SOP for Monitoring Machine Performance During Manufacturing
Department | Aerosol |
---|---|
SOP No. | SOP/Aerosol/046/2025 |
Supersedes | SOP/Aerosol/046/2022 |
Page No. | Page 1 of Y |
Issue Date | 06/02/2025 |
Effective Date | 16/02/2025 |
Review Date | 06/02/2028 |
1. Purpose
This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines the procedures for monitoring the performance of aerosol manufacturing machines during production. The purpose of this SOP is to ensure that machines perform within the specified parameters throughout the production process, maintaining product quality and minimizing downtime. Continuous monitoring helps identify performance deviations early, allowing for corrective actions before major issues arise.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to all aerosol manufacturing machines at [Company Name], including filling machines, crimping machines, valve testing machines, and others involved in the production process. The procedure includes monitoring machine performance during production runs, recording key machine data, and taking corrective actions when performance deviates from expected parameters. This SOP does not cover machine operation or preventive maintenance, which are addressed in separate SOPs.
3. Responsibilities
- Production Team: Responsible for continuously monitoring machine performance, identifying any deviations, and reporting them to the appropriate team members.
- Maintenance Team: Responsible for investigating any performance issues reported by the production team, conducting repairs, and ensuring that the machines are in good working condition.
- Quality Control (QC) Team: Responsible for verifying that
4. Accountability
The Manufacturing Manager is accountable for ensuring that this SOP is followed and that the performance of aerosol manufacturing machines is effectively monitored throughout the production process. The overall compliance with this SOP is under the supervision of the Quality Assurance (QA) Manager.
5. Procedure
5.1. Monitoring Key Machine Parameters
- During production, monitor the following machine parameters to ensure consistent performance:
- Filling volume or weight (for filling machines)
- Crimping pressure (for crimping machines)
- Valve integrity and leak testing (for valve testing machines)
- Temperature, pressure, and cycle time (for all machines)
- Use automated monitoring systems where available to track machine performance and record data in real time.
- Ensure that any manual monitoring is done according to the machine’s operating manual, and that measurements are taken at regular intervals during the production run.
- Record all machine parameters and performance data in the Machine Performance Log (Annexure-1) for traceability.
5.2. Identifying Performance Deviations
- Monitor machine performance continuously and compare recorded data with predefined performance specifications and tolerances.
- If any parameter deviates from the acceptable range (e.g., overfilling, underfilling, incorrect crimping pressure), stop the machine immediately and investigate the cause of the deviation.
- Common performance deviations include:
- Inconsistent filling volumes or weights
- Improper sealing or crimping
- Machine jams or stoppages
- Variation in pressure or temperature settings
- Record any deviations in the Performance Deviation Report (Annexure-2) and detail the immediate corrective actions taken.
5.3. Corrective Actions and Process Adjustments
- Upon detecting a performance deviation, follow these steps:
- Stop the machine immediately to prevent further product defects or damage.
- Investigate the cause of the deviation. Common causes include:
- Incorrect machine settings
- Wear and tear of components
- Environmental factors such as temperature or humidity
- Operator error
- Implement corrective actions based on the root cause analysis. Possible actions include recalibrating the machine, adjusting settings, replacing faulty components, or retraining operators.
- Once corrective actions have been implemented, verify the machine performance by running a test cycle and ensuring that the machine operates within the required parameters.
- Document the corrective actions taken and the results in the Performance Deviation Report (Annexure-2).
5.4. Post-Production Performance Review
- Once the production run is complete, conduct a thorough review of the machine’s performance data, including any deviations and corrective actions taken.
- Evaluate whether the performance of the machine met the required quality standards and production goals.
- Provide feedback to the Production and Maintenance teams about any recurring performance issues and recommend any changes to the machine setup or maintenance procedures to improve future production runs.
- Record the post-production performance review in the Machine Performance Review Report (Annexure-3).
5.5. Routine Performance Monitoring
- Perform regular checks of the machine performance according to the maintenance schedule (e.g., weekly, monthly).
- Compare performance data against historical data to identify any trends or potential areas for improvement.
- Schedule maintenance or calibration if performance data consistently shows deviations or decreased efficiency.
- Log all routine performance checks in the Routine Performance Check Log (Annexure-4).
5.6. Documentation and Record-Keeping
- Ensure that all performance monitoring activities, including pre-production checks, deviations, corrective actions, and post-production reviews, are accurately documented and stored.
- Maintain the machine performance logs and reports for the required retention period to comply with company policies and regulatory requirements.
- Ensure that all records are available for internal and external audits as required.
6. Abbreviations
- GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice
- QC: Quality Control
- PPE: Personal Protective Equipment
- SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
7. Documents
- Machine Performance Log (Annexure-1)
- Performance Deviation Report (Annexure-2)
- Machine Performance Review Report (Annexure-3)
- Routine Performance Check Log (Annexure-4)
8. References
This SOP is based on the following regulatory guidelines and industry standards:
- Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Guidelines
- FDA Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 21, Part 211
- ISO 9001:2015 – Quality Management Systems
9. SOP Version
Version: 2.0
10. Approval Section
Prepared By | Checked By | Approved By | |
---|---|---|---|
Signature | |||
Date | |||
Name | |||
Designation | |||
Department |
11. Annexures
Annexure-1: Machine Performance Log
Machine ID | Parameter | Value | Operator Name | Time |
---|---|---|---|---|
F-12345 | Filling Volume | 200ml | Rajesh Patel | 06/02/2025 |
Annexure-2: Performance Deviation Report
Batch No. | Deviation Description | Corrective Action | Operator Name |
---|---|---|---|
12345 | Underfilling | Adjusted filler settings | Rajesh Patel |
Annexure-3: Machine Performance Review Report
Batch No. | Review Date | Performance Outcome | Comments |
---|---|---|---|
12345 | 06/02/2025 | Pass | No issues |
Annexure-4: Routine Performance Check Log
Machine ID | Check Type | Performed By | Date |
---|---|---|---|
F-12345 | Routine Speed Test | Rajesh Patel | 06/02/2025 |
12. Revision History:
Revision Date | Revision No. | Revision Details | Reason for Revision | Approved By | Page No. | Ref. Point No. | Details of Revision |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
01/01/2024 | V 1.0 | Initial Release | First Issue | Anjali Sharma | Page 1 | [Ref Point] | First Release |
01/01/2025 | V 2.0 | Updated monitoring and corrective actions | To comply with updated GMP regulations | Anjali Sharma | Page 1 | [Ref Point] | Updated procedures |