Patent ID: 6159368
Filing Date: 2000-12-12
Classification: B01D,B01L,G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
A microfiltration apparatus for processing a plurality of fluid samples, comprising:a first plate having a plurality of columns, each column having (i) a first inner bore defining a lumen within the column, and (ii) an end region for receiving a filter medium within the column, said end region defining (a) a second inner bore having a diameter greater than that of the first inner bore and (b) a transition region that joins the second inner bore to the first inner bore;positioned within each column end region, adjacent said transition region, a filter medium for filtering sample; anda second plate having a plurality of discharge conduits, each discharge conduit having an upstanding upper end region aligned with and received within a corresponding column end region so as to form a substantially fluid-tight interface therebetween, said discharge conduit upper end region having a terminal rim region for supporting a circumferential region of the filter medium such that each filter medium is held in compression between a column transition region and the terminal rim region of a corresponding discharge conduit in a manner effective (i) to securely hold the filter medium and (ii) to radially press a circumferential side-edge region of the filter medium against an inner sidewall of the column so as to prevent leakage around its edges.