A sterilizer is a general term for any device that can be sterilized. A common method of sterilizing equipment is autoclaving. The preferred principle of sterilization is by heating, and autoclaves are the most widely used method, that is, using saturated steam. Autoclaving is the use of pressurized steam at high temperatures to kill fungi, microorganisms, spores, bacteria or viruses that are difficult to destroy using traditional disinfection methods. Autoclaves only use steam to sterilize, while other sterilizers may use high pressure, friction, chemicals, filtration, or a combination of processes to sterilize surfaces.

Why is autoclave more in demand, especially in small hospitals?

Choosing the right hospital sterilizer depends on sterilization requirements (i.e. what items need to be sterilized), size requirements, and the space available for storage. The chamber in the sterilizer needs to be at least slightly longer than the length of the longest instrument to be sterilized.

Autoclaves are more suitable for large-scale applications. The sterilizer uses steam or other gases or a mixture of both to carry out the sterilization process, and the sterilizer has a long operation time because it has many steps to eliminate spores, such as heat, vacuum, etc. However, sterilizers are more penetrating, safer, and more effective, making them preferable for high-end applications such as hospitals and pharmaceuticals.

Steam autoclaves use the power of steam under pressure to kill bacteria, spores, and germs resistant to boiling water and strong cleaners. Autoclaves sterilize solids, liquids, hollows, and instruments of all shapes and sizes. They are mainly used in hospitals for the sterilization of surgical dressings and surgical instruments, containers and closures. Autoclaves use steam to sterilize spores at temperatures over 100 degrees and are more robust.

Therefore, autoclaves are the most widely used method of sterilizing equipment in small and medium-sized hospitals, which are looking for a less expensive, easier to operate sterilizer that effectively meets basic sterilization needs.