Patent Description:
In the field of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, biotechnology and thereto related fields, separation of substances from a liquid mixture such as, separation of cells from a cell culture mixture, are performed in a sterile environment. Traditionally, equipment made e.g., from stainless steel has been used, which equipment is sterilised between batches.

Lately, disposable separation equipment made for single use i.e., for one batch or a limited number of batches, has been suggested. For instance, <CIT> discloses a single use centrifuge and <CIT> discloses a separator comprising an exchangeable inner drum. Similar device is known from <CIT>.

Such disposable separation equipment is supplied to a user in a sterile manner. Thus, a sterile environment may be provided for the liquid mixture in the separator without sterilisation of the separation equipment at the production facility of the user.

In such prior art separation equipment made for single use, the exchangeable portion of the relevant separation equipment forms one entity with connections for fluid entering and leaving the separation equipment. The exchangeable portion is handled as one entity by a user of the separation equipment. Accordingly, the exchangeable portion is manufactured and delivered to the user as one entity.

It would be desirable to provide an alternative separator system configured for single use. In particular, it would be desirable to provide a versatile modular centrifugal separator system. To better address one or more of these concerns, one or more of a modular centrifugal separator system, an exchangeable separation insert, an exchangeable tube kit, a kit of parts, and a method for assembling a modular centrifugal separator system, having the features defined in one or more of the independent claims is/are provided.

According to an aspect of the invention, there is provided a modular centrifugal separator system configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase. The modular centrifugal separator system comprises a base unit and arranged therein an exchangeable separation insert, an exchangeable tube kit, and an interface for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit. The exchangeable separation insert comprises a rotor casing forming a separation space, and a first half of the interface, the rotor casing being configured to rotate about a rotational axis extending in an axial direction. The exchangeable tube kit comprises at least one tube for one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, and a second half of the interface. The modular centrifugal separator system comprises a removable sealing member covering the first and/or second half of the interface.

Since the modular centrifugal separator system comprises the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit with the interface for fluid communication therebetween, and since the interface for fluid communication comprises the first and second halves with the removable sealing member covering at least one of the halves, the exchangeable separation insert comprising the rotor casing and the exchangeable tube kit comprising the at least one tube form separate components of the modular centrifugal separator system. Thus, the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit may be handled as separate units e.g., during mounting of them in the base unit. Accordingly, a versatile modular centrifugal separator system is provided.

Further, the complexity level of exchangeable parts of the modular centrifugal separator system may be reduced in comparison with exchangeable parts of the prior art systems comprising both rotating parts and tube connections as one entity. This may be advantageous inter alia from a manufacturing perspective. Also, providing the separation insert and the tube kit as separate units opens up possibilities for different suppliers providing the user with separation inserts on the one hand and tube kits on the other hand. This may provide further options related to supplier and logistics of exchangeable parts. Moreover, different kinds of exchangeable separation inserts and exchangeable tube kits may enable a user of the modular centrifugal separator system to provide different combinations of separation inserts and tube kits in the base unit e.g., depending on the requirements of a particular batch of liquid feed mixture. For instance, different kinds of tube kits configured for different flow rates may be combined with one and the same type of separation insert e.g., in order to provide separation at different flow rates during use of the modular centrifugal separator system.

The modular centrifugal separator system may be configured for use in the field of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and thereto related fields. In the modular centrifugal separator system, separation of substances from a liquid mixture such as separation of cells from a cell culture mixture, may be performed in a sterile environment.

In the modular centrifugal separator system, the liquid feed mixture is separated into a liquid heavy phase and liquid light phase. For instance, the liquid feed mixture may be formed by a cell culture mixture such as a fermentation broth including a cell culture. The light phase may be formed by fermentation broth without the cells or with only a minimum rest amount of cells and/or cell debris. The heavy phase may comprise the cells and cell debris suspended in fermentation broth.

The base unit is configured for repeated use with different exchangeable separation inserts and different exchangeable tube kits. That is, the base unit is reusable with new exchangeable parts such as the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit after one process batch or after a limited number of process batches.

The exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit are configured for single use i.e., for separation of one batch only or a limited number of batches of liquid feed mixture.

Herein, the modular centrifugal separator system may also be referred to as separator system or system and the exchangeable separation insert may also be referred to as separation insert or insert. The exchangeable tube kit may also be referred to as tube kit.

The base unit comprises basic components for supporting the separation insert and the tube kit. The base unit is configured for rotating the rotor casing of the separation insert e.g., by supporting the separation insert in a rotatable member of the base unit. The rotatable member may be supported in a stationary frame of the base unit. Such a stationary frame may be stationary in the sense that it is stationary during use of the modular centrifugal separator system.

The separation insert may be configured to rotate in its entirety during use of the modular centrifugal separator system. Inside the separation space, there may be arranged a separation aid such as e.g., a stack of frustoconical separation.

The tube kit may be configured to be stationary during use of the modular centrifugal separator system. Accordingly, the interface for fluid communication may also form an interface between rotating and stationary parts of the modular centrifugal separator system.

The interface for fluid communication between the separation insert and the tube kit is an interface which, during use of the separator system, may provide one or more of: sealed flow of the liquid feed mixture from the tube kit to the separation insert, sealed flow of the heavy phase from the separation insert to the tube kit, and sealed flow of the light phase from the separation insert to the tube kit.

During use of the modular centrifugal separator system the liquid feed mixture is separated into the light and heavy phases in the exchangeable separation insert. More specifically, as the rotor casing is rotated about its rotational axis, the gravitational field generated by the rotation will cause the liquid feed mixture in the separation space to separate into the light and heavy phases. That is, the exchangeable separation insert is that part of the modular centrifugal separator system wherein separation takes place during use of thereof.

During use of the modular centrifugal separator system, one or more liquids is/are conducted to and/or from the separation insert via the exchangeable tube kit. The liquids are one or more of the liquid feed mixture, the separated heavy phase, and the separated light phase. According to some embodiments, a further exchangeable tube kit may be provided. In such embodiments, one or more of the liquids is/are conducted to and/or from the separation insert via the further exchangeable tube kit.

Exchangeable parts of the modular centrifugal separator system such as, the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit may be configured to form the only part of the modular centrifugal separator system, which are in contact with one or more of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and light phase during use of the separator system.

According to some embodiments, the modular centrifugal separator system may comprise further exchangeable parts such as, a further exchangeable tube kit. In such case also the further exchangeable tube kit is configured to form one of the only parts which is in contact with one or more of the liquid feed mixture and the separated heavy and light phases during use of the separator system.

Each of the exchangeable separation insert, the exchangeable tube kit, and optional further exchangeable parts may be provided to a user as a sterile entity. That is, at least the insides of the separation insert, the tube kit, and the optional further exchangeable parts are sterile. Alternatively, two or more of the exchangeable separation insert, the exchangeable tube kit, and optional further exchangeable parts may be provided as a sterile kit of parts. Thus, when the exchangeable parts are assembled, the user will readily have available a centrifugal separator system with a sterile environment for separation of the liquid feed mixture.

In the base unit, different kinds of tube kits may be combined with different kinds of separation inserts e.g., in order to provide different separation properties, flow rates, and/or adapt the modular centrifugal separator system to different liquid feed mixtures.

The exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit may be mounted in the base unit by the user. Prior to starting a separation operation in the modular centrifugal separator system, the removable sealing member is removed from the first and/or second halves of the interface e.g., by a user or in an automatic manner. Thus, the interface for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit is opened up for fluid communication between the insert and the tube kit. The modular centrifugal separator system is set for separating the liquid feed mixture into the light and heavy phases and for conducting one or more of the liquid feed mixture and the separated light and heavy phases via the interface between the insert and the tube kit.

Herein, the terms mount and mounting of a part generally relates to installation of the relevant part in the base unit.

According to embodiments, the removable sealing member may be accessible for removal from the interface from outside the base unit. In this manner, the separation insert and the tube kit may be mounted in the base unit prior to removing the sealing member. Moreover, the separator system may be prepared for use thereof while the removable sealing member remains covering the first and/or second half of the interface as long as a user of the system may choose e.g., until just before separation of the liquid feed mixture is to commence.

According to embodiments, the removable sealing member may comprise a first sealing member portion covering the first half of the interface and a second sealing member portion covering the second half of the interface. In this manner, the insides of both the separation insert and the tube kit may be protected by the respective first and second sealing member portions in order to maintain the insides sterile. The separation insert and the tube kit may be handled as separate units by a user e.g., during mounting thereof in the base unit, while the insides may remain protected by the first and second sealing member portions.

According to embodiments, the first half of the interface may comprise a first sealing surface and the second half of the interface may comprise a second sealing surface. The first and second sealing surfaces may be configured to engage with each other when the removable sealing member has been removed. During use of the modular centrifugal separator system the first sealing surface may be rotatable about the rotational axis and the second sealing surface may be stationary. In this manner, there may be provided a fluid seal between the separation insert and the tube kit i.e., between the rotating and stationary parts of the separator system. The fluid seal may be provided for at least one of the liquid feed mixture, the light phase, and the heavy phase. Also, in this manner, the modular centrifugal separator system may be provided as a mechanically hermetically sealed separator system.

According to embodiments, the modular centrifugal separator system may comprise a securing member configured to establish an engagement between the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit, which engagement secures the exchangeable separation insert to the exchangeable tube kit for collective removal of the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit from the base unit. In this manner, the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit may be configured to be secured to each other, at or after mounting of the securing member in the base unit. Thus, the separation insert and the tube kit may be removed from the base unit as one entity after a separation operation has ended. Accordingly, leakage from the separation insert and/or the tube kit during removal of exchangeable parts from the separator system may be avoided.

The securing member may be mounted in the base unit after a separation operation has ended.

The engagement established by the securing member may provide for the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit to be removed as one single unit.

The securing member may convert the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit into a single removable, non-rotatable unit.

The securing member may destroy the interface between the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit. For instance, the sealing function and/or a relative rotational movement between the separation insert and the tube kit may be inhibited by the securing member. Thus, the separation insert and/or the tube kit may be rendered non-reusable.

Hence, it may be ensured that used, and accordingly, non-sterile exchangeable separation inserts and exchangeable tube kits, are not put to use in the modular centrifugal separator system.

According to embodiments, the exchangeable tube kit and the interface may be arranged at a first axial end portion of the exchangeable separation insert. The modular centrifugal separator system may comprise a further exchangeable tube kit, and a further interface for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert and the further exchangeable tube kit. The further exchangeable tube kit and the further interface may be arranged at a second axial end portion of the exchangeable separation insert. The exchangeable separation insert may comprise a first half of the further interface. The further exchangeable tube kit may comprise a tube for at least one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, and a second half of the further interface. The modular centrifugal separator system may comprise a removable further sealing member covering the first and/or second half of the further interface. In this manner, fluid connections may be provided to the separation insert not only at its first axial end portion but also at its second axial end portion via the further exchangeable tube kit. Moreover, due to the removable further sealing member, the further exchangeable tube kit may be provided as a separate entity in a similar manner as the exchangeable tube kit arranged at the first axial end portion and may accordingly, provided the same or similar advantages.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided an exchangeable separation insert for a modular centrifugal separator system configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase and comprising the exchangeable separation insert, a base unit, an exchangeable tube kit, and an interface for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit. The exchangeable separation insert comprises a rotor casing which forms a separation space, and a first half of the interface, the rotor casing being configured to rotate about a rotational axis extending in an axial direction. The exchangeable separation insert comprises a first sealing member portion of a removable sealing member, the first sealing member portion covering the first half of the interface. The exchangeable separation insert forms a separate unit which is insertable into the base unit. In this manner, there is provided an exchangeable separation insert for a modular centrifugal separator system as discussed above.

Moreover, the exchangeable separation insert may be handled as a separate unit e.g., during mounting of it in the base unit, inter alia due to the first sealing member portion covering the first half of the interface which contributes to maintaining a sterile inside of the separation insert. Accordingly, the exchangeable separation insert contributes to a versatile modular centrifugal separator system.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided an exchangeable tube kit for a modular centrifugal separator system configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase and comprising the exchangeable tube kit, a base unit, an exchangeable separation insert, and an interface for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit, a first half the interface forming part of the exchangeable separation insert. The exchangeable tube kit comprises a tube for at least one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, a second half of the interface, and a sealing member portion of a removable sealing member covering the second half of the interface. The second half of the interface comprises a second sealing surface configured to engage with a first sealing surface of the exchangeable separation insert. During use of the modular centrifugal separator system the second sealing surface is configured to be stationary and engage with the rotating first sealing surface. The exchangeable tube kit forms a separate unit which is at least partially insertable into the base unit. In this manner, there is provided an exchangeable tube kit for a modular centrifugal separator system as discussed above, inter alia the tube kit comprises the second sealing surface configured to engage with the separation insert of the separator system.

Moreover, the exchangeable tube kit may be handled as a separate unit e.g., during mounting of it in the base unit, inter alia due to the sealing member portion covering the second half of the interface which contributes to maintaining a sterile inside of the tube kit. Accordingly, the exchangeable tube kit contributes to a versatile modular centrifugal separator system.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts comprising an exchangeable separation insert according to any one of aspects and/or embodiments discussed herein and at least one exchangeable tube kit according to any one of aspects and/or embodiments discussed herein. In this manner, there are provided an exchangeable separation insert and an exchangeable tube kit for a modular centrifugal separator system as discussed above.

The exchangeable separation insert and the exchangeable tube kit of the kit of parts may be handled as separate units e.g., during mounting of them in the base unit, inter alia due to the sealing member portions covering the first and second halves of the interface which contributes to maintaining a sterile inside of the separation insert and the tube kit. According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for assembling of a modular centrifugal separator system according to any one of aspects and/or embodiments discussed herein. The method comprises steps of:.

The order in which the steps of mounting the exchangeable separation insert and mounting the exchangeable tube kit are performed may be either first mounting the exchangeable separation insert or first mounting the exchangeable tube kit, depending on the layout of the modular centrifugal separator system and the base unit. If the separator system comprises more than one exchangeable tube kit, one tube kit may be mounted before the separation insert is mounted and one tube kit may be mounted after mounting the exchangeable separation insert.

The step of removing the sealing member is performed after the steps of mounting the exchangeable separation insert and mounting the exchangeable tube kit.

Further features of, and advantages with, the invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.

Various aspects and/or embodiments of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:.

Aspects and/or embodiments of the invention will now be described more fully.

<FIG> schematically illustrate embodiments a modular centrifugal separator system <NUM>. The modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> is configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase. The modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> may be configured for use in the field of pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, and/or biotechnology. For instance, the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> may form part of a set-up in a plant for the production of cells such as, CHO cells (Chinese Hamster Ovary cells), or other matter resulting from processes in the biotech/pharma industry.

The modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> comprises a base unit <NUM>, an exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, and an exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. In <FIG>, the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> is shown in an assembled state i.e., with the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> mounted in the base unit <NUM>. In <FIG>, the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> is shown. In <FIG>, the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> is shown. In <FIG>, the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> are shown adjacent to each other in a manner, in which they are arranged when mounted in the base unit <NUM>.

The separator system <NUM> further comprises an interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. The separator system <NUM> also comprises a removable sealing member <NUM> covering at least a portion of the interface <NUM>. The removable sealing member <NUM> prevents an interior of the separation insert <NUM> and/or an interior of the tube kit <NUM> from being contaminated during handling of the separation insert <NUM> and/or the tube kit <NUM> and/or during mounting of the separation insert <NUM> and/or the tube kit <NUM> in the base unit <NUM>.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> are accordingly configured to be handled as separate units e.g., during mounting of them in the base unit.

The modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> is modular in the sense that it comprises the base unit <NUM>, the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> are exchanged for each new batch of liquid feed mixture, which is to be separated. Alternatively, the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> may be exchanged for each new type of liquid feed mixture, which is to be separated, i.e. one or more subsequent batches containing same type of liquid feed mixtures may be separated utilising the same separation insert <NUM> and tube kit <NUM>.

During use of the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase only come into contact with the insides of the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM>. The base unit <NUM> does not come into contact with the liquid feed mixture or any of the heavy and light phases.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> may be provided as a kit of parts <NUM> to a user of the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM>. That is, the separation insert <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and the tube kit <NUM> as shown in <FIG> may be offered collectively to a user as unassembled separate parts, which thus, are provided for mounting in the base unit <NUM> one at a time.

The separation insert <NUM> comprises a rotor casing <NUM> forming a separation space, and a first half of the interface <NUM>. The rotor casing <NUM> is configured to rotate about a rotational axis <NUM> extending in an axial direction.

The exchangeable tube kit <NUM> comprises at least one tube <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, and a second half of the interface <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiments, the tube kit <NUM> comprises all fluid connections for conducting fluid/liquid to and from the separator system <NUM>. That is, the tube kit <NUM> comprises a first tube <NUM> for the liquid feed mixture, a second tube <NUM> for the separated heavy phase, and a third tube <NUM> for the separated light phase.

The tubes <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured for connecting the separator system <NUM> to other equipment external of the separator system <NUM> e.g., in a production facility of a user. Thus, the liquid feed mixture may be conducted from external equipment to the separator system <NUM> and the separated light and heavy phases from the separator system <NUM> to external equipment.

In these embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, in use of the separator system <NUM>, the tube kit <NUM> is arranged above the separator insert <NUM>.

According to alternative embodiments, the base unit <NUM> and the separator insert <NUM> may be configured for arranging the tube kit <NUM> below the separator insert <NUM> during use of the separator system <NUM>.

According to further alternative embodiments, the separator system <NUM> may comprise a further tube kit. In such embodiments, one tube kit is arranged at each end of the separator insert <NUM> and the base unit <NUM> is configured for accommodating the two tube kits.

An exchangeable separation insert <NUM> is discussed in further detail below with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. An exchangeable tube kit <NUM> is discussed in further detail below with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>.

The base unit <NUM> comprises components for supporting and rotating the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>. The base unit <NUM> comprises components for supporting the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. Thus, the base unit <NUM> comprises inter alia a stationary frame <NUM>, a rotatable member, and a drive unit for rotating the rotatable member. The stationary frame <NUM> may comprise a vertical member <NUM>. Part of the drive unit may be arranged in the vertical member <NUM>.

The stationary frame <NUM> is stationary during use of the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM>. However, the base unit <NUM> as such may be movable, e.g. in order to be positioned at different locations at a production facility of the user. For this purpose, the stationary frame <NUM> may be provided with wheels <NUM>.

The base unit <NUM> is further discussed below with inter alia with reference to <FIG>.

The interface <NUM> extends in a radial direction across the axial direction <NUM>. In this manner, the interface <NUM> may be configured to form an interface between the stationary tube kit <NUM> and the rotatable separation insert <NUM>. That is, the interface <NUM> and the radial direction extends perpendicularly to the axial direction <NUM>.

The removable sealing member <NUM> covers the first and/or second half of the interface <NUM>. In <FIG>, the removable sealing member <NUM> is shown covering the first half of the interface <NUM> i.e., the half of the interface <NUM> forming part of the separation insert <NUM>. Also, the second half of the interface <NUM> i.e., the half of the interface forming part of the tube kit <NUM> may be covered by the removable sealing member <NUM> (not shown). Accordingly, the removable sealing member <NUM> may comprise two portions, one portion covering each half of the interface <NUM>.

Alternatively, the removable sealing member <NUM> covers only one half of the interface <NUM> such as, the first half of the interface <NUM>. In such embodiments, for instance the tube kit <NUM> may be provided to the user in a sterile container such as, a sterile plastic bag. Namely, for some separation applications it is foreseeable that it may be sufficient to provide the removable sealing member <NUM> to seal only the separation insert <NUM> while it is handled and mounted in the base unit <NUM>. The tube kit <NUM> on the other hand, may require much less handling and may be quickly fitted in the base unit <NUM>, such that the short exposure of the tube kit <NUM> to the ambient environment from the opening of the sterile packaging until the tube kit <NUM> is mounted in the base unit <NUM>, may not be detrimental to the fluids of the ensuing separation process.

The removable sealing member <NUM> may be accessible from an outside of the base unit <NUM>. For instance, a pull tab or grasping portion <NUM> of the removable sealing member <NUM> may be accessible from an outside of the base unit <NUM>. Thus, the removable sealing member <NUM> may be accessible for removal from the interface <NUM> from outside the base unit <NUM>. The removable sealing member <NUM> has to be removed from the separator system <NUM> before separation of the liquid feed mixture is started.

<FIG> schematically illustrates a cross section through a base unit <NUM> of a modular centrifugal separator system. That is, in <FIG> an exchangeable separation insert and exchangeable tube kits of the separator system have been omitted.

The separator system resembles in much the separator system <NUM> of <FIG>. In the embodiments of <FIG>, the base unit <NUM> is configured for use with one separation insert in conjunction with the two tube kits, as opposed to one tube kit only. However, the general concept of the base unit <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> may be used with a separation insert in conjunction with one tube kit only, at an upper end or a lower end of a rotatable member <NUM> of the base unit <NUM>.

Again, as mentioned above, the base unit <NUM> comprises the stationary frame <NUM>, the rotatable member <NUM>, and the drive unit <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiments, the drive unit <NUM> comprises an electric motor, a drive belt, and pullies arranged at the electric motor and the rotatable member <NUM>. Alternative drive units may be used such as, an electric motor driving a transmission comprising gear wheels or a direct drive of the rotatable member provided by an electric motor.

The rotatable member <NUM> is arranged in the stationary frame <NUM> and is configured to rotate about a rotational axis <NUM>. The drive unit <NUM> is configured for rotating the rotatable member <NUM> about the rotational axis <NUM>.

The rotatable member <NUM> delimits an inner space <NUM> at least in a radial direction. The radial direction extends perpendicularly to the rotational axis <NUM>. The inner space <NUM> is configured for receiving at least part of an exchangeable separation insert therein, see further below with reference to <FIG>. The rotational axis <NUM> coincides with that of a separation insert mounted in the rotatable member <NUM>.

The base unit <NUM> is configured for receiving and holding a tube kit and a further tube kit. The two tube kits are held stationary in the base unit <NUM>. There is provided an interface for fluid communication between each of the tube kits and the separation insert, when mounted in the base unit <NUM>. See further below with reference to <FIG>.

The rotatable member <NUM> is open at both its axial ends. Accordingly, each of the two tube kits may interface with a separation insert arranged in the inner space <NUM>. See further below with reference to <FIG>. According to alternative embodiments, the rotatable member <NUM> may be open at only one of its axial ends. Such embodiments may be used in the context of the separator system <NUM> discussed above with reference to <FIG>.

Access to the inner space <NUM> may be provided via a removable cap <NUM>. Thus, an exchangeable separation insert may be mounted in and removed from the inner space <NUM> when the cap <NUM> has been removed from the rotatable member <NUM>.

The rotatable member <NUM> is arranged inside a stationary housing <NUM>. The housing <NUM> comprises a lid <NUM>. In an open position of the lid <NUM>, access is provided to the rotatable member <NUM> inside the housing <NUM> e.g., for exchange of a separation insert and one or more tube kits.

The inner space <NUM> of the rotatable member <NUM> is delimited at least in part by an inner surface <NUM>. A separation insert to be mounted in the inner space <NUM> has an external shape to an extent that it fits inside the inner space <NUM>. A separation insert, when fitted in the inner space <NUM>, abuts against at least part of the inner surface <NUM>. Thus, an exchangeable separation insert may be supported in the inner space <NUM> and entrained with the rotatable member <NUM> when it is rotated by the drive arrangement <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates embodiments of an exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, an exchangeable tube kit <NUM>, and a further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates a cross-section through the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kits <NUM>, <NUM>.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> is an exchangeable separation insert for a modular centrifugal separator system such as, the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> discussed above in connection with <FIG> and below with reference to <FIG>. Accordingly, the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> may be configured for part of it to be arranged inside an inner space of a rotatable member of a base unit as discussed in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>.

Each of the exchangeable tube kits <NUM>, <NUM> is an exchangeable tube kit for a modular centrifugal separator system such as, the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> discussed above in connection with <FIG> and below with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. Accordingly, each of the tube kits <NUM>, <NUM> may be configured to be arranged in a base unit as discussed in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a rotor casing <NUM>. The rotor casing <NUM> delimits a separation space <NUM> therein. The rotor casing <NUM> is configured to rotate about a rotational axis <NUM> extending in an axial direction.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a separation aid arranged in the separation space <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiments the separation aid comprises a stack <NUM> of frustoconical separation discs <NUM>. The stack <NUM> may comprise at least <NUM> separation discs <NUM> such as, at least <NUM> separation discs <NUM> such as, at least <NUM> separation discs <NUM>. Mentioned as an example, a separation disc <NUM> may have an outer diameter within a range of <NUM> - <NUM>, an inner diameter within a range of <NUM> - <NUM>, and an angle α between the rotational axis <NUM> and an inner surface of the disc <NUM> within a range of <NUM> - <NUM> degrees. For clarity reasons, only a few of the discs <NUM> are shown in <FIG>.

When mounted in the base unit of the separator system, the separation insert <NUM> is arranged between the tube kit <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM>. That is, each of the tube kits <NUM>, <NUM> is arranged at one axial end portion of the separation insert <NUM>. The tube kits <NUM>, <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> will be arranged adjacent and in abutment with each other, see further below with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. In <FIG>, the tube kits <NUM>, <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> are illustrated separate from each other in a manner as they may appear prior to being mounted in the base unit.

Generally speaking, fluid connections to and from the separation insert <NUM> must be provided for the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase. Such fluid connections are provided for by tube kits. As mentioned above, the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> comprises at least one tube for one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase. In embodiments where not all fluid connections are provided by the tube kit <NUM>, they are provided by the further tube kit <NUM>. According to such embodiments the further tube kit <NUM> comprises at least one tube for one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, that is/are not provided by the tube kit <NUM>.

In the embodiments of <FIG>, the tube kit <NUM> comprises only one tube, a tube <NUM> for conducting the separated heavy phase from the separation insert <NUM>. The further tube kit <NUM> comprises two tubes, one tube <NUM> for conducting the feed mixture to the separation insert <NUM> and one tube <NUM> for conducting the separated light phase from the separation insert <NUM>.

Briefly, during use of the separator system, the liquid feed mixture is conducted via the tube <NUM> for liquid feed mixture into the separation insert <NUM>. The liquid feed mixture flows into the separation space <NUM>. The separated light phase flows towards the rotational axis <NUM> and leaves the separation space <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> via the tube <NUM> for light phase. The separated heavy phase flows towards the outer periphery of the separation space <NUM>. From the outer periphery, the heavy phase is conducted towards the rotational axis <NUM> via one or more outlet conduits <NUM> in the separation insert <NUM>. The one or more outlet conduits <NUM> extend from a radially outer portion of the separation space <NUM> towards the rotational axis <NUM>. The separated heavy phase leaves the separation insert <NUM> via the tube <NUM> for the heavy phase.

During use of the centrifugal separator system, the separation insert <NUM> rotates in its entirety and the tube kit <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM> are stationary.

When assembled in the base unit of the separator system, the separator system comprises an interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. Similarly, the separator system comprises a further interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>.

During use of the separator system, each of the interface <NUM> and the further interface <NUM> provides for fluid communication in a sealed manner between the separation insert <NUM> and the relevant tube kit <NUM>, <NUM>. That is, the passage for each of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase between the separation insert <NUM> and the relevant of the tube kits <NUM>, <NUM> is sealed by sealing surfaces which mechanically engaged with each other.

An embodiment of a fluid sealing arrangement will now be discussed with reference to the interface <NUM> between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. The separation insert <NUM> comprises a first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> comprises a second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. The first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> comprises a first sealing surface <NUM>. The first sealing surface <NUM> extends perpendicularly to the rotational axis <NUM>. The first sealing surface <NUM> is ring-shaped and arranged concentrically with the rotational axis <NUM>. The first sealing surface <NUM> encircles a fluid outlet <NUM> for the heavy phase from the separation insert <NUM>. The second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> comprises a second sealing surface <NUM>. The second sealing surface <NUM> extends perpendicularly to the rotational axis <NUM>. The second sealing surface <NUM> is ring-shaped and arranged concentrically with the rotational axis <NUM>. The second sealing surface <NUM> encircles a fluid inlet <NUM> for the heavy phase in the tube kit <NUM>.

The first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> may form surfaces of suitable sealing surface members, such as ring-shaped plastic and/or carbon members. That is, the first sealing surface <NUM> may be a surface of a first sealing surface member <NUM> and the second sealing surface <NUM> may be a surface of a second sealing surface member <NUM>.

A coolant may be provided to the sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> in a known manner (not shown).

During use of the modular centrifugal separator system, the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to engage with each other and the first sealing surface <NUM> is rotatable about the rotational axis <NUM> and the second sealing surface <NUM> is stationary. Thus, there is provided a mechanical hermetical seal between the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiments, the seal is provided for the heavy phase.

In a similar manner, utilising further ring-shaped sealing surfaces, sealing arrangements for further liquids may be provided in the interface <NUM> between the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> in embodiments wherein further fluid connections i.e., for the liquid feed mixture and/or light phase, are provided by the tube kit <NUM>, such as in the embodiments of the <FIG>.

In order to provide a proper abutment between the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, when the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> are mounted in the base unit, the second sealing surface <NUM> may be biased in a direction towards the first sealing surface <NUM>.

A sealing surface member <NUM> comprising the second sealing surface <NUM> is biased in a direction towards the first sealing surface <NUM>, and the tube kit <NUM> comprises a restricting member <NUM> configured for restricting a movement of the sealing surface member <NUM> in the axial direction. In this manner, the tube kit <NUM> may be configured for biasing the second sealing surface <NUM> towards the separation insert <NUM> while due to the provision of the restricting member <NUM> being able to be handled as one unit i.e., without coming apart. Namely, the restricting member <NUM> prevents the sealing surface member <NUM> from being biased along the axial direction beyond an end position.

The first sealing surface <NUM> is fixed in relation to the axial direction of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>. In this manner, the first sealing surface <NUM> is provided as a counterpart to the second sealing surface <NUM> when the separation insert <NUM> is mounted in the base unit.

In the embodiments of <FIG>, spring elements <NUM> are arranged to provide the biasing of the sealing surface member <NUM> in the axial direction towards the first sealing surface <NUM>. The energy stored in the spring elements <NUM> biases the sealing surface member <NUM> into the end position. The spring elements <NUM> are arranged between a first element <NUM> comprising the sealing surface member <NUM> and a second element <NUM> configured to be engaged with the base unit in a fixed axial position when the tube kit <NUM> is mounted in the base unit. Thus, when the second element <NUM> is fixed in the axial position, the spring elements <NUM> bias the first element <NUM> and the sealing surface member <NUM> with the second sealing surface <NUM> towards, and as will be later explained against, the first sealing surface <NUM>.

The restricting member <NUM> may comprise one or more first protruding elements <NUM> protruding from the first element <NUM> and one or more second protruding elements <NUM> protruding from the second element <NUM>. The first and second protruding elements <NUM>, <NUM> are aligned with each other. Thus, the biasing provided by the spring elements <NUM> will cause the first and second protruding elements <NUM>, <NUM> to abut against each other, as shown in <FIG>. In this manner the restricting member <NUM> restricts the movement of the sealing surface member <NUM> in the axial direction.

In <FIG> the sealing surface member <NUM> is shown in the end position. That is, when the tube kit <NUM> is separate from the base unit of the modular centrifugal separator system, due to the bias provided by the spring elements <NUM>, the sealing surface member <NUM> is positioned in the end position in relation to the second element <NUM>. On the other hand, when the tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> are mounted in the base unit, as shown in <FIG>, the sealing surface element <NUM> has been displaced from the end position against the bias provided by the spring elements <NUM>.

However, the biasing of the sealing surface member <NUM> and the restricting member <NUM> may be provided in the tube kit <NUM> in any other suitable manner.

According to alternative embodiments, a proper abutment between the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, when the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> are mounted in the base unit, may instead be achieved by the first sealing surface <NUM> being biased in a direction towards the second sealing surface <NUM>.

In such embodiments, the first sealing surface member <NUM> comprising the first sealing surface <NUM> is biased in a direction towards the second sealing surface <NUM>, and the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a restricting member configured for restricting an axial movement of the first sealing surface member <NUM>. For instance, the biasing may be provided by one or more spring elements <NUM> indicated with broken lines in <FIG>.

In such embodiments, the second sealing surface <NUM> may be fixed in relation to the axial direction when the tube kit <NUM> is mounted in the base unit thus, omitting the spring elements <NUM> and the second element <NUM>.

Again, the separator system comprises a removable sealing member <NUM>.

The removable sealing member <NUM> comprises a first sealing member portion <NUM> covering the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> and a second sealing member portion <NUM> covering the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. Accordingly, the inside of the separation insert <NUM> is at least in part protected by the first sealing member portion <NUM>. The inside of the tube kit <NUM> is at least in part protected by the second sealing member portion <NUM>.

At the opposite end of the tube kit <NUM> i.e., at the end of the at least one tube <NUM>, the at least one tube <NUM> may be sealed in order to maintain the inside of the tube kit <NUM> sterile. The term inside relates to that portion of the tube kit <NUM> which comes into contact with one or more of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase. Similarly, when the separation insert <NUM> has fluid connections at its axial end opposite to the tube kit <NUM>, as in the illustrated embodiments, these fluid connections may also be sealed e.g., by a further removable sealing member <NUM> as discussed below, in order to maintain the inside of the separation insert <NUM> sterile. Again, the term inside relates to that portion of the separation insert which comes into contact with one or more of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase.

According to embodiments, the first sealing member portion <NUM> may comprise a first film member and the second sealing member portion <NUM> may comprise a second film member. In this manner, a thin protective cover may be provided by each of the first and second sealing member portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Such film members permit the tube kit <NUM> to be positioned adjacent to and in abutment with the separation insert <NUM>. The tube kit <NUM> and of the separation insert <NUM> are thus, position in relation to each other along the rotation axis <NUM> substantially in the same positions as when the removable sealing member <NUM> has been removed for operating the separator system.

One embodiment of the removable sealing member <NUM> comprising first and second sealing member portions <NUM>, <NUM> is discussed below with reference to <FIG>.

During use of the modular centrifugal separator system, the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> are configured to engage with each other when the removable sealing member <NUM> has been removed.

The exchangeable tube kit <NUM> and the interface <NUM> are arranged at a first axial end portion <NUM> of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>. As mentioned above, the modular centrifugal separator system may comprise a further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>, and a further interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. The further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> and the further interface <NUM> are arranged at a second axial end portion <NUM> of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a first half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM>. The further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> comprises a tube <NUM>, <NUM> for at least one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, and a second half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM>. The modular centrifugal separator system may comprise a removable further sealing member <NUM> covering the first and/or second half <NUM>, <NUM> of the further interface <NUM>.

As mentioned above, in the illustrated embodiments, the further tube kit <NUM> comprises a tube <NUM> for the liquid feed mixture and a tube <NUM> for the separated light phase.

Features and characteristics of the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> and the further interface <NUM> may be provided in manners corresponding to, or similar to, those of the tube kit <NUM> and the interface <NUM>. The main features and characteristics relating to:.

<FIG> schematically illustrates a cross section through the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, tube kit <NUM>, and further tube kit <NUM> of the embodiments of <FIG>. In <FIG> the tube kit <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM> are arranged adjacent to and in abutment with the separation insert <NUM> in a manner as they appear when being mounted in the base unit of a separator system.

At the first axial end portion <NUM>, at the interface <NUM> between the tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM>, the removable sealing member <NUM> has been removed as for separation operation in the modular centrifugal separator system. At the second axial end portion <NUM>, at the further interface <NUM> between the further tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM>, the further removable sealing member <NUM> is still in place between the further tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> and has to be removed for separation operation in the modular centrifugal separator system.

In <FIG> as in <FIG>, the sealing surface member <NUM> comprising the second sealing surface <NUM> is biased in a direction towards the first sealing surface <NUM>. However, in <FIG>, the restricting member <NUM> does not restrict the movement of the sealing surface member <NUM> in the axial direction. Since the second element <NUM> is engaged with the base unit in a fixed axial position when the tube kit <NUM> is mounted in the base unit and since the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> abut against each other, the first and second elements <NUM>, <NUM> are positioned in relation to each other such that the first and second protruding elements <NUM>, <NUM> of the restricting member <NUM> are separated from each other.

In order to be able to handle the tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> as one entity after a separation operation has ended, the centrifugal separator system comprises a securing member <NUM> configured to establish an engagement between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. The engagement secures the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> to the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> for collective removal of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> from the base unit.

Specifically, the securing member <NUM> may maintain the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> in a position in relation to each other such that the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> remain engaged with each other during the collective removal of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> from the base unit.

Similarly, the centrifugal separator system may comprise a further securing member <NUM> configured to establish an engagement between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. The engagement secures the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> to the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> for collective removal of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> from the base unit.

The further securing member <NUM> may maintain the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM> in a position in relation to each other such that the sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> between the separation insert <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM> remain engaged with each other during the collective removal of the separation insert <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM> from the base unit.

Thus, the securing member <NUM> and the further securing member <NUM> may have one of a number of different conceivable configurations. Exemplified in the illustrated embodiments is am S-shaped hook <NUM> which engages in a recess of the separation insert <NUM> and around an axial end of the tube kit <NUM> and a snap-fit mechanism <NUM> extending through the further tube kit <NUM> to engage with a protrusion <NUM> of the separation insert <NUM> and abutting against an axial end surface of the further tube kit <NUM>. Other alternative securing members <NUM> and further securing members <NUM> may comprise one or more screws for screwing the tube kit <NUM> and/or the further tube kit <NUM> to the separation insert <NUM>, a hook and loop fastener, a clamping mechanism, etc..

The securing member <NUM> and/or the further securing member <NUM> may secure the separation insert <NUM> to the tube kit <NUM> and/or to the further tube kit <NUM> at mounting of them in the base unit. Alternatively, the securing member <NUM> and/or the further securing member <NUM> may secure the separation insert <NUM> to the tube kit <NUM> and/or to the further tube kit <NUM> after them being mounted in the base unit, either before separation starts or after separation has ended.

According to some embodiments, in order to make the separation insert <NUM> and/or the tube kit <NUM> non-reusable, the securing member and/or the further securing member may destroy the interface <NUM> between the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> and/or the further interface <NUM> between the further tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM>. For instance, the securing member may damage the first and second sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and the further securing member may damage the sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of the separation insert <NUM> and the further tube kit <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates a cross section through a portion of a modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> according to embodiments. The centrifugal separator system <NUM> may be a separator system <NUM> as discussed above with reference to <FIG> i.e., comprising a base unit <NUM> and mounted therein an exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, an exchangeable tube kit <NUM>, and a further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. In <FIG>, the drive unit of the base unit <NUM> has been omitted for the sake of clarity.

The separation insert <NUM> is mounted in the rotatable member <NUM> of the base unit <NUM>. The tube kit <NUM> is mounted in the base unit <NUM> in abutment with the separation insert <NUM> at the interface <NUM>.

A portion of the tube kit <NUM> extends through the cap <NUM> and the lid <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. Thus, the tube <NUM> of the tube kit <NUM> is accessible for connection e.g., to equipment external to the separator system <NUM>. The further tube kit <NUM> is mounted in the base unit <NUM> in abutment with the separation insert <NUM> at the further interface <NUM>. The tubes <NUM>, <NUM> of the further tube kit <NUM> are accessible for connection e.g., to equipment external to the separator system <NUM>.

Mounting of the separation insert <NUM>, the tube kit <NUM>, and the further tube kit <NUM> in the base unit <NUM> may be performed in accordance with the method <NUM> discussed below with reference to <FIG>.

In order to place the separation insert <NUM> inside the rotatable member <NUM>, the lid <NUM> is opened and the cap <NUM> is removed. Thereafter, the tube kit <NUM> is positioned in abutment with the separation insert <NUM>. The cap <NUM> is repositioned at the rotatable member <NUM> and the lid <NUM> is closed. The tube kit <NUM> is held in an axial position e.g., by the lid <NUM>, such that a proper function of the interface <NUM> is established. The further tube kit <NUM> is positioned in abutment with the separation insert <NUM> from below the separation insert <NUM>. The further tube kit <NUM> is secured to the base unit <NUM> with e.g., screws <NUM>, clamps or other suitable devices. The further tube kit <NUM> is held in an axial position such that a proper function of the further interface <NUM> is established.

In <FIG>, the separator system <NUM> is shown ready to be used for a separation operation. Accordingly, the removable sealing member <NUM> and the further removable sealing member <NUM> have been removed from the interface <NUM> and the further interface <NUM>. Each of the removable sealing member <NUM> and the further removable sealing member <NUM> was provided accessible from an outside of the base unit and <NUM> e.g., via a pull tab or grasping portion <NUM> extending through a slit <NUM> in the housing <NUM> and also in the rotatable member <NUM> for the removable sealing member <NUM>.

<FIG> schematically illustrates embodiments of a removable sealing member <NUM>. The removable sealing member <NUM> is discussed with reference to an interface <NUM> between a tube kit <NUM> and a separation insert <NUM> e.g., as discussed above with reference to <FIG>. The further removable sealing member <NUM> of the further interface <NUM> discussed above with reference to <FIG> may be of the same kind.

In <FIG>, the tube kit <NUM> and the separation insert <NUM> have been indicated with broken lines to clearly show the removable sealing member <NUM>.

The removable sealing member <NUM> comprises a first sealing member portion <NUM> covering the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> and a second sealing member portion <NUM> covering the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>.

The removable sealing member <NUM> is shown with the first and second sealing member portions <NUM>, <NUM> separated, prior to the tube kit <NUM> being positioned adjacent to the separation insert <NUM>.

The first sealing member portion <NUM> comprises a first film member <NUM> and the second sealing member portion <NUM> comprises a second film member <NUM>.

The first film member <NUM> comprises an attachment portion <NUM> releasably connected to a first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>, a folded portion <NUM> connected to the attachment portion <NUM>, and a grasping portion <NUM> connected to the folded portion <NUM>. The folded portion <NUM> is connected to the attachment portion <NUM> diametrically opposite to the grasping portion <NUM>. At least a portion of the folded portion <NUM> abuts against the attachment portion <NUM> and the grasping portion <NUM> extends beyond the interface <NUM>. In this manner, the first film member <NUM> is configured to be easily peelable from the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> also when the tube kit <NUM> is arranged in abutment with the separation insert <NUM>.

In <FIG>, the different portions <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> or shown separated from each other for the sake of clarity. In practice, the folded portion <NUM> is folded over the attachment portion <NUM> and abuts thereagainst.

A user pulling at the grasping portion <NUM> will pull the folded portion <NUM> out of the interface <NUM>. Since the grasping portion <NUM> is connected to the folded portion <NUM> opposite to the connection between the folded portion <NUM> and the attachment portion <NUM>, the attachment portion <NUM> will be peeled off the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> as the user pulls at the grasping portion <NUM>.

Similarly, the second film member <NUM> may comprise an attachment portion <NUM> releasably connected to a second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>, a folded portion <NUM> connected to the attachment portion <NUM>, and a grasping portion <NUM> connected to the folded portion <NUM>. The folded portion <NUM> of the second film member <NUM> is connected to the attachment portion <NUM> of the second film member <NUM> diametrically opposite to the grasping portion <NUM> of the second film member <NUM>. At least a portion of the folded portion <NUM> of the second film member <NUM> abuts against the attachment portion <NUM> of the second film member <NUM> and the grasping portion <NUM> of the second film member <NUM> extends beyond the interface <NUM>.

Thus, also the second film member <NUM> may be configured to be easily peelable from the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> in a similar manner to the first film member <NUM> being easily peelable from the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>.

When the tube kit <NUM> is arranged in abutment with the separation insert <NUM> the respective grasping portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the first and second film members <NUM>, <NUM> may be grasped and pulled at simultaneously to remove the entire sealing member <NUM> from the interface <NUM>.

The removable sealing member <NUM> may be accessible for removal from the interface <NUM> from outside the base unit of the separator system. For instance, the two grasping portions <NUM>, <NUM> may be accessible outside the base unit. A slit may be provided in the base unit through which the grasping portions <NUM>, <NUM> may extend from inside the base unit to outside thereof.

The first and second film members <NUM>, <NUM> may be made from BoPET (biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate), inter alia sold under the name Mylar.

In the following discussion reference is made to <FIG>. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> may be provided as a separate sterile unit configured for single use. Accordingly, one aspect of the invention relates to an exchangeable separation insert <NUM> for a modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase as discussed herein. The separator system <NUM> comprises the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, a base unit <NUM>, an exchangeable tube kit <NUM>, and an interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a rotor casing <NUM> forming a separation space <NUM>, and a first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. The rotor casing <NUM> is configured to rotate about a rotational axis <NUM> extending in an axial direction. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a first sealing member portion <NUM> of a removable sealing member <NUM>. The first sealing member portion <NUM> covers the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> forms a separate unit which is insertable into the base unit <NUM>. Since the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> is covered by the first sealing member portion <NUM>, an inside of the separation insert <NUM> is protected from the ambient environment. Accordingly, the separation insert <NUM> may be handled as a sterile unit.

According to embodiments, the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> may comprise a first sealing surface <NUM> and the first sealing member portion <NUM> may cover the first sealing surface <NUM>. In this manner, the first sealing member portion <NUM> may protect the first sealing surface <NUM>.

After removal of the first sealing member portion <NUM>, when preparing the separation insert <NUM> for a separation operation, the first sealing surface <NUM> may engage with a corresponding sealing surface of the tube kit <NUM>.

According to embodiments, the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> may comprise, with the exception of the first sealing member portion <NUM>, only parts which are rotated about the rotational axis <NUM> during use of the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM>.

Obviously, the first sealing member portion <NUM> is removed prior to starting a separation operation. Accordingly, during use of the separator system <NUM>, the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises only rotatable parts. The tube kit <NUM>, and if present the further tube kit <NUM>, form/s exchangeable stationary parts of the separator system <NUM>.

According to embodiments, the first sealing member portion <NUM> may comprise a first film member <NUM>, an attachment portion <NUM> of which is releasably connected to the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. In this manner, there may be provided a first sealing member portion <NUM> configured for sealing the first half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> and for removal therefrom.

According to embodiments, the separator system <NUM> may comprise a further interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and a further exchangeable tube kit <NUM>.

In such embodiments, the interface <NUM> is arranged at a first axial end portion <NUM> of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the further interface <NUM> is arranged at a second axial end portion <NUM> of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a first half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM>. The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> comprises a first sealing member portion <NUM> of a further removable sealing member <NUM>. The first sealing member portion <NUM> of the further removable sealing member <NUM> covers the first half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM>.

Similar to the first sealing member portion <NUM>, the first sealing member portion <NUM> of the further removable sealing member <NUM>, may comprise a film member <NUM>, an attachment portion <NUM> of which is releasably connected to the first half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM>. Thus, there may be provided a first sealing member portion <NUM> of the further removable sealing member <NUM> configured for sealing the first half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM> and for removal therefrom.

The exchangeable separation insert <NUM> may comprise further features as discussed above with reference to <FIG>.

In the following discussion reference is made to <FIG>. The exchangeable tube kit <NUM> may be provided as a separate sterile unit configured for single use. Accordingly, one aspect of the invention relates to an exchangeable tube kit <NUM> for a modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase. The separator system <NUM> comprises the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>, a base unit <NUM>, an exchangeable separation insert <NUM>, and an interface <NUM> for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> and the exchangeable tube kit <NUM>. A first half <NUM> the interface <NUM> forms part of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>.

The exchangeable tube kit <NUM> comprises a tube <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for at least one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, a second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>, and a sealing member portion <NUM> of a removable sealing member <NUM> covering the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. The second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> comprises a second sealing surface <NUM> configured to engage with a first sealing surface <NUM> of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>. During use of the modular centrifugal separator system <NUM>, the second sealing surface <NUM> is configured to be stationary and engage with the rotating first sealing surface <NUM>. The exchangeable tube kit <NUM> forms a separate unit which is at least partially insertable into the base unit <NUM>. Since the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> is covered by the second sealing member portion <NUM>, an inside of the tube kit <NUM> is protected from the ambient environment. Accordingly, provisions are made for handling the tube kit <NUM> as a sterile unit.

According to embodiments, the sealing member portion <NUM> may cover the second sealing surface <NUM>. In this manner, the sealing member portion <NUM> may protect the second sealing surface <NUM>.

After removal of the sealing member portion <NUM>, when preparing the tube kit <NUM> for a separation operation, the second sealing surface <NUM> may engage with the corresponding first sealing surface <NUM> of the separation insert <NUM>.

According to embodiments, the sealing member portion <NUM> may comprise a film member <NUM>, an attachment portion <NUM> of which is releasably connected to the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. In this manner, there may be provided a sealing member portion <NUM> configured for sealing the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM> and for removal therefrom.

According to embodiments, the tube <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for at least one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase may be sealed at an end opposite to the second half <NUM> of the interface <NUM>. Thus, the inside of the tube kit <NUM> may be protected.

The exchangeable tube kit <NUM> may comprise further features as discussed above with reference to <FIG>.

Moreover, aspects and/or embodiments of the tube kit <NUM> may also apply to a further tube kit <NUM> provided as a separate unit. This so, by instead referencing the features related to the second half <NUM> of interface <NUM> and the sealing member portion <NUM> of the removable sealing member <NUM>, to the second half <NUM> of the further interface <NUM> and the sealing member portion <NUM> of the further removable sealing member <NUM>.

As mentioned above, an exchangeable separation insert <NUM> according to any one of aspects and/or embodiments discussed herein and at least one exchangeable tube kit <NUM> according to any one of aspects and/or embodiments discussed herein may be offered, provided, and/or delivered as a kit of parts.

<FIG> illustrates a method <NUM> for assembling of a modular centrifugal separator system <NUM> according to any one of aspects and/or embodiments discussed herein. Accordingly, reference is also made to <FIG>.

The steps of mounting <NUM> the separation insert <NUM> and mounting <NUM> the tube kit <NUM> in an order dictated by the layout of the base unit <NUM>. The steps of mounting <NUM> the separation insert <NUM> and mounting <NUM> the tube kit <NUM> result in the separation insert <NUM> and the tube kit <NUM> being positioned in abutment with each other.

According to embodiments, the step of mounting <NUM> the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> in the base unit <NUM> may comprise a step of:.

In such embodiments the step of mounting <NUM> the exchangeable tube kit <NUM> is preceded by the step of mounting <NUM> the separation insert <NUM>.

According to embodiments, the method <NUM> may comprise steps of:.

The step of mounting <NUM> the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> may be performed from an axial end <NUM> of the rotor casing <NUM> of the exchangeable separation insert <NUM> opposite to an axial end <NUM> at which the tube kit <NUM> is mounted.

The steps of mounting <NUM> the further exchangeable tube kit <NUM> and removing <NUM> the further sealing member <NUM> may be performed after the step of mounting <NUM> the exchangeable separation insert <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A modular centrifugal separator system (<NUM>) configured for separating a liquid feed mixture into a heavy phase and light phase, wherein
the modular centrifugal separator system (<NUM>) comprises a base unit (<NUM>) and arranged therein an exchangeable separation insert (<NUM>), an exchangeable tube kit (<NUM>), and an interface (<NUM>) for fluid communication between the exchangeable separation insert (<NUM>) and the exchangeable tube kit (<NUM>), wherein
the exchangeable separation insert (<NUM>) comprises a rotor casing (<NUM>) forming a separation space (<NUM>), and a first half (<NUM>) of the interface (<NUM>), the rotor casing (<NUM>) being configured to rotate about a rotational axis (<NUM>) extending in an axial direction, wherein
the exchangeable tube kit (<NUM>) comprises at least one tube (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for one of the liquid feed mixture, the heavy phase, and the light phase, and a second half (<NUM>) of the interface (<NUM>), and characterised in that
the modular centrifugal separator system (<NUM>) comprises a removable sealing member (<NUM>) covering the first and/or second half (<NUM>, <NUM>) of the interface (<NUM>).