What is the autoclave meaning?
Definition of autoclave (Entry 1 of 2) : an apparatus in which special conditions (such as high or low pressure or temperature) can be established for a variety of applications especially : an apparatus (as for sterilizing) using steam under high pressure.
What is the meaning of holding time in autoclaving?
The required temperature is usually set to 121℃ or 134℃. This phase is called sterilization time, or holding time, since now is the time when the actual sterilization takes place. This may take around 3-20 minutes, depending on the size and contents of the load.
What is the importance of autoclave?
An autoclave is a device that uses steam to kill spores, harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses on items kept inside a pressure vessel for a prescribed length of time. Maintaining a sterile work environment is a key priority for a research facility or laboratory. This makes autoclaves not only useful but indispensable.
Why is it called autoclave?
The autoclave was invented by Charles Chamberland in 1879, although a precursor known as the steam digester was created by Denis Papin in 1679. The name comes from Greek auto-, ultimately meaning self, and Latin clavis meaning key, thus a self-locking device.
What is autoclaving in hospital?
Autoclaves are closed chambers that apply heat and sometimes pressure and steam, over a period of time to sterilize medical equipment. Autoclaves have been used for a century to sterilize medical instruments for reuse. Surgical knives and clamps, for instance, are put in autoclaves for sterilization.
Why do we autoclave for 15 minutes?
Autoclaving (121 °C, 15 minutes) in moist heat is convenient but requires a loose closure, to allow the steam to replace all the air during the temperature rise, and to prevent plastic bottles from collapsing when cooling.
What is the best definition of sterilization?
Definition of Terms. Sterilization describes a process that destroys or eliminates all forms of microbial life and is carried out in health-care facilities by physical or chemical methods.
What can be autoclaved?
Can Be Sterilized in an Autoclave
- Surgical Instruments.
- Glassware.
- Autoclavable Plastic Ware.
- Centrifuge Tubes.
- Pipette Tips.
- Chemical Solutions.
- Water (commonly used for animal consumption)
- Animal Food and Bedding.