Moist heat sterilizer or Autoclave:
Diagram:
Construction: It consists of a string metallic chamber usually made of stainless steel. It has a cover fitted with a steam vent, pressure gauze and a safety valve. Rubber gasket is fitted on the inner side of the lid in order to make autoclave airtight. The cover is closed with wing nuts and bolts. The electrically heated element is fitted at the bottom to heat the water to convert into steam. The perforated inner chamber is place on the stand. The material to be sterilized is loosely packed into it.
Working: A sufficient quantity of water is poured into the chamber after removing the perforated chamber. The level of the water is adjusted in such a way that it does not touch the bottom of the perforated chamber. The lid is then closed with wing nuts and bolts. The autoclave is switched on to heat the water. The vent is opened and safety valve is set at the required pressure.
When steam starts coming out from the vent and it continues for 5 minutes, it is then closed. The steam pressure starts raising and it comes to the desired pressure i.e. 10 lbs/sq inch with corresponding temp 115 0C or 15 lbs/sq inch with corresponding temp 121 0C After the stated period, switch off the autoclave. Allow it to cool to about 400C before opening the vent. When whole of the steam is removed, the lid is opened and the sterilized material is taken out.