US Patent No. 6,969,497

DECON System

The system for rapid VHP decontamination of RTP canisters

Adaptable to interface with beta flanges and canisters of any size and manufacturer
No entry into the chamber necessary, canister beta door removal via external actuator
Ideal for applications requiring frequent canister dockings because it simplifies and streamlines the decontamination process
The system can operate in conjunction with any VHP generator available in the market.
Presentation

System
Process
Features
Specifications
Advantages & Applications
Documentation
Photo Gallery

System Description

The DECON is a stand alone system that is used to VHP decontaminate a RTP canister using a standard VHP gas generator and interconnecting hardware.

Multiple DECON systems can be connected off a single VHP generator for those applications requiring simultaneous canisters decontamination.

The DECON consists of a small, leak tight chamber onto which the canister to be decontaminated is connected. A clamping system assures a leak tight connection.

VHP gas is introduced into the system via a gas injection system and a mixing fan assure of proper gas distribution within the chamber and the canister.

The rear bulkhead of the enclosure features a manual mechanism that the operator operates to manipulate the canister door without entering the chamber.

Process Description

Interconnecting Diagram that shows two DECON Systems simultaneously , connected to a single generator

Diagram that describes the decontamination process of a canister using the DECON System

Features

Stand alone, modular design eases placement and movement within the facility.
Stainless steel frame supports the sealed chamber.
Casters permit easy movement of the system and leveling feet permit secure placement of the system during operation.
The system is designed in such a way that it can be interfaced with any RTP canister model and size.
The canister rests onto an adjustable supporting mechanism during the docking process.
To assure of total coverage of all critical surfaces of the canister, a manual mechanism allows the operator to separate and move the canister door a certain distance from the beta flange. No gloves required.
VHP gas injection ports permit injecting the gas into the chamber. Proper distribution is assured by a mixing fan.

Specifications

Nominal size: 600 mm wide x 1100 mm long x 1600 mm high
RTP Canister type: Standard design for 270mm and 350mm beta flange. Can be adapted to interface to beta flanges of any type and dimensions.
VHP connections: 2-1/2 triclover connections for gas inlet and outlet.
Leak tighteness: Capable of withstanding a 250 pascal internal pressure without detectable leaks, using ammonia leak detection.
Materials of construction: Stainless steel, silicone, polycarbonate. All VHP gas compatible.

Advantages & Applications

The DECON permits the rapid decontamination of the RTP canister, especially important in those applications where cross contamination is an issue and unidirectional material flow, meaning single canister use, are part of the process.
The DECON increases the availability of the autoclave, often a manufacturing flow bottleneck.
The DECON eliminates using a transfer isolator to decontaminate canisters. With the system, the transfer isolator can be left "up", yielding improved operational efficiency.
The DECON reduces the reaction time of the operation in the event of an emergency where quick access to the isolator system is necessary.