Go to content

When turret cleaning limits performance

Tablet press turrets must be thoroughly cleaned at every product or format change. Manual high-pressure cleaning is time consuming, operator dependent and difficult to standardize. Dedicated CIP systems require significant investment and are limited to a single application.

At the same time, users are concerned about corrosion or damage to precision turret components. Cleaning must remove residues effectively while preserving surface integrity and ensuring reliable reassembly.

Automated cleaning tailored to turret geometry

SteelcoBelimed integrates turret cleaning into a pharmaceutical washer platform, combining automated GMP control with mechanical action adapted to the specific geometry of the turret.

The turret is placed on a dedicated wash rack and transfer cart that also serves as a preparation station. Once inside the chamber, exterior surfaces are cleaned by rotating spray arms, while a pivoting nozzle system is positioned between turret layers. During the wash cycle, the turret rotates to ensure uniform exposure and avoid spray shadows.

Wash, rinse and drying phases are fully automated and monitored. The washer, process parameters and rack design are engineered to clean effectively without damaging sensitive components. To address corrosion concerns, the recipe includes a conservation step in which a preservation oil is sprayed onto the turret before removal.

Controlled, repeatable and versatile

The automated approach delivers defined, repeatable cycles that support GMP documentation and process consistency. Cleaning performance is no longer dependent on operator technique, and no dedicated CIP installation is required.

The washer remains available for other components when not used for turret cleaning, preserving flexibility within the facility.

The result is a controlled and validated cleaning process that protects the turret, simplifies changeovers and improves repeatability in tablet production environments.