Process filters for pharmaceutical industry

Filtration lies at the heart of modern pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical production. Every process, from water purification and active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) manufacturing to sterile formulation and sensitive applications like ophthalmics or fermentation, depends on precise control and reliable performance. The right filtration system safeguards product purity, ensures GMP compliance, and protects both operators and the environment.
 

At Atlas Copco, we design pharmaceutical filtration solutions that combine depth, membrane, and sterilizing-grade filters to maintain quality and consistency at every step. Our portfolio supports critical operations such as particle removal, bioburden reduction, and sterile air and steam filtration, helping manufacturers achieve clean, stable, and reproducible results across all pharmaceutical workflows.

With optimized flow rates, robust chemical compatibility, and long service life, our filters perform dependably even in the most demanding applications. Each solution is engineered to maintain process integrity, reduce variability, and deliver consistent results that support both small-molecule and biopharmaceutical production.
 

With optimized flow rates, robust chemical compatibility, and long service life, our filters perform dependably even in the most demanding applications. Each solution is engineered to maintain process integrity, reduce variability, and deliver consistent results that support both small-molecule and biopharmaceutical production.

Our expertise spans every stage of pharmaceutical production. Explore each application area below to see how filtration supports specific process requirements, from API production and water treatment to fermentation and ophthalmic formulations. 

Process filtration also plays a critical role in supporting systems that keep pharmaceutical production running efficiently. From clean utilities that maintain sterility to buffer and media preparation that ensures process stability, each step depends on reliable, high-performance filtration.

• Sterile utilities:
  Clean utilities such as sterile air, gas, and steam are vital for aseptic production.
  MSS / MPSC Stainless Steel filters – robust steam filters that
  guarantee steam purity, protecting sterilization processes and equipment integrity.
  SMT-G PTFE filters – sterilizing-grade gas filters applied in compressed air and nitrogen lines, preventing microbial ingress and ensuring sterile utility gases throughout production.
  
  
• Buffer and media preparation:
  Filtration of buffers and culture media ensures clarity, sterility, and consistent quality.
  PFP⁺ PP filters – pleated depth cartridges designed to reduce particulates and lower bioburden in buffer and media solutions, ensuring consistent quality.
  PFP⁺ A PP filters – advanced pleated fiber filters providing higher dirt-holding capacity, effectively protecting sterilizing-grade membranes downstream and extending their operational life.

Our systems are built to adapt seamlessly into pharmaceutical operations, from utilities through to the final fill. Designed for durability and simplicity, they deliver consistent flow under demanding conditions while reducing variability and protecting sensitive formulations.

Benefits of pharmaceutical filtration

• Protects patient safety by delivering sterile, contaminant-free products
• Provides documented compliance with GMP, USP, ISO, and FDA standards
• Extends filter service life and minimizes downtime with durable, high-capacity designs
• Maintains product quality with low adsorption materials and broad chemical resistance
• Keeps processes consistent by controlling microbiological risks effectively
• Enhances efficiency through optimized flow and adaptable filter formats