More about Autoclaves

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Used in laboratories, medical facilities and industrial processing, autoclaves are airtight devices that heat contents under pressure. Essentially, they function as steam pressure sterilizers and cookers. In a typical situation, water cannot be heated above 100 degrees Celsius. However, in a sealed vessel capable of withstanding high internal pressures, water can be heated to higher temperatures. This is because an open vessel will allow steam to escape with any additional heat, while a closed autoclave will prevent the escape of steam, thereby forcing the steam to accept more heat.

When a small amount of water is placed in an autoclave, it will become a superheated steam that exerts a high pressure. The normal temperature achieved is 121 degrees Celsius. This temperature is important because it has been found that extremely few organisms can survive in it for an extended period. After any object is exposed to this temperature for 15 minutes, it is considered sterile (at least for most purposes).

Obviously, considering this, the practical applications of an autoclave are manifold. Any industrial, medical, chemical or pharmaceutical process that calls for a sterilized component is facilitated by the presence of an autoclave. The device will neutralize all unwanted bacteria and viruses, as well as virtually any other organism. Autoclaves are not only used for sterilization, however; some operations use them as cookers.

In construction, autoclaves are made from durable and strong metals, such as aluminum. They can include exhaust vents, pressure gauges and temperature controls. A typical unit consists of an inner and outer container and a high-strength cover. They can be designed in various sizes to accommodate different objects or components, and can include their own heat source or use an external source. Portable and low-capacity, stove-top units are available from manufacturers. Care must always be taken with autoclaves and other pressurized devices to monitor and regularly check gages.