Understanding Genderless Sterile Connectors

Genderless sterile connectors are advanced aseptic components engineered for seamless integration into biopharmaceutical manufacturing workflows. Unlike traditional connectors, which require specific male or female components, genderless connectors provide universal compatibility. This design eliminates orientation issues and streamlines the assembly process. 

Key benefits of genderless single-use sterile connectors include:

• Ease of use: A straightforward connection process reduces the chances of user error.
• Reduced risk of contamination: Their unique design lowers the potential for contaminants to enter the system.
• Simplified inventory management: The streamlined, unidirectional design simplifies inventory management by eliminating the need to stock and match gendered pairs.

By adopting genderless connector technology, biopharmaceutical manufacturers can reliably maintain sterile connections, enhance operational efficiency and lower overall production costs.

Features of Colder Genderless Sterile Connectors

Sentinel Process Systems offers a range of Colder Products Company’s (CPC’s) genderless sterile connectors designed for a variety of applications. CPC’s product line spans multiple sizes and materials to accommodate diverse needs, making it an ideal choice for high-purity manufacturing.

Some key features of CPC’s single-use connectors include:

• Robust materials: CPC sterile connectors use high-grade materials such as polycarbonate, polyphenylsulfone and silicone to meet regulatory standards and ensure durability under various conditions.
• Intuitive three-step connection: A “Flip-Click-Pull” mechanism reduces operator error and provides secure, accurate connections.
• Optimized assembly: No additional tools or fixtures such as clamps, tube welders or sealing equipment are required to setup Colder connectors.
• Compatibility with sterilization processes: These connectors are compatible with gamma sterilization (up to 50kGy) and the white tab versions are autoclavable up to 266 degrees Fahrenheit/130 degrees Celsius for 60 minutes.
• Multiple sizes: Colder connectors come in numerous sizes to support various flow rates and system designs.

Mini Genderless Sterile Connectors

CPC’s MicroCNX^® line consists of mini genderless sterile connectors specifically engineered for small-format biomanufacturing assemblies (1/8 inches and below). They come with features such as:

• Compact design: Their small size makes them perfect for space-constrained environments.
• Reliable performance: These connectors maintain the same high standards of sterility and performance as other CPC connectors.
• Flexible use: They are commonly used in applications that require precise fluid transfer, such as gene and cell therapy.
• Biocompatible materials: These mini connectors feature materials such as a polycarbonate body, platinum-cured silicone seals, polypropylene protective covers and hydrophobic polyethersulfone membranes.

Applications and Use Cases

CPC’s genderless sterile connectors play a vital role in high-purity processing environments where sterile transfer is critical. Common uses include:

• Biopharmaceutical manufacturing: These connectors enable sterile media transfers within upstream and downstream processing in applications such as filtration, chromatography, sampling and final fill.
• Fluid transfer in controlled environments: They facilitate secure connections in aseptic assemblies, ensuring integrity throughout processes such as cell and gene therapy. They also function as reliable sterile disconnectors to maintain sterility during disassembly.
• Disposable medical equipment: Genderless connectors integrate seamlessly into systems where single-use components are essential for preventing cross-contamination.

Contact Sentinel Process Systems for Reliable Genderless Sterile Connectors

Sentinel Process Systems offers comprehensive expertise in CPC’s sterile connector technology, helping biopharmaceutical manufacturers select the right single-use connectors. We provide customization support, application guidance and responsive service to facilitate smooth integration into your existing processes. Contact our specialists today for personalized assistance and reliable product solutions.