Clever transfer sluices: castus® expands its portfolio with the alpha Port Flushfloor

Jürgen Hoffmann

Transfer lock systems enable contamination-free loading and unloading of components from isolators. For smooth and efficient production processes, comfortable and simple cleaning of components is essential.

The new product line “Flushfloor” from castus® alpha Ports is characterized by the fact that the ports can be flush-mounted into the floor of isolators. This makes it easier, for example, to remove glass breakage, as there is no protruding edge.

Customized transfer systems

The systems also impress with their high flexibility: to perform tasks optimally during the production process, they can be individually adapted to the respective workstation.

“The best possible protection of operators and products is our top priority,” explains Jürgen Hoffmann. From many customer inquiries for individual products, the managing director knows that clients opt for customized solutions when they cannot find a ready-made solution on the market that meets their needs. “As a medium-sized company, we are able to respond quickly and flexibly to changing customer requirements.”

Wide portfolio of products for the life science sector

The owner-managed company castus® was founded in 2011 in Ochsenhausen, Baden-Württemberg, and has since developed into one of the world’s leading companies for rapid transfer port systems (RTPs). The products are designed and manufactured at the Ochsenhausen site.

In addition to the alpha Port, the beta Transfer Container forms the mobile unit of the transfer system. This is also part of the broad product portfolio. The beta Transfer Container is docked to the alpha Port through a 60° rotation, ensuring both parts are hermetically sealed with a lip seal. A specially developed safety system – the castus® safety interlock system – ensures that the alpha Port can only be opened when the beta Transfer Container is correctly docked.

The beta Transfer Containers can be equipped with extraction systems and racks as needed – the company also relies on customer-specific, customized solutions here. Support products such as Leak Test Units, Mobile Lifts, and Trolleys round off the program. They facilitate easy handling, especially of heavy containers, and are equipped with special safety mechanisms, such as dedicated holding brackets.

Flexible and innovative solutions for the entire process chain

“Our customers can access a whole range of products for the entire process chain – always specifically adapted to the environment and its requirements. This allows us to target our customers with innovative solutions,” says Hoffmann.

Recently, the company acquired the stopper treatment systems division from Hanag, a Swiss company. Both companies signed a corresponding distribution agreement. For this purpose, castus® sterile systems was founded, which now focuses on the distribution of stopper treatment systems.

The customer base of castus® includes the leading machinery manufacturers and companies in the pharmaceutical industry. All products are developed with a focus on hygienic design and meet the high quality standards of the pharma sector.