Autoclave
Autoclave (pronounced: /ˈɔːtəʊkleɪv/) is a device that is used to sterilize equipment and supplies by subjecting them to high pressure saturated steam at 121 °C (or in some cases, at 134 °C) for around 15–20 minutes depending on the size of the load and the contents. The term "autoclave" is derived from the Greek words "auto-", meaning self, and "clave", meaning key, suggesting a self-locking device.
History
The autoclave 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, thus a self-locking device.
Uses
Autoclaves are widely used in microbiology, medicine, podiatry, tattooing, body piercing, veterinary medicine, mycology, dentistry, and prosthetics fabrication. They vary in size and function depending on the media to be sterilized.
Types of Autoclaves
Autoclaves can be divided into two main categories: Gravity Autoclave and Vacuum Autoclave. Gravity autoclaves, also known as gravity displacement autoclaves, are the most simple and straightforward type. Vacuum autoclaves, on the other hand, are more complex and are used for the sterilization of items that are more difficult to reach with steam alone.
Operation
The process of autoclaving can be divided into four stages: heating, sterilization, depressurization, and drying. The heating stage involves the generation of steam which is then injected into the autoclave. The sterilization stage is where the items are exposed to the steam at a high temperature for a set period of time. The depressurization stage involves the removal of the steam from the autoclave and the drying stage involves the removal of any remaining moisture from the items.
Safety
While autoclaves are generally safe to use, they can pose potential risks if not used correctly. These risks can include burns from hot surfaces or steam, and injury from exploding glassware.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Autoclave
- Wikipedia's article - Autoclave
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