The Milli-RX system from Millipore is a heavy duty water purification system for the lab. The Milli-RX system uses ordinary tap water and purifies it using reverse osmosis and continuous deionization techniques. The result is that almost 99% of bacteria, organic particles and other contaminants are removed during the purification process, resulting in a purity grade that is analytical quality. The output of the device differs depending on the size, ranging from 20 to 75 liter of purified water per hour. The system can be connected to a storage reservoir, which allows for the extension of the system into a distribution loop around the lab with many points of use.
We recently moved to a new laboratory where an analytical grade water distribution system has been incorporated into the infrastructure. Since Millipore is a well-established provider in the field, the Milli-RX was selected as our water purification device. Because everybody needs analytical grade water on a constant basis, irrespective of the nature of their research, it is extremely important that the water supply device is robust and reliable. The Milli-RX system proved to be both. It is also quite compact in size, which gives us the choice of placing the device virtually anywhere in the lab. But what we really like about this device is that many of its functions are automated and it has a well-developed self-test system that can signal, for example, when a cartridge needs to be replaced or if a feed water pre-treatment pack is needed.
One issue with the device that needs to be carefully monitored is the maintenance of the reverse osmosis cartridge. This needs to be cleaned monthly. Although the device informs the user about the necessity of cartridge cleaning, we have forgotten to do so several times, which resulted in a safety catch and the need for a cartridge replacement. Also, the machine is a bit noisy, which should be kept in mind when looking for a place to place it.
In conclusion, the Milli-RX system should be undoubtedly considered a fundamental part of every lab’s infrastructure. The device is easy to operate and yields high quality, analytical grade water. The system can be easily extended for a water ultra-purification module, thus giving an opportunity for establishing a wide range of water purity from one system.
Michal Janitz, M.D.
Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics
Berlin, Germany