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  3. Proper Swab Sampling Procedure

Proper Swab Sampling Procedure

 

Step 1 - Preparation

swab sampling step 1

  1. Select appropriate swab (see Swab Selection Guide below).
  2. Define region/area to be tested.
  3. Dampen swab with diluent.

Step 2 - Sampling

swab sampling step 2

  • Step 1: Begin sampling by swabbing the surface using horizontal, unidirectional, parallel strokes
  • Step 2: Flip the swab over and swab in a perpendicular direction using the same technique
  • Step 3&4: Repeat procedure with second swab at 45° angles. Flip the swab over for Step 4
  • Step 5: Swab the perimeter with the swab tip

NOTE: Swab using the entire head flat against testing surface.

Step 3 - Transfer

swab sampling step 1

  1. Snap swab head at the notch along the edge of swab handle
  2. Allow swab head to fall into vial
  3. Replace the cap, label the sample and transfer for TOC or HPLC analysis

 

Swab Requirements

  • Minimal background interference
  • High recovery rate
  • Low particle generation

Where to Perform Swab Sampling

  • Irregular Surfaces
  • Hard-to-reach areas
  • Presence of product/cleaning residue
  • Heated surfaces
  • Porous surfaces
comparative toc analysis HPLC UV vis analysis

Example of Contaminant Release on TX714K

Swab sampling results

 

Swab Selection Guide

All of these Texwipe products are available to purchase online with the exception of TX716 which is a special order procduct. Click on the TX code to go to the product page where you will be able to purchase.

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Texwipe Cleaning Validation Series Swabs

Texwipe TX714K Low TOC Alpha® Sampling Swab Texwipe TX761K Low TOC Alpha® Sampling Swab with Long Handle Texwipe TX715 Large Alpha® Sampling Swab Texwipe TX716 Large Absorbond® HPLC Sampling Swab
Knitted polyester swab for TOC analysis/cleaning validation of equipment Knitted polyester swab for TOC analysis/cleaning validation in hard-to-reach areas Knitted polyester swab for HPLC sampling/cleaning validation of equipment Hydroentangled polyester swab for HPLC sampling/cleaning validation of equipment
20 swabs per bag 20 swabs per bag 100 swabs per bag 20 swabs per bag

Texwipe TOC Cleaning Validation Kits

Texwipe TX3340 TOC Cleaning Validation Kit Texwipe TX3342 Bulk TOC Cleaning Validation Kit
Contains components for 12 samples Contains components for 72 samples

Source: ITW Texwipe "Swab Sampling Proper Procedure"  available here,