9 Function tests
44
Bowie & Dick test
The Bowie & Dick test serves as proof of steam penetration of porous materials such as e.g. textiles. You
can perform a routine function check for proof of steam penetration. Use test program
Bowie & Dick
test
for this purpose. Specialist stockists provide various test systems for the Bowie & Dick test. Depend-
ing on the application, use either a test system for hollow body instruments or for porous load (laundry
etc.). Combination test systems can also be used. Perform the Bowie & Dick test in accordance with the
test system manufacturer's specifications.
1.
Switch on the steam sterilizer at the power switch.
2.
Place the test system in the sterilization chamber of
the steam sterilizer and close the door.
3.
Working in menu
Programs & Tests
select
Bowie
& Dick test
and press START.
Evaluation of the indicator following the colour change
Depending on the manufacturer batch, indicators often exhibit differing intensities in the colour change re-
sulting from different lengths of storage or other influences. Of crucial importance for evaluating the Bow-
ie & Dick test is not the strength of contrast in the colour change on the test sheet, but the uniformity of the
colour change on the indicator. If the indicator indicates an equal distribution of colour change, the air re-
moval of the sterilization chamber is without fault. If the indicators are uncoloured or exhibit less colour in
the centre in comparison to the end, air removal was insufficient. In such a case, please consult the stock-
ist customer services / authorised customer services.
