Safe sterilization is essential to combat microorganisms and ensure reliable working conditions in medical practices and laboratories. A modern sterilizer, the autoclave, uses hot steam to completely sterilize instruments in the shortest possible time. A load can be sterilized in around 15 minutes at 121 °C.
Autoclaves can be used to effectively sterilize glassware, metal instruments and heat-stable plastics. Borosilicate glass is resistant to thermal stress. Soda-lime glass, on the other hand, cracks more quickly. A class B autoclave offers particularly comprehensive results as it combines high temperatures and pressure. In this way, an instrument is thoroughly sterilized and meets high hygiene requirements.
Important findings
- A reliable autoclave prevents the survival of harmful microorganisms.
- Sterilization with steam at 121 °C only takes a few minutes.
- Class B autoclaves achieve high depth penetration of the steam.
- Glass bottles should be filled to a maximum of 75 %.
- Regular checks of the sterilizer guarantee consistent results.
- High pressure and temperature are crucial for effectiveness.
Basics for safe sterilization in medical facilities
The MAZI study revealed that instruments sometimes have a high organic load after use, even with optimized cleaning routines. A sterilization process such as steam sterilization provides reliable results as it works at high temperature and pressure. A steam sterilizer serves as a pressure vessel, which is considered a gas-tight sealable pressure vessel if there are no leaks.
In b autoclaves, the temperature is often maintained between 121 and 134 °C, with different materials requiring specific cycles. The capacity ranges from low to many liters, depending on the needs of a clinic. Prions can also be inactivated through proper cleaning and combination with steam sterilization at 134 °C and a holding time of five minutes. The processes are designed for maximum safety to ensure complete sterilization at the end.
A stable and lockable steam sterilizer enables absolutely reliable reprocessing. All medical devices used in sterile areas must comply with the regulations. A b autoclave is used as a pressure vessel in these rooms to effectively reduce germs. This procedure is central to the protection of staff and patients.
Class B steam sterilization and how it works
Class B autoclaves operate at temperatures between 112°C and 143°C. They use a special pre-vacuum for autoclaving even porous materials. In laboratories, they are essential for the sterilization of nutrient media. Manufacturers such as melag guarantee a smooth sterilization process through a reliable power supply and regular maintenance.
A b-autoclave - b-autoclaaf kills pathogens using hot steam. This steam penetrates all cavities at a pressure of 1 to 3 bar. The chamber is sealed gas-tight to ensure complete rinsing. Although classs autoclaves also deliver good results, class b autoclaves often offer more flexibility in different areas.
How does an autoclave work?
The question of how such a device is constructed is a common one. An autoclave generates steam in a pressure vessel. This steam reaches every sterile item via the pre-vacuum. Constant heat effectively kills germs and spores, which is particularly important for sensitive products.
Important factors: time, temperature and 3 bars of pressure
The process comprises several phases: Venting, heating phase, sterilization, pressure release, drying and ventilation. Class B autoclaves can process solid and porous goods as well as hollow instruments of class "critical B" and endoscopes. Compliance with time and temperature is crucial to eliminate all microorganisms. A stable pressure of up to three bars ensures that even stubborn germs are eliminated.
Important components of a steam sterilizer
An autoclave represents a gas-tight sealable container with a robust wall. It can withstand temperatures of over 100 °C and often achieves pressure values of more than 3 bars. Its mode of operation is based on the heating of water, resulting in steam. This process effectively kills even stubborn spores. In the B-class, air removal is usually achieved by fractionated vacuum, which significantly reduces the survival of germs.
When sterilizing instruments, choosing the right sterilization time is crucial. This varies depending on the safety level and material properties. Many sterilization programs recommend temperatures of 121 °C or 134 °C. The probability of microorganisms surviving is less than 1 : 10,000,000. An effective sterilization process minimizes the risk of germs considerably. Disinfection is usually carried out before or after each cycle.
An autoclave class s is subject to specific guidelines for certain goods. The robust system enables uniform heating so that every surface is in contact with steam. This achieves the goal of complete sterility and eliminates any possible spores. Depending on the model, vacuum and leak tests are required to ensure that the maximum leakage of 1.33 mbar per minute is not exceeded. The function-wise concept is based on repeated checks.
Regular maintenance and testing are essential to ensure that each sterilization program delivers a safe result. Detailed documentation of process parameters ensures long-term quality.
Are you looking for the right autoclave for your laboratory? Autoclave overview
How to sterilize instruments correctly
In surgeries and laboratories, autoclaves and correct work processes are central to infection prevention. The correct preparation of instruments is crucial for autoclaves to be effective. Surgical forceps and other hollow instruments can be sterilized unwrapped or in porous materials. A fractionated vacuum process kills germs.
Preparation and cleaning for reliable results
Pre-treatment is essential for sterile results. Instruments must be free of residues and treated with the correct cleaning agent. A vacuum pump ensures precise steam distribution in the autoclave. This is achieved by reaching every gap, preventing delays and inadequate sterilization.
The process in the autoclave and the drying phase
After pre-cleaning, the actual cycle begins in the autoclave. The vacuum process ensures constant conditions. High temperatures and pressure make it impossible for microorganisms to survive. This is particularly effective for complex devices, as the fractional removal of air distributes the steam more easily.
The drying phase after the process supports safe storage and prevents recontamination. The selection of suitable programs and the procurement of a high-performance model, such as MELAG, ensures reliability and short throughput times.
B-Class, Class S and other types of autoclave
Autoclaves vary in their performance and are essential for the safe elimination of all pathogens. Class N represents the basic design. In contrast, B-class autoclaves are designed for the treatment of packaged or unpackaged medical instruments and surgical linen at temperatures of 121°c or 134°c. The number of staff working in a practice and compliance with din and standards influence the choice of model.
Using a class S autoclave correctly
Class S devices are ideal for treating larger batches and can be purchased cheaply online , for example. They guarantee effective sterilization and ensure sterility under workplace conditions. They also offer effective protection against pathogens.
B-Autoclave - B-Autoclaaf: features and benefits
These devices meet the highest standards and are suitable for all areas of application. Thanks to the steam sterilizers, even complex hollow bodies and sensitive materials can be processed effectively. B-autoclav.de presents models that effectively sterilize packaged products and guarantee a long service life. A B-autoclave is therefore a reliable solution for demanding applications.
Maintenance and care: keeping your steam sterilizer reliable
Careful maintenance is essential for smooth operation and safe sterilization in medical facilities. During the sterilization phase, all technical components must function optimally in order to effectively kill microorganisms. A clean overpressure area is essential to ensure stability when high pressure is built up. Monitoring of seals and valves prevents unwanted pressure loss.
Sterilization is only performed when the desired temperature has been reached. Wrapped instruments or unwrapped sterile goods require specific programs to prevent the growth of germs during the drying phase. In Class B steam sterilization, temperature control is critical to eliminate all spores.
Regular maintenance can be supported by calibrated measuring devices. Hot air sterilization is suitable for heat-resistant items and requires temperatures of at least 180°C. For sensitive materials, steam sterilization often offers better results due to the moist heat. Wear parts must be replaced in good time to prevent damage to laboratory glassware or metal parts.
The quality of the water determines the amount of care required. Distilled water reduces deposits, which protects the autoclave in the long term. Regular inspections are crucial to prevent breakdowns and increase reliability. In the non-human medical field of action, the use of hot air devices remains permitted, while clinical facilities rely on moist heat. Proper documentation of inspection intervals and repairs ensures the best possible hygiene.
Procurement tips: Which autoclave suits your requirements?
A suitable solution should both facilitate daily processes and comply with rki guidelines. The device has a sterilizing effect if the steam significantly minimizes the air content in the chamber by means of simple pre-suction or a fractionated vacuum process. Whether packaged sterilized or rather unpackaged instruments are reprocessed depends on your areas of application. When cleaning and disinfecting hollow-body instruments, choosing the right technology is crucial.
Many autoclaves use a fractionated flow process to penetrate all surfaces evenly. If you want to opt for a fixed water connection, you can choose between compact systems from Getinge and STERIS. Models with a filling volume of 18 liters or 24 liters are suitable for different quantities and formats. This range covers individual requirements and enables flexible sterilization.
Choose the right size and liter capacity
The right volume avoids congestion in everyday life. An 18-liter autoclave can process smaller batches more quickly, while 24 liters provide more leeway in the laboratory. Both variants work reliably when the components are prepared for packaged or unpackaged instruments.
Sealable and gas-tight? What matters
Tight-fitting doors influence efficiency and keep the chamber safely pressurized. Robust materials facilitate the process and protect sensitive parts. Manufacturers such as Tuttnauer and Belimed offer proven, durable solutions that can withstand even the most demanding applications.
| Features | The details |
|---|---|
| Filling volume | 18 liters or 24 liters |
| Network connection | Yes |
| Validation capability | Validatable |
| Recommended accessories | 9 |
| Advice & Service | Monday to Friday, 08:00 - 17:00 |
| Discount offer | 10% off your next purchase for registered users |
Still have questions? Our team of specialist advisors can help
If you are unsure about sterilization, we recommend a personal consultation. Our team of specialist advisors is available to clarify specific requirements. This allows you to plan the autoclaving process with confidence. The choice of sterilization method does not only depend on the size of the device. It is equally important whether a standalone variant is feasible.
Sterilization at lower temperatures provides you with information on the optimum operating time. This is crucial for the effectiveness of the process.
The sterilization time depends on the material and load. Thorough cleaning of the instruments is essential to eliminate bacteria. If you are unsure, you can contact experienced manufacturers such as CertoClav or SHP Steriltechnik. These offer models in the price range from €2,465.25 to €25,800.00.
These measures minimize the risk of germ survival. Regardless of the budget, experts offer efficient solutions.
Conclusion
A well-designed autoclaving process is essential for maintaining high hygiene standards in laboratories and surgeries. The sterilization time varies depending on the pressure, temperature and load type. Modern devices from manufacturers such as melag, Getinge and Systec meet strict requirements. They enable instruments to be reprocessed quickly and safely.
A class B steam sterilizer enables the sterilization of complex hollow instruments using a fractionated vacuum process. Sterilization times often vary between 16.5 minutes at 121°C and 5.3 minutes at 134°C. Some models offer record times from 6.5 minutes cycle time if all parameters are optimal. Users will therefore find suitable options for all areas of application.
Regular maintenance and inspections in accordance with BetrSichV are essential to ensure the reliability of every appliance. This ensures safe and effective operation over the entire product life cycle. Older sterilizers may incur higher maintenance costs. Timely replacement promotes efficiency and protects against unplanned breakdowns.
Careful preparation of the instruments and adherence to recommended temperatures between 121°C and 134°C are crucial. They guarantee the destruction of all microorganisms. In this way, a professional autoclave provides optimum protection for people and materials.
FAQ
What is an autoclave and how does it work?
An autoclave is a gas-tight sealable pressure vessel that sterilizes under high pressure and with hot steam. Microorganisms are killed by temperature, pressure and time. The steam penetrates all areas of the sterile goods and eliminates germs and bacteria.
Regular cleaning of the autoclave is important to keep the sterilization process effective.
What is the purpose of steam sterilization in a medical practice?
Steam sterilization is used to ensure safety in medical practices and clinics. It kills microorganisms to prevent infections. This protects staff and patients from risks and meets hygiene standards.
It is important to choose the right programs to ensure optimal sterilization.
What distinguishes class B autoclaves?
Class B autoclaves use a pre-vacuum or vacuum process to remove air before steam enters. This enables even porous materials to be sterilized. They are considered efficient and meet strict requirements.
This process can be used to sterilize both simple and complex instruments.
Why is the maintenance and care of a steam sterilizer so important?
Regular maintenance of a steam sterilizer is crucial for its reliability. High temperatures and a stable overpressure are necessary for sterilization. An intact power supply and regular checks are also important.
This ensures that instruments always remain sterile and that the drying phase runs correctly.
How does a class S autoclave differ from a class B device?
A class S autoclave is designed for less complex sterile goods. It often uses simple venting. In contrast, B-class autoclaves are more suitable for highly porous instruments.
A class S autoclave may be sufficient for everyday use in smaller practices.
What factors are important when purchasing an autoclave?
The liter capacity and the equipment are decisive. The choice between a table-top autoclave and a larger device depends on the number of workers. A gas-tight pressure vessel with pre-vacuum mode is suitable for a wide range of instruments.
There are fixed water connection or standalone versions. Manufacturers such as Melag offer a wide range of models.
How do you ensure that all spores and germs are killed?
Thorough preparation with cleaning and disinfection is essential. Temperature, pressure and sterilization time must be exactly right. The items to be sterilized must be placed correctly to avoid air content.
A fractionated steam flow or vacuum process ensures reliable sterilization even at complicated angles.
Can an autoclave also be used for culture media?
Yes, modern autoclaves are suitable for the sterilization of culture media. The correct mode of operation and a suitable program are crucial. All microorganisms are killed at the selected °C values and pressure.
Careful sterilization of culture media is essential in laboratories and research facilities.
