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Vacuum-Release (VR) Gel-Pak

by IDEX Health & Science

Semrock utilizes Vacuum-Release™ (VR) Gel-Pak packaging for filters whose part size and narrow substrate thickness make it difficult to remove the filters from standard Gel-Paks. Filters packaged in either 4" x 4" or 6" x 6" VR Gel-Pak require the use of a vacuum release system prior to removing filters using plastic-tipped tweezers. This packaging allows Semrock to keep the parts cleaner, reduce potential defects caused during removal of the filters from the packaging.

Filters packaged in VR Gel-Paks lay on a mesh material over the gel membrane. This packaging provides optimal gel surface contact for shipping and handling of filters, while allowing the gel surface contact to be minimized for filter removal. The basic procedure below details applying a vacuum to the VR Gel-Pak to allow easy removal of the filters.

6 x 6 VR Gel-Pak

Basic procedure to remove filters from Vacuum-Release (VR) Gel-Pak

  • Slide VR tray out of c-clip and remove cover.
  • Place VR tray on Vacuum Plate connected to a vacuum release system.
  • Ensure tray is aligned with the vacuum plate o-ring to obtain a tight seal and vacuum.
  • Apply 25" Hg vacuum using the vacuum release system. Tip- You may need to depress a hand pump multiple times.
  • Carefully remove filters using plastic-tipped tweezers.
  • After removing selected filters, release the vacuum from your vacuum release system. Tip- Press the pin on the hand pump.
  • Place the cover on the VR tray and slide into the c-clip for storage.

6 x 6 VR Gel-Pak

6" x 6" VR Gel-Pak

Vacuum-Release Gel-Pak Release Tool

Hand Pump Release Tool

Vacuum-Release Gel-Pak Plate

Release Plate

Vacuum-Release Gel-Pak Plate & Tray

VR Gel-Pak Tray & Release Plate

Vacuum-Release Gel-Pak Tube

Align Tray Number with VR Tube

Vacuum-Release Gel-Pak Release Button

Hand Pump Release Button

For additional details on removing filters from VR Gel-Paks, please read the Vacuum-Release (VR) Tray User's Guide from Gel-Pak®