Client Case Study
Rapid System Re-Passivation for a Pharmaceutical Manufacturer
Client Overview
A leading pharmaceutical company required urgent maintenance on their purified water loop after recent modifications to their system. The modifications, which included the addition of new user points, introduced a need for re-passivation to ensure compliance and optimal performance.
Before
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After
Challenge
During the initial survey, our team identified the presence of rouge in the pipework and storage tank. Given the pharmaceutical industry’s stringent hygiene and safety requirements, it was crucial to fully remove the contamination and restore the system to an optimal condition. Compounding the challenge was the client's strict production schedule, which necessitated a rapid turnaround to minimise downtime.
Solution
INOX Passivation was awarded the contract to degrease, derouge, and passivate the full system, contingent on completing the process within an extremely tight timeframe. Our team deployed our specialised circulation skid and heat exchanger to precisely control flow rates and temperature, ensuring an efficient and thorough cleaning process.
The chemical cleaning phase involved a three-step procedure:
Degreasing: We applied a hot alkaline cleaner to remove organic contaminants and prepare the surfaces for further treatment.
Derouging: A pH-neutral derouging agent was used to eliminate rouge deposits from the affected pipework and storage tank.
Passivation: The system was treated to create a protective oxide layer, restoring the integrity of the stainless steel surfaces.
Remarkably, the entire chemical cleaning process was completed within a single day. By the time our team left the site that evening, the client was able to initiate their start-up procedures immediately, allowing production to resume the next morning without disruption.
Modern Chemistry
At INOX Passivation Ltd., we utilise modern chemical formulas more than many of our competitors, including non-toxic and pH-neutral products that can be safely and legally disposed of down the drain to avoid the cost and complications of hazardous waste
collection.
Specialisation In The Pharma Industry
As specialists in the pharmaceutical industry, we are familiar with equipment and systems such as lyophilisers, autoclaves, centrifuges, and fermenters, Pure Steam, WFI, etc., so we can deliver a meticulous and reliable service that meets the exacting needs of businesses in this sector.
Robust Compliance
We comply with a range of globally recognised standards, including cGMP, ATSM, CGA, EIGA, and FDA, giving you confidence in our commitment to quality and capability to meet exacting specifications.
A Responsive Service
With an extensive stock of pharma-compatible equipment and chemical cleaning agents, we provide a responsive service that minimises our customers’ waiting times. We work closely with our customers to reduce downtime and disruption to ensure that chemical cleaning is conducted at the expense of productivity and efficiency.
Proprietary Chemicals
To eliminate concerns over chemical quality and compatibility, we use products blended in cGMP compliant facilities by recognised manufacturers such as Steris and Ateco. All products are supplied with Certificates of Analysis and relevant data sheets.
Staff Contentment
We place a heavy emphasis on staff contentment and for every decision, we consider how it will affect our personnel. A positive and constructive work environment where our people are encouraged to participate in technical challenges is beneficial to all stakeholders
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Before
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After
Results & Impact
- Complete Rouge Removal: The system was thoroughly cleaned, eliminating all traces of rouge contamination.
- Optimised Contact Surfaces: The re-passivated surfaces were restored to an optimal condition, ensuring long-term system performance and standards.
- Minimal Downtime: Our efficient process enabled the client to restart production without delay, safeguarding their operational continuity and avoiding costly interruptions.
- Regulatory Assurance: The client now benefits from a passivated system that meets stringent pharmaceutical manufacturing standards.
Conclusion
INOX Passivation’s expertise, advanced equipment, and efficient workflow ensured the successful completion of this critical maintenance task within an extremely tight deadline. By partnering with us, the client was able to maintain their production schedule while ensuring the long-term integrity and compliance of their purified water system.
For more information on our passivation and derouging services, contact INOX Passivation today.
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Before
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Testimonials
Speak To An Expert
Submit A Question Or Enquiry And Speak To One Of Our Experts To Find Out More!
Submit an enquiry with your question, to give us a brief or to request a call back from one of our experts.
When you get in touch with INOX:
We'll contact you back as soon as we are able to
We'll always aim to provide 'best advice' for your business
We offer a free initial consultation
Your information is treated in the strictest confidence
You can ask us for advice or help on any or all of the following:
- Passivation
- Derouging
- Oxygen Cleaning
- Biofilm Removal
- Riboflavin Testing
- Pre-Commissioning Flushing
- Carbon Steel Pickling
Simply confirm your details on the form provided and we'll be in touch ASAP. We look forward to hearing from you!
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