How to Choose a Steam Source for Your Autoclave Written by: Scott Mechler Autoclaves, by nature, require steam to operate. However, there are several possible autoclave steam generator sources to choose from when it comes to laboratory sterilizers; everything ranging from building steam (also known as house steam) to steam from an on-board electric steam generator. The following guide explores some of the most common steam sources for […] Tweet Like Share
Canopy Hood Designs: An Important Consideration for Your Lab Written by: Scott Mechler You have a lot of choices when it comes to ventilation solutions for your autoclave and some are better than others. Canopy hoods are an optimal solution for handling odors, steam moisture and low-levels of chemical vapors. The following are guidelines from the National Institute for Health for the design of autoclave door canopy hoods. The […] Tweet Like Share
Lab Ventilation Systems for Your Autoclave Written by: Scott Mechler The need for a proper lab ventilation system when running a sterilization cycle in your laboratory autoclave cannot be understated. Ventilation for autoclaves assures that the various odors, steam moisture and low-levels of chemical vapors that come from the sterilization process do not escape further into the laboratory setting. When not regulated correctly with an […] Tweet Like Share
Autoclaves for BSL-3 Facilities—Part 3: Effluent Decontamination Systems Written by: Scott Mechler This is the final article of a three-part series describing BSL-3 autoclaves, also commonly known as biocontainment sterilizers. These types of sterilizers are essential in handling microbes that can lead to serious or potentially lethal disease through inhalation. Links to our first and second article can be found here: Part 1: The Bio-Seal Part 2: Autoclave […] Tweet Like Share
Wet Packs: A Quick Guide on How to Prevent a Common Problem in Sterilization Written by: Scott Mechler One of the worst things you will encounter after running a sterilization cycle in your autoclave is evidence of moisture within the chamber or within the load itself. This phenomenon, known as wet packs, may not seem overly concerning but should be taken seriously and investigated. A wet pack is a sign that something is […] Tweet Like Share
Autoclaves for BSL-3 Facilities—Part 2: Autoclave Door Safety Written by: Scott Mechler This is the second of three articles describing BSL-3 autoclaves, also commonly known as biocontainment sterilizers. These types of sterilizers are essential in handling microbes that can lead to serious or potentially lethal disease through inhalation. In this article we review the important aspects of the autoclave door design that are essential for every BSL-3 […] Tweet Like Share
Autoclaves for BSL-3 Facilities—Part 1: The Bio-Seal Written by: Scott Mechler This is the first of three articles describing BSL-3 autoclaves, also commonly known as biocontainment sterilizers. These types of sterilizers are essential in handling microbes that can lead to serious or potentially lethal disease through inhalation. In this article we explore the importance of the bio-seal, a feature that must be incorporated into a BSL-3 […] Tweet Like Share
CSS CEO Contributes to New ABSA Book on Sustainability Written by: Scott Mechler Our customers have come to know and trust CSS products as the most reliable, affordable and customizable autoclaves for laboratory and medical research facilities across the globe. This reputation recently led to Consolidated lending a helping hand to The American Biological Safety Association (ABSA). Arthur Trapotsis, President and CEO of Consolidated Sterilizer Systems, helped co-author […] Tweet Like Share
How to Calibrate Your Autoclave in 12 Simple Steps Written by: Scott Mechler Calibration is an important but often misunderstood maintenance requirement for steam sterilizers. Done correctly, it ensures that the temperature your autoclave displays is the same as the temperature the chamber actually reaches, which has a direct and measurable effect on sterilization efficacy. In this article, we’ll explain what calibration is, what equipment you need to […] Tweet Like Share
University Sustainability Projects: 3 Innovative Schools Making a Creative Difference Written by: Scott Mechler Today, sustainability initiatives are being adopted by nearly every business, organization, and project in the United States—and for good reason. “Going green” not only helps reduce waste and conserve environmental resources, it enables organizations to promote a healthier workplace and save money. Read more → Tweet Like Share
5.28.26 Consolidated Sterilizer Systems Introduces SterilSource, a Premium Water Purification System for Healthcare Facilities and Life Science Labs → May 2026, Billerica, MA — Consolidated Sterilizer Systems is proud to announce the launch of SterilSource, a compact wall-mounted water purification system designed to meet the demanding water quality regulatory requirements of healthcare and life science environments. SterilSource is available in three configurations, offering scalable water treatment solutions from basic mineral and contaminant removal to […]
5.14.26 Consolidated Selected as Small Business Manufacturer by the University of California → What Set Us Apart Throughout the RFP process, Consolidated stood out for our: Relationship with UC, which predates this agreement, with many campuses already standardized on our autoclaves Low cost of ownership through non-proprietary parts and third-party service models, including local service Built-in water- and energy-saving features Support for both in-house and generator steam Custom […]
12.10.25 Introducing SterilSteam Sampler, The Steam Condensate Sampler for AAMI ST108 Compliance → Released in 2023, AAMI/ANSI ST108 establishes water quality requirements for water used in the cleaning, rinsing, disinfection, and sterilization of reusable medical devices. In addition to these requirements, ST108 mandates quarterly testing of steam condensate quality to ensure incoming steam does not stain instruments or pose a risk to patient safety. To help healthcare facilities […]
