Depending on the size of your chamber, the number of sensors and their placements will vary. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:
- For Chambers Up to 2 Cubic Meters: Aim for 10 temperature sensors, with nine placed within the chamber to capture a detailed temperature profile and one near the monitoring/control probe for correlation. As illustrated in Figure 1.
- For Chambers Up to 20 Cubic Meters: This size requires 16 sensors. Fifteen should cover the chamber’s interior, while an additional sensor near the monitoring/control probe ensures data consistency. Align with the configuration shown in Figure 2.
- For Larger Facilities: The approach changes slightly. Here, it’s about creating a grid, with sensors spaced every 5 to 10 meters, and adjusting based on the facility’s specific risks and characteristics. For exceptionally large spaces, consider placing sensors up to 20 or 30 meters apart, based on a risk assessment that considers the unique environmental characteristics and the products stored. Don’t forget to monitor the ambient temperature, as external factors can significantly impact the internal environment.
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These recommendations come from a deep dive into guidelines provided by reputable sources like ISPE, USP, and WHO. They’re not just numbers pulled out of thin air; they’re backed by years of research and practical application.
🌐 ISPE (2021). Good Practice Guide: Controlled Temperature Chamber Mapping and Monitoring.
🌐 USP (2018). USP41-NF36 <1079>. Good Storage and Distribution Practices for Drug Products.
🌐 World Health Organization (2015). Technical Supplement 8 to WHO Technical Report Series, No. 961, 2011. Temperature Mapping of Storage Areas.
These guidelines should serve as a foundation and are adaptable to your facility’s needs, considering unique environmental characteristics for accurate mapping and resource optimization while maintaining product integrity and safety.