The present invention provides a support system (6) for biobags (2) or
disposable manufacturing components that uses one or more channels (20)
filled with one or more types and/or sizes of media (13). The media (13)
is fluid at atmospheric pressure but becomes rigid when under less than
atmospheric conditions. The channels (20) conform to one or more edges
and/or surfaces of the support and preferably one or more transverse ribs
(26) connect them together. A vacuum is applied to the media (13) in the
channels removing the air, compacting the media together and rendering
the media in the channel(s) rigid and self-supporting. Supports can be
designed as part of the disposable biobag (2) or as a separate item which
surrounds at least a portion of the biobag.