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5.4
Rubber and Plastic
The following materials CAN be sterilized in the
STATCLAVE:
›
Nylon, polycarbonate (Lexan™), polypropylene,
PTFE (Teflon™), acetal (Delrin™), polysulfone
(Udel™), polyetherimide (Ultem™), silicone rubber,
and polyester.
When loading rubber and plastic tubing on the tray,
ensure they do not touch the chamber walls. This
ensures that steam reaches all surfaces, and will
promote drying.
›
DO
arrange receptacles upside down to prevent
water from pooling inside.
›
DO
process dental impression trays on the top tray to optimize drying.
›
DO
process on the top tray any items with shapes that could collect water.
5.5
Textiles and Surgical Packs
Carefully wash and dry textile materials (or
porous materials in general), such as smocks,
napkins, caps and other, before treating these in
the autoclave. Do not use detergents with a high
content of chlorine and/or phosphates and do
not bleach with chlorine-based products. These
substances can damage the tray supports, trays
and any metal instruments that may be present in
the sterilization chamber.
5.6
Using Biological and Chemical Indicators
Use chemical process monitors suitable for steam autoclaves/sterilizers at the indicated cycle
temperatures and times in or on each package or load being sterilized.
Additional tips for rubber and plastic:
›
Arrange the tubing on the tray so that ends are not obstructed or crushed.
›
DON’T bend or wind tubes. Allow tubes to lie as straight as possible.
CAUTION! Only use FDA-cleared chemical and biological indicators. They should be
designed for the particular sterilization cycle temperature and exposure time being
monitored.
IMPORTANT!
DO NOT attempt to sterilize the following materials in the STATCLAVE:
Polyethylene, ABS, styrene, cellulosics, PVC, Acrylic (Plexiglas™), PPO (Noryl™), latex, neoprene,
and similar materials.
Use of these materials may lead to instrument or equipment damage. If you are unsure of
your instrument’s material or construction, do not sterilize it in your STATCLAVE until you have
checked with the instrument manufacturer.