loss.
Versatile Output Options

The CG series offers multiple output methods, including analog, frequency, switching and RS485, allowing for seamless integration with existing customer systems. Switching output can be easily configured for flow switch, bubble detection, dosing, and flow rate output.
Effortless Installation

Designed for convenience, the CG series ultrasonic flow sensors can be easily clamped onto the outside of the tubing without disconnecting any lines. This approach eliminates system downtime and significantly enhances installation and dismantling efficiency.
High Accuracy

Supporting bi-directional measurements. Flow range: 10mL/min~100L/min. Measurement accuracy up to ± 1%.