SOP for Operation and Calibration of Sieve Shaker | Procedure, Cleaning & Calibration Guide

Learn the complete SOP for operation and calibration of sieve shaker, including step-by-step procedure, cleaning, safety precautions, and calibration requirements for accurate particle size analysis.

SOP FOR OPERATION AND CALIBRATION OF SIEVE SHAKER

1.0 Purpose

The purpose of this SOP for operation and calibration of sieve shaker is to define the standardized procedure for proper operation, cleaning, and calibration to ensure accurate and reliable particle size analysis.

2.0 Scope

This SOP applies to all sieve shaker instruments used in the Quality Control (QC) laboratory for particle size analysis and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.

3.0 Responsibilities

• QC Officer / Executive
  Responsible for operation, cleaning, calibration, and documentation of the sieve shaker.

4.0 Definitions and Abbreviations

• SOP: Standard Operating Procedure
• I.D. No.: Identification Number

5.0 Materials and Equipment

• Electromagnetic Sieve Shaker (e.g., EMS-8)
• Standard Test Sieves (as per IP standard)
• Certified Timer/Clock
• Cleaning materials (soft sponge, soap, purified water)
• Drying oven

6.0 Safety Considerations

• Ensure proper earthing of the instrument before use
• Avoid contact with moving parts during operation
• Use gloves while cleaning sieves
• Ensure equipment is switched OFF before dismantling
• Handle sieves carefully to prevent damage

7.0 Procedure

7.1 Operation of Sieve Shaker

7.1.1 Pre-Operation Checks

• Ensure the working bench and instrument are clean
• Verify instrument calibration status
• Confirm availability of calibrated sieves

7.1.2 Instrument Start-Up

• Switch ON the instrument
• Ensure the display shows:
  “ELECTROMAGNETIC SIEVE SHAKER EMS-8”

7.1.3 Setup Procedure

• Arrange sieves in descending order (largest to smallest mesh size)
• Ensure sieve diameter and pore size comply with IP standards
• Verify sieve calibration certificates are available and valid
• Place the sieve stack securely on the shaker
• Set amplitude to the lowest level initially

7.1.4 Parameter Setting

• Set desired time (0–99 minutes) using ▲▼ time keys
• Set power level (5–20) using ▲▼ power keys

7.2 Modes of Operation

The sieve shaker operates in two modes:

• Continuous Mode
• Intermittent Mode

7.3 Continuous Mode Operation

• Press the CONTINUOUS key
• Press the START key to begin vibration
• The shaker runs continuously for the set time and power level

7.4 Intermittent Mode Operation

• Press the INTERMITTENT key
• Press the START key
• The shaker operates at intervals of approximately 0.5 seconds

7.5 Cleaning of Sieve

• Dismantle the sieve assembly carefully
• Wash each sieve using mild soap and tap water
• Use a soft sponge to avoid mesh damage
• Rinse thoroughly with purified water
• Dry in an oven at 105°C for 1 hour
• Store sieves in a clean and designated area

7.6 Calibration of Sieve Shaker

7.6.1 Calibration Frequency

• Monthly
• After any maintenance activity

7.6.2 Calibration Procedure

• Verify timer accuracy using a calibrated clock
• Check at intervals: 10, 20, 50, 70, and 90 minutes
• Acceptable tolerance: ±1 minute

7.6.3 Documentation

• Record calibration results in the calibration logbook
• Ensure all entries are signed and dated

8.0 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the purpose of a sieve shaker?

A sieve shaker is used to separate particles based on size for accurate particle size analysis in laboratories.

2. What is the calibration frequency for a sieve shaker?

Calibration should be performed monthly and after maintenance.

3. What is the acceptable tolerance in calibration?

The acceptable time tolerance is ±1 minute.

4. Why is amplitude set to the lowest initially?

To prevent damage to sieves and ensure stable operation before adjustments.

5. What are the two modes of operation?

• Continuous mode
• Intermittent mode

6. Why is sieve cleaning important?

Cleaning prevents contamination and ensures accurate test results.

7. Can detergents be used for cleaning sieves?

Only mild soap should be used to avoid damaging the mesh.

8. What temperature is used for drying sieves?

Sieves should be dried at 105°C for 1 hour.

9. What standards should sieves comply with?

Sieves should comply with IP (Indian Pharmacopoeia) standards.

10. Who is responsible for sieve shaker operation?

The QC Officer or Executive is responsible for operation and calibration.