3-2
129373-496
Operating Instructions
Techniques of Sterilization
3.2.2 Gravity Cycle
Refer to Table 3-2 for the type of items which can be processed in a Gravity
cycle and the recommended cycle parameters.
Table 3-2. Gravity Cycle Parameters
Minimum
Minimum
Recommended
Recommended
Items
Sterilize Time
Sterilize Time
Dry Time
at 121°C (250°F)
at 132°C (270°F)
Hard goods (wrapped in
30 minutes
15 minutes
30 minutes*
muslin or equivalent)
* Dry time can vary for wrapped goods depending on pack density, weight of goods, pack
preparation technique including type of wrapping material used, and sterilizer loading
procedures.
3.2.3 Liquid Cycle
Refer to
Table 3-3
for recommended Liquid cycle parameters. The recom-
mended times indicated in
Table 3-3
assume the use of vented bottles or
Erlenmeyer flasks. The "minimum sterilization time" includes the time required
to bring the solution up to the sterilize temperature plus the time required to
achieve sterilization.
NOTE: Load probes and F
0
option will allow you to optimize cycle times.
Table 3-3. Liquid Cycle Parameters - No Load Probes
W A R N I N G – E X P L O S I O N
HAZARD: This sterilizer is not
designed to process flam-
mable compounds.
WARNING: It is inappropriate
for a healthcare facility to ster-
ilize liquids for direct patient
contact.
WARNING – BURN HAZARD:
When sterilizing liquids, you
must observe the following
procedures:
•••••
Use Liquid cycle only.
•••••
Use only vented closures.
•••••
Use only Type I borosili-
cate glass bottles.
•••••
Do not allow hot bottles to
be jolted.
Volume of Liquid
Minimum Recommended
in One Container
Sterilize Time* at 121°C (250°F)
minutes
75 mL
25
250 mL
30
500 mL
40
1000 mL
45
1500 mL
50
2000 mL
55
> 2000 mL
55 + 10 min/L
* Minimum sterilize times are based on obtaining a 10
-6
Sterility Assurance Level
(SAL) with standard test loads. Your specific loads may require different sterilize
times to achieve this level of sterility, or you may require a different SAL.
