BTPX
The Alfa Laval BTPX is an automatic cell culture centrifuge engineered for biopharma applications such as precipitated proteins, microbial broths, hormones, and more. Backed by over 140 years of technical expertise and innovation, it delivers production-level performance in pilot or medium-scale setups. Designed for excellence, this solid-liquid separator functions as a clarifier, purifier, or concentrator—offering flexibility and high efficiency in demanding processes.
Experience the benefits of the BTPX cell culture centrifuge
- Low product loss and drier solids thanks to rapid and distinct discharge action
- Highest levels of hygiene – flushing nozzles spray the outside of the centrifuge bowl and the inside of frame hood
- No risk of product /environmental contamination – design of seal system ensures efficient containment
- Efficient operation – temperature control and low noise from cooling jackets around centrifuge bowl
Suitable for feed rates up to 2,000 L/h, the BTPX separator can be adapted for a wide range of applications. It is designed for steam sterilization and contained operation, meeting NIH guidelines for Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) environments.
The solids content in the feed typically ranges from 0.1% to 10% by volume, though this may vary depending on the application. Fixed partial solids discharge can be triggered by a timer, turbidity sensor, and/or total flow-rate control.
How the BTPX works
The feed is introduced to the rotating centrifuge bowl (fig 1) from the top via a stationary inlet pipe (1), and is accelerated in a distributor (2) before entering the disc stack (3). It is between the discs that the separation of the liquid phase and the solids phase takes place. The liquid phase moves towards the centre of the bowl from where it is pumped out under pressure by means of a built-in paring disc (4).
The heavier solids phase is collected at the bowl periphery, from where it is discharged intermittently via the centrifuge cyclone. The solids discharge is achieved by a hydraulic system below the separation space in the bowl, which at preset intervals forces the sliding bowl bottom (5) to drop down, thus opening the solids ports (6) at the bowl periphery. The bowl is mounted on a vertical spindle (7) driven by a horizontally mounted motor, via a worm gear.
BTPX cell culture centrifuge system
The BTPX is a fully automatic, plug-and-play separation system that delivers production-level performance from pilot to medium-scale operations.
Designed for biopharma standards, the BTPX is steam-sterilizable and equipped with CIP (cleaning-in-place) capability. A specially engineered seal ensures efficient containment, eliminating the risk of product loss or environmental contamination.
Cooling jackets around the centrifuge bowl provide precise temperature control while reducing noise levels. The “dosing ring” solids-ejection system ensures rapid, reliable discharge, resulting in lower product losses and drier solids. Integrated flushing nozzles clean both the exterior of the bowl and the interior of the frame hood, ensuring maximum hygiene.
Service
Extending the performance of your equipment
Our dedicated global service network supports you with parts and expertise, wherever you are, whenever you need it. By ensuring greater uptime, availability, and optimization, we help bring you peace of mind and maximize your return on investment. We can work with you to integrate our services into a Performance Agreement for predictable and worry-free operations.
The Separator Innovator
Would you like to know more about our innovations in separation technology? Click on the link below. Alfa Laval invented the first disc stack separator and has led the way in the development of centrifuge technology for over a century. We are glad to share with you the expertise we have gained along the way. Visit our Separator Innovator knowledge base to learn more about advancements in separation and the steps Alfa Laval is taking to continue revolutionizing the technology.
Test, validate, and scale up your next separation solution
Whether upgrading your production line or running a proof of concept, Alfa Laval helps you choose the right separator solution with confidence. Simply get in touch to arrange a consultation and trial at one of our test centres, or to rent a unit for onsite testing.
