Method for receiving and separating a fluid into its ingredients

A method of separating plasma into two or more components, comprising the steps of:

• introducing plasma into a chamber of a container having at least a first and second chamber which are separably joined and in sterile fluid communication through a channel when joined, wherein a first of said chambers comprises a flexible bag and a second of said chambers is substantially rigid;
• treating said plasma in order to precipitate at least one plasma component;
• centrifuging the container and plasma to cause said at least one plasma component to accumulate preferentially in said substantially rigid chamber;
• accumulating a substantial portion of the remaining plasma in said flexible bag;
• sealing at least said substantially rigid chamber while its interior remains isolated from contaminating environments through use of a closure located within said channel said closure including a valve body which is caused to seat and close said channel when said rigid chamber and said flexible bag are moved apart;
• and
• thereafter separating said chambers.

A method of separating a fluid mixture into two or more components, comprising the steps of:

• providing a container having a first section defining a first chamber and a second section defining a second chamber, with a channel between said chambers through which fluid can pass between said chambers when said first and second sections are in a coupled condition, said channel having two ends;
• providing a valve mechanism for closing each end of said channel, said valve mechanism having a valve adapted to close a respective end of said channel and a spacing member engaging said valves, said spacing member separating said valves and spacing said valves from closing said channel in said coupled condition, whereby said channel is open to fluid communication between said chambers;
• admitting a fluid mixture into at least one chamber of said container;
• centrifuging said container to cause a first fluid fraction of said fluid mixture to accumulate preferentially in said first chamber;
• pulling said first and second sections away from each other in a manner to first cause said valves to close each respective end of said channel, and then to exceed a length of said spacing member such that said sections are in an uncoupled condition with said chambers closed.