The Disposable Aseptic Connector (DAC) is supplied to OEM customers fully assembled, non-sterile, and packaged in bulk quantities. In a typical application, the DAC is assembled to the tubing by the bag manufacturer through the use of the hose barb, and the complete unit is sterilized by Gamma radiation, prior to sale. The sterility of the fluid path is maintained by the removable (rolling) membrane, which is folded back upon itself and adhesively held in place over the sterile sealing surface (gasket) by a release paper and a dust cover.

In the operation sequence (figure 1), the shrink band, dust cap, and the release paper are removed from the face of the connector, revealing a fully adhesive surface. The connector (figure 2) is then held facing an opposing connector with hook and slots of each unit on top. Each unit is then tilted to approximately 60 degrees (figure 3), the hook and slot of each unit are joined, and the units rotated down into position until the perimeter latches are engaged (figure 4). This technique forces proper alignment of the two units prior to engagement of the perimeter latches. The adhesive faces of each DAC are now in contact, and the gaskets are pressured toward each other. The inner surface and fluid path are now sealed against any outside, environmental conditions. The rolling membranes, of both connectors become one unit as a result of the alignment and the contact of their adhesive surfaces. By bringing the tabs together and pulling down on the tabs, the rolling membranes are removed (figure 5). The removal of the membranes exposes the inner sterile surface of one connector to the inner sterile surface of the other, all within the sealed micro environment created in figure 4. The membrane removal also exposes the sterile silicone gasket surfaces and the sterile fluid pathways. The membranes, once removed, can be discarded (figure 5). The application of a standard sanitary clamp (figure 6) completes the union and produces a permanent, high-pressure connection.

For complete instructions and information on DAC Operation, request "Instructions for Use" and "Theory of Operation" from the Contact Page.