CPC Launches New MicroCNX Connectors, a First for Small-Volume Biopharma Processing

Rhea-AI Summary

CPC, part of Dover (NYSE: DOV), launched the MicroCNX™ Series Connectors, an innovative solution designed for biopharmaceutical manufacturers engaged in small-volume closed aseptic processes. This ultra-compact sterile connector facilitates quicker connections—up to four times faster than traditional tube welding—streamlining processes like cell therapy and gene therapy. The connector's design minimizes training needs and eliminates the costs associated with tube welders, which can exceed $15,000. The MicroCNX connectors offer a simpler, more efficient alternative to enhance operational efficiency in cleanroom environments.

Positive

• Launch of MicroCNX connectors, addressing a critical need for biopharmaceutical manufacturing.
• Connectors are up to four times faster than traditional tube welding methods, enhancing operational efficiency.
• Reduces costs associated with purchasing and maintaining expensive tube welding equipment.
• Simplifies the connection process, requiring minimal training for users.

Negative

• None.

DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Sept. 1, 2021 /PRNewswire/ – CPC (Colder Products Company), part of Dover (NYSE: DOV) and maker of a broad range of single-use connectors, today announced the launch of a new ultra-compact sterile connector providing biopharmaceutical manufacturers a much-needed alternative to tube welding for their small-volume closed aseptic processes. MicroCNX™ Series Connectors are the industry's first aseptic connectors designed to provide a simple, efficient method of connecting tubing in small-format assemblies.

"MicroCNX connectors are a critically important option for a range of bioprocessing, cell therapy and gene therapy workflows," said Troy Ostreng, Senior Product Manager for CPC's biopharmaceutical business. "Until now, cumbersome tube welding has been the only way to make sterile closed connections of very small-bore tubing. The MicroCNX connector represents a huge innovation for the industry."

MicroCNX connectors are designed specifically for small-volume processes involving widely used 1/16" (1.6mm), 3/32" (2.4mm) and 1/8" (3.2mm) tubing. These include sampling, seed train expansion and early cell culture processes involving shaker flasks and rocker tables.

"The MicroCNX series was designed to help manufacturers improve efficiencies and reduce time and total cost in creating closed systems that deliver reliable, reproducible results," said Ostreng.

Testing indicates that making a sterile connection with the new connector is up to four times faster than an operator using a tube welder.¹ Meaning, in the time required to create one weld, up to four MicroCNX connections could be completed. Multiply those numbers over the course of a year, and the operational efficiencies are clear.

The easy, three-step process for using MicroCNX connectors requires minimal training. Users simply "Pinch-Click-Pull": 1) pinch to remove the protective cover; 2) click together the connector halves; and, 3) pull out the protective membranes so flow can start. In comparison, tube welding involves a dozen or more steps, with operator challenges including maneuvering the tube welder into position, dealing with equipment maintenance, and requiring precise technique to create a successful weld. With MicroCNX solutions, there is no risk of faulty welds, welder breakdowns, or production delays due to weld equipment downtime.

Use of aseptic connectors eliminates the need to purchase, calibrate, validate and maintain tube welders that can cost more than $15,000 each. Manufacturers often need multiple welders, which take up valuable space in a cleanroom.

"It's expensive and time-consuming to validate new space," Ostreng noted. "MicroCNX connectors can help biopharmaceutical and cell and gene therapy manufacturers make the most of their existing cleanroom space."

In order to ensure a clear flow path, tube welding requires operators to manually restore the tubing's shape after being crimped by a weld. In contrast, MicroCNX connectors help deliver a consistent flow path with every connection. Because MicroCNX connectors can be incorporated into pre-made tubing assemblies, operators know where to make connections—there's no guesswork on their part, which supports current good manufacturing practices (cGMP). The size, weight and geometry of the new connector also fit well with the trend toward compact automated equipment for use in processes like cell expansion. 

For more information about MicroCNX Series Connectors and how tube welding and aseptic connectors compare, visit endoftheweld.com.

1. Data on file.

About CPC:
CPC (Colder Products Company) is a global leader in single-use connection technology, offering a wide variety of connectors for biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Innovative, flexible designs easily combine multiple components and systems including process containers, tubing manifolds, transfer lines, bioreactors and other bioprocess equipment. Robust single-use connectors maintain media sterility and integrity while improving production yields, decreasing time to market and reducing costs. The company's well-known AseptiQuik® connectors provide quick and easy sterile connections even in non-sterile environments. Learn more about our entire portfolio at cpcworldwide.com/bio. Connect with confidence with CPC, an operating company within Dover Corporation.

About Dover:
Dover is a diversified global manufacturer and solutions provider with annual revenue of approximately $7 billion. We deliver innovative equipment and components, consumable supplies, aftermarket parts, software and digital solutions, and support services through five operating segments: Engineered Products, Fueling Solutions, Imaging & Identification, Pumps & Process Solutions and Refrigeration & Food Equipment. Dover combines global scale with operational agility to lead the markets we serve. Recognized for our entrepreneurial approach for over 65 years, our team of over 24,000 employees takes an ownership mindset, collaborating with customers to redefine what's possible. Headquartered in Downers Grove, Illinois, Dover trades on the New York Stock Exchange under "DOV." Additional information is available at dovercorporation.com.

CPC Contact:  
Jana Stender
(612) 564-2053
jana.stender@cpcworldwide.com 

Dover Media Contact:
Adrian Sakowicz, VP, Communications
(630) 743-5039
asakowicz@dovercorp.com

Dover Investor Contact:
Andrey Galiuk, VP, Corporate Development and Investor Relations    
(630) 743-5131    
agaliuk@dovercorp.com

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SOURCE Dover

FAQ

What are MicroCNX connectors and how do they benefit biopharmaceutical manufacturers?

MicroCNX connectors are ultra-compact sterile connectors that streamline small-volume closed aseptic processes, making connections faster and more efficient than traditional tube welding.

How much faster are MicroCNX connectors compared to tube welding?

MicroCNX connectors can create sterile connections up to four times faster than tube welding.

What is the main advantage of using MicroCNX connectors over tube welders?

They eliminate the need for expensive tube welders, simplifying the connection process and reducing training time.

What types of tubing can MicroCNX connectors accommodate?

MicroCNX connectors are designed for 1/16" (1.6mm), 3/32" (2.4mm), and 1/8" (3.2mm) tubing used in various bioprocessing applications.

What is the stock symbol for Dover Corporation?

Dover Corporation trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol 'DOV'.