Sterilize in place (SIP)

Sterilization-in-place (SIP) refers to the practice of sterilizing process equipment or materials in process at their place of use or installed location. It has been developed from the requirement to sterilize equipment that is too bulky or heavy to be moved into autoclaves or ovens.

SIP is a very important technology, needed for microbiological control during production. When the term is used, it is always referring to steam sterilization of large equipment items such as mixing tanks, vessel-filter-filler systems, and even complete isolator units.

The sterilization of these vessels and chambers is accomplished using direct contact with steam in an overkill process that is adapted from that used in steam autoclaves for individual smaller items.
Sterilize in place (SIP)