Learn SOP for Milliflex water filtration unit including operation, calibration, sanitization, and cleaning for microbiology lab analysis.
Introduction
Water used in microbiological analysis must be free from contaminants to ensure accurate and reliable results. The Milliflex Water Filtration Unit is widely used in microbiology laboratories for membrane filtration and microbial testing.
A well-defined SOP ensures consistent operation, prevents contamination, and maintains compliance with GMP and regulatory standards. This guide provides a detailed procedure for operation, calibration, sanitization, and cleaning of the Milliflex system.https://iampharmacist.com/sop-for-vacuum-pump/
Definition
Milliflex water filtration unit is an automated membrane filtration system used in microbiology laboratories to filter liquid samples through sterile membranes for microbial analysis and water testing.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Filtration Volume | Sample volume filtered |
| Membrane Filter | Sterile filter used for testing |
| Sampling Mode | Manual or Auto |
| Calibration Weights | 50g, 100g, 200g |
| Sanitization Cycle | Disinfection process |
| Drying Cycle | Post-filtration drying |
Step-by-Step Process
- Perform pre-operational checks
- Install pump head and setup
- Select sampling mode
- Place sterile membrane
- Pour sample into funnel
- Start filtration
- Remove membrane and incubate
- Clean and sanitize system
5.2 Operation of Milliflex
Setup
- Install pump head and switch ON
- Display shows system details
- Set date and time
Sampling Setup
- Select manual or auto mode
- Enter operator name, lot number, and details
- Configure sampling parameters
Filtration Process
- Place sterile membrane using forceps
- Fix funnel securely
- Pour sample slowly
Operation Modes
- Manual Mode: Press START to begin
- Auto Mode: Starts automatically
Completion
- Allow drying cycle
- Remove membrane carefully
- Transfer to agar plates
- Incubate as required
5.3 Manual Sampling Setup
- Select sampling → Manual
- Enable volume control
- Select funnel size (100/250 ml)
- Enter liquid density
5.4 Auto Sampling Setup
- Select auto sampling mode
- Choose predefined program
- Confirm parameters
5.5 Calibration Procedure
- Enter calibration menu
- Input calibration date
- Perform:
- Head removal
- Measurement cycle
- Calibration with 50g, 100g, 200g weights
Verification
- Verify readings
- Print calibration report
Frequency: Monthly
5.6 Sanitization Procedure
- Use disinfectant agent
- Run automated sanitization cycle
- Perform 4 rinses with sterile water
- Dry system
Frequency: Weekly
5.7 Cleaning Procedure
- Clean exterior using lint-free cloth
- Use 70% IPA (v/v)
- Clean before and after use
5.8 Tare Procedure
- Remove items from pump head
- Perform tare adjustment
- Ensure zero reading
5.9 Precautions
- Use sterile forceps
- Avoid contamination
- Ensure proper sealing of funnel
- Replace SS grid between samples
6.0 ABBREVIATIONS
- SOP – Standard Operating Procedure
- g – Gram
- ml – Milliliter
Technical Insight: Importance in Microbiology
Membrane filtration using Milliflex ensures accurate microbial enumeration by trapping microorganisms on sterile membranes, making it essential for water testing and contamination control.
FAQs
1. What is Milliflex system?
A membrane filtration unit for microbiological testing.
2. Why use sterile membrane filters?
To prevent contamination.
3. What is auto sampling mode?
Automated filtration process. https://www.scribd.com/document/862952640/QC-040-00-Preparation-of-Mobile-phases
4. What is calibration frequency?
Monthly.
5. What weights are used in calibration?
50g, 100g, 200g.
6. What is sanitization frequency?
Weekly.
7. Why rinse after sanitization?
To remove disinfectant residue.
8. What is tare function?
Adjusts weight measurement system.
9. What is IPA used for?
Cleaning and disinfection.
10. What happens if contamination occurs?
Results become unreliable.
