Autoclave
12
description
An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121 °C for around 15–20 minutes depending on the size of the load and the contents. It was invented by Charles Chamberland in 1879, although a precursor known as the steam digester was created by Denis Papin in 1679. The name comes from Greek auto-, ultimately meaning self, and Latin clavis meaning key—a self-locking device.
Transcript of Autoclave
An autoclave is a device used to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121 °C for around 15–20 minutes depending on the size of the load and the contents. It was invented by Charles Chamberland in 1879, although a precursor known as the steam digester was created by Denis Papin in 1679.
Glassware:
Cap Pyrex bottles loosely-fit whether empty or filled- to prevent explosions
Cover bottles that are not made of safety glass with aluminum foil.
Polypropylene or stainless steel tubs are typically used for secondary containment.
Cap Pyrex Bottles
Stainless steel tubs
1. Plug into a
standard
electric outlet.
2. Pour water
(distilled water is
best) to the
chamber to flow
over its gap on the
bottom plate.
3.Turn exhaust
knob on the
handle
clockwise
tightly and
close DOOR.
Cover it tightly.
4. Set timer at 35
minutes
position and
make sure
STERILIZE
light is on.
(sterilization
will start)
5. Upon completion of
sterilization power will be off
automatically.
6. Release EXHAUST KNOB on the handle by turning 4-5 revolution until PRESSURE GAUGE, is zero returned. Then you can open DOOR COVER. (after PRESSURE GAUGE) is zero returned, wait 5-10 minutes before opening. (DOOR COVER for better sterilization).
Caution1. Do not open DOOR
COVER if PRESSURE GAUGE is not yet zero returned.
2. Do not release EXHAUST KNOB on the handle during sterilization. Place Autoclave on a flat position .
3. Use distilled water as the sterilization water. (Do not use any chemical medication)
Disadvantages1. It requires more
electricity and more time to prepare and finish.
Wear personal protection equipment: Lab coat
Eye protection
Closed-toe shoes
Heat-resistant gloves to remove items, especially hot glassware
Wait for the pressure gauge to drop to zero with zero time remaining before opening the door.
Never open an autoclave set for "slow exhaust" until the cycle is complete. Superheated liquids can boil over and damage the autoclave and the operator.
Open the door cautiously. Stand behind the door and slowly open it. Allow all steam to escape before reaching inside.
Let liquids stand another 10–20 minutes after the autoclave is opened to avoid any movement that could cause them to boil. Remove items carefully.
