Solo engineers say the bungee cord is a contamination risk to CROs and pharmaceutical laboratories, which is why the soloFLEX supports itself on an integral composite material rod that is only a fraction of an inch in diameter.
By carefully designing a system of sleeves at the corners of the envelope the soloFLEX unit can be shipped as a flat pack with the support rods tucked inside. Once on site a typical unit can be unpacked and set up within 5 minutes, making deployment much faster than conventional glove bag systems.
All parts of the soloFLEX package are innovative. The front face film is a high optical clarity anti-static PVC ensuring fine detail can be viewed without compromise by scientists. Similarly, Solo has taken care to reduce user fatigue by incorporating a very low friction PU for the glove access sleeve. A wide range of glove types is also available to suit variations in hand sizes.
As the soloFLEX frame provides a semi rigid – yet forgiving structure – the envelope can be operated at negative pressure for API containment application or over pressure for aseptic applications. Solo’s designers have tested even the largest soloFLEX to a negative pressure rating of 60pa.
The soloFLEX is offered with a range of options. For example, the standard P3 breather filter can be upgraded to an H14 HEPA cylinder that is manufactured exclusively for Solo with a 500-micron integral PU panel mount. This means the HEPA can be welded directly to the envelope wall thereby eliminating all leak paths.
With a typical API handling application, Solo recommends either an airlock entry or a bag – in bag out continuous liner system. When this set-up is operated with the firm’s compact venturi ejector, it can provide a controlled negative pressure cascade with a double HEPA exhaust. For low R/H or oxygen sensitive applications the venturi ejector can be powered with nitrogen gas supply providing a simple inert over or under pressure recirculation system.
