On-line apparatus and method for determining endotoxin levels

摘要

An apparatus and method for on-line testing for the presence of an endotoxin within a fluid sample from a fluid line. The apparatus is positioned in fluid communication with a fluid line to perform the on-line fluid testing for the presence of at least one endotoxin. The apparatus can include a housing and a fluid sampling system positioned in fluid communication with the fluid line. The fluid sampling system can comprise a valve for controlling the fluid flow from the fluid line into the fluid sampling system. A fluid flow well is positioned within the housing and in fluid communication with the fluid sampling system. A removable assembly can also be secured within the housing. The removable assembly comprises a plurality of wells for receiving used and unused fluid carrying members that can receive samples from the fluid flow well, a plurality of fluid sample receiving wells, and a plurality of vessel retention positions comprising recesses for securely receiving portions of respective fluid vessels. A detecting system is provided for testing a control sample and a sample of the fluid from the fluid line. The results of these tests are compared in order to determine if the fluid sample is carrying any endotoxins. In an embodiment, fluorescence testing of the sample is compared to that of the control in order to determine if the sample includes an endotoxin.