Importance of Barrier Isolator Control Systems and Control Panels
The Standard Group of Companies are a leading supplier of equipment into the pharmaceutical and chemical industry.
The Group specialise in turnkey equipment processing solutions including full PLC and electronic cGAMP control systems.
Barrier isolators are pivotal pieces of equipment and must be maintained correctly and routinely as to ensure repeatable, competent and accurate products are produced in a safe manner.
These systems are built around a modular rack and designed to control single or multiple barrier isolators, monitoring all important performance statistics from chamber and exhaust filter differential pressure to emissions and temperature.
These control systems and control panels are mainly used with rigid isolators and these extra dimensions contribute to a fully functional and critical part of the process.
Typical Control System Considerations:-
CG screen, Laminar airflow & 10 air changes (min)
cGAMP - PLC/HMI controlled
Excellent lux operator lighting conditions
Multiple or Single Chambers – Interlocked
Disinfection or decontamination by VHP
Integration with RTP for safe & rapid transfer
HEPA filters inlet and outlet alarms
Integrated Processing equipment
CIP cleaning reminders
Complex Oxygen & Nitrogen System Control
Types of isolators which use control systems
Sterility Testing Isolator
Sterility Filling Isolator
Compounding Aseptic Isolator
Capping & Sealing
Lypholizer (Freeze Drying) Isolator
Typical System Qualification Tests:-
Leak test
Light and Lux test
Air change test
Laminar air flow test
Noise & Vibration test
Occupational exposure limit test
With these control systems a control panel needs to be an integral part of the equipment.
The huge positives with a control panel are: -
Safe Operating Environment
Full Alarm Control
Easy to Understand Digital Dashboard
Stable, reliable and accurate results
Clear visibility of system operational performance with a digital display, lights & alarms
However, with these control panels there are 2 distinct considerations.
Control panels add complexity
Complexity adds cost
With these considerations when purchasing a barrier isolator with control panels and systems the following will need implementing and budgeting for as part of the process: -
High Initial Capital Cost
Skilled partners for installation
Air-Conditioned Room
Require skilled employees/ partners for trouble shooting & problem resolving
The Standard Group not only supply control systems with barrier isolators but additional products include: -
