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Frequently Asked Questions

What are horizontal autoclaves used for?

Horizontal autoclaves are valued for their versatility and are used across several industries for a wide range of applications, including surgical instrument and laboratory equipment sterilization, decontamination of hazardous waste, and growth media preparation.

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Can you sterilize gauze in an autoclave?

Yes, you can sterilize gauze, but it’s important to load it in a way that allows for proper steam penetration. Saturated steam under pressure will decontaminate the material, while vacuum cycles can assist in both penetration and drying. We also recommend pre-vacuum cycles to ensure sterility of porous or difficult-to-penetrate loads such as red bagged […]

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What types of horizontal autoclaves do you manufacture?

Our horizontal autoclaves come in a variety of different configurations, including tower, pass-thru, hinged, and vertical sliding models.

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Can gloves be autoclaved?

Yes, autoclaving is suitable for reusable gloves made of heat-resistant materials, such as neoprene or silicone. It is inadvisable to autoclave disposable gloves made of latex or nitrile prior to use, as steam sterilization can degrade the material and cause loss of barrier integrity, rendering them unusable; however, these gloves can be autoclaved after use, […]

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Can surgical drapes be autoclaved?

Yes, autoclaving is a common method for sterilizing surgical drapes. Consider the fabric type (woven vs. non-woven) and packaging method to ensure consistent steam contact and select an adequate drying cycle.

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What equipment is used to decontaminate biological waste?

Gravity and vacuum-assisted steam autoclaves are both used to decontaminate waste, depending on the density and composition of the load. Autoclaves for biological waste often include integrated containment features, biological indicator monitoring, and programmable cycles to validate sterilization efficiency.

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What are the standards for autoclaving biomedical waste?

Autoclaves for medical and biological waste must meet state-specific regulatory standards, which generally require specific biological verification and cycle parameters. ANSI/AAMI ST55 and CDC guidelines may also inform operational protocols, especially in clinical environments.

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What type of waste must never be put through an autoclave?

Autoclaves are not suitable for sterilizing corrosive chemicals, volatile materials, or radioactive waste, as these materials can release hazardous fumes or may require alternative treatment methods such as incineration or chemical neutralization.

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Are Consolidated’s autoclaves capable of sterilizing biohazardous materials in biocontainment facilities?

Yes. Our pass-thru autoclaves are an ideal choice for biocontainment facilities because they feature: Two doors that allow for the flow of goods from a contained room to a non-contained room An electro-mechanical interlocking mechanism that prevents both doors from opening at the same time, even in the event of power or utility loss A […]

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How do you sterilize liquid media?

It’s important to autoclave liquid loads using a specialized liquid cycle. This cycle applies high-pressure saturated steam for a specified time and includes a slow exhaust phase to reduce the risk of boil-over. Place media in loosely capped autoclavable containers to allow for proper steam penetration and pressure equalization. Additionally, load all liquids in secondary […]

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12.10.25

AAMI ST108 Compliance

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 […]

11.6.25

Critical Water for Autoclaves

AAMI ST108 & Critical Water for Autoclaves: What ASCs Need to Know →

A major step forward in patient safety, ANSI/AAMI ST108 establishes new minimum water quality requirements for water used in the cleaning, rinsing, disinfection, and sterilization of reusable medical devices. Despite providing guidance on water quality management for sterile processing, ST108 has also created confusion, especially regarding test protocols, water treatment, and critical water requirements. In […]

10.20.25

woman with long dark hair wearing a white lab coat and blue rubber gloves removes trays from an autoclave

What Is an Autoclave Machine Really Used for? [Applications, Costs & More] →

Autoclave machines are mission-critical equipment in a variety of industries, from healthcare to biotech, ensuring equipment and materials are sterilized and safe for use. Whether you’re considering purchasing an autoclave for a new facility, replacing a broken one, or expanding your current sterilization capacity, understanding the ins and outs of autoclave technology is key to […]
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