Instantaneous Steam Generator Sterilization in Autoclaves
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Solution Overview
Problem
In steam sterilization processes using instant steam generators, the water vapor introduced during the holding time is not subject to the sterilization conditions, leading to non-sterile water vapor that can contaminate sterile goods with microorganisms.
Innovation Solution
A process where all water in the chamber, including both liquid and vapor phases, is sterilized during the holding time by maintaining a sterilization condition through the evaporation of condensate or pre-heated water, ensuring that only sterile water is present in the chamber.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If water is continuously evaporated in the instant steam generator and introduced into the chamber during the holding time, then the steam supply is fast and efficient, but the introduced steam is not sterile and contaminates the sterile goods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-heating the instantaneous steam generator before introducing feedwater during the holding time. This ensures that when water is evaporated, it immediately reaches sterilization temperature, making the steam sterile. The pre-heating phase prepares the system in advance so that subsequent steam generation meets sterility requirements without delaying the holding time.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If feedwater is continuously supplied to the instant steam generator, then steam generation is sustained, but bacteria in the water are not exposed to sterilization conditions and contaminate the chamber
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the feedwater by pre-heating it in the instantaneous steam generator before evaporation. The water is heated to sterilization temperature (e.g., 121°C or 134°C) during the pre-heating phase, transforming it from a contaminated state to a sterile state. This parameter change ensures that continuous steam generation does not introduce bacteria into the chamber.
3Reliability
If the holding time is extended to ensure sterilization of all water, then sterility is achieved, but the productivity of the sterilization process decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses preliminary action by pre-heating the instantaneous steam generator and preparing the system before the holding time begins. This allows the actual holding time to be used effectively for sterilization without needing additional time for water heating. The preliminary preparation ensures that all subsequent water introduction is immediately sterilized, maintaining both sterility and productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach ensures that all water in the chamber is sterile by the end of the holding time, preventing contamination of sterile goods and maintaining hygienic perfection in the steam sterilization process.
Implementation Method 1
Steam is generated by heating water. So-called instantaneous steam generators are increasingly used for this purpose. An instantaneous steam generator instantly vaporizes the water flowing through it
Implementation Method 2
a sterilization condition must be maintained for the duration of a holding time in the chamber. For example, EN 285 specifies that a sterilization temperature of 121°C must be maintained for a holding time of 15 minutes
Data Source
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Figure 3
Figure 4~4A
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for steam sterilization in an autoclave. The method comprises the generation of gaseous water in an instantaneous steam generator, the provision of the gaseous water in a chamber of the autoclave for the sterilization of items arranged in the chamber, and the establishment of sterilization conditions in the chamber for the duration of a holding period. The method is characterized in that all water present in the chamber during the holding period is sterilized. A further aspect of the invention is a corresponding autoclave.