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Chapter 7
– Operating pauses
In this chapter you learn
How quickly you can start sterilization programs in sequence
What you must observe for longer operating pauses
How to put the steam sterilizer out of operation, transport it and re-start it
Sterilization frequency
No pause times
required
Pause times between the individual programs are not
necessary. After the expiration or termination of drying and
removal of the items to be sterilized, you can immediately re-
load the steam sterilizer and start a program. Continuous
operation can result in an increased development of steam
from the internal storage tank.
The steam is not harmful to the steam sterilizer provided that
the minimum clearance distances of the steam sterilizer were
maintained on site at installation.
To minimise the development of steam we recommend that
you maintain a pause of 20 min between every two batches.
Pause times
Longer operating pauses
Switch the steam sterilizer off for longer operating pauses, e.g.
overnight or on the weekend, and leave the door ajar. The
door seal is relieved and protected from premature wear.
Furthermore it prevents the sticking of the door seal.
Close, if available, the water feed of the water treatment unit.
After operating pauses which last longer than two weeks, carry
out a vacuum test and thereafter an empty sterilization with
the Quick Program (see page 44,
Chapter 8
– Function test
)
The following situations can occur after longer pauses:
Event
Possible cause
What you can do
→conductivity too high
Bad feed water
Change the
→feed water or the mixed-bed-
resin cartridges for a MEL
Adem
unit.
Door cannot be opened
Door seal is sticking to the
sealing surface
Switch the steam sterilizer on and pull
vigorously at the door to open it.
Function test after pauses
After pauses, carry out the tests described in
Chapter 8
–
Functional Tests
, depending on the pause duration.
