Batch Effluent Decontamination Systems

AstellBio Batch Effluent Decontamination Systems collect wastewater in one or more pressure vessels and sterilize it using controlled heat and pressure. The thermal process is designed to deactivate microbes, viruses, spores and genetically modified material without adding chemical sterilants to the waste stream.

The systems are intended for Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) facilities handling biological agents that present a moderate hazard and Biosafety Level 3 (BSL3) facilities working with agents that may cause serious or potentially lethal disease, particularly through inhalation. Each installation is configured according to daily throughput, waste composition, available space and the required method of effluent transfer. Astell systems are made in the UK by a sterilization equipment manufacturer established in 1884.

Technical specifications

Models: EDS 350, EDS 500, EDS 750, EDS 1000 and EDS 1500
Processing capacity: 1 000 to 6 300 L per 8-hour day, depending on model and tank configuration
Configurations: single sterilization tank, twin sterilization tanks or additional holding tank
Waste compatibility: liquids and liquid–solid mixtures with solids up to 4 mm
Sterilization temperature: 121 or 135 °C
Containment level: BSL2 and BSL3 applications

Model comparison overview

EDS 350
- Single-tank capacity: 1 000 L per 8-hour day
- Twin-tank capacity: 1 500 L per 8-hour day
- Holding tank: 500 or 1 000 L
EDS 500
- Single-tank capacity: 1 600 L per 8-hour day
- Twin-tank capacity: 2 400 L per 8-hour day
- Holding tank: 1 000 L
EDS 750
- Single-tank capacity: 2 200 L per 8-hour day
- Twin-tank capacity: 3 100 L per 8-hour day
- Holding tank: 1 500 L
EDS 1000
- Single-tank capacity: 2 700 L per 8-hour day
- Twin-tank capacity: 3 900 L per 8-hour day
- External steam generator: 150 kg/h
- Holding tank: 1 500 L
EDS 1500
- Single-tank capacity: 4 200 L per 8-hour day
- Twin-tank capacity: 6 300 L per 8-hour day
- External steam generator: 200 kg/h
- Holding tank: 2 000 L

Single- and twin-tank operation

A single-tank system alternates between wastewater collection and sterilization. In a twin-tank configuration, one vessel collects incoming effluent while the second completes its sterilization cycle. This run–standby arrangement allows collection to continue during processing.

Processing of liquid–solid mixtures

Batch systems can treat liquids and wastewater containing solids up to 4 mm. Agitation supports heat distribution and helps prevent solids from settling at the bottom of the pressure vessel.

Gravity-fed or pump-driven installation

Wastewater can flow directly into the sterilization vessels where the EDS is positioned below the containment area. Where this is not possible, magnetically driven pumps can transfer the effluent to the system, allowing more flexible equipment placement while reducing the likelihood of leaks in pumped configurations.

Process control, electronic records and data integrity

The colour touchscreen displays cycle status, pressure, temperature, process stage, cycle time and liquid level. The controller can archive up to 5 000 cycles, with records available for download via Ethernet or capture using an optional printer. Controller software conforming to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 guidelines is available for workflows requiring secure electronic records, audit trails and electronic signatures.

Heating, cooling and steam supply

Sterilization vessels use jacket heating and cooling. Systems can operate with an integral, external or existing site steam supply. For facilities without central steam, a stand-alone electrically heated steam generator can provide the required steam; with an output of up to 150 kg/h for the EDS 1000 and 200 kg/h for the EDS 1500. Internal heating and cooling coils, chilled-water connections and cooling-water recirculation are available according to the required cycle performance and site utilities.

Transport and installation

The system is fully demountable, and the stainless steel frame can be manufactured in sections so that the plant can be stripped down for shipping and installation where access is restricted.

Model selection guide

Select a twin-tank configuration where effluent collection must continue during sterilization.
Add a holding tank where wastewater production is irregular or temporary peak volumes must be accommodated.
Use a batch system where the effluent may contain suspended solids.
Where a suitable site steam supply is unavailable, specify a stand-alone electrical steam generator as the primary heat source or for redundancy.