Autoclave – Introduction – How Does Autoclave Work? and Uses of Autoclave and Types of Autoclaves
Introduction
An autoclave is a device used to sterilize materials and equipment by subjecting them to high-pressure saturated steam at a temperature of 121 degrees Celsius. The autoclave is commonly used in medical and laboratory settings to sterilize equipment and materials used in sensitive procedures.
How Does Autoclave Work?
The basic working is based on the principle that high-pressure saturated steam can penetrate porous materials to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms. Autoclaves use a combination of pressure and temperature to achieve this goal. The autoclave works by introducing water into a chamber and heating it to the boiling point, creating steam. The steam is then pressurized, which increases the temperature and ensures that the steam reaches every surface of the material being sterilized.
Uses of Autoclave
Medical instruments, such as surgical tools, are often sterilized in autoclaves to ensure they are free from any pathogens that could cause infection. Autoclaves are also used in laboratory settings to sterilize Petri dishes (used to culture microorganisms), media, and other laboratory equipment.
Autoclaves are also used in industrial applications to sterilize packaging materials, food products, etc. They also find applications in the agricultural industry to sterilize the soil, plant tissue, and seeds to prevent the spread of disease.
Types of Autoclaves
Several types of autoclaves are available on the market, each with specific uses and features. The most common types of autoclaves include:
- Gravity Autoclave
In a gravity autoclave, steam is introduced into the chamber and then allowed to flow through sterilized materials. These are used to sterilize liquids, culture media, and other materials that do not require high-pressure levels.
- Vacuum Autoclave
In a vacuum autoclave, the air is removed from the chamber before steam is introduced, creating a vacuum. These are used for sterilizing powders, fabrics, and other porous materials requiring a higher penetration level.
- Pre-Vacuum Autoclave
In a pre-vacuum autoclave, the air is removed from the chamber before introducing steam, creating a vacuum. The steam is then introduced into the chamber in pulses, which helps to ensure that the steam reaches every surface of the material being sterilized.
Conclusion
Using autoclaves helps prevent the spread of disease and infection and ensures that equipment and materials are free from any pathogens. With the availability of different types of autoclaves, it is essential to choose the appropriate one based on the application’s specific needs.