METALL+PLASTIC GmbH

E-beam tunnel

E-beam tunnel

Surface decontamination of pre-sterilized tubs

Pre-sterilized containers in tubs are becoming more common due to their reliability and economical advantages in the production process. An electron accelerator (e-beam) is used to sterilize the tub surfaces before it enters the aseptic area.

The development of the e-beam tunnel provides customers with a safe system for nested filling of prefilled syringes.

Before tub decontamination, the complete e-beam tunnel is decontaminated with hydrogen peroxide H2O2 gas, either alone or together with the isolator, after which the external decontamination of the tubs via ionizing radiation can commence. Each tub is transported via a conveyor belt to the isolator and passes through the electron cloud.

Technology

Design

• Small foot print for floor space saving (3.000 x 1.500 mm)
• Light construction based on latest production technology
• 100% in-house manufacturing enables ultimate quality and GMP compliant design
• Easy access for maintainance and cleaning
• Simple and quick exchange of the Emitter through pull-out device
• Application of radiation resistant and high-end materials
• GMP-compliant: AISI 316L

Performance

• Average radiation energy on the whole tub surface of minimum 25kGy
• Adjustable energy dose prevents radiation underneath the Tyvek foil
• All common tub sizes can be processed, including transparent tubs
• Throughput up to 6 tubs per minute
• Controlled tub transfer
• Supply and exhaust air is filtered through HEPA filters
• Sophisticated emitters with a long lifetime

Hardware

• Producer: METALL+PLASTIC
• Type description: e250H
• 3 x 10" electron beam emitter
• 3 x 150 kV high voltage power supply
• 3 x high voltage cable

Security aspects

• No measurable radiation after shutdown
• Lead shielding prevents leakage of radiation
• Negative pressure inside the E-Beam tunnel ensures the ozone and NOx extraction