MiniCapt Mobile Microbial Air Sampler Operations Manual
Page 8-1
Chapter 8
Cleaning Procedures
Introduction
The below procedure describes the recommended practices for MiniCapt and BioCapt
impactor heads and related cleaning accessories.
Particle Measuring Systems assures that all delivered products and materials are tested and
cleaned according to the most demanding cleanroom requirements. In addition, the presence
of manufacturing and/or handling residues may occur for 316L Stainless Steel items such as
MiniCapt or BioCapt impactor heads which undergo a highly complex machining process.
The presence of residues on the 316L Stainless Steel products, introduced into a sterilization
autoclave without prior cleaning, may result in a change in the exterior appearance of the
item. Specifically, residues apparently “invisible” may change in color as a result of the high
temperature sterilization process.
The following steps are intended to provide a general guideline for MiniCapt/BioCapt impactor
head cleaning, considering both the runtime cleaning activities and the recommended
process for newly received goods.
Cleaning Guidelines for Goods upon Reception
For first time usage:
• Unpack the impactor heads using gloves. (Note: Fingerprints on freshly manufactured
stainless steel may result in long lasting marks on the surface.)
• Wash the whole stainless steel surface, including mechanical parts, using an appropriate
detergent solution.
• For example, Veltek Vai Process to Clean 1 (P2C-1) appropriately diluted as
recommended by the detergent manufacturer data sheet (typically 1-5 Vol% in DI or WFI
water)
• Rinse each single item extensively with DI or WFI water in order to completely remove any
detergent residuals.
• Ensure the impactor head is well cleaned, rinsed and dried before proceeding with the first
autoclave sterilization process.
