1.0 OBJECTIVE

To establish a standardized procedure for cleaning the drum mixer to maintain product quality, ensure hygiene, prevent cross-contamination, and comply with safety and regulatory standards.

2.0 SCOPE

This SOP applies to all drum mixers used at [Company Name] in the manufacturing, blending, or coating process.

3.0 RESPONSIBILITY

• Production Operators: Responsible for performing the cleaning of the drum mixer as outlined in this SOP.

• Maintenance Personnel: Responsible for inspecting, repairing, and ensuring the drum mixer is in good condition.

• Production Supervisor: Ensures that cleaning procedures are followed and coordinates the cleaning schedule.

• Quality Assurance (QA): Ensures the cleaning process is validated and compliant with quality and safety standards.

4.0 MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): gloves, goggles, face shield, mask, and gown

• Cleaning brushes (e.g., long-handled brushes)

• Lint-free cloths

• Mild detergent or degreaser (approved for drum mixer materials)

• Hot water

• Scraper (if necessary)

• Vacuum (optional)

• Compressed air (optional)

• Cleaning solution (e.g., approved disinfectant or sanitizing solution)

• Step ladder (if required)

• Cleaning logbook/form

• “Cleaned” or “To Be Cleaned” tags

5.0 PROCEDURE

5.1 Pre-Cleaning Preparation

1. Power Off and Isolate: Turn off the drum mixer and disconnect it from the power supply to ensure safety. Follow Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures if required.

2. Wear PPE: Ensure that all cleaning personnel are equipped with appropriate PPE to protect against exposure to chemicals or residues.

3. Clear the Mixer: Ensure that the drum mixer is completely empty of any product material. Remove all batch remnants or powders that may remain in the mixer.

4. Inspect the Mixer: Check for any visible damage or signs of wear and tear. Report any issues to the maintenance department for repair.

5.2 Dry Cleaning (Initial Cleaning)

1. Debris Removal: Use a soft brush or scraper to remove any visible material left in the drum mixer.

2. Vacuuming: Use a vacuum to remove powder or residue from the drum mixer’s interior, including the lid, agitator blades, and other components.

3. Cleaning of Internal Parts: Use long-handled brushes to clean any internal surfaces that may have product residue or buildup.

5.3 Wet Cleaning

1. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a mild detergent or degreaser with hot water, ensuring that the solution is safe for the drum mixer’s material.

2. Clean the Drum Interior:

   • Dampen a lint-free cloth or sponge with the cleaning solution and wipe the interior surfaces of the drum mixer.

   • If necessary, use a soft-bristle brush to scrub stubborn residues, especially around the agitator and seams.

3. Clean External Parts: Wipe down the exterior of the drum mixer, including control panels, handles, and outer surfaces that may come into contact with material or operators.

4. Rinse Thoroughly: Use clean water to rinse the drum mixer’s interior to remove any detergent residues. Ensure the rinse water is disposed of according to safety guidelines.

5.4 Drying

1. Dry the Mixer:

   • Use clean, dry, lint-free cloths to wipe down the mixer.

   • Optionally, use compressed air to dry hard-to-reach areas or speed up the drying process.

2. Ensure Complete Drying: Ensure that no moisture remains inside the drum mixer, especially around mechanical components, to prevent rust or damage.

5.5 Post-Cleaning Inspection

1. Inspection: Visually inspect the drum mixer to ensure that it is free of any product residue, cleaning chemicals, or moisture.

2. Reassemble (if applicable): If any parts were removed for cleaning (e.g., agitator blades), reassemble them after cleaning and drying.

3. Functional Check: Perform a test run of the drum mixer (empty or with a small batch) to verify that it operates smoothly and without issues.

5.6 Documentation and Labeling

1. Tagging: Attach a “Cleaned” tag to the drum mixer, including the date, time, and operator initials to confirm the cleaning process.

2. Logbook Entry: Record the cleaning activity in the cleaning logbook, noting any issues, actions taken, or maintenance required.

6.0 CLEANING FREQUENCY

• After each batch or shift change

• When changing product formulations or materials

• When visible contamination or residue is observed

• As per the routine cleaning and maintenance schedule

• Periodically (e.g., weekly or monthly) as part of the preventive maintenance program

7.0 RECORDS AND DOCUMENTATION

• Cleaning Logbook

• Maintenance and Inspection Records

• Cleaning Checklist

• Functional Check Records

8.0 ABBREVIATIONS

• SOP: Standard Operating Procedure

• PPE: Personal Protective Equipment

• LOTO: Lockout/Tagout

• QA: Quality Assurance

• GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice

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