A WFI Storage Tank is a specialized vessel designed for the safe, hygienic storage of highly purified water used in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and medical industries. WFI is a critical component in the production of injectable drugs, infusions, and sterile products, where even trace contaminants can compromise safety. These tanks ensure the water remains free from microbial growth, particulates, and chemical impurities during storage, typically by maintaining elevated temperatures (e.g., >80°C) or through periodic sterilization.
Unlike standard water storage tanks, WFI tanks must comply with stringent standards such as USP (United States Pharmacopeia), EP (European Pharmacopoeia), and FDA guidelines to prevent bacterial endotoxin contamination. They are often integrated into larger systems for generation, storage, and distribution of WFI.
WFI Storage Tank Video
Key Purpose and Functionality
-
Primary Use: Stores WFI after production to buffer supply for manufacturing processes, Clean-in-Place (CIP) cycles, and distribution loops. It compensates for peak usage demands and maintains water quality during intermittent storage.
-
Temperature Control: WFI is often stored hot (>80°C) to inhibit microbial growth, with periodic sterilization at ≥121°C using superheated water or pure steam. Jacketed designs allow heating via steam or electric elements for overnight or extended storage.
-
Integration: Part of larger systems including stills, pure steam generators, circulation pumps, and distribution loops (e.g., turbulent flow loops at 15–25°C for Purified Water or hot loops for WFI). Tanks can be vertical or horizontal, with capacities ranging from small (e.g., 500 L) to large (e.g., 30,000 L).
Construction and Materials
-
Material: High-grade stainless steel (typically SS 316L for inner surfaces) to ensure corrosion resistance, chemical stability, and biocompatibility. Outer surfaces may use SS 304 cladding for protection.
-
Surface Finish: Inner polish to Ra <0.45 μm for smoothness and easy cleaning; outer to Ra <0.8 μm. This minimizes bacterial adhesion and facilitates validation.
-
Seismic Design: Built to withstand earthquakes (e.g., Zone 4 conditions) for reliability in diverse locations.
Key Components and Features
-
Manhole: Sterilizable access port for inspection and maintenance.
-
CIP Spray Ball: For internal decontamination without disassembly, using WFI for rinsing to remove residues.
-
Vent Filter: Hydrophobic filters to allow air exchange while preventing contamination.
-
Level Gauge: Monitors storage volume.
-
Ports and Connections: Sanitary clamp-style fittings for feed, discharge, and integration with piping networks.
-
Additional Options: Pressure relief valves, rupture discs, sight glasses, and insulation for temperature maintenance.
* Power voltage can be adjusted as per customer’s domestic power voltage requirements.
* Rights of technical improvements & modification reserved.
* Illustrations & dimensions are shown for information purpose only.
Send Inquiry