Sterilization with Vaporized Hydrogen Peroxide (VHP)

VHP sterilization for freeze dryers

Freeze dryers are usually steam sterilized. GEA Lyophil is the only manufacturer to offer an alternative: sterilization by vaporized hydrogen peroxide. The VAPOVAC sterilizer, which is connected to the freeze dryer (lyophilizer), generates vapor of hydrogen peroxide, which is pumped into the chamber and the condenser of the freeze dryer. The sterilization process takes approximately 3h depending on the performance of the vacuum pumps; a much shorter time compared to the traditional steam sterilization.

The VAPOVAC Sterilizer offers the following advantages:

• Cost saving:
  • Lower investment and operational costs
  • Short process time
  • Longer service intervals
• Reliable and safe process
  • Kills variety of germs
  • Even dispersion of the VHP
  • No toxic residues
  • Easy and safe handling

Retrofitting an existing freeze dryer with a VAPOVAC sterilizer is an effective way of lengthening its life time. A few changes to hardware and some software adaptations would be necessary - a minimal effort in time and cost compared to equipping a non- sterilizable unit with steam sterilization. After the retrofit the freeze dryer will meet current FDA standards for sterilization and several years of service has been added.