Like the vaccine fridge and incubator, laboratory autoclaves have an image problem. Laboratory autoclaves are known for taking up a large amount of space in the lab, where the balance of space vs equipment is frequently in conflict.
Thankfully, this is where the product range at Bioline Global steps in to offer laboratory autoclaves that suit a wide variety of lab areas, from the bench top, to pass through door configurations, and free standing.
Laboratory autoclaves are among the most important pieces of equipment in a laboratory or health setting, so they must be chosen with care, with emphasis given to the quality of the components and overall design.
Let’s revisit the role and importance of autoclaves before we discuss what to look for in a new autoclave machine.
What is the Purpose of Laboratory Autoclaves
Laboratory autoclaves can be thought of as similar to ovens, except they use high temperature steam rather than dry heat.
Steam is pressurised to reach a temperature typically between 121 and 131 degrees Celsius, which is the ideal steam temperature to sterilise and disinfect objects.
In contrast to hot water and detergent, steam is incredibly efficient at cleaning objects of all different shapes and sizes, which is why autoclave sterilisation is so important in hospitals and health centres, offices, laboratories, and research facilities.
The sterilisation process kills all bacteria, viruses and spores and can be validated by biological and lethality indicators.
Autoclave tape is also used to ensure that the process is successful, since autoclave tape changes colour only if the autoclave steam reaches the correct temperature for sterilisation to occur.
When technicians use high quality autoclaves correctly, they can feel confident that they have successfully sterilised their laboratory equipment.
What to Look for in a Laboratory Autoclave
When searching for a laboratory autoclave for your own facility, it’s essential to get the best quality autoclave available in Australia.
Poor quality autoclaves can calibrate temperature and pressure incorrectly, which leads to unwanted temperature and pressure fluctuations that will fail to sterilise your equipment.
Poor quality autoclaves can also produce low-quality steam that is either too high in water content or heated too much to be effective (generally any steam about 134 degrees Celsius).
In contrast, a high-quality autoclave meets your needs and improves your operations with minimal to no mechanical failure. Things like the autoclave capacity and space requirements, but also the overall costs of installation and maintenance, should be considered.
The access water and electrical voltage should also perfectly meet with your facility requirements or the building works you are willing to undertake.
Finally, the maintenance requirements should be reasonable, easy to undertake and physically accessible so that you can maintain the smooth running of your autoclave machine.
As the true price of an autoclave reveals itself over time, the long term running and maintenance costs should always be considered above the initial selling price.
From there, choosing the right autoclave configuration is your last step, which means deciding between a benchtop, floor standing, vertical or pass-through door autoclave.
All of these autoclave configurations can be found at Bioline Global.
The Best Laboratory Autoclaves in Australia
At Bioline Global, we supply autoclaves the highest degree of convenience, safety, and precision. Please browse our online catalogue or reach out to us on +61 (02) 46660010 or [email protected] for more information