b. Principles of Operation. Each cycle goes through the same series of
phases: ready, conditioning, exposure, exhaust, and complete. The cycle indicator
light labeled "A" in figure 1-5 stays lit during each phase. The following simplified
explanations provide you with a general knowledge of what happens in each phase of
the three cycles (wrapped goods, unwrapped goods, and liquid).
(1) Wrapped goods cycle.
(a)
Ready. When proper conditions are reached, the unit is ready.
(b) Conditioning. Steam purges the chamber of air for a set time
depending on the size of the sterilizer. The load is then conditioned by three successive
pressure and negative pulses.
(c) Exposure. Steam heats and pressurizes the chamber at the
required temperature for the selected time.
(d) Exhaust. Chamber pressure is vented and vacuum drawn to dry
the load for the selected time. After the drying time expires, the chamber is returned to
atmospheric pressure.
(e) Complete. The gasket retracts in 30 seconds, and a buzzer sounds
to alert you to manually open the door. On a double door unit, press either unseal door
switch after the buzzer sounds for both gaskets to retract.
(2)
Unwrapped instruments cycle (16 x 16).
(a)
Ready. When the proper conditions are reached, the unit is ready.
(b) Conditioning. Steam purges the chamber of air for 60 seconds.
The chamber is then heated to the selected temperature.
(c) Exposure. The chamber is maintained at the required temperature
for the selected exposure time.
(d) Exhaust. Chamber pressure is vented, and a vacuum is drawn to
dry the load for the selected time. After the drying time expires, the chamber is returned
to atmospheric pressure.
(e) Complete. The gasket retracts in 30 seconds, and a buzzer sounds
to alert you to manually open the door. On a double door unit, press either unseal door
switch after the buzzer sounds for both gaskets to retract.
MD0354
1-18