What is Temperature Mapping: A Key to Environmental Consistency

What is Temperature Mapping: A Key to Environmental Consistency

Temperature mapping, also referred to as thermal mapping, is a critical component of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This systematic process enables companies to monitor and maintain the environmental conditions within a controlled space. Its primary goal is to minimize temperature and humidity variations, thereby ensuring a consistent environment in storage facilities, refrigeration units, or during transportation.

Differentiating Mapping from Monitoring

While routine temperature monitoring is a standard practice, temperature mapping delves deeper by placing data loggers throughout a specific area over an extended period, typically 24 hours. This testing offers a detailed understanding of how temperature and humidity are distributed across the space. Analyzing the data allows companies to identify inconsistencies, which could be caused by frequent door openings, heat generated by machinery, or issues with HVAC systems, and make necessary adjustments to optimize the environment.

After completing the temperature mapping study, regular temperature monitoring becomes essential. This ongoing process involves using a smaller set of data loggers to continuously observe the conditions where products are stored. In many industries, this step is required to ensure that environmental standards are consistently met.

Place Where Temperature Mapping is Applicable

Temperature mapping is crucial in any setting where temperature or humidity levels can affect product quality. Even though some equipment includes built-in thermometers, these devices often measure temperature at a single, fixed point. For example, in a household refrigerator, items stored at the back are often colder than those near the door.

Such temperature variations can lead to products being stored outside their ideal temperature range, rendering them unusable. This not only results in financial loss for manufacturers but can also pose significant risks to public health.

For instance, if a pharmaceutical company only maps select areas of its warehouse, it might overlook temperature discrepancies in other sections. This oversight could result in distributing medications that are either ineffective or potentially harmful.

The Necessities of Temperature Mapping

Incorporating temperature mapping into a company’s GMP guidelines is essential for identifying and correcting environmental inconsistencies, thereby ensuring proper storage conditions and regulatory compliance. When integrated into standard GMP practices, temperature mapping helps prevent product loss, safeguard financial investments, and enhance overall quality and public safety.

Suitable Devices

A variety of different data loggers can be used for temperature mapping. There are a few things ZHICE take into consideration when we recommend using 298 series data logger for your mapping. Firstly, the difficulty for installation and communication. Simple USB download or WIFI communication version is suitable for small storage and for large warehouses, Zigbee version is recommended for stable signals and wider cover range. Secondly, the battery life. 298 series applies low power consumption design for long term testing over 24hours. It is common the batteries need to be changed after one year use (of course, the battery life depends on the usage environment and frequencies). Lastly, the data. Our software is 21CFR Part 11 ready and saves your time in statistics. Also, there are other logger choices for refrigerators, aerospace industries and other scenarios.

For more information, please chat with our friendly team real time online or email us at info@zhice-elec.com.