What is the GRAC  

and GRAC-TP system?

Suncycle Technologies, Inc. has developed the Gravity Recycling Alcohol Cartridge (GRAC) system and the Gravity Recycling Alcohol Cartridge for Tissue Processors (GRAC-TP) system as a simple, convenient, safe reliable, cost effective and nearly effortless means of removing stains, dyes and cell debris from reagent alcohols (reagent grade ethyl, ethyl blends, methyl blends and isopropyl alcohols) used in Cytology and Histology stain lines, thus permitting the same alcohol to be reused indefinitely. In addition, the GRAC-TP system will remove lipids (fats) and marker inks commonly found in tissue processor waste alcohol.

Simplicity

The marvel of the GRAC (and GRAC-TP) system is its simple design. The system does not contain any motors, pumps or heating elements. In fact, is does not require any electricity at all. The GRAC system relies solely on gravity as its energy source in order to operate. The GRAC system is comprised of only three major components; the "dirty" alcohol container, the specially designed GRAC filter cartridge, and the "recycled" alcohol container, which are all connected by hoses. Using the system is extremely easy. Simply stated, "dirty" alcohol goes in - "clean" usable alcohol comes out.

Convenience

Because the GRAC system does not require electricity, and considering its compact size (requiring less than one square foot of countertop space and less than two square feet of floor space), this makes the GRAC system completely portable. The GRAC system can be located almost anywhere in the laboratory, preferably right where it is needed, in close proximity to the stain line (or tissue processor in the case of the GRAC-TP). In addition, each GRAC filter cartridge is shipped primed with alcohol and ready to use right out of the box. There is no need for laboratory personnel to waste their time purging and priming the filter cartridge prior to placing it into service.

Safety

Because the GRAC system does not require electricity or heat to operate, there is not an inherent risk of ignition involved. The GRAC filter cartridge is designed and manufactured using double sealed construction. In addition, each filter cartridge is leak tested for further assurance. Connections between the GRAC filter cartridge and the two containers utilize quick connect fittings that incorporate spring loaded shut-off mechanisms to stop the flow of alcohol when disconnected. The filter cartridge and recycled alcohol container are placed in a chemical resistant drip try to contain any accidental overflow by laboratory personnel. Besides being safe to operate, the GRAC system promotes environmental safety as well. In those areas of the country where it is still permisible to dispose of alcohol by pouring it down the drain, the GRAC system will keep a potentially harmfull chemical out of your wastewater.

Reliability

During the development of the system samples of alcohol processed through the GRAC filter cartridge were submitted to an independent analytical laboratory and evaluated in comparison to fresh unused alcohol. The conclusion was that no detectable stains or dyes could be found, indicating that there was no difference between "virgin" alcohol and alcohol processed through the GRAC system. The GRAC system does not alter the chemistry or concentration of the alcohol. Unlike other types of recycling equipment that can introduce water, with the GRAC system whatever concentration of alcohol is poured in, that is the concentration that will come out. In addition, each GRAC filter cartridge is leak tested, flow tested, and tested for stain and dye removal. This information is recorded and traceable via the individual serial number printed on each filter cartridge.

Cost Effectiveness

Unlike other methods of recycling reagents, the GRAC system is not an expensive piece of capital equipment, which could require years before any actual cost savings are realized. Each GRAC filter cartridge is capable of processing 100-150 gallons of alcohol. (The exact quantity will vary depending on the level of stains and dyes contaminating the alcohol). In essence, the purchase of a GRAC filter cartridge is the same as a bulk purchase of alcohol without the headache of where and how to store a large quantity of a flammable liquid. Depending on your current price for alcohol, the GRAC could save your laboratory between 30 to 80%. Other indirect cost savings may also be considered, such as reduced freight and hazardous material handle charges. You may also be able to include a reduction in hazardous waste disposal costs for those locations that are prohibited from disposing of alcohol into their wastewater, thus further increasing your net cost savings.

Effortless Operation

The effortless operation of the GRAC system is a direct result of the simplicity of its design. Dirty alcohol is simply poured into the "Dirty Alcohol" container. This takes no more effort than pouring the alcohol into a waste container or down a drain (where permitted, but certainly not recommended). Gravity does the rest of the work of processing the alcohol through the GRAC filter cartridge and collecting it into the "Recycled Alcohol" container. Unattended processing time is approximately 45-60 minutes per gallon (60-75 minutes per gallon for the GRAC-TP). The system requires virtually no maintenance.