Standard Operating Procedure for Operating and Cleaning a Vortex Mixer in the Microbiology Department.
I.0 Purpose: The purpose of this SOP is to provide guidelines for the proper operation and cleaning of the Vortex mixer.
2.0 Scope: This procedure applies to the Microbiology section of the Quality Control Department.
3.0 Responsibilities: 3.1 Quality Control Department officer/ Sr. Officer for implementation of this SOP.
3.2 Head of Department for overall compliance with this SOP.
4.0 Procedure:
4.1 Safety Instructions:
4.1.1 During manual operation, keep the medium vessel vertical and mix the medium with the minimum required pressure.
4.1.2 Do not operate the instrument in explosive atmospheres, with hazardous substances, or underwater.
4.1.3 Gradually increase the mixer’s speed; reduce speed if the medium splashes due to excessive speed.
4.1.4 Place one vessel at the center of the mixing head and spread others uniformly.
4.1.5 Only service engineers are allowed to open the instrument.
4.2 Operation:
4.2.1 Place the instrument on a stable and safe surface and plug in the main power.
4.2.2 Push the bi-directional switch leftward; the power LED will light up, indicating the instrument is ready.
4.2.3 Adjust the motor regulation knob to set the desired speed.
4.2.4 Gently push the bi-directional switch rightward to turn off the instrument.
4.2.5 Avoid running the instrument continuously for more than 30 minutes to prevent overheating.
4.2.6 Adjust the regulation knob smoothly for optimal performance.
Related SOP: SOP for Operation and Calibration of Heating Block
4.3 For Touch Operation:
4.3.1 Place the instrument on a stable and safe surface and plug in the main power.
4.3.2 Push the bi-directional switch rightward for touch mode.
4.3.3 Adjust the motor regulation knob to set the speed.
4.3.4 Vertically insert the test tube into the mixing head to start the instrument. The power LED will illuminate.
4.3.5 Gently push the bi-directional switch leftward to turn off the instrument.
4.4 Maintenance and Cleaning:
4.4.1 Proper maintenance ensures the instrument’s longevity and optimal performance.
4.4.2 Clean the instrument carefully using 70% IPA (Isopropyl Alcohol). Avoid spraying IPA directly into the instrument.
4.4.3 Disconnect the power line before cleaning.
4.4.4 Wear gloves (PPE) while cleaning.
4.4.5 Apply 70% IPA on a lint-free cloth and wipe the instrument.
4.4.6 Keep the instrument clean to prevent liquid from splashing into it.
5.0 Abbreviations:
SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
IPA: Isopropyl Alcohol
PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
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