How to Start Up the Mix and Coating Machine

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

Title: Starting Up the Mix and Coating Machine for Battery Manufacturing in the Cathode Area

Department: Production
Location: Cathode Area, Battery Manufacturing Line
Document Owner: Production Engineering
Last Reviewed: [Date]

1. Purpose

This SOP outlines the correct procedure for safely starting up the mix and coating machine used in cathode slurry preparation and coating operations.

2. Scope

Applies to all production staff authorised to operate the mix and coating machine in the cathode area.

3. Responsibilities

Operators: Follow this procedure as described and report abnormalities.
Production Engineers: Ensure machine readiness and verify calibration.
Health & Safety Officer: Confirm PPE compliance and environmental conditions.

4. Required PPE

Cleanroom-approved full-body suit
Safety goggles
Nitrile gloves
Hair net and face mask
ESD-safe footwear

5. Prerequisites

Complete pre-operation checklist
Ensure slurry tanks are clean and labelled
Verify power supply and compressed air connection
Reviewthe latest coating recipe and parameters

6. Procedure

6.1 Machine Inspection

Check the area around the machine for spills or obstructions.
Verify machine components (agitator, rollers, pump hoses) are intact.
Ensure the HMI panel is responsive and system diagnostics show no faults.

6.2 Power-Up Sequence

Turn the main power switch to ON.
Wait for the system boot-up and self-check to complete.
On the HMI, log in using your operator credentials.

6.3 Load Recipe

Navigate to the “Recipe Management” screen.
Select the appropriate recipe for the current batch.
Confirm parameter settings:
- Mixing speed and duration
- Coating width and line speed
- Dryer temperature and air flow

6.4 Material Preparation

Transfer measured slurry into the mix tank.
Secure the lid and start the mixer.
Prime the coating pump and align the coating head.
Load the substrate roll and confirm web alignment.

6.5 Start Coating

Initiate coating sequence via HMI.
Monitor:
- Coating uniformity
- Tension control
- Dryer operation
Log coating start time and parameters.

6.6 Observation and Adjustment

Make real-time adjustments only if authorised.
Note any alerts or fault messages.
If faults occur, press STOP and notify the supervisor immediately.

7. Shutdown Procedure (If Needed)

Stop coating and mixing.
Power down the machine from the HMI.
Switch off the main breaker.

8. Documentation

Record batch number, operator ID, and machine settings in the logbook.
Attach the coating quality report and inspection checklist.

9. Safety Notes

Never open the mixer lid during operation.
Always check grounding connections.
Do not override system alarms.