HEPA/UV Module¶
Additional Documentation
For complete instructions on module installation and use, see the HEPA/UV Module Instruction Manual.
The top-mounted Opentrons Flex HEPA/UV Module is a clean air and ultraviolet (UV-C) disinfectant accessory for the Flex liquid handling robot. It contains a mesh pre-filter, a HEPA filter, and two UV lights. During operation, the HEPA system creates a positive pressure environment inside the Flex enclosure, which helps protect samples from contamination. When running the UV lights and air filtration for a full, 15-minute cycle, the HEPA/UV module can achieve ISO-5 clean bench standards within the Flex enclosure.
Warning
The HEPA/UV Module is not a biosafety cabinet. Do not use it with pathogens or to filter particles smaller than 0.3 micrometers (μm).
HEPA/UV Module features¶
Air filtration¶
The HEPA/UV Module relies on a 2-stage filtration system to purify air pulled into the enclosure. This system includes a reusable pre-filter and a disposable H14 HEPA main filter. The pre-filter traps large particles while the HEPA filter captures up to 99.99% of airborne particulate matter at ≥ 0.3 μm. Vertical air flow from the filter creates a positive pressure environment within the enclosure.
UV disinfection¶
The HEPA/UV Module uses two compact fluorescent bulbs that emit UV-C light at a wavelength of 254 nm. After a 15-minute exposure cycle, the UV light produced is sufficient to reach log-4 (99.99%) inactivation of commonly targeted microorganisms within the enclosure.
Safety features¶
The HEPA/UV Module includes safety features that protect you from UV-C exposure and prevent it from operating in an unsafe manner.
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Panels: The robot's polycarbonate door and side panels block UV spectrum light to below a level that represents an exposure risk.
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Door switch: Flex uses a mechanical switch to tell if the front door is open or closed. The UV lights only work when the front door is closed.
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Attachment sensors: The Flex and HEPA/UV module each have a built-in sensor to detect if the module is attached properly. The sensors deactivate/disable the UV lights if the module is not mounted on the robot, removed while in operation, or misaligned.
HEPA/UV Module specifications¶
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 87 cm L x 64 cm W x 14 cm H |
| Weight | ~20 kg (42 lbs) |
| Power input |
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| Power output | 24 VDC, 8.4 A, 201 W max |
| Filter |
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| Ambient fan noise | ≤ 70 dB at 1 meter during operation |
| Bulb type |
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| Bulb life |
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| Mercury (Hg) content | 4.4 mg |