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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Class N autoclave to sterilize porous materials?

The primary difference between Class B and Class N autoclaves is how they remove air from the chamber prior to sterilization. Class B autoclaves utilize a vacuum pump to completely remove air from the chamber, which enables steam to better penetrate the load. Class N autoclaves use steam from a boiler or generator to create […]

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How does autoclaving kill bacteria?

Autoclaves use steam heat to raise temperatures to such a degree that proteins within the cell walls of a microbe break down and begin to coagulate, thereby killing the bacterium and achieving sterilization.

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What type of autoclave do I need to sterilize medical devices?

The materials you intend to sterilize will dictate what type of autoclave you need. For example, complex loads such as wrapped instruments, porous materials, and red bagged waste products will likely require a Class B sterilizer with vacuum functionality.

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Why is autoclaving items better for sterilization purposes than boiling them?

Steam is a very efficient medium for heat transference. As a result, you can achieve higher temperatures using steam than boiling water, which makes it a more effective method of killing bacteria and other microorganisms.

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Can all medical devices be sterilized in an autoclave?

Only autoclave-safe items can be sterilized using an autoclave. Our autoclaves are capable of sterilizing a wide variety of critical, semi-critical, and noncritical items, including (but not limited to): surgical instruments, hypodermic needles, implanted devices, endoscopes, stethoscopes, and medical waste. Always consult a device’s instructions for use (IFU) to ensure it can safely withstand the […]

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How long does it take an autoclave to sterilize goods?

How long it takes to sterilize a load depends entirely on the content of the load, the set temperature of the autoclave, and the Sterility Assurance Level desired. Generally speaking, the higher the temperature, the faster a load will achieve sterility.

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How does an autoclave sterilize medical devices?

Autoclaves use extreme heat in the form of pressurized steam to sterilize goods. Similar to a pressure cooker, an autoclave uses a locked door to create a sealed chamber. The air within that chamber is then replaced by steam, which is pressurized until the goods within the chamber have been sufficiently sterilized.

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What temperature(s) can an autoclave reach?

Autoclaves are typically designed to reach temperatures between 250°F and 275°F (121°C and 135°C).

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How do I ensure proper steam penetration and drying for bulky loads?

Proper load arrangement and cycle selection are key. Autoclaves with vacuum cycles remove air pockets, ensuring steam reaches all surfaces. A built-in drying phase prevents moisture buildup and bacterial growth.

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What are the phases of sterilization?

The general process for using an autoclave to sterilize goods breaks down into three basic phases: The purge phase, during which steam displaces air within the autoclave chamber and temperature and pressure steadily increases The exposure (sterilization) phase, during which the autoclave’s control program closes the exhaust valve, causing the autoclave’s interior temperature and pressure […]

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CSS News & Events

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5.29.26

Protect Your Sterilizer & Keep Your OR Running With SterilSource →

For sterile processing teams at healthcare facilities, providing purified water for their autoclave has historically meant accepting tradeoffs around floor space, budget, and throughput. Ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) and other, smaller healthcare facilities have felt this most acutely, with many having to choose between installing a bulky reverse osmosis (RO) system that takes up significant […]

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

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 […]
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