Tangential Flow Filtration Systems

Tangential Flow Filtration Systems for Sale

Buy used, refurbished, and surplus tangential flow filtration (TFF) systems from mLab Supply for ultrafiltration, diafiltration, buffer exchange, and concentration workflows in protein, antibody, vaccine, and cell and gene therapy research and development. We source TFF systems from Cytiva, Sartorius, Repligen, and MilliporeSigma for academic research, biotech, and pharmaceutical process development applications. Pricing and availability vary by system configuration — submit a quote request and we will confirm current sourcing options, configuration details, and lead time.

<section class="mlab-collection-buying-guide">
<h2>How to Choose a Tangential Flow Filtration System</h2>
<p>Selecting a tangential flow filtration system requires matching the instrument's scale, membrane format, and flow-path configuration to your specific bioprocess workflow. Key considerations include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Process scale and feed volume:</strong> Confirm the system's operating scale is appropriate for your feed volume and target batch size. TFF systems range from benchtop research scale to pilot and process scale.</li>
<li><strong>Cassette vs hollow fiber format:</strong> Confirm whether your workflow requires flat-sheet cassette membranes or hollow fiber modules, and that the system supports your preferred format.</li>
<li><strong>Ultrafiltration vs diafiltration:</strong> Confirm the system supports your intended workflow — concentration, buffer exchange, or both sequentially.</li>
<li><strong>Pump configuration:</strong> Consider pump type, flow rate range, and shear sensitivity requirements for your product.</li>
<li><strong>Pressure monitoring:</strong> Confirm the system includes appropriate pressure sensors and monitoring for your workflow requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Hold-up volume:</strong> Consider system hold-up volume relative to your batch size and product recovery requirements.</li>
<li><strong>Automation and data logging:</strong> Consider whether automated control, data logging, or software integration is required for your workflow.</li>
<li><strong>Single-use vs reusable flow path:</strong> Confirm whether the system supports single-use or reusable flow-path components where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Serviceability:</strong> Consider pump availability, local service support, and parts availability for the specific platform and vintage.</li>
</ul>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-tff-vs-deadend">
<h2>TFF vs Dead-End Filtration</h2>
<p>Tangential flow filtration and dead-end filtration are different filtration processes suited to different applications. In tangential flow filtration, the feed stream moves tangentially across the membrane surface, allowing retained species to be concentrated while permeate passes through the membrane. This cross-flow design minimizes membrane fouling and is commonly used for concentration, buffer exchange, and diafiltration of proteins, biologics, and other macromolecules. In dead-end filtration, the feed stream is directed through the membrane, retaining particles on the membrane surface. Dead-end filtration is commonly used for clarification, sterile filtration, and final filtration steps. They are distinct processes and are not interchangeable.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-uf-df">
<h2>Ultrafiltration vs Diafiltration</h2>
<h3>Ultrafiltration</h3>
<p>Ultrafiltration uses a semipermeable membrane to concentrate retained species — such as proteins, antibodies, or other macromolecules — by allowing smaller molecules and solvent to pass through as permeate. Ultrafiltration is commonly used to increase product concentration prior to formulation or downstream processing steps.</p>
<h3>Diafiltration</h3>
<p>Diafiltration exchanges the buffer or solvent surrounding retained species by continuously adding fresh buffer while permeate is removed. It is used to remove smaller permeable components such as salts, excipients, or impurities, and to transfer the retained product into a new buffer system. Ultrafiltration and diafiltration are often used sequentially in a single TFF workflow.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-cassette-vs-hf">
<h2>Cassette-Based vs Hollow Fiber TFF</h2>
<p>Tangential flow filtration systems may use flat-sheet cassette membranes or hollow fiber modules, each with different characteristics suited to different workflows. Cassette-based TFF systems use flat-sheet membrane cassettes held in a cassette holder and are commonly used for protein concentration and buffer exchange at research and process development scale. Hollow fiber TFF systems use tubular membrane modules and are commonly used for cell harvest, clarification, and applications where lower shear and larger hold-up volume are acceptable. Hold-up volume, shear characteristics, cleaning requirements, and disposability vary between formats. Neither format is universally superior — the appropriate choice depends on your product, scale, and workflow requirements.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-model-grid">
<h2>Popular TFF System Manufacturers and Models</h2>
<p>mLab Supply sources tangential flow filtration systems from leading manufacturers including Cytiva, Sartorius, Repligen, and MilliporeSigma. Common models available to source include:</p>
<dl>
<dt>Cytiva</dt>
<dd>ÄKTA flux</dd>
<dt>Sartorius</dt>
<dd>Sartoflow Smart, Sartoflow Advanced</dd>
<dt>Repligen</dt>
<dd>KrosFlo KR2i, KrosFlo KMPi</dd>
<dt>MilliporeSigma</dt>
<dd>Cogent M1, Cogent μScale</dd>
</dl>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-tff-vs-chrom">
<h2>Tangential Flow Filtration vs Chromatography</h2>
<p>Tangential flow filtration and <a href="/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta">chromatography systems</a> are both used in downstream bioprocessing but serve different roles. TFF is a membrane-based separation that retains or passes species based on size and permeability and is used for concentration, buffer exchange, and diafiltration. Chromatography separates species based on interactions with a stationary phase or media and is used for purification, polishing, and removal of specific impurities. Both may be used in the same downstream process train but are not interchangeable.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-used-refurbished">
<h2>Buying Used and Refurbished TFF Systems</h2>
<p>Used and refurbished tangential flow filtration systems can offer significant cost savings compared to new instruments. When evaluating a used TFF system, key inspection points include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Pump condition:</strong> Confirm pump type, condition, and function. Pump head wear and seal condition affect flow accuracy and product contact integrity.</li>
<li><strong>Pressure sensors:</strong> Confirm pressure sensor condition and calibration status where available.</li>
<li><strong>Flow meters:</strong> Confirm flow meter condition and function where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Tubing and valves:</strong> Confirm tubing condition, valve function, and connector integrity. Tubing replacement status varies by unit.</li>
<li><strong>Reservoirs and holders:</strong> Confirm reservoir and cassette holder condition and compatibility with your membrane format.</li>
<li><strong>Control hardware and software:</strong> Confirm controller function, software version, and license status.</li>
<li><strong>Skid or frame condition:</strong> Confirm skid or frame structural integrity and caster/mobility function where applicable.</li>
<li><strong>Service history:</strong> Request available calibration and service records where available.</li>
<li><strong>Included flow-path components:</strong> Confirm which flow-path components are included. Membrane cassettes, hollow fiber modules, tubing kits, and other consumables vary by unit and are not guaranteed to be included.</li>
</ul>
<p>Membrane cassette and hollow fiber module inclusion, tubing condition, calibration status, and software licensing must be confirmed per unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished system meets specific regulatory or institutional requirements without independent verification.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-consumables-detail">
<h2>Membranes, Cassettes, and Consumables</h2>
<p>TFF systems require membrane cassettes or hollow fiber modules matched to the system platform, application, and target molecular weight cutoff. Membrane chemistry, molecular weight cutoff, and format — flat-sheet cassette or hollow fiber — must be confirmed for compatibility with your product and workflow before purchasing a used system. Flow-path consumables including tubing, connectors, gaskets, and septa are platform-specific and are not interchangeable across manufacturers or system generations. Cleaning agents and cleaning-in-place protocols vary by membrane chemistry and must be confirmed for compatibility. Single-use flow-path components are available on select platforms — confirm single-use compatibility for the specific system before purchasing. Consumables are not guaranteed to be included with used TFF systems unless explicitly stated for a specific listing.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-applications">
<h2>Applications</h2>
<p>Tangential flow filtration systems support a wide range of bioprocess and research workflows including protein concentration, buffer exchange, diafiltration, monoclonal antibody processing, vaccine process development, cell and gene therapy research, recombinant protein workflows, cell harvest and clarification, and general downstream biologics process development. Suitability for specific regulated or GMP applications must be confirmed by the buyer and their quality and compliance team.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-scaleup">
<h2>Scale-Up and Process Development Considerations</h2>
<p>TFF systems used in process development are typically operated at small to benchtop scale to establish membrane selection, operating flux, transmembrane pressure, and recirculation parameters before scale-up. Key process development parameters including membrane area, recirculation volume, shear rate, flux, and transmembrane pressure must be evaluated at each scale. Process transfer between TFF platforms or scales requires careful evaluation of flow-path geometry, hold-up volume, and pump characteristics. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used system will perform to original manufacturer specifications without independent verification and qualification. Confirm system condition and service history before use in process development or scale-up activities.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-installation">
<h2>Installation and Facility Planning</h2>
<p>Tangential flow filtration systems range from compact benchtop units to larger skid-mounted systems with different facility requirements. Key installation considerations include available bench or floor space, electrical supply and voltage requirements, compressed air or gas connections where applicable, water supply and cleaning requirements, drain and waste handling, computer or controller requirements, and facility access for larger skid systems. Performance verification is recommended after installation and after any relocation. Utility requirements vary by system — confirm all site and facility requirements for the specific system before finalizing a purchase.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-procurement">
<h2>Procurement and Logistics</h2>
<p>mLab Supply supports institutional procurement workflows including formal quotations, purchase orders, and vendor onboarding documentation. We can source specific TFF system models and configurations on request, including discontinued platforms. Freight coordination is available, including deinstallation and rigging support for larger skid systems where required. Installation coordination is available on select systems. We also purchase surplus and decommissioned TFF systems — contact us via the <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have equipment available.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-related">
<h2>Related Laboratory Equipment</h2>
<p>Laboratories sourcing TFF systems often also require <a href="/collections/chromatography-systems-fplc-akta">chromatography systems</a> for downstream purification, <a href="/collections/automated-liquid-handlers">automated liquid handlers</a> for sample preparation, and <a href="/collections/centrifuges">centrifuges</a> for upstream clarification workflows. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> for current availability and pricing, or visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page if you have surplus TFF systems or other bioprocess equipment to sell.</p>
</section>

<section class="mlab-collection-faq">
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<details><summary>What is tangential flow filtration?</summary><p>Tangential flow filtration (TFF) is a membrane-based filtration process in which the feed stream moves tangentially across the membrane surface. Retained species are concentrated while smaller molecules and solvent pass through the membrane as permeate. TFF is commonly used for protein concentration, buffer exchange, diafiltration, and biologics process development.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between TFF and dead-end filtration?</summary><p>In TFF, the feed stream moves tangentially across the membrane, minimizing fouling and allowing continuous concentration or buffer exchange. In dead-end filtration, the feed is directed through the membrane, retaining particles on the surface. TFF is used for concentration and buffer exchange; dead-end filtration is used for clarification and sterile filtration. They are distinct processes suited to different applications.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between ultrafiltration and diafiltration?</summary><p>Ultrafiltration concentrates retained species by removing solvent and smaller permeable molecules as permeate. Diafiltration exchanges the buffer surrounding retained species by continuously adding fresh buffer while permeate is removed. Both processes use the same TFF membrane and are often performed sequentially in a single workflow.</p></details>
<details><summary>What is the difference between cassette-based and hollow fiber TFF?</summary><p>Cassette-based TFF uses flat-sheet membrane cassettes and is commonly used for protein concentration and buffer exchange. Hollow fiber TFF uses tubular membrane modules and is commonly used for cell harvest and applications where lower shear is preferred. Hold-up volume, shear, and cleaning requirements differ between formats. The appropriate choice depends on your product and workflow.</p></details>
<details><summary>What should I inspect before buying a used TFF system?</summary><p>Key inspection points include pump condition and seal integrity, pressure sensor condition, flow meter function, tubing and valve condition, cassette holder or hollow fiber module holder condition, control hardware and software function, skid or frame condition, and available service and calibration history. Membrane cassette and consumable inclusion varies by unit.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are membranes or cassettes included with used TFF systems?</summary><p>Membrane cassette and hollow fiber module inclusion varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that membranes, cassettes, or flow-path consumables are included unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Confirm consumable requirements and compatibility before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are used TFF systems calibrated or validated before sale?</summary><p>Calibration and qualification status varies by unit. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used system has been calibrated or validated unless explicitly stated for a specific listing. Request available calibration and service documentation when inquiring about a specific system.</p></details>
<details><summary>Can mLab Supply source a specific Cytiva, Sartorius, Repligen, or MilliporeSigma TFF system?</summary><p>Yes. We source TFF systems from Cytiva, Sartorius, Repligen, MilliporeSigma, and other manufacturers on request. Submit a <a href="/pages/request-a-quote">Request a Quote</a> with your preferred manufacturer, model, and configuration requirements and we will confirm current sourcing options and availability.</p></details>
<details><summary>Are refurbished TFF systems suitable for regulated bioprocessing?</summary><p>Suitability for regulated or GMP environments depends on the specific system's condition, qualification status, and your facility's requirements. mLab Supply does not guarantee that any used or refurbished system meets specific regulatory or GMP standards without independent verification. Consult your quality and compliance team before purchasing for regulated use.</p></details>
<details><summary>What utilities should I confirm before purchasing a TFF system?</summary><p>Confirm electrical supply and voltage requirements, compressed air or gas connections where applicable, water supply and cleaning requirements, drain and waste handling, and computer or controller requirements for the specific system. Utility requirements vary by system and should be confirmed before finalizing a purchase.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply coordinate freight and installation for TFF systems?</summary><p>Yes. Contact us when requesting a quote to discuss freight, deinstallation, rigging, and installation coordination requirements for your specific location and system size.</p></details>
<details><summary>Does mLab Supply purchase surplus TFF systems?</summary><p>Yes. We purchase decommissioned and surplus tangential flow filtration systems and other bioprocess equipment. Visit our <a href="/pages/sell-lab-equipment">Sell Lab Equipment</a> page to submit details about your equipment.</p></details>
</section>