Horizontal High Pressure Hospital Sterilizing Large Autoclave Machine
Safety interlock device:
The Technical Superiority Of Sterilizer
how does an autoclave sterilize instruments?
While commonly associated with hospitals, steam autoclaves play a crucial role in diverse settings, including tattoo shops, beauty and barber shops, dentist offices, veterinarians, and many other fields.
An autoclave, functioning as a pressure chamber, serves the purpose of sterilizing equipment and supplies. The process involves exposing items to high-temperature steam, typically around 132 degrees Celsius or 270 degrees Fahrenheit, for approximately twenty minutes. Sterilization times may vary based on the quantity and physical size of the equipment requiring sterilization. The elevated temperature of the steam effectively eradicates germs that standard detergent or boiling water might not eliminate.
Autoclave Components
Similar to pressure cookers, autoclaves achieve rapid and efficient sterilization due to their high temperature. The machine's temperature and distinctive cylindrical shape facilitate prolonged heat retention. The autoclave excels in effectively penetrating each piece of equipment. The cylindrical shape is chosen for chambers as it is well-suited to withstand the high pressure integral to the sterilization process. As a safety measure, autoclave steam sterilizers are equipped with an external lock and a safety valve to prevent excessive pressure.
Operation of Autoclaves
Upon sealing the autoclave sterilizer chamber, a vacuum pump evacuates the air from the device, or steam is pumped in to force out the air. In the former method, high-pressure steam is introduced to swiftly elevate the internal temperature. Each autoclave is equipped with a thermometer waiting for the thermal sweet spot, typically between 268-273 degrees Fahrenheit, initiating the timer. Throughout the sterilization process, steam continuously enters the autoclave, ensuring thorough elimination of dangerous microorganisms. Once the prescribed autoclave sterilization time elapses, the chamber releases pressure and steam, allowing for the opening of the door for cooling and drying of the contents.