Standard Operating Procedure for Operation of Gel Transfer Pump in Gel Manufacturing
| Department | Gel Manufacturing |
|---|---|
| SOP No. | SOP/GM/158/2025 |
| Supersedes | SOP/GM/158/2022 |
| Page No. | Page 1 of 11 |
| Issue Date | 09/06/2025 |
| Effective Date | 11/06/2025 |
| Review Date | 09/06/2027 |
1. Purpose
To describe the procedure for safe and efficient operation of the gel transfer pump used in the movement of semi-solid gel products from manufacturing vessels to intermediate or final containers during the gel manufacturing process.
2. Scope
This SOP applies to production personnel responsible for operating the gel transfer pump in the gel manufacturing area of the pharmaceutical formulation unit.
3. Responsibilities
- Production Operator: Performs setup, operation, and basic troubleshooting of the pump.
- Maintenance Technician: Provides mechanical support in case of malfunction
or repair needs.
QA Executive: Verifies compliance and ensures logbook entries are complete.
4. Accountability
The Head – Manufacturing is accountable for ensuring proper training, operation, maintenance, and documentation related to gel transfer pump operations.
5. Procedure
5.1 Pre-Operational Checks
- Ensure that the pump is clean and labeled “CLEANED.”
- Verify pump calibration and maintenance status from the equipment logbook.
- Check that all pump parts, hoses, and fittings are properly assembled and leak-free.
- Confirm that the electrical connections are secure and the area is free from hazards.
5.2 Setup
- Position the pump securely between the source and receiving vessels.
- Connect the inlet hose to the outlet valve of the manufacturing vessel.
- Connect the outlet hose to the receiving vessel (e.g., storage container or filling hopper).
- Ensure clamps and fittings are tight to avoid contamination or product loss.
5.3 Operation
- Switch ON the pump using the main control switch.
- Start at the lowest speed setting and gradually increase based on product viscosity and flow rate required.
- Monitor the transfer process continuously to ensure uninterrupted flow and prevent overflow or underfill.
- Use flow meters or visual indicators, if available, to regulate flow and avoid air entrapment.
5.4 Post-Operational Activities
- Turn OFF the pump once the transfer is complete.
- Disconnect hoses and empty remaining product using reverse operation if required.
- Clean the pump and associated hoses as per the cleaning SOP.
- Label equipment appropriately and return to designated area.
5.5 Documentation
- Record equipment usage, cleaning status, and batch transfer details in the Equipment Usage Logbook – Annexure-1.
- Note any abnormalities or deviations encountered during operation and report to QA and Engineering.
5.6 Troubleshooting Guidelines
- Issue: Pump not starting – Check: Power supply, fuse, or switch.
- Issue: Flow rate too low – Check: Viscosity of gel, hose blockage, or incorrect speed.
- Issue: Leakage – Check: Loose fittings or damaged seals.
6. Abbreviations
- SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
- QA: Quality Assurance
- GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice
- RPM: Revolutions Per Minute
7. Documents
- Equipment Usage Logbook – Annexure-1
- Cleaning SOP for Transfer Pump
- Maintenance Record Sheet
8. References
- GMP Guidelines – Schedule M
- EU GMP Annex 15: Qualification and Validation
9. SOP Version
Version: 2.0
10. Approval Section
| Prepared By | Checked By | Approved By | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signature | |||
| Date | |||
| Name | |||
| Designation | Jr. Production Chemist | QA Executive | Head – Manufacturing |
| Department | Gel Manufacturing | Quality Assurance | Manufacturing |
11. Annexures
Annexure-1: Equipment Usage Logbook Format
| Date | Batch No. | Start Time | End Time | Operator Name | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Revision History
| Revision Date | Revision No. | Change Description | Reason | Approved By |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25/03/2022 | 1.0 | Initial issue | New Equipment Implementation | QA Head |
| 09/06/2025 | 2.0 | Updated flow control section and annexures | Routine Review | QA Head |