U.S. patent application number 10/454173 was filed with the patent office on 2004-12-09 for preformed mixing bag for dry powder, apparatus, method and system for using same.
Invention is credited to Hurst, William E..
Application Number | 20040245144 10/454173 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33489679 |
Filed Date | 2004-12-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040245144 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hurst, William E. |
December 9, 2004 |
Preformed mixing bag for dry powder, apparatus, method and system
for using same
Abstract
A mixing bag having an interior mixing chamber having a volume
sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of substantially dry
material and a selected volume of process compatible solution to
form a solution having the material in suspension with a selected
concentration is shown. The mixing bag includes at least two
sealable openings. One opening is configured for at least one of
enabling transporting the substantially dry material into the
interior mixing chamber, enabling agitation of the material and
process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form
the solution and enabling withdrawal of the solution at the
selected concentration. The other opening is configured for at
least one of injection of a process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber to form the solution, enabling agitation of
the material and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber and enabling withdrawal of the solution.
Inventors: |
Hurst, William E.; (Santa
Barbara, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Daniel J. Meaney, Jr.
Post Office Box 22307
Santa Barbara
CA
93121
US
|
Family ID: |
33489679 |
Appl. No.: |
10/454173 |
Filed: |
June 3, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/527 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B01F 35/513 20220101;
B01F 25/53 20220101; B01F 33/452 20220101; B01F 35/50 20220101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/527 |
International
Class: |
B65D 079/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A mixing bag comprising an interior mixing chamber having a
volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of
substantially dry material capable of remaining in suspension in a
process compatible solution and a selected volume of process
compatible solution to form a solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration, said interior mixing
chamber having a first end and a second end wherein said second end
is located in an opposed spaced relationship to said first end; and
at least two sealable openings wherein one of said at least two
sealable openings extends from a location exterior to the mixing
bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber at said
first end and which is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting of material into the interior mixing chamber, enabling
agitation of the material and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution at said selected concentration from the interior
mixing chamber and the other of said at least two openings extends
from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication
with the interior mixing chamber at said second end and which is
configured for at least one of enabling injection of a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the material in suspension, enabling agitation of
the material and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having material in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution at
said selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber.
2. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein said at least two sealable
openings comprise a first sealable opening extending from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured
for at least one of enabling agitation of the material and solution
in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the
material in suspension with a selected concentrated, enabling
agitation of the material and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber; a second sealable opening extending from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber at said second end and which is configured for at
least one of enabling injection of the process compatible solution
into the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the
material in suspension with a selected concentration, enabling
agitation of the material and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber; and a third sealable opening extending from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured for
enabling transporting the substantially dry material into the
interior mixing chamber.
3. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein said one of said at least two
sealable openings is configured to be sealed upon completion of
transporting the substantially dry material into the interior
mixing chamber and to be unsealed for at least one of enabling
agitation of the material and process compatible solution to form a
solution having the material in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of solution from the interior
mixing chamber at a selected concentration.
4. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein the other of said at least two
sealable openings is configured to be sealed before commencement of
transporting the substantially dry material into the interior
mixing chamber and to be unsealed for at least one of enabling
injection of a process compatible into the interior mixing chamber
to form a solution having the material in suspension, enabling
agitation of the material and process compatible solution to form a
solution having the material in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of solution from the interior
mixing chamber at a selected concentration.
5. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein said selected concentration is
at least one of a high concentration capable of being diluted to a
target concentration and a target concentration intended for use
without being diluted.
6. The mixing bag of claim 2 wherein said third sealable opening is
in the form of a sanitary filling port.
7. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein said substantially dry
material is a non-soluble powder.
8. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein said substantially dry
material is diatomaceous earth.
9. The mixing bag of claim 1 wherein said substantially dry
material is selected from a group consisting of diatomaceous earth,
Celpure P65.RTM. media, Celpure P100.RTM. media, Celpure 300.RTM.
media, Celpure P1000.RTM. media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
10. A preformed mixing bag comprising an outer member having a
predetermined shape and a side wall defining an interior mixing
chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of process compatible
solution to form a solution having the material in suspension with
a selected concentration, said interior mixing chamber having a
first end and a second end wherein said second end is located in an
opposed spaced relationship to said first end; and a first sealable
opening formed in said side wall of the outer member and which
extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at said first end
and which is configured for at least one of enabling transporting
dry powder into the interior mixing chamber, enabling agitation of
the powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution at
said selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and a
second sealable opening formed in said side wall of the outer
member and which extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag
and into communication with the interior mixing chamber at said
second end and which is configured for at least one of enabling
injection of a process compatible solution into the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling agitation of the powder and
process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form
a solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber.
11. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said outer member
is in the shape of an elongated thin walled generally rectangular
shaped member having a hollowed-out passageway defining the
interior mixing chamber.
12. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said outer member
is in the shape of an elongated thin walled generally cylindrical
shaped member having a hollowed-out passageway defining the
interior mixing chamber.
13. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said outer member
is in the shape of an elongated thin walled generally cylindrical
shaped member having a hollowed-out passageway defining the
interior mixing chamber and wherein said interior mixing chamber
includes an internal conical shaped hopper for receiving dry
powder.
14. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said mixing bag
include a third sealable opening formed in said side wall of the
outer member and which extends from a location exterior to the
mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber
at said first end and which is configured for enabling transporting
dry powder into the interior mixing chamber.
15. The preformed mixing bag of claim 14 wherein said third
sealable opening is in the form of a sanitary filling port.
16. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said selected
concentration is at least one of a high concentration capable of
being diluted to a target concentration and a target concentration
intended for use without being diluted.
17. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said dry powder is
a non-soluble powder.
18. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said dry material
is diatomaceous earth.
19. The preformed mixing bag of claim 10 wherein said dry material
is selected from a group consisting of diatomaceous earth, Celpure
P65.RTM. media, Celpure P100.RTM. media, Celpure 300.RTM. media,
Celpure P1000.RTM. media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
20. A preformed mixing bag adapted to store a dry powder which is
to be mixed with a process compatible solution to form a suspension
of powder in the process compatible solution with a selected
concentration, said mixing bag comprising an interior mixing
chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of process compatible
solution to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration; at least two sealable openings wherein one
of said at least two sealable openings extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber and which is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting of dry powder into the interior mixing chamber,
enabling agitation of the powder and a process compatible solution
in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber and the other of said at least two opening extends from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at location spaced from said one of said at
least two sealable openings and which is configured for at least
one of enabling injection of a process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling agitation of
the powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber.
21. The preformed mixing bag of claim 20 wherein said interior
mixing chamber has a first end and a second end, said second end
being located in an opposed spaced relationship to said first end,
and wherein said one of said at least two sealable openings is
located at said first end and the other of said at least two
sealable openings is located at said second end.
22. The preformed mixing bag of claim 21 wherein said interior
mixing chamber has a top section and a bottom section and said
first end is located in said top section and said second end is
located in said bottom section, said second end positioning the
other of said at least two sealable openings at said bottom section
for enabling injecting of a process compatible solution through
said bottom section.
23. The preformed mixing bag of claim 19 wherein said at least two
sealable openings comprises a first sealable opening extending from
a location exterior to the preformed mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at said second end
and which is configured for at least one of enabling injection of a
process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and a
second sealable opening extending from a location exterior to the
mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber
at said first end and which is configured for at least one of
enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in
the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber; and a third sealable opening extending from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured for
enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber.
24. The preformed mixing bag of claim 23 wherein said third
sealable opening is configured to be sealed upon completion of
transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber and said
second and third sealable openings are configured to be unsealed
for at least one of enabling injection of a process compatible
solution into said mixing chamber to form a solution having the
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
agitation of the powder and process compatible solution to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of solution with a selected
concentration from the interior mixing chamber.
25. The preformed mixing bag of claim 20 wherein said dry powder is
a non-soluble powder.
26. The preformed mixing bag of claim 20 wherein said dry powder is
diatomaceous earth.
27. The preformed mixing bag of claim 20 wherein said non-soluble
powder is selected from a group consisting of diatomaceous earth,
Celpure P65.RTM. media, Celpure P100.RTM. media, Celpure 300.RTM.
media, Celpure P1000.RTM. media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
28. A method for filling a mixing bag with a dry powder comprising
the steps of: forming a mixing bag having an interior mixing
chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of process compatible
solution to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and at least two sealable openings wherein
one of said at least two sealable openings extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber and which is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting of dry powder into the interior mixing chamber,
enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in
the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber and the other of said at least two opening extends from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at location spaced from said one of said at
least two sealable openings and which is configured for at least
one of enabling injection of a process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling agitation of
the powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and
transporting dry powder from a dry powder source through said one
of said at least two sealable openings into the interior mixing
chamber until a predetermined weight of dry powder is received with
the interior mixing chamber of the mixing bag.
29. The method of claim 28 further comprising the step of:
connecting said one of said at least two sealable openings to a
source of dry powder.
30. The method of claim 28 further comprising the step of: placing
the mixing bag into a shipping container.
31. The method of claim 30 wherein the step of placing the mixing
bag into a shipping container is prior to the step of transporting
dry powder from a dry powder source through said one of said at
least two sealable openings into the interior mixing chamber such
that the mixing bag has the dry powder transported into the
interior mixing chamber when the mixing bag is located within the
shipping container.
32. The method of claim 30 further wherein the step of placing the
mixing bag into a shipping container is subsequent to the step of
transporting dry powder from a dry powder source through said one
of said at least two sealable opening into the interior mixing
chamber such that the mixing bag has the dry powder in the interior
mixing chamber when the mixing bag is placed within the shipping
container.
33. A method for filling a mixing bag with a dry powder comprising
the steps of: forming a mixing bag having an outer member having a
predetermined shape and a side wall defining an interior mixing
chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of a process compatible
solution to form a solution wherein said interior mixing chamber
has a first end and a second end wherein said second end is located
in an opposed spaced relationship to said first end, said mixing
bag further including a first sealable opening formed in said side
wall of the outer member and which extends from a location exterior
to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing
chamber at said first end and which is configured at least one of
enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber,
enabling agitation of the powder and a process compatible solution
in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder
in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal
of the solution with a selected concentration from the interior
mixing chamber and a second sealable opening formed in said side
wall of the outer member and which extends from a location exterior
to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing
chamber at said second end and which is configured for at least one
of enabling injection of a process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling agitation of
the powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and for enabling withdrawal of the solution
with a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and
transporting dry powder from a dry powder source through said first
sealable opening into the interior mixing chamber until a
predetermined weight of dry powder is received within the interior
mixing chamber of the preformed mixing bag.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of forming includes the
mixing bag outer member being in the shape of an elongated thin
walled rectangular member having a hollowed-out passageway defining
the interior mixing chamber.
35. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of forming includes the
mixing bag outer member being in the shape of an elongated thin
walled cylindrical member having a hollowed-out passageway defining
the interior mixing chamber.
36. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of forming includes the
mixing bag outer member being in the shape of an elongated thin
walled cylindrical member having a hollowed-out passageway defining
the interior mixing chamber wherein said interior mixing chamber
includes an internal conical shaped hopper for receiving dry
powder.
37. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of forming includes the
mixing bag outer member having a third sealable opening formed in
said side wall of the outer member and which extends from a
location exterior to the preformed mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at said first end
and which is configured for enabling transporting dry material into
the interior mixing chamber.
38. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of transporting dry
powder from a dry powder source uses a dry powder which is a
non-soluble powder.
39. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of transporting dry
powder from a dry powder source uses a dry powder which is
diatomaceous earth.
40. The method of claim 33 wherein the step of transporting dry
powder from a dry powder source uses a dry powder which is selected
from a group consisting of diatomaceous earth, Celpure P65.RTM.
media, Celpure P100.RTM. media, Celpure 300.RTM. media, Celpure
P1000.RTM. media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
41. The method of claim 33 further comprising the step of:
connecting said one of said at least two sealable openings to a
source of dry powder.
42. The method of claim 33 further comprising the step of: placing
the mixing bag into a shipping container.
43. The method of claim 42 wherein the step of placing the mixing
bag into a shipping container is prior to the step of transporting
dry powder from a dry powder source through said first sealable
opening into the interior mixing chamber such that the mixing bag
has the dry powder transported into the interior mixing chamber
when the mixing bag is located within the shipping container.
44. The method of claim 42 further wherein the step of placing the
mixing bag into a shipping container is subsequent to the step of
transporting dry powder from a dry powder source through said first
sealable opening into the interior mixing chamber such that the
mixing bag has the dry powder in the interior mixing chamber when
the mixing bag is placed within the shipping container.
45. A method comprising the steps of: injecting a selected volume
of a process compatible solution into a mixing bag wherein said
mixing bag has an interior mixing chamber having a predetermined
weight of dry powder and at least two sealable openings wherein one
of said at least two sealable openings extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber and which is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber, enabling
agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber and the other of said at least two sealable openings
extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at location spaced
from said one of said at least two sealable openings and which is
configured for at least one of enabling injection of a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber, said step
of injecting being through the other of said at least two sealable
openings; agitating through said at least two sealable openings the
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration; and withdrawing from the interior mixing
chamber through at least one of said at least two sealable openings
the solution with a selected concentration.
46. The method of claim 45 wherein the step of injecting includes a
preformed mixing bag wherein said interior mixing chamber has a top
section and a bottom section and said first end is located in said
top section and said second end is located in said bottom section,
said second end positioning the other of said at least two sealable
openings at said bottom section for enabling injecting of a process
compatible solution through said bottom section.
47. The method of claim 45 further comprising the step connecting
said other of the at least two sealable openings to a source of a
process compatible solution.
48. The method of claim 45 wherein the step of agitating through
said at least two sealable openings the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration further includes filtering through a filter the
solution having powder in suspension to remove unwanted particles
therefrom.
49. The method of claim 45 further comprising the step of: removing
the mixing bag having the dry powder in the interior mixing chamber
from a shipping container.
50. The method of claim 45 wherein the step of removing the mixing
bag having the dry powder in the interior mixing chamber from a
shipping container is prior to the step of injecting a selected
volume of a process compatible solution through said one of the at
least two sealable openings to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration.
51. In combination, a mixing bag comprising an interior mixing
chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of a process compatible
solution to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration, said interior mixing chamber having a first
end and a second end wherein said second end is located in an
opposed spaced relationship to said first end; at least two
sealable openings wherein one of said at least two sealable
openings extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and
into communication with the interior mixing chamber at said first
end and which is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber, enabling
agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber and the other of said at least two sealable openings
extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at said second end
and which is configured for at least one of enabling injection of a
process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and a dry
powder.
52. The combination of claim 51 wherein said dry powder is a
non-soluble powder.
53. The combination of claim 51 wherein said dry powder is
diatomaceous earth.
54. The combination of claim 51 wherein said dry powder is selected
from a group consisting of diatomaceous earth, Celpure P65.RTM.
media, Celpure P100.RTM. media, Celpure 300.RTM. media, Celpure
P1000.RTM. media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
55. The combination of claim 51 wherein said at least two sealable
openings comprises a first sealable opening extending from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured
for at least one of enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; a second
sealable opening extending from a location exterior to the mixing
bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber at said
second end and which is configured for at least one of enabling
agitation of the powder and a process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber; and a third sealable opening extending from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured for
enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber.
56. The combination of claim 55 further comprising an auxiliary
opening extending from a location exterior to the mixing bag and
into communication with the interior mixing chamber at said first
end and which is configured for as a degassing vent.
57. Apparatus for filling a mixing bag comprising a filling conduit
system operatively removeably connected to a mixing bag wherein
said mixing bag comprises an interior mixing chamber having a
volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder
and a selected volume of a process compatible solution to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration, said interior mixing chamber having a first end and
a second end wherein said second end is located in an opposed
spaced relationship to said first end and at least two sealable
openings wherein one of said at least two sealable openings extends
from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication
with the interior mixing chamber at said first end and which is
configured for at least one of enabling transporting dry powder
into the interior mixing chamber, enabling agitation of the powder
and a process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber and the
other of said at least two sealable opening extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber at said second end and which is configured for at
least one of enabling injection of a process compatible solution
into the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
agitation of the powder and a process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber, said filling conduit system being removeably operatively
connected to the one of said at least two sealable openings for
enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber.
58. The apparatus of claim 57 wherein said filling conduit system
is configured to be operatively connect to a source of dry
powder.
59. The apparatus of claim 57 wherein said filling conduit system
is configured to be operatively connect to a propelling member for
transporting the dry powder from a source of dry powder to the
interior mixing chamber of the mixing bag.
60. Apparatus for mixing in a mixing bag containing a predetermined
weight of a dry powder with a process compatible solution to form a
suspension of the powder in the process compatible solution
comprising a first conduit system operatively removeably connected
to a mixing bag wherein said mixing bag comprises an interior
mixing chamber having a predetermined weight of dry powder and
configured to receive a selected volume of a process compatible
solution to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and at least two sealable openings wherein
one of said at least two sealable openings extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior
mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured for at
least one of enabling transporting dry powder into the interior
mixing chamber, enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber and the
other of said at least two sealable openings extends from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at a location spaced from the one of the at
least two sealable openings and which is configured for at least
one of enabling injection of a process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
the powder in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentration from the
interior mixing chamber, said first conduit system being removeably
operatively connected to the one of said at least two sealable
openings for enabling for enabling agitating the solution of powder
and process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution of the process compatible solution having the
powder in suspension with a concentration and enabling withdrawal
of the solution with a selected concentration from the interior
mixing chamber; and a second conduit system operatively removeably
connected to the other of the at least two sealable openings and to
said first conduit system for enabling agitation of the powder and
process compatible solution within the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution from the
interior mixing chamber with a selected concentration.
61. The apparatus of claim 60 wherein said first conduit further
comprising a withdrawal member for enabling withdrawal of the
solution from the interior mixing chamber with a selected
concentration.
62. A system comprising a mixing bag comprising an interior mixing
chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of a process compatible
solution to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and wherein said interior mixing chamber has
a predetermined weight of dry powder stored therein, said interior
mixing chamber having a first end and a second end wherein said
second end is located in an opposed spaced relationship to said
first end and at least two sealable openings wherein one of said at
least two sealable openings extends from a location exterior to the
mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber
at said first end and which is configured for at least one of
enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber,
enabling agitation of the powder and a process compatible solution
in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder
in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal
of the solution with a selected concentration from the interior
mixing chamber and the other of said at least two sealable openings
extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at said second end
and which is configured for at least one of enabling injection of a
process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected concentration
and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a selected
concentration from the interior mixing chamber; a first conduit
system configured to be operatively removeably connected to said
one of the at least two sealable openings for enabling agitating of
the solution of the powder and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution of the process
compatible solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and for enabling withdrawal of the solution from the
interior mixing chamber with a selected concentration; a second
conduit system operatively removeably connected to the other of the
at least two sealable openings and to said first conduit system for
enabling injection of a process compatible solution into said
interior mixing chamber through the other of said at least two
openings to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration for enabling agitation of the powder and
process compatible solution within the interior mixing chamber
through said at least two sealable openings to form a solution
having the powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
for enabling withdrawal of the solution from the interior mixing
chamber with a selected concentration through the other of said at
least two sealable openings; and a pump operatively connected to
said first conduit system and to said second conduit system, said
pump being configured to at least one of injection of a process
compatible solution from a source of process compatible solution
into said interior chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension and agitating the solution of the powder and process
compatible solution within the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration.
63. The system of claim 62 further comprising a withdrawal member
operatively connected to said first conduit system for withdrawal
of the solution from the interior mixing chamber with a selected
concentration and feeding the solution to a processing line.
64. The system of claim 63 wherein said processing line includes a
source of at least one of a feedstock and process compatible
solution to dilute the solution at the selected concentration to a
lower target concentration.
65. The system of claim 62 wherein said at least two sealable
openings comprise a first sealable opening extending from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at said first end and which is configured
for at least one of enabling agitation of the powder and a process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution from the
interior mixing chamber with a selected concentration; a second
sealable opening extending from a location exterior to the mixing
bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber at said
second end and which is configured for at least one of enabling
injection of a process compatible solution into the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling agitation of the powder and a
process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form
a solution having the powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and a
third sealable opening extending from a location exterior to the
mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing chamber
at said first end and which is configured for enabling transporting
dry powder into the interior mixing chamber.
66. The system of claim 65 wherein said third sealable opening is
configured to be sealed upon completion of transporting dry powder
into the interior mixing chamber and to be unsealed for enabling
agitation of a powder and process compatible solution to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration.
67. The system of claim 62 wherein said dry powder is a non-soluble
powder.
68. The system of claim 62 wherein said dry powder is diatomaceous
earth.
69. The system of claim 62 wherein said dry powder is selected from
a group consisting of diatomaceous earth, Celpure P65.RTM. media,
Celpure P100.RTM. media, Celpure 300.RTM. media, Celpure P1000.RTM.
media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
70. The system of claim 62 further comprising a filter operatively
connected to said first conduit system, said second conduit system
and said pump to remove unwanted particles from the solution having
powder in suspension.
71. The system of claim 62 further comprising a controller for
controlling said pump to inject a selected volume of make-up
process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber from a
source of process compatible solution.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not Applicable
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
REFERENCE TO A "MICROFICHE APPENDIX" (SEE 37 CFR 1.96)
[0003] Not Applicable
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] 1. Field of the Invention
[0005] The present invention relates to mixing bag for packaging,
storing and shipping (using a separate shipping container) a dry
material to be mixed in the mixing bag and more particularly
relates to a preformed mixing bag adapted to store a dry powder
which is to be mixed with a process compatible solution to form a
suspension of powder in the solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration which may be at least one
of a high concentration capable of being diluted to a target
concentration or at a target concentration intended for use without
being diluted.
[0006] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0007] The use of mixing bags for storing a dry powder to be mixed
in the mixing bag with a liquid is known in the art. The following
prior art discloses typical mixing bags, apparatus and method for
using such mixing bags.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,616,305 discloses a bag containing a
selected quantity of dry powdered material wherein the volume of
the bag is sufficient to add a liquid of a known maximum volume
resulting in a solution in the form of a powdered salt concentrate
wherein the solution is mixed by use of a pump connected to a water
supply line. The powdered salt partially dissolves when the bag is
completely filled with water.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 5,643,585 discloses a non-soluble particulate
coloring material comprising dry ground red micro algae-derived
material as a base color material. The non-soluble particulate
matter was stored in a transparent plastic bag for testing as
opposed to mixing with a fluid.
[0010] U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,149,294; 5,511,875 and 5,348,389 each
disclose a system for mixing a powder and a fluid to produce a
slurry. The system has a bag for mixing the powder and fluid
therein and discloses use of a pump that recirculates and mixes the
contents of the bag.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 5,362,642 discloses a cell culture media
containment system having a mixing bag substantially enclosed
within a storage bag powdered cell culture media and other
constituents are introduced into the mixing bag and are mixed
therein. Therefore, the reconstituted media is conveyed from the
mixing bag into the storage bag. The mixing bag has an access port
in the top to assist in the introduction of constituents into the
mixing chamber and an introduction plate in the top having an
opening allowing for insertion of tubes there through into the
mixing chamber. The storage bag has an introduction plats having an
opening for possessing tubing into the storage bag and to support a
discharge tube.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 5,121,857 discloses a system for agitating and
dispensing a mixture from a bag-in-box arrangement wherein the
bag-in-box has a connector having an inlet port, an outlet port and
a pump.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,709,467 discloses a bag or a pouch for
mixing and dispensing an alginate and water composition and wherein
the pouch or bag as a sealable opening.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 6,298,984 discloses a package containing a
medium that must be combined with an activator and mixed before the
medium can be used by an end user.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 4,948,013 discloses a method of mixing a
powder and a fluid wherein a filter is used to allow only
predetermined particles to be dispensed.
[0016] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,069,370 and 4,821,923 each disclose mixing
and dispensing containers.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. DES 413,258 discloses a flexible bag in the
form of a dunnage bag having a valve, the dunnage bag apparently
being used for personal storage of fluids or personal
belongings.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. DES 308,164 discloses a flexible container
having an extended pouring spout for storing and dispensing
fluids.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. DES 304,546 discloses a flexible container
having an opening which appears to be used for a filling the
container with a fluid causing expansion of a bottom seam to
accommodate a pre-determined volume fluid and wherein the opening
is used to dispense the fluid.
[0020] European Patent Office EPO Publication Number 0 152 283
discloses apparatus for dispensing a beverage from a reservoir
wherein the reservoir containing the fluid is releasably connected
to the apparatus wherein a pump continuously circulates the
beverage around a fluid circuit. One or more dispensing valves or
taps are located in the fluid circuit from which the beverage is to
be dispensed. A metering pump is provided to effect mixing of the
beverage within the reservoir when the beverage is to be formed of
two or more liquids.
[0021] European Patent Office EPO Publication Number 0 354 685
discloses a system for agitating and dispensing a fluid in a
bag-in-box arrangement and appears to be a foreign equivalent of
U.S. Pat. No. 5,121,857 discussed above.
[0022] Discloses a system for preparation and use of dialyses
solution U.S. Pat. No. 5,385,564. Having a bag which is constructed
to hold granulated or powder concentrate. The bag has a V-shaped
bottom with an access port in the bottom. Water is flowed through
the access port and into the bag using water control means having a
pump. The incoming water lifts and suspends the granules or powder.
The filling of the bag is monitored by trip switches operatively
attached to support the weight of the bag and contents. When the
bag is filled sufficiently with water, the weight of the bag and
contents trips the trip switches and a signal is sent to deactivate
the pumps through control circuits.
[0023] None of the known prior art anticipates, discloses, suggests
or teaches a mixing bag having an interior mixing chamber having a
volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder
and a selected volume of process compatible solution to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected concentration
and at least two sealable openings wherein one of the at least two
sealable openings is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber, enabling
agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentrated from the interior mixing
chamber and the other of the at least two opening is configured for
at least one of injecting a process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentrated from the
interior mixing chamber.
[0024] Further, the system for preparation and use of dialyses
solution disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,385,564 does not anticipate,
disclose, suggest or teach a mixing bag comprising an interior
mixing chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a
predetermined weight of dry material capable of being forming and
remaining in suspension in a liquid and a selected volume of
process compatible solution to form a solution having the material
in suspension with a selected concentration.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0025] The present invention discloses and teaches a new, novel and
unique mixing bag for mixing a dry powder with a process compatible
solution in a preformed mixing bag to form a suspension of powder
in the process compatible solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration which is at least one of a
high concentration capable of being diluted to a target
concentration and a target concentration or, in the alternative, a
selected density or a density within or acceptable range of
densities. The mixing bag, which in the preferred embodiment is a
preformed mixing bag, comprises an interior mixing chamber having a
volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder
and a selected volume of process compatible solution to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected concentration,
e.g. g/L or selected density e.g. g/L.sup.3. The interior mixing
chamber has a first end and a second end wherein the second end is
located in an opposed spaced relationship to the first end. The
mixing bag includes at least two sealable openings wherein one of
the at least two sealable openings extends from a location exterior
to the mixing bag and into communication with the interior mixing
chamber at the first end and which is configured for at least one
of enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber, enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentrated from the
interior mixing chamber. The other of the at least two opening
extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber at the second end
and is configured for at least one of injecting the process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber. The
selected concentration is at least one of a high concentration
capable of being diluted to a target concentration and a target
concentration.
[0026] In addition, this invention relates to a method for filling
a mixing bag having the above described structure with a dry
material, e.g. dry powder, such as for example a Celpure.RTM. media
or e.g. a slightly hydrated media such as for example an LRA.RTM.
media.
[0027] In addition, this invention relates to apparatus for mixing
a dry powder with a process compatible solution in a preformed
mixing bag having the above-described structure to form a
suspension of powder in the process compatible solution having a
selected concentration or selected density.
[0028] In an alternative embodiment, the concentration may be at a
high concentration of Celpure.RTM. media or LRA.RTM. media, e.g.
100 g/L, to minimize the size of the system and the resulting
solution may then be diluted with an inline mixer to achieve a
lower target concentration, e.g. 2 g/L.
[0029] In addition, this invention relates to a system for mixing a
dry powder with a process compatible solution in a preformed mixing
bag having the above-described structure to form a suspension of
powder in the solution having the material in suspension with a
selected concentration or selected density.
[0030] Therefore, it is an advantage of the present invention to
provide mixing bag having a volume sufficient to receive a
predetermined weight of dry material capable of being forming and
remaining in suspension in a process compatible solution and a
selected volume of process compatible solution to form a solution
having the material in suspension with a selected concentration or
selected solution density.
[0031] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag can be used in methods, apparatus and a system for
forming a solution having the material in suspension with a
selected concentration which is at least one of a high
concentration capable of being diluted to a target concentration
and a target concentration intended for use without being
diluted.
[0032] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
selected concentration of the solution may be a high concentration
to minimize system size and the resulting solution may then be
diluted to achieve a lower target concentration.
[0033] Another advantage of the present invention is that a mixing
bag can be a preformed mixing bag having a selected shape.
[0034] Another advantage of the present invention is that the a
mixing bag has an interior mixing chamber having a first and second
end located in an opposed spaced relationship to each other and
include at least two sealable openings wherein one of said at least
two sealable openings is configured for at least one of enabling
transporting dry material into the interior mixing chamber,
enabling agitation of the material and process compatible solution
in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the
material in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentration from the
interior mixing chamber and the other of said at least two openings
is configured for at least one of injecting liquid into the
interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the material in
suspension, enabling agitation of the material and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having material in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber.
[0035] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag may have one of the at least two sealable openings
configured to be sealed upon completion of transporting dry
material into the interior mixing chamber and to be unsealed for at
least one of enabling agitation of the material and process
compatible solution to form a solution having the material in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentrated from the interior mixing
chamber.
[0036] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag can be have a volume sufficient to receive a
predetermined weight of dry material capable of being forming and
remaining in suspension in a process compatible solution and a
selected volume of a process compatible solution to form a solution
having the material in suspension with a selected
concentration.
[0037] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag can be have a volume sufficient to receive a
predetermined weight of non-soluble powder capable of being forming
and remaining in suspension in a process compatible solution and a
selected volume of process compatible solution to form a solution
having the material in suspension with a selected concentration. In
the preferred embodiment, the non-soluble powder is diatomaceous
earth. In alternative applications, the non-soluble powder may
comprise Celpure.RTM. media, LRA.RTM. media or sorbents.
[0038] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag has an outer member having a predetermined shape and a
sidewall defining an interior mixing chamber having a volume
sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder and a
selected volume of process compatible solution to form a
solution.
[0039] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag has an outer member which is in the shape of an
elongated thin walled rectangular member having a hollowed-out
passageway defining the interior mixing chamber.
[0040] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag has an outer member which is in the shape of an
elongated thin walled cylindrical member having a hollowed-out
passageway defining the interior mixing chamber.
[0041] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag has an outer member which is in the shape of an
elongated thin walled cylindrical member having a hollowed-out
passageway defining the interior mixing chamber wherein the
interior mixing chamber includes an internal conical shaped hopper
for receiving dry powder.
[0042] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag at least two sealable openings may comprises a first
sealable opening which is configured for enabling transporting dry
powder into the interior mixing chamber; a second sealable which is
configured for at least one of enabling injection of process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having the powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having the powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber; and a
third sealable opening which is configured for enabling at least
one of agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in
the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having the powder in
suspension with a selected concentration.
[0043] Another advantage of the present invention is that the
mixing bag can be used in a method for filling a mixing bag with a
dry powder comprising the steps of forming a mixing bag a volume
sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder and a
selected volume of process compatible solution to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration and at
least two sealable openings one wherein one of the at least two
sealable openings is configured for at least enabling transporting
the dry powder from a dry powder source into the interior mixing
chamber through the at least one sealable opening into the interior
mixing chamber until a predetermined weight of dry powder is
received with the interior mixing chamber of the mixing bag.
[0044] Another advantage of the present invention is the mixing bag
having an interior mixing chamber having a predetermined weight of
dry powder can be in a method for forming a solution comprising the
steps of injecting a selected volume of process compatible
solution, e.g. water of feedstock solution, into a mixing bag
through a designated sealable opening; agitating through the at
least two sealable openings the powder and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and withdrawing
from the interior mixing chamber through the other of said at least
two sealable openings the solution with a selected concentration.
The selected concentration is at least one of a high concentration
capable of being diluted to a target concentration and a target
concentration intended for use without being diluted.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0045] The present invention will become more fully understood from
the following detailed description of a preferred but non-limiting
embodiment thereof, described in connection with the accompanying
drawings, wherein:
[0046] FIG. 1 is a front, left side and top perspective view of a
preformed mixing bag, having a top section and a bottom section,
adapted to store a dry material, e.g. dry powder, in an interior
mixing chamber which is to be mixed with a process compatible
solution to form a suspension of powder in the solution having the
material in suspension with a selected concentration and wherein
the preformed mixing bag has at least two sealable openings;
[0047] FIG. 2 is a perspective pictorial representation of a
shipping container having placed therein a preformed mixing bag of
FIG. 1 filled with a predetermined weight of dry powder for
shipping to an end user for subsequent injection of a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension;
[0048] FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of a preformed mixing bag
of FIG. 1 showing the other of the two sealable openings for at
least one of enabling injection of a process compatible solution
into said interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder
in suspension enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution within the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected concentration
and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a selected
concentration from the interior mixing chamber;
[0049] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the preformed mixing bag of
FIG. 1 showing one of the two sealable openings configured for
enabling transporting a predetermined weight of dry powder into the
interior mixing chamber and a third sealable opening for enabling
at least one of agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution within the interior mixing chamber to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
enabling withdrawal of solution from the interior mixing chamber at
a selected concentration and wherein the preformed mixing bag can
optionally include an auxiliary opening which can be used as
required;
[0050] FIG. 5 is a back elevational view of a preformed mixing bag
of FIG. 1 showing one of the two sealable openings configured for
enabling transporting a predetermined weight of dry powder into the
interior mixing chamber and a third sealable opening for at least
one of enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution within the interior mixing chamber to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
enabling withdrawal of solution from the interior mixing chamber at
a selected concentration;
[0051] FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the preformed mixing bag of
FIG. 1 showing the other of said two sealable openings for at least
one of enabling injection of a process compatible solution into
said interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution within the interior mixing chamber to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
enabling withdrawal of solution from the interior mixing chamber at
a selected concentration;
[0052] FIG. 7 is a pictorial representation of the of the mixing
bag of FIG. 1 showing a preformed mixing bag having a first
sealable opening, a second sealable opening, a third sealable
opening and an auxiliary opening, the relationship between and
functions of the first, second and third sealable openings and use
of the first sealable opening for enabling transporting of a
predetermined weight of dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber;
[0053] FIG. 8 is a pictorial representation of the of the mixing
bag of FIG. 1 showing a preformed mixing bag having a first
sealable opening, a second sealable opening, a third sealable
opening and an auxiliary opening, the relationship between and
functions of the first, second and third sealable openings for
enabling transporting a predetermined weight of dry powder into the
interior mixing chamber, enabling injection of a process compatible
solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution to form a solution having powder in suspension
with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the
solution from the interior mixing chamber with a selected
concentration under control of a mixing control system having a
computer system;
[0054] FIG. 9 is a pictorial representation of the of the mixing
bag of FIG. 1 having a first sealable opening, a second sealable
opening, third sealable opening and an auxiliary opening showing
the use of the second sealable opening for enabling injection of a
process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber
through the bottom section of the mixing bag to form a solution
having powder in suspension;
[0055] FIG. 10 is a pictorial representation of the of the mixing
bag of FIG. 1 having a first sealable opening, a second sealable
opening, a third sealable opening and an auxiliary opening showing
the use of the second sealable opening and the third sealable
opening for enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration, enabling filtering of the solution and for
enabling withdrawal of the solution from the interior mixing
chamber with a selected concentration through a filter feedstock
conduit under control of a mixing control system;
[0056] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic representation of a mixing bag of
the present invention having a source of dry powder, a first
conduit system and a second conduit system including showing in
dashed lines connecting hoses, a pump, a filter and a controller
for controlling the injecting of make-up, process compatible
solution of a selected volume into the interior mixing chamber and
for withdrawing of solution from the interior mixing chamber at a
selected concentration;
[0057] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the first conduit system shown
in FIG. 11 operatively removeably connected to the one of at least
two sealed opening for enabling agitating the solution of powder
and process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution of the process compatible solution having the
powder in suspension with a selected concentration;
[0058] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the second conduit system
shown in FIG. 11 operatively removeably connected to the other of
the at least two openings for at least one of injecting process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and in cooperation with the first conduit
system enabling withdrawal of the solution with a selected
concentration from the interior mixing chamber;
[0059] FIG. 14A is an exploded front elevational view of the first
sealable opening having a port assembly with a sealing cap for
enabling transporting a predetermined weight of dry powder into the
interior mixing chamber of a mixing bag and sealing of the port
assembly;
[0060] FIG. 14B is an exploded front elevational view of the first
sealable opening having a port assembly with an elongated
attachment member for enabling transporting a predetermined weight
of dry powder into the interior mixing chamber of a mixing bag
through the elongated attachment member;
[0061] FIG. 15 is a pictorial representation of yet another
embodiment of a preformed mixing bag for practicing the teachings
of the present invention wherein a magnetically controlled impeller
is used for agitating the solution;
[0062] FIG. 16 is a pictorial representation of a magnetically
controlled impeller configured for use in the embodiment
illustrated in FIG. 15;
[0063] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the method for filling a
preformed mixing bag having an interior mixing chamber configured
to have a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of
dry powder and a selected volume of process compatible solution to
form a solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and shipping the same in a shipping container to an
end user;
[0064] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the method for using a
preformed mixing bag having an interior mixing chamber containing a
predetermined weight of dry powder wherein the sealable openings
are unsealed for enabling injection of a process compatible
solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution to form a solution having powder in suspension
with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the
solution from the interior mixing chamber with a selected
concentration or at a desired concentration;
[0065] FIG. 19 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment
of a preformed mixing bag having a conical shaped internal hopper
for practicing the teachings of the present invention; and
[0066] FIG. 20 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment
of a preformed mixing bag in a system for the delivery of
Celpure.RTM. media to a filtration process wherein the suspension
produces a Celpure.RTM. media body-feed concentration produced with
a process compatible solution.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0067] Before proceeding with the description of the preferred
embodiment, the following background will be helpful in
understanding this invention.
Filtration Background
[0068] Dynamic depth filtration, also known as pressure precoat
filtration, is a constant flow, solid-liquid separation technique
that has been practiced for over 75 years. Dynamic depth filtration
uses a primary filter media that is a high purity, high-performance
diatomite filter aid. Diatomite is a silica powder composed of
diatoms, which are rigid, porous and irregular in shape, and
Diatomite is essentially a dense, chert-like, consolidated
diatomaceous earth.
[0069] Diatomaceous earth is well known in the art and is made of
opaline shells of diatoms and has a consistency of dry powder.
Diatomaceous earth has a wide variety of uses including, without
limitation, uses as a filter aid, paint additive, sorbent, abrasive
and thermal insulator. Diatomaceous earth is also known as
kieselguhr and tripolite.
[0070] The use of the term "diatomaceous earth" as used herein is
intended to cover all of the above-described materials.
[0071] In the field of filtration, many methods of particle
separation from fluids employ diatomite products as filter aids.
The intricate and porous structure unique to diatomite silica is
particularly effective for the physical entrapment of particles in
filtration processes. It is common practice to employ diatomite
products when improving he clarity of fluids that contain suspended
particles or particulate matter, or have turbidity.
[0072] Diatomire products are often applied to a septum to improve
clarity and increase flow rate in filtration processes, in a step
sometimes referred to as "precoating." Diatomite is also often
added directly to a fluid as it is being filtered to reduce the
loading or plugging of undesirable particulate at the septum while
maintaining a designed liquid flow rate, in a step often referred
to as "body feeding." Depending on the particular separation
involved, diatomite products may be used in precoating, body
feeding, or both. The principles involved with diatomite filtration
have been reviewed (Kiefer, 1991).
[0073] In some filtration applications, different diatomite
products are blended together to further modify or optimize the
filtration process. Also, diatomite products are sometimes combined
with other substances. In some cases, these combinations may
involve simple mixtures, for example, with cellulose, activated
charcoal, clay, or other materials. In other cases, these
combinations are composites in which diatomite products are
intimately compounded with other ingredients to make sheets, pads,
or cartridges. Still more elaborate modifications of any of these
diatomite products are used for filtration or separation,
involving, for example, surface treatment and the addition of
chemicals to diatomite products, mixtures, or their composites.
[0074] In certain circumstances, diatomite products may also
exhibit unique absorptive properties during filtration that can
greatly enhance clarification or purification of a fluid. These
adsorptive properties are highly specific, and depend upon weak
forces for attraction of the absorbed species to weak electrical
charges at the surface of diatomite, or upon the reactivity of
silanol (i.e., .dbd.Si--OH) functional groups that often occur at
the diatomite surface. For example, an ionized silanol group (i.e.,
.dbd.Si--O.sup.-) may react with a hydroniumion (i.e., H,O.sup.+)
contributed by an acidic substance in solution, for example, citric
acid (i.e. C.sub.6H.sub.8O.sub.7), adsorbing the donated H.sup.+ at
the surface in the process.
[0075] In filtration applications, diatomic products are usually
processed to provide a range of filtration rates that are closely
related to their permeability reported in units of Darcies.
Diatomic filter aids are available in a wide range of
permeabilities. The selection of a filter aid with a particular
permeability suitable for a specific process depends on the flow
rate and degree of fluid clarification desired for the particular
application.
[0076] Darcy's Law is well known to persons skilled in the art and
is essentially an empirical law that governs flow through porous
media and describes the relationship among flow rate, pressure drop
and resistance. Functional filtration rates products are usually
processed to provide a range of filtration rates that are closely
related to their permeability as reported in units of Darcies.
[0077] One Darcy corresponds to the permeability through a filter
media 1 cm thick which allows 1 cm.sup.3 of fluid with a viscosity
of 1 centipoise to pass through an area of 1 cm.sup.2 in 1 second
under a pressure differential of 1 atmosphere.
[0078] Dynamic depth filtering is used in the beverage and food
manufacturing industries, e.g., as a filter for beer, and in the
medical industry, e.g., as a filter aid for human serum
filtration.
[0079] One example is a pressure filter system used in the Current
Good Manufacturing Practices of the FDA ("CGMP") production of
biopharmaceutical and other high purity products. In this CGMP
production, a Celpure.RTM. media is used for solid-liquid
separation in a pressure filtration system. Celpure.RTM. media is
available in a wide range of permeabilities. The following Table A
sets forth data for certain of the commercially available
Celpure.RTM. media:
1 TABLE A Permeability Solids removed Grade (Darcy)
(micron).sup.(1) Celpure 65 0.065 <0.3 Celpure 100 0.100
0.3-0.45 Celpure 300 0.300 0.45-0.6 Celpure 1000 1.000 1-2 Note
.sup.(1)Data is provided for comparison purposes only. Depending on
compressibility, of the solids, the values may range by more than
an order of magnitude. Macroscopically, Celpure .RTM. filter aids
are characterized by their powdered form dry density (0.10
g/cm.sup.3-0.40 g/cm.sup.3) and light colors that range from white
to pink to gray. The maximum wet density specifications for Celpure
.RTM. media grade is about 0.3 g/cm.sup.3.
[0080] A description of the solid-liquid separation with dynamic
depth filtration is set forth in a Technical Bulletin entitled
Bench Scale Proof-of Principle with Celpure.RTM. Media, Technical
Note AMC06, a publication of Advanced Minerals Corporation and
World Minerals, Inc., Santa Barbara, Calif.
Description of Bulk Mixing Apparatus for
[0081] Forming a Solution of Dry Powder and Liquid
[0082] Typically, the suppliers of Diatomite comprising
diatomaceous earth ship the material in bulk to an end user. The
end user then mixes a predetermined volume of diatomaceous earth
with a selected volume of process compatible solution, e.g. make-up
water or feedstock solution, to form a solution comprising
diatomaceous earth in suspension with a selected concentration, or
selected solution density or when the solution density is within a
density range of acceptable solution densities. The selected
solution density and density range of the solution and batch mixing
specifications are determined by the requirements of the end
user.
[0083] The solution is then fabricated into or used as a diatomite
filter media.
[0084] Typically, the batch mixing is performed by an end user
customer using a large batch mixing apparatus. A typical batch
mixing process will use about one (1) ton by weight of diatomaceous
earth. The diatomaceous earth is transported into or loaded into a
large batch mixing apparatus mixing vessel. A selected volume of a
process compatible solution, e.g., make-up water, is then added to
the diatomaceous earth. The ratio of process compatible solution to
diatomaceous earth is dictated by the desired final selected
concentration or density.
[0085] In this process, water from the local municipal water supply
(which may or may not be filtered or preprocessed) is used as the
process compatible solution. The large batch mixing apparatus then
agitates the solution using mixing impellers or mixing blades for
an appropriate mixing time, until the solution reaches the desired
or selected concentration, density or a density in the density
range. In this process, the selected concentration can be in the
range of about 0.1 g/L to about 100 g/L.
[0086] The solution is then used to mold or fabricate the desired
filter media for use as a filter.
Description of Mixing Bag, Methods, Apparatus and System for
Forming a Solution of Dry Powder and Liquid
[0087] The present invention has utility for improved handling of
dry powder for forming solutions having dry powder in suspension
with a selected concentration, generally, and specifically, for
handling of diatomaceous earth for forming solutions having
diatomaceous earth in suspension within a selected concentration
wherein the selected concentration is at least one of a high
concentration capable of being diluted to a target concentration
and a target concentration intended for use without being
diluted.
[0088] The solution can then be fabricated into a filter media that
is an inert, high purity, high-performance diatomite filter as
described above.
[0089] The teachings of the present invention reside in the use of
a new, novel and unique mixing bag as shown in FIG. 1. In FIG. 1,
the mixing bag 30 has an outer member having a predetermined shape
and a side wall defining an interior mixing chamber shown generally
by arrow 32 having a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined
weight of dry powder and a selected volume of process compatible
solution to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration. Typically, the selected concentration is
specified by the individual user.
[0090] The end user may select the selected concentration to be a
high concentration, e.g. a solution of Celpure.RTM. media or
LRA.RTM. media at a concentration of 100 g/L to minimize the size
of the processing system, and the resulting solution may then be
diluted with an inline mixer to achieve a lower target
concentration, e.g. 2 g/L.
[0091] Alternatively, the solution density may be used in lieu of
concentration and a selected solution density in a range of
solution densities acceptable to or specified by the end user.
Typically, solution densities for the selected concentration
solutions in the range of about 2 g/L to about 100 g/L are in a
range of about 0.5 g/cm.sup.3 to about 3 g/cm.sup.3,
respectively.
[0092] The interior mixing chamber 32 has a first end 36 and a
second end 38 wherein the second end 38 is located in an opposed
spaced relationship to the first end 36.
[0093] The mixing bag 30 in the preferred embodiment is a preformed
mixing bag having a selected shaped. In the preferred embodiment as
shown FIG. 1, the preformed mixing bag 30 has an outer member which
is in the shape of an elongated thin walled rectangular member
having a hollowed-out passageway defining the interior mixing
chamber. In FIG. 1, the mixing bag 30 has a top section 42 and a
bottom section 44. The first end 36 is located in the top section
42 and the second end 38 is located in the bottom section 44.
[0094] As shown in FIGS. 1 through 6, the mixing bag 30 has at
least two sealable openings 50 and 52. Opening 50, which is one of
the at least two sealable openings, extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag 30 and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber 32 at the first end 36. Opening 50 is
configured for at least one of enabling transporting dry powder
into the interior mixing chamber 32, enabling agitation of the
powder and process compatible solution to be transported into the
interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution at the selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber 32.
[0095] Opening 52, the other of the at least two openings, extends
from a location exterior to the mixing bag 30 and into
communication with the interior mixing chamber 32 at the second end
38. Opening 52 is configured for at least one of injecting process
compatible solution from the bottom section 44 into the interior
mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in suspension,
enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in
the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber 32.
[0096] Also as illustrated in FIG. 1, the mixing bag 30 can have,
as an alternative embodiment, an additional sealable opening 54.
Sealable opening 54 may be configured for enabling transporting dry
material into the interior mixing chamber.
[0097] As such, the preformed mixing bag 30 may include three
sealable openings which comprise and include the at least two
sealable openings. The three sealable openings include sealable
openings 50, 52 and 54 as shown on FIG. 1.
[0098] The first sealable opening 50 extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag 30 and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber 32 at the first end 36 of the top section
42. The first sealable opening 50 may be configured for at least
one of enabling transporting dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber 32, enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution to be transported into the interior mixing chamber 32 to
form a solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration, and enabling withdrawal of the solution at a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber 32.
[0099] In this embodiment, the mixing bag 30 includes a third
sealable opening 54 which is configured specifically for enabling
transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber 32. In
this embodiment, the first sealed opening 50 is used for at least
one of enabling agitation of the material and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution
having the material in suspension with a selected concentration and
enabling withdrawal of the solution at a selected concentration
from the interior mixing chamber 32.
[0100] The second sealable opening 52 extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag 30 and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber 32 at the second end 38 located in the
bottom section 44. Opening 52 is configured for at least one of
injecting process compatible solution into the interior mixing
chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in suspension, enabling
agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber 32.
[0101] The third sealable opening 54 extends from a location
exterior to the mixing bag 30 and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber 32 at the first end 36 in top section 42
opening 54 is configured for enabling transporting dry powder into
the interior mixing chamber 32. In the preferred embodiment, the
structure of the sealable opening 54 includes a sanitary port
assembly which is discussed in greater detail in the discussions of
FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B.
[0102] In addition, the embodiment of FIG. 1 includes, as an
optional opening, an auxiliary opening 60. Auxiliary opening 60 may
be used during the process of fabricating a preformed mixing bag or
could be configured to function as an air vent, degassing port for
discharging biological gasses or as a vent check valve to enable
expulsion or venting of gas of air from the mixing bag.
[0103] In the mixing bag 30 having the minimum of at least two
sealable openings, sealable opening 50, which is the one of the at
least two sealable openings, is configured to be sealed upon
completion of transporting dry powder into the interior mixing
chamber and is to be unsealed for enabling agitation of a powder
and process compatible solution to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution at said selected concentration from the interior
mixing chamber 32.
[0104] In the mixing bag 30 having the minimum of at least two
sealable openings, sealable opening 52, which is the other of the
at least two sealable openings, is configured to be sealed at least
one of before commencement of transporting dry powder into the
interior mixing chamber and after completion of transporting dry
powder into the interior mixing chamber 32. Opening 52 is to be
unsealed for at least one of enabling injection of a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a
solution having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of a
powder and process compatible solution to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and withdrawal
of solution from the interior mixing chamber with a selected
concentration.
[0105] In the perspective pictorial representation of FIG. 2, a
mixing bag 30 filled with a predetermined weight of dry powder 68
is shown as being placed in a shipping container 70 having a bottom
member 72 and a recloseable top member 76. The shipping container
70 may be fabricated to have a preformed shipping support member
formed in the bottom member 72 or, in the alternative, may include
a separate insertable shipping support member which is placed in
the bottom of the shipping container 70 prior to inserting of the
mixing bag (filled or unfilled) into the shipping container 70. The
preformed shipping support member formed in the bottom member 72 or
the separate insertable shipping support member are shown by dashed
lines 78 and typically is conical shaped member with the base
positioned to receive and support the mixing bag 30 containing the
dry powder 68. The shipping container 70 is used for shipping the
preformed mixing bag 30 filled with a predetermined weight of dry
powder 68 to an end user for subsequent injection of a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a
solution, also known as a slurry, having powder in suspension.
[0106] It is preferred that the preformed mixing bag 30 be placed
into a shipping container 70 prior to the step of transporting dry
powder 68 from a dry powder source through the at least one
sealable opening 50, or in the alternative opening 54, into the
interior mixing chamber 32 such that the mixing bag 30 has the dry
powder 68 transported into the interior mixing chamber 32 when the
mixing bag 30 is located within the shipping container 70.
[0107] Alternatively, the preformed mixing bag 30 can be placed
into a shipping container 70 subsequent to the step of transporting
dry powder 68 from a dry powder source through the at least one
sealable opening 50, or in the alternative opening 54, into the
interior mixing chamber 32 such that the mixing bag 30 has the dry
powder 68 in the interior mixing chamber 32 when the mixing bag is
placed within the shipping container 70.
[0108] FIGS. 3 through 6 show the structure of the preformed mixing
bag 30 in greater detail. The preformed mixing bag 30 can be
fabricated with only two sealable openings, openings 50 and 52. In
such event, opening 50 is used for enabling transporting dry powder
into the interior mixing chamber 32 and for enabling agitation of
the powder and process compatible solution to be transported into
the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration. Opening 52 is used for
injecting process compatible solution into the interior mixing
chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in suspension, for
enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in
the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and for enabling
withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentration from the
interior mixing chamber 32.
[0109] In the embodiment of the mixing bag illustrated in FIGS. 3
through 6, the preformed mixing bag 30 can be optionally be
fabricated with three sealable openings, openings 50, 52 and 54. In
such event, the sealable opening 54 is used for enabling
transporting dry powder into the interior mixing chamber 32.
Sealable opening 52 is used for injecting a process compatible
solution into the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution
having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and
process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber 32 to
form a solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber 32. The
sealable opening 50 is used for enabling agitation of the powder
and process compatible solution to be transported into the interior
mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in suspension
with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the
solution at the selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber 32.
[0110] In the pictorial representation of FIG. 7, the mixing bag 30
of FIGS. 1 through 6 is show as a preformed mixing bag 30 having a
first sealable opening 50 and the third sealable opening 54 in the
first end 36 and a second sealable opening 52 in the second end 38.
The third sealable opening 54 is used for filling the interior
mixing chamber 32 with a predetermined weight of dry material.
Accordingly, the first sealable opening 50 is used for agitation of
the solution and for enabling withdrawal of the solution at a
selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber 32.
[0111] If the third sealable opening 54 is eliminated, then the
first sealable opening 50 is used for filling of the mixing bag 30
with a predetermined weight of dry material, for agitation of the
solution and enabling withdrawal of the solution at a selected
concentration from the interior mixing chamber 32.
[0112] In both embodiments, the second sealable opening 52 is used
for injecting a process compatible solution into the interior
mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in suspension,
enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in
the interior mixing chamber 32 to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of
the solution with a selected concentration from the interior mixing
chamber 32.
[0113] In FIG. 7, the first end 36 supports the first sealable
opening 50 and the third opening 54 opening 54 may be in the form
of a port having a collar which terminates in an orifice which can
be sealed and unsealed as depicted in FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B. The
first sealable opening may be fabricated using sealing techniques
which are known to persons skilled in the art. In the present
invention, conventional sanitary fittings are used which utilize a
design that, when tightened, allow the gasket to extrude into the
boreline of procees piping and create a barrier that holds fluids.
Examples of such a known sealable openings or sanitary fittings are
Tri-Clamp.RTM. brand sanitary fittings manufactured by Tri-Clover
which comprises stainless steel components. Plastic disposable
versions of sanitary fittings are available under the trademark
SterilEnz Fittings through Paw BioScience Products.
[0114] FIG. 7, the second end 38 supports the second sealable
opening 52. Sealable opening 52 may be fabricated using sealing
techniques which are known to persons skilled in the art as
described above.
[0115] During the step of transporting dry powder into the interior
mixing chamber 32, the collar of the sealable opening 52 may become
filled and possibly impacted by dry powder which could interfere
with the step of injecting a process compatible solution through
the sealable opening arising from dry powder clogging the opening.
This problem can be overcome by first tying off the collar from the
exterior with a tying member 80 illustrated by dashed circle, e.g.
rope, to collapse or restrict the collar of the sealable opening 52
to prevent the dry powder form becoming impacted in the collar. At
the time of injecting a process compatible solution into the mixing
bag 30, the tying member 80 is removed.
[0116] FIG. 7 illustrates a method for filling a mixing bag with a
dry powder. The method comprises the steps of: (i) forming a mixing
bag having an interior mixing chamber having a volume sufficient to
receive a predetermined weight of dry powder and a selected volume
of process compatible solution to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration and at least two sealable
openings wherein one of the at least two sealable openings extends
from a location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication
with the interior mixing chamber and which is configured for at
least one of enabling transporting dry powder into the interior
mixing chamber, enabling agitation of the powder and process
compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected concentration
and enabling withdrawal of the solution at a selected concentration
from the interior mixing chamber. The other of the at least two
openings extends from a location exterior to the mixing bag and
into communication with the interior mixing chamber at location
spaced from the one of said at least two sealable openings and is
configured for at least one of enabling injection of a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber. The step
of transporting dry powder from a dry powder source through the at
least one sealable opening into the interior mixing chamber is
performed until a predetermined weight of dry powder is received
with the interior mixing chamber of the mixing bag.
[0117] In the pictorial representation of FIG. 8, the mixing bag 30
of FIG. 1 is show as a preformed mixing bag 30 having a first
sealable opening 50, a second sealable opening 52 and a third
sealable opening 54. A mixing control system 90 having a computer
system 92 is used to control the method of using a preformed mixing
bag 30 having the interior mixing chamber 32 filled with a
predetermined weight of dry powder 68, shown in FIG. 2, to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected concentration.
The apparatus includes the mixing control system 90, a first
conduit system 100, a second conduit system 102, a pump 106, a
filtering system or filter 108 and clamps 110 and 112. The pump 106
is operatively connected to a source of process compatible solution
120 through a control valve 122. A concentration sensor or solution
density sensor 130 may be used to monitor the concentration or
solution density, respectively, of the solution during agitation.
Solution may be withdrawn from the interior mixing chamber 32
through withdrawal member 154 or, alternatively a shown by dashed
arrow 148. The filtering of the solution having powder in
suspension through a filter 108 removes unwanted particles
therefrom.
[0118] The computer system 92 can control the operation of: (i) the
pump 106 through a control line shown by dashed line 138; (ii) the
control valve 122 through a control line shown by dashed line 132;
(iii) clamp 110 through a control line shown by dashed line 134;
and (iv) clamp 112 through a control line shown by dashed line 136.
In addition, the filter 108 can be operated under computer control
through a control line shown by dashed line 142. The sensor 130,
which may monitor the concentration or solution density, can be
operated under computer control through a control line shown by
dashed line 146.
[0119] The term "computer" and "computer system" is intended to
include all ancillary components such as, without limitation,
network servers, storage devices including rotating disk memory
storage systems, modems, communication lines, digital subscriber
lines ("DSL"), keyboards and the like.
[0120] The pictorial representation of FIG. 9 shows the method for
injecting a selected volume of a process compatible solution from
the source of process compatible solution 120 through the control
valve 122 and pump 106 through the second conduit system 102 into a
mixing bag 30 through opening 52. Control valve 110 is closed such
that the pump 106 pressure is used to inject the process compatible
solution through the second conduit system 102 and opening 52 in to
the interior mixing chamber 32 having a predetermined volume of dry
powder.
[0121] The pictorial representation of FIG. 10 illustrates the
steps of enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration, filtering of the solution and for enabling
withdrawal of the solution from the interior mixing chamber with a
selected concentration under control of a mixing control system 90
of FIG. 8.
[0122] When the selected volume of process compatible solution is
injected into the interior mixing chamber, the step of enabling
agitation of the powder and process compatible solution in the
interior mixing chamber 32 is commenced to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration. Clamp 110 is
opened to permit passage of solution under pump pressure to pass
through filter 108. Clamp 112 is closed to direct the solution
through the inlet 150 of filter 108, through the filter 108 and out
of the outlet 152. The solution flow is from the interior mixing
chamber 32, out of opening 52, through the second conduit system
102, through the inlet 150, filter 108 and outlet 152, through the
first conduit system 100, through opening 50 back into the interior
mixing chamber 32.
[0123] When a determination is made that the solution comprising
the dry powder in suspension in the process compatible solution is
at a selected concentration or at a selected density, the step of
withdrawal is illustrated in FIG. 10. The solution is selectively
withdrawn from the interior mixing chamber 32 through either the
opening 52 via the withdrawal member 154 having an orifice
operatively connected to the opening 52 or conduit section 148
located adjacent the first opening 50.
[0124] FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic representation of the mixing bag
30 of the present invention having a filling conduit system 162
that is adapted for transporting dry powder into the interior
mixing chamber through either first opening 50 or third opening 54
depending on the configuration of the preformed mixing bag 30.
[0125] In addition, FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic illustration of how
the first conduit system 100 and a second conduit system 102 are
operatively removeably connected to openings 50 and 52,
respectively. The dashed lines 158 and 160 represent flexible
connecting hoses which operatively connect the first conduit system
100 to filter 108 and pump 106, shown in FIG. 8, and the second
conduit system 102 to the pump 106. A controller 156 may be used
for controlling the injecting make-up process compatible solution
to inject a selected volume of process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber. The controller may be the mixing control
system 90 having a computer system 92 shown in FIG. 8 for
controlling the method of using a preformed mixing bag 30 having
the interior mixing chamber 32 filled with a predetermined weight
of dry powder 68, shown in FIG. 2, to form a solution having powder
in suspension with a selected concentration.
[0126] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the first conduit system 100
of FIG. 11 illustrates that the first conduit system 100 is
operatively removeably connected to opening 50, the one of the at
least two sealable openings, for enabling agitating the solution of
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution of the process compatible solution
having the powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
enabling withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentration
from the interior mixing chamber. The first conduit system 100 has
a distal end 164 terminating in an insertion sleeve 166 that
removeably couples to extension 168 of opening 50. The distal end
164 may be a flexible section to facilitate easy coupling of
insertion sleeve 166 with extension 168.
[0127] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of the second conduit system 102
of FIG. 11 operatively removeably connected to opening 52, the
other of the at least two openings, for at least one of injecting
process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of
the powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber.
[0128] The second conduit system 102 has a distal end 170
terminating in an insertion sleeve 174 which removeably couples to
extension 176 of opening 52. The distal end 170 may be a flexible
section to facilitate easy coupling of insertion sleeve 174 with
extension 176 of opening 52.
[0129] In FIGS. 12 and 13, the exposed proximal ends of the first
conduit system 100 and the second conduit system 102 are enclosed
or sealed with a sealing enclosure 178 to prevent
contamination.
[0130] FIG. 14A is an exploded front elevational view of the third
sealable opening 54 in the form of a sanitary port or sanitary
fitting assembly and the assembly is shown generally as sealing
assembly 182. The sealing assembly 182 is used for enabling
transporting a predetermined weight of dry powder into the interior
mixing chamber 32 of a mixing bag 30. The sealing assembly 182
includes a collar section 180 having a sealing rim 184 which is
operatively connect to the opening 54. A sealing washer 186 is
positioned between the sealing rim 184 and a sealing cover 188. A
port securing member 192 has an adjustable threaded member 194 to
permit the port securing member 192 is be positioned around the
sealing rim 184 and enclose the sealing washer 186 and sealing
cover 188. The adjustable threaded member 194 is then tightened to
cause the port securing member to form a seal of the opening 54.
The sealing assembly 182 permits easy sealing and unsealing of
opening 54. The same sealing assembly 182 could likewise be used
for openings 50 and 52.
[0131] FIG. 14B is an exploded front elevational view of the third
sealable opening 54 in the form of a sanitary port or sanitary
fitting assembly having a filing extension and the assembly is
shown generally as sealing assembly 196. The sealing assembly 196
is used for enabling transporting a predetermined weight of dry
powder into the interior mixing chamber 32 of a mixing bag 30. The
sealing assembly 196 includes a collar section 180 having a sealing
rim 184 which is operatively connect to the opening 54. A sealing
washer 186 is positioned between the sealing rim 184 and a filing
extension housing 198 having a mating washer surface 200 for
sealably engaging the sealing washer 186 A port securing member 192
has an adjustable threaded member 194 to permit the port securing
member 192 to be positioned around the sealing rim 184 and mating
washer surface 200 of a filing extension housing 198 enclosing the
sealing washer 186. The adjustable threaded member 194 is then
tightened to form a seal of the opening 54. The sealing assembly
182 permits easy sealing and unsealing of opening 54.
[0132] FIG. 15 is a pictorial representation of yet another
embodiment of a preformed mixing bag 300 for practicing the
teachings of the present invention. The preformed mixing bag 300
has a first sealable opening 350, a second sealable opening 352 and
a third sealable opening 360. The mixing bag 302 has a magnetically
controlled impeller 406 located in the interior mixing chamber 380
which is used for agitating the solution. The magnetically
controlled impeller 406 is magnetically coupled to a magnetic
driving member 402 which is driven by shaft 400.
[0133] In the pictorial representation of FIG. 16, the magnetically
controlled impeller 406, located in the interior mixing chamber
380, is illustrated as being magnetically coupled to the magnetic
driving member 402 via magnetic lines of force 412 by rotation of
shaft 400 driven by motor 410. Such an agitation apparatus may be
used for selected volumes of dry powder in excess of 20 kg.
[0134] The word "agitation" as used herein is used in its broadest
sense and is intended to include all known apparatus and systems
for mixing powder and fluids or liquids to form a solution
including, without limitation, pumps, magnetic mixing apparatus,
mechanical vibration apparatus, mechanical mixing apparatus wherein
a mixing apparatus may be inserted through a opening to mix the
solution, mechanical mixing apparatus having impellers driven by a
shaft and motor or the like.
[0135] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of the method performed usually
performed at a first location, typically the location of the
manufacturer or distributor, for filling a preformed mixing bag
having an interior mixing chamber configured to have a volume
sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder and a
selected volume of process compatible solution to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
shipping the same in a shipping container to an end user. A
preformed mixing bag which has been formed and which is ready to
fill is represented by block 500. The appropriate opening is
unsealed as represented by block 502. The mixing bag is filled with
a selected volume of dry powder as represented by block 504. The
filled mixing bag with the dry powder is then shipped to an end
user in a shipping container as represented by arrow 510.
[0136] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of the method, usually performed
at a second location, typically the location of the end user, for
using a preformed mixing bag having an interior mixing chamber
containing a predetermined weight of dry powder. The appropriate
sealable openings are unsealed as shown by element 522 for enabling
injection of a process compatible solution, e.g. a liquid, into the
interior mixing chamber as shown by element 524 to form a solution
having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the powder and
process compatible solution to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration likewise depicted by
element 524 and enabling withdrawal of the solution with a selected
concentration as depicted by element 526.
[0137] The solution may be in the form of a filter aid which can be
used in a dynamic filtering application as described
hereinbefore.
[0138] FIG. 19 is a pictorial representation of another embodiment
of a preformed mixing bag 600 wherein the outer member is in the
shape of an elongated thin walled cylindrical member 602 having a
hollowed-out passageway 604 defining the interior mixing chamber
604 in the form of an internal conical shaped hopper 662 for
receiving dry powder. The mixing bag has three sealable openings,
650, 652 and 660. Opening 660 is used for enabling transporting dry
powder into the interior mixing chamber formed by hopper 662.
Opening 652 is used for at least one of injecting a process
compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension, enabling agitation of the
powder and process compatible solution in the interior mixing
chamber to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
selected concentration and enabling withdrawal of the solution with
a selected concentration from the interior mixing chamber 604 in
the form of an internal conical shaped hopper 662. Opening 650 is
used for enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration. The operations
of the first conduit system 672 and second conduit system 674 are
under control of a mixing control system 670, having a computer
system 92 shown in FIG. 8, to form a solution having powder in
suspension with a selected concentration.
[0139] In the embodiment represented by FIG. 20, a preformed mixing
bag 700 is used in a system for the delivery of Celpure.RTM. media
to a filtration process wherein the suspension, slurry or solution
is in the form of a Celpure.RTM. media body-feed concentration
produced with a process compatible solution.
[0140] The mixing bag 700 has an interior mixing chamber 702 has a
volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry material
capable of being forming and remaining in suspension in a process
compatible solution and a selected volume of process compatible
solution to form a solution having the material in suspension with
a selected concentration. A sealable opening 704 is provided for
separately filling the mixing bag 700 with a dry powder at a remote
location as described in FIG. 17. The mixing bag 700 may be filled
with a selected volume of Celpure.RTM. media, e.g., Celpure.RTM.
300 or Celpure.RTM. 1000 offered for sale and sold by World
Minerals, Inc., Santa Barbara, Calif.
[0141] The preformed mixing bag 700 has a substantially rectangular
shape and has three sealable opening, 704, 706 and 708 opening 704
is dedicated as a filling port. Openings 706 and 708 function as
the at least two sealable openings as described hereinbefore.
[0142] Appropriately sized peristaltic pumps depicted by elements
722, 724 and 726 are provided to perform the functions of injecting
a process compatible solution into the interior mixing chamber 702
of mixing bag 700, agitating the solution and withdrawing the
solution when a selected concentration is achieved.
[0143] Line 730 extends from opening 708 to pump 720. Line 734
extends from opening 706 and is bifurcated to extend through a
clamp 744 to pump 722 and to branch line 740 to clamp 748. Line 752
extends from clamp 748 to line 760 which extends between pump 720
and clamp 766. Line 770 extends between a source of feedstock or
process compatible solution 772. Line 774 is connected to line 770
and extends to a clamp 776 located at the inlet of pump 724. Line
800 extends from pump 724 to line 802. Line 802 connects pump 722
to a filter 804 to perform the dynamic filtering of a designated
fluid to be filtered.
[0144] In operation, the mixing bag having the dry powder is placed
into position and the apparatus is connected as described. The
mixing bag may contain 5 kg of Celpure.RTM. media which is to be
used for the delivery of 5 kg of Celpure.RTM. media to a filtration
process. The mixing bag holds up to 50L of suspension or solution
which will produce a Celpure.RTM. body feed concentration of 100
g/L. The suspension may be produced with a process compatible
solution, e.g., water, or feedstock, e.g. whole yeast cells,
mammalian cells and Lysed E. Coli cells.
[0145] Depending on the required body feed rate, the solution at a
selected concentrated may be pumped, either undiluted at 100 g/L,
into the filter 804 or diluted with feedstock, via an inline mixer
pump 724, to a lower target concentration, e.g. 2 g/L.
[0146] The mixing bag 700 is injected or filled with a process
compatible fluid from source 772 using pump 720. Clamp 776 is
closed to occlude line 774 and clamp 766 is opened providing the
pump 720 with access to the source 772 through line 760, opened
clamp 766 and line 770. The volume of process compatible solution
would be about 48L. The pump 720 fills the mixing bag at about
20L/min.
[0147] Upon completion of the injecting of the process compatible
solution into the mixing bag 700, the agitation step is then
initiated. This is accomplished by closing clamp 766, opening clamp
748 and reversing flow of pump 720 at a flow rate of about 20L/min.
The agitation time period is about 10 minutes to obtain the
selected concentration of 100 g/L.
[0148] Upon completion of the step of agitating the solution, the
solution is ready to be withdrawn. The withdrawal is accomplished
by opening clamp 744 to withdraw the solution at the selected
concentration from line 740 using pump 722 through line 802 to the
filter 804.
[0149] If it is desired to reduce the higher concentration to a
lower target concentration using a feed stock form source 772, the
following steps may be taken. Clamp 766 is occluded or closed and
clamp 776 is open to enable pump 724 to controllably dilute the
solution with the feed stock at an appropriate feed rate to obtain
the desired lower target concentration.
[0150] Depending on the structure of the mixing bag, the mixing bag
can be recycled for subsequent cycle, or if the mixing bag is a
single use mixing bag, the mixing bag is then discarded.
[0151] The teachings of this invention include use of the mixing
bag in a system. The system comprises a mixing bag having an
interior mixing chamber having a volume sufficient to receive a
predetermined weight of dry powder and a selected volume of process
compatible solution to form a solution having powder in suspension
with a selected concentration and wherein the interior mixing
chamber has a predetermined weight of dry powder stored therein.
The interior-mixing chamber having a first end and a second end
wherein the second end is located in an opposed spaced relationship
to the first end. The mixing bag includes at least two sealable
openings wherein one of the at least two sealable openings extends
from a location exterior to mixing bag and into communication with
interior mixing chamber at the first end and which is configured
for at least one of enabling transporting dry powder into the
interior mixing chamber, enabling agitation of powder and process
compatible solution in interior mixing chamber to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration and
enabling withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentration
from the interior mixing chamber.
[0152] The other of the at least two opening extends from a
location exterior to the mixing bag and into communication with the
interior mixing chamber at the second end which is configured for
at least one of enabling injecting a process compatible solution
into the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having powder
in suspension, enabling agitation of powder and process compatible
solution in the interior mixing chamber to form a solution having
powder in suspension with a selected concentration and enabling
withdrawal of the solution with a selected concentration from the
interior mixing chamber.
[0153] The system includes a first conduit system 100 configured to
be operatively removeably connected to the one of the at least two
sealable openings for enabling agitating of the solution of powder
and process compatible solution in the interior mixing chamber to
form a solution of the process compatible solution having the
powder in suspension with a selected concentration. A second
conduit system 102 is operatively removeably connected to the other
of the at least two sealable openings and to the first conduit
system for enabling injection of a process compatible solution into
the interior mixing chamber through the other of the at least two
openings to form a solution having powder in suspension, for
enabling agitation of the powder and process compatible solution
within the interior mixing chamber through the at least two
openings to form a solution having powder in suspension with a
concentration and for enabling withdrawal of solution from the
interior mixing chamber with a selected concentration through the
other of the at least two openings.
[0154] A pump 106 shown in FIG. 11 is operatively connected to the
first conduit system 100 and to the second conduit system 102. The
pump 106 is configured to at least one of injecting process
compatible solution from a source of process compatible solution
into the interior chamber to form a solution having powder in
suspension and agitating the solution of powder and process
compatible solution within interior mixing chamber to form a
solution having powder in suspension with a selected
concentration.
[0155] Withdrawal of the solution at the selected concentration may
be performed using at least one of the first conduit system and the
second conduit system as discussed hereinbefore.
[0156] The system may further comprise a controller for controlling
the pump to inject a selected volume of make-up process compatible
solution from a source of process compatible solution into the
interior mixing chamber.
OPERATING EXAMPLES
EXAMPLES
[0157] The following are examples are based on use of a preformed
mixing bag having an interior mixing chamber having a volume
sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry powder and a
selected volume of process compatible solution to form a solution
having powder in suspension with a selected concentration using the
teaching of the present invention.
[0158] In certain of the Examples set forth below, the Examples
include use of Celepure P65.RTM. media, Celepure 300.RTM. media and
Celepure 1000.RTM. media. The specifications of the above
Celpure.RTM. media are set forth below for reference.
Celepure P65.RTM. Media
[0159] Celepure P65.RTM. media is characterized as a Lightly
Calcined, Purified Siliceous Earth, the specifications of which are
as follows:
2 Specification Properties Minimum Maximum Vel permeability
(millDarcy 40 80 Centrifuged wet density (g/cm.sup.3) -- 0.26 PH
(-Log [H]) 5 8 Conductivity (.mu.S/cm) -- 15 Acid soluble iron
(ppm) -- 8 Citric acid ethanol soluble aluminum -- 8 (ppm)
Endotoxin -- 1 National Formulary Maximum Moisture 105.degree. C.
(%) 0.5 Ignition loss-dry (%) 2.0 Acid solubles (%) 2.0 Water
soluble substances (%) 0.2 Acid soluble iron (ppm) 10 Acid soluble
iron lead (ppm) 10 Non-siliceous substances (mg) 50
Celepure P100.RTM. Media
[0160] Celepure P100.RTM. media is characterized as a Calcined,
Purified Siliceous Earth, the specifications of which are as
follows:
3 Specification Properties Minimum Maximum Vel permeability
(millDarcy 70 140 Centrifuged wet density (g/cm.sup.3) -- 0.26 PH
(-Log [H]) 5 8 Conductivity (.mu.S/cm) -- 15 Acid soluble iron
(ppm) -- 8 Citric acid ethanol soluble aluminum -- 6 (ppm)
Endotoxin -- 1 National Formulary Maximum Moisture 105.degree. C.
(%) 0.5 Ignition loss-dry (%) 2.0 Acid solubles (%) 2.0 Water
soluble substances (%) 0.2 Acid soluble iron (ppm) 10 Acid soluble
iron lead (ppm) 10 Non-siliceous substances (mg) 50
Celepure P300.RTM. Media
[0161] Celepure P300.RTM. media is characterized as a Lightly
Calcined, Purified Siliceous Earth, the specifications of which are
as follows:
4 Specification Properties Minimum Maximum Vel permeability
(millDarcy 150 300 Centrifuged wet density (g/cm.sup.3) -- 0.25 PH
(-Log [H]) 5 8 Conductivity (.mu.S/cm) -- 15 Acid soluble iron
(ppm) -- 5 Citric acid ethanol soluble aluminum -- 4 (ppm)
Endotoxin -- 1 National Formulary Maximum Moisture 105.degree. C.
(%) 0.5 Ignition loss-dry (%) 2.0 Acid solubles (%) 2.0 Water
soluble substances (%) 0.2 Acid soluble iron (ppm) 10 Acid soluble
iron lead (ppm) 10 Non-siliceous substances (mg) 50
Celepure P1000.RTM. Media
[0162] Celepure P1000.RTM. media is characterized as a Lightly
Calcined, Purified Siliceous Earth, the specifications of which are
as follows:
5 Specification Properties Minimum Maximum Vel permeability
(millDarcy 750 1,250 Centrifuged wet density (g/cm.sup.3) -- 0.24
PH (-Log [H]) -- 8.8 Conductivity (.mu.S/cm) -- 15 Acid soluble
iron (ppm) -- 5 Citric acid ethanol soluble aluminum -- 4 (ppm)
Endotoxin -- 1 National Formulary Maximum Moisture 105.degree. C.
(%) 0.5 Ignition loss-dry (%) 2.0 Acid solubles (%) 2.0 Water
soluble substances (%) 0.2 Acid soluble iron (ppm) 10 Acid soluble
iron lead (ppm) 10 Non-siliceous substances (mg) 50
Example 1
[0163] The following example utilizes Celepure 100.RTM. media.
[0164] A preformed mixing bag having a structure illustrated in
FIG. 1 and formed of a HyClone HyQ CX5-14 Film was used. The mixing
bag had three (3) sealable openings. A tying member was affixed to
the collar of the second sealable opening to prevent impaction of
the dry powder in the collar.
[0165] Five kilograms (5 kg) of Celepure 100.RTM. media was then
transported into the mixing bag through the third sealable opening
in the form of a sealing port shown in FIG. 14A. The third sealable
opening was sealed. The first sealable opening and the second
sealable opening were sealed thereby confining the 5 kg of dry
powder in the interior mixing chamber of the mixing bag.
[0166] The solution was prepared using the five kilograms (5 kg) of
Celepure P100.RTM. media stored in the mixing bag. The tying member
affixed to the collar of the second sealable opening was removed.
The second sealable opening and third sealable opening were
unsealed. The first conduit system and the second conduit system
were then operatively attached the first sealable opening and the
second sealable opening, respectively. The make-up process
compatible solution was injected through the second sealable
opening. The total selected volume of process compatible solution
injected into the interior mixing chamber was about 13 gallons
(about 48 liters). The injection rate was about 5.3 gallons per
minute (about 20L/minute). Upon injection of the selected volume of
liquid into the interior mixing chamber, a peristaltic pump was
used to provide the desired agitation through the second and third
sealable openings. The reversible pump agitation was at the rate of
about 3 gallons per minute (about 10L/minute) with size 0.75 inch
ID tubing. The filter was a standard process compatible solution
filter to remove impurities and had a through put capability equal
to the pump flow rate.
[0167] The time period for agitation was about ten (10)
minutes.
[0168] In this example, the solution was agitated to form a
solution having dry powder in suspension with a selected
concentration of 100 g/L.
[0169] The solution was then withdrawn and used as a filter aid as
discussed in connection with FIG. 20 above.
Examples 2 Through 4
[0170] Table B below set forth Examples 2, 3 and 4 using the mixing
bag of the present invention and the system and apparatus described
in FIG. 20 above.
6TABLE B MIXING BAG FILLED WITH PROCESS COMPATIBLE SOLUTION &
DILUTED WITH FEEDSTOCK EXAMPLE EXAMPLE 2 3 EXAM- DESCRIPTION OF
PROCESS Whole Mammalian PLE 4 VARIABLES Yeast Cells (1% Lysed E.
Feedstock Type Cells Viability) Coli Cells Feedstock Volume in
MIXING NA NA NA BAG (L) Feedstock Volume outside 400 400 200 MIXING
BAG (L) Process Compatible Buffer Buffer Buffer Solution Type
Process Compatible 95.31 95.31 190.61 Solution Vol (L) Media in
MIXING BAG LRA Celpure 300 Celpure P65 Media Quantity in MIXING
10.000 10.000 20.000 BAG (kg) MIXING BAG Capacity (L) 100 100 200
MIXING BAG Media 100.0 100.0 100.0 Concentration (g/L) Filtration
Body Feed (g/L) 20.0 20.0 50.0 Required Dilution Rate 0.2 0.2 0.5
Required Flux Rate (L/m.sup.2- 5.0 5.0 2.5 min) Withdrawing Pump
[Draws 1.00 1.00 1.25 from MIXING BAG] (L/min) Inline Dilution Pump
4.00 4.00 1.25 [Draws from Feedstock and/or Process Compatible
Solution] (Lmin)
Examples 5 Through 8
[0171] Table C below set forth Examples 5, 6, 7 and 8 using the
mixing bag of the present invention and the system and apparatus
described in FIG. 20 above.
7TABLE C MIXING BAG FILLED WITH FEEDSTOCK EXAMPLE EXAMPLE EXAMPLE
EXAMPLE 5 6 7 8 DESCRIPTION OF Whole Whole Mammalian Lysed E.
PROCESS VARIABLES Yeast Yeast Cells (1% Coli Feedstock Type Cells
Cells Viability) Cells Feedstock Volume in 49.95 49.95 95.31 190.61
MIXING BAG (L) Feedstock Volume outside 0 0 400 200 MIXING BAG (L)
Process Compatible NA NA NA NA Solution Type Process Compatible NA
NA NA NA Solution Vol (L) Media in MIXING BAG LRA Celpure Celpure
P300 Celpure P65 P1000 Media Quantity in MIXING 0.100 0.100 10.000
20.000 BAG (kg) MIXING BAG Capacity 50 50 100 200 (L) MIXING BAG
Media 2.0 2.0 100.0 100.0 Concentration (g/L) Filtration Body Feed
2.0 2.0 20.0 50.0 (g/L) Required Dilution Rate 1.0 1.0 0.2 0.5
Required Flux Rate (L/m.sup.2- 10.0 10.0 5.0 2.5 min) Withdrawing
Pump [Draws 10.0 10.0 1.00 1.25 from MIXING BAG] (L/min) Inline
Dilution Pump 0.00 0.00 4.00 1.25 [Draws from Feedstock and/or
Process Compatible Solution] (Lmin)
Mixing Bag Materials
[0172] Packaging configurations for the mixing bag of the present
invention and materials filled therein for practicing this
invention come in a variety of sizes for non-bulk options. The
preformed mixing bag can be fabricated to be a round shape, square
shape, rectangular shape, oblong shape, conical shape, elliptical
shape, triangular shaped or other geometrical shape. The bottom of
the mixing bag can be fabricated to be sloped, conical shaped, flat
or other appropriate shape to support the dry powder in the mixing
bag.
[0173] The mixing bag, when placed into a shipping container,
assumes the shape of the container. As discussed above with
reference to FIG. 2, the shipping container may be fabricated to
include a preformed shipping support member formed in the bottom
member thereof or, in the alternative, may include a separate
insertable shipping support member which is placed in the bottom of
the shipping container prior to inserting of the mixing bag (filled
or unfilled) into the shipping container. As such, a preformed
shipping support member formed in the bottom member or a separate
insertable shipping support member functions to provide a means for
enabling the mixing bag and dry powder to assume the shape of the
holder.
[0174] Such non-bulk options include mixing bags formed of plastic
materials, poly materials, HyClone films, e.g. HyQ CX5 Film, or
other appropriate chemically and physically compatible materials,
as is well known to persons skilled in the art. For Example, in
pharmaceutical applications, the weights of dry powder could be in
the 5 kg to 15 kg range of weights of dry powder using a mixing bag
formed of poly materials and the weights of dry powder weights in
the range of 10 kg to 22.5 kg range of weights of dry powder using
a mixing bag formed of HyClone films, e.g. 3-web Film, HYQM1 and
HYQBX6 (Attane 4203), a single web film, HyQCX5-9, Formulation
PL2403 and a single web Film, HyQCX5-14, Formulation PL2438-1.
[0175] Sterile Fluid handling bags for medical applications and
mixing bags for industrial and other applications as discussed
above are typically constructed of multi-layer film(s). The
following are typical materials utilized in the manufacture of
multi-layer films suitable for use in mixing bags of the present
invention and are shown in Table D:
8 TABLE D Identification of Layer Characteristic of Layer Fluid
Contact Layer Offers excellent Ultra Low Density Polyethylene
biocompatibility as well as (ULDPE) chemical compatibility with a
wide range of solutions. Gas Barrier Layer Provides outstanding
Ethyl Vinyl Alcohol performance as a barrier to (EVOH) atmospheric
gasses. Strength Layer Offers excellent strength Nylon properties
for bags that have (NYLON) the potential to be used or manipulated
outside a cylindrical tank or tote Tie Layer Materials provide
outstanding Ethyl Vinyl Acetate and/or layer fusion. Materials
Linear Low Density Polyethylene contribute to overall bag (TIE)
strength and gas barrier properties. USP<88> Class VI
materials
[0176] The following are examples of multi-layer bags that can be
fabricated from the above materials and are shown in Table E:
9TABLE E Material Application Description A Sterile Fluid Layer
1-NYLON Handling Bags Layer 2-TIE Layer 3-EVOH Layer 4-TIE Layer
5-ULDPE B Sterile Fluid Layer 1-NYLON Inner Film Layers Handling
Bags Layer 2-TIE Layer 3-EVOH Layer 4-TIE Layer 5-ULDPE Outer Film
Layers Layer 6-TIE Layer 7-ULDPE Layer 8-ULDPE C Large Layer 1-TIE
Container Bags Layer 2-ULDPE Layer 3-ULDPE D Cassette Bags Layer
1-ULDPE Inner Film Layer 2-ULDPE Barrier Film Layer 3-ULDPE Outer
Film Layers Layer 4-EVOH Layer 5-ULDPE
[0177] The mixing bags of the present invention may comprise single
layer film or multi-layer films depending on the application and
engineering requirements for the bag. The materials used for
fabricating the mixing bag can be selected to maximize performance
of the mixing bag.
[0178] Typically, the mixing bags of the present invention are
designed for single use applications. An Article entitled
Quantitative Economic Evaluation of Single Use Disposables in
BioProcess, comprising nine (9) pages, which appeared in the
May/June, 2002 issue of Pharmaceutical Engineering, compares single
use technology and traditional steel vessels used in
biomanufacturing as well as an introduction to the concept of
disposable bag technology.
Utility and Product Attributes of the Invention
[0179] By utilizing the teachings of the present invention, there
are three (3) important dry powder material, referred to as the
product, aspects which remain substantially constant in the
solution and during the process of forming the solution. The three
(3) important important dry powder material product aspects are as
follows: (i) the solution maintains substantially the same product
density when used in an application, e.g., as a filter cake when
the solution is used as a filter aid; (ii) the permeability of the
product in solution remains substantially unchanged; and (iii) the
integrity of the product in solution remains substantially the
same, e.g., the structure of the material product does not
substantially decompose or break down into smaller particles during
formation of the solution.
[0180] One attribute of forming a solution using a selected dry
material using the teachings of the present invention, is that the
process of forming the solution, including agitation thereof, does
not significantly degrade the critical physical characteristics of
the dry powder material product which is essential in an
application using the solution which relies on the critical
physical characteristics of the material product in solution
remaining substantially unchanged to perform a desired
function.
[0181] In one application, the dry material used may be a
Celpure.RTM. Diatomite that is to be used as a filter aid. In such
application, the fundamental intricate, fine particulate, and
porous structure of the diatom frustule forming the Celpure.RTM.
Diatomite gives diatomite its low density, high surface area, high
porosity and permeability. These attributes give diatomite its
unique commercial value and versatility unmatched by other natural
forms of silica for certain applications, e.g. in filtration
applications. Moreover diatomite may be processed to impart a
specific permeability range which is of general importance in
solids-liquids separation applications.
[0182] In the field of filtration, many methods of particle
separation from fluids employ diatomite products as filter aids.
The intricate and porous structure unique to diatomite silica is
particularly effective for the physical entrapment of particles in
filtration processes. It is common practice to employ diatomite
products when improving the clarity of fluids that contain
suspended particles or particulate matter, or have turbidity.
[0183] For use in filtration, diatomite products are usually
processed to provide a range of filtration rates, which are closely
related to their permeability. Permeability is reported in units of
Darcies, as discussed hereinbefore, and is commonly abbreviated
"Da". The permeability, in Da, is readily determined (European
Brewery Convention, 1987) using a specially constructed device
designed to form a filter cake on a septum from a suspension of
diatomite in water, and then measuring the time required for a
specified volume of water to flow through a measured thickness of
filter cake of known cross-sectional area. The principles have been
previously derived for porous media from Darcy's law (Bear, 1972),
so an array of alternative devices and methods are in existence
that correlate well with permeability. Diatomite filter aids that
are currently commercially available span a wide range of
permeability, from about 0.001 Da to about 30 Da. The selection of
a filter aid with a particular permeability suitable for a specific
filtration process depends on the flow rate and degree of fluid
clarification desired for the particular application. As such,
using a dry powder with a known or selected permeability which
remains substantially unchanged during preparation of the solution
using the dry powder in accordance with the teachings of this
invention is one of the desired attributes of this invention.
[0184] In another application, the dry material used may be
LRA.RTM., Celpure.RTM., and Chromosorb.RTM. designed to be used as
Sorbents and Chromatography Media. In such application, a sorbent's
usefulness is in removing soluble constituents from biologic and
non-biologic solutions and the desired criteria for using the same
can be traced to its surface area, density, or other physical
attributes that effect the mass transfer of solutes in
solution.
[0185] As such, using a dry powder with known or selected physical
attributes that effect the mass transfer of solutes in solution and
a dry powder with known or selected physical attributes which
remain substantially unchanged during preparation of the solution
using the dry powder in accordance with the teachings of this
invention is one of the desired attributes of this invention.
Other Applications
[0186] It is envisioned that the mixing bag interior mixing chamber
has a volume sufficient to receive a predetermined weight of dry
material capable of being forming and remaining in suspension in a
process compatible solution and a selected volume of process
compatible solution to form a solution, suspension or slurry having
the material in suspension with a selected concentration or select
density or a density within a range of selected densities. Such a
mixing bag has utility for a variety of applications. The dry
material can be a granulated or powder concentrate capable of
forming a solution. It is preferable that the powder be as dry as
possible. However, the teachings of the present invention can be
used with a slightly hydrated media. A more wet or the heavier
hydrated media makes it more difficult it becomes to break up the
particles to form the desired solution, suspension or slurry.
Injecting of the process compatible solution from the bottom of the
mixing bag enhances the formation of the desired solution,
suspension or slurry, particularly with a dry medium or a slightly
hydrated media.
[0187] The mixing bag can be used in the industrial field for
producing solutions used in making filter aids; in the agriculture
field for fertilizers, pesticides, gypsum; in the medical field for
kidney dialysis and in the food and beverage industry for making
solutions from dry powder for use as beverages or the like. For
example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,121,857 discloses agitating apparatus for
dispensing fruit juices from a bag in a box arrangement wherein the
a metalized plastics material flexible bag containing a fruit drink
having fruit particles suspended therein. The mixing bag of the
present invention can be used with such agitating and dispensing
apparatus in the beverage industry.
[0188] In the preferred embodiment, the dry powder is a non-soluble
powder. In the preferred use of the teachings of the present
invention, the non-soluble powder maybe be selected from a group
consisting of diatomaceous earth, Celepure P65.RTM. media, Celepure
P100.RTM. media, Celepure 300.RTM. media, Celepure P1000.RTM.
media, LRA.RTM. media and sorbents.
[0189] In another embodiment, the dry powder may be a Sorbent. A
Sorbent is associated with Sorption. Sorption is the association of
a gas phase or aqueous substance with a solid material, known as
the sorbent, by surface attachment (adsorption) or dissolution and
migration into the solid phase (absorption). "Solid phase" refers
to material that behaves as a solid according to macroscale
measures. At a chemical level, the surface of that solid may act
more like an oil film. "Adsorption" refers to association of a
sorbate with surfaces. "Absorption" implies penetration of a
sorbate into the sorbent, by diffusion.
[0190] In yet another embodiment, the dry powder can be used for
Chromatography. By classical definition, chromatography is a
separation process that is achieved by distributing the substances
to be separated between a mobile phase and a stationary phase.
Those substances distributed preferentially in the moving phase
pass through the chromatographic system faster than those that are
distributed preferentially in the stationary phase. As a
consequence, the substances are eluted from the column inverse
order of their distribution coefficients with respect to the
stationary phase. In this definition LRA.RTM., Celpure.RTM., and
Chromosorb.RTM. can all be called chromatography media, sorbents,
or filter aids.
[0191] LRA.RTM. is not a diatomite, however it is a silicate.
Chromosorb products are a mix. Some are solely diatomite, some are
diatomite coated with polymers (e.g. Teflon) and some are pure
polymers.
[0192] Celpure is 100% diatomite
[0193] The teachings of the present invention has utility for the
hydrating of chromatography media in a mixing bag and the
withdrawal of and loading of chromatography media at a concentrated
solution from the mixing bag into chromatography media columns in
the same manner as a Celepure.RTM. media is used as a filter aid as
described herein.
[0194] It is also envisioned that if a significant volume of dry
powder is to be simultaneously processed with a process compatible
solution to form a solution, suspension or slurry having a selected
concentration, that a plurality of mixing bags could be
concurrently injected with a process compatible solution, agitated
using an agitation process, apparatus or system disclosed herein
and the resulting solution at selected concentration can then be
withdrawn either sequentially or in parallel from the plurality of
mixing bags.
[0195] It will be appreciated that various alterations and
modifications may be made to the mixing bag, methods, apparatus and
system using the teachings of the present invention. All such
variations and modifications should be considered to fall within
the scope of the invention as broadly hereinbefore described and as
claimed hereafter.
[0196] All such uses, variations, modifications and the like are
anticipated to be within the scope of this invention.
* * * * *