Industrial-grade Allen Bradley or Siemens PLC control systems provide superior operational reliability and cycle repeatability. The control systems are developed under the latest GAMP (Good Automated Manufacturing Practices) guidelines to ensure system reliability and ease in validation. The control system is also supported with a comprehensive documentation package.
The control system can configure and store 20 sterilizing cycles, which are accessed via a large touch screen operator interface terminal. In double door units, operator interface terminals are mounted on both the load and unload side of the sterilizer. All sterilizer functions are accessed through these screens and are secured by multi-level authentication. If electronic data storage is desired, the control system can be provided with 21 CFR part 11 compliance. Printers and recorders can also be equipped for physical data storage on paper.
The cycle begins with filling the chamber to a predetermined level with purified water. The water is circulated by a high capacity pump through an external heat exchanger heated by plant steam. The water is then distributed through a perforation tray over the load. Due to the efficient heat transfer of the water, the product is heated rapidly.
At the same time, compressed air at an over-pressure is injected into the chamber to compensate for the rising temperature and pressure that builds inside liquid containers when heated to prevent deformation or damage.
At the end of the exposure phase, the circulating water is cooled by an external heat exchanger using cooling or chilled water. The cooled circulating water is continuously sprayed over the load, quickly bringing the temperature back to ambient. This process is the fastest method of sterilization for liquids in sealed containers.