Dear Doctor:
Thank you very much for the trust which you have shown by purchasing this autoclave.
For 50 years now, MELAG — a medium-sized family-owned and -operated company —
has specialized in the production of sterilization equipment for medical practice. During
this period, MELAG has succeeded in becoming a leading manufacturer of sterilization
equipment. More than 335 000 MELAG units sold throughout the world testify to the
exceptional quality of our sterilizers. — which are manufactured exclusively in Germany.
As all other MELAG products, this autoclave was manufactured and tested according to
strict quality criteria. Before placing this unit into operation, please read this Operating
Manual carefully. The long-term functional effectiveness and the preservation of the
value of your autoclave will depend on careful preparation of instruments before
sterilization, and on proper care of the unit.
The staff and management of MELAG
Page 2
To ensure the functional effectiveness of this
unit and to preserve its value:
1. Prepare the instruments to be sterilized carefully
2. Take proper care of the autoclave
3. Use only pure distilled or demineralized water
CONTENTS
1 DESCRIPTION OF THE UNIT........................................................................................................................4
1.1 Views of the unit........................................................................................................................................4
1.2 Control panel.............................................................................................................................................5
2.1 Setting up the autoclave...........................................................................................................................6
2.2 Transport ribbons......................................................................................................................................6
2.4 Mains power supply..................................................................................................................................8
2.5 Outlet connection for one-way water........................................................................................................8
2.6 Internal water supply with demineralized/distilled water...........................................................................8
2.7 Connection of a water purification system................................................................................................8
3.1.2 Initialisation of the printer / Setting up immediate print-out..............................................................8
3.2 Test run.....................................................................................................................................................8
4 INSTRUCTIONS FOR ALL STERILIZATION PROCEDURES......................................................................9
4.1 Electricity and water supplies ...................................................................................................................9
4.1.1 Distilled or demineralized feed water...............................................................................................9
4.1.2 Power supply....................................................................................................................................9
4.2 Preparing instruments for sterilization ......................................................................................................9
4.3 Loading the autoclave.............................................................................................................................10
4.4 Closing the door......................................................................................................................................11
4.5 Program selection...................................................................................................................................11
4.6 Program start ..........................................................................................................................................12
4.7 Program progress...................................................................................................................................12
4.8 Print-out record .......................................................................................................................................14
4.9 Removing the sterilized items.................................................................................................................15
5 CLOSING DOWN / TRANSPORT / REINSTALLATION .............................................................................18
Page 2
Page 3
Operating-manual Euroklav
6 SPECIAL FUNCTIONS.................................................................................................................................19
6.1 Water quality (conductivity) / Chamber preheating temperature............................................................19
6.2 Selecting extra drying .............................................................................................................................19
6.3 Records / Load documentation...............................................................................................................19
6.3.1 Record print-out ............................................................................................................................. 19
6.3.7 Test print-out..................................................................................................................................26
6.4 Resetting date and time..........................................................................................................................27
6.6 Total load count ......................................................................................................................................30
6.7 Distilled / demineralized water supply.....................................................................................................31
6.9 Program modifications............................................................................................................................ 32
7 SPECIAL FUNCTIONS.................................................................................................................................33
7.1 What to do if the autoclave malfunctions...............................................................................................33
7.2 Malfunctions without display messages ................................................................................................33
7.2.1 No display.......................................................................................................................................33
7.2.2 Excessive water consumption........................................................................................................33
9.2.3.2 Energy / Water consumption ...............................................................................................44
9.3 Instructions on drying.............................................................................................................................45
9.3.1 Drying in sterilization containers....................................................................................................45
1.1 Views of the unit _____________________________________________________
15
14
13
1
16 17
Front-view
12
11
10
9
8
7
Rear-view
2
3
4
5
6
Side-view
®
Fig. 1 Views of the Euroklav
1 Safety valve l 9 Fuses - 2 x 16 A / FF
2 Sterile filter 10 Power switch
water supply
4 One-way water outlet (3/4") 13 Door (left side hinge)
distilled water supply 15 Tank lid
6 Mains power cable 16 Outlet connection for wastewater
7 Adjustable front feet 17 Outlet for distilled / demineralized water
8 Serial data and printer port ( RS 232 )
Page 4
29-S
11 Overheating trip-switch, steam generator 3 Connection for internal distilled / demineralized
12 Sliding door lock
14 Control panel 5 Pipe connection for internal demineralized /
Page 5
Operating-manual Euroklav
1.2 Control panel ________________________________________________________
2 x 20- alphanumeric LED-display, s
program status, and parameters for basic
and special functions
Fig. 2 Control panel Euroklav
Buttons for selecting, adjusting and
displaying special functions:
Printing, date/time, pre-heating,
total loads, conductivity, re-setting
29-S
for sterilization programs/ test programs
and for selecting options (sub-menus) of the
1.3 Technical data _______________________________________________________
Sterilization space (diameter x depth ) : 25cm x 36cm
Electric power supply : 2500W / 230V AC / 13 A / 50....60Hz
Sterilization pressure / temperature : 2bar/134°C; 1bar/121°C
Maximum load: : 3kg instruments or 0.5kg textiles
Further technical details are included in the Annex
howing
Program
Program selection
special functions
Start - Stop
Start - stop buttons to start
and interrupt programs,
drying, and to control special
functions
®
29-S
1.4 Performance features of this autoclave __________________________________
With the pulsed flow method which is used steam flows into and then out of the autoclave to ensure effective
penetration of the items to be sterilized by superheated steam.
This makes it possible to carry out demanding sterilization tasks rapidly and reliably, such as for example the
sterilization of wrapped instruments or textiles.
The stream penetration can be tested by implementing a special test program for the Bowie & Dick Test,
which is the standard test for large-scale sterilization. operations..
1.4.2 Operating range for sterilization ____________________________________________________
The Euroklav
(for wrapped objects), the “Prion Program” (a special Universal Program), the “Quick Program” for unwrapped
items, and the “Gentle Program” (a sterilization program for textiles and rubber articles at 121°C). The user
can at any time perform an additional functional check of the autoclave by running the Bowie & Dick Test for
steam penetration. The additional program "MELAsteam
temperature of 136°C.
The powerful steam generation in the sterilization chamber makes it possible to sterilize large loads of
instruments or textiles in a short time. This system of steam generation means that excess temperatures in the
sterilized chamber are not possible.
1.4.4 One-way/Closed-loo p system/ Conductivity measurement/ Automatic water refilling _________
The Euroklav
and all dissolved impurities are led away at the end of every sterilization cycle, and fresh demineralized or
distilled water is then used. This is particularly good for all the materials used. However, in some instances it is
also important to use less water, and the Euroklav
mode. In this case the used water flows from the left side of the double-chamber storage container over the
separating wall into the right-hand chamber. This water is then used again in the next sterilization cycle. With
the closed-loop operation it is important that the instruments to be sterilized have been very carefully washed
and swilled in purified water. The water in the autoclave must also be exchanged once a week.
An integrated electrical conductivity meter monitors the quality of the demineralized or distilled water used to
generate the steam. Using the recommended one-way operation for the autoclave, the increased consumption
of demineralized or distilled water can be provided by a water purifier such as the MELAdem
MELAdem
Provided that the instruments are prepared carefully for the sterilization, stains on the load and soiling of the
autoclave itself can be prevented.
®
29-S features three sterilization programs for temperatures at 134°C: the “Universal Program”
®
" is available as an option, and functions at a
®
29-S can be operated in the tried and tested one-way system, in which steam, condensed water
®
29-S can also be used in a water-conserving closed-loop
®
37, which can be directly connected to the autoclave.
®
47 or
Page 5
Page 6
1.4.5 Electronic Parameter Control EPS ___________________________________________________
The microprocessor in the Euroklav
®
29-S makes it possible to monitor pressure, temperature and time
continuously during a program by Electronic Parameter Control The overall operating time can then be
optimised according the load and the temperature of the autoclave.
The process assessment and monitoring system in the program control compare current process parameters
with standard process data and monitors the process relative to limit values for temperatures, times and
pressures. This makes it possible to identify faults as they occur, and provides quality assurance for the
sterilization process.
By activating the "pre-heating" function, the cold autoclave chamber can be warmed up before sterilization, or
the temperature can be maintained between sterilization runs. This reduces the duration of cycles and
considerably reduces the formation of condensation, thus improving drying results.
The electronic memory stores records of the previous 40 programs.
For effective hard-copy documentation and for checking purposes a MELAprint
®
42 printer can be connected to
print out a record immediately after completion of a program or to print out records from the memory.
2 Installation
When setting-up and installing the autoclave, please consult the separate instruction leaflet "Installing the
Euroklav
®
29-S".
2.1 Setting up the autoclave ______________________________________________
The autoclave should be set up in a dry place which is protected against dust.
The base should be stable, and able to support the weight of the appliance (unloaded weight 40 kg).
The space required by the autoclave can be seen from the external dimensions (as in Section 1.1). A
minimum additional space of 10 cm should be allowed on either side and above the autoclave in order to
ensure that heat can escape.
The electrical power supply should be a separate 230V AC circuit with a 16 A fuse.
Should it be decided at some stage to install an automatic one-way water system, it is necessary to have a
connection to the wastewater plumbing near the autoclave, preferably a wall outlet (NW 40) or a sink-trap
(standard length of outflow pipe 2m, 16 mm width). The work surface on which the autoclave stands must be
higher than the outlet, and the outlet pipe must be without bends and twists which could prevent water flowing
out freely. At the same time, the work surface must provide convenient access to the autoclave, and the
display must be clearly visible.
The autoclave can be supplied with demineralized/distilled water from the integrated two chamber storage
tank, with freshwater and wastewater chambers. Alternatively, the Euroklav
external water purifier - MELAdem
®
47 or MELAdem®37 (or an equivalent water purification system). However,
®
29-S can also be connected to an
please note that this will require additional space.
2.2 Transport ribbons ____________________________________________________
Take the autoclave out of the packaging by means of the transport ribbons. The ribbons themselves are each
removed by undoing two retaining screws, which must then be screwed firmly back in place without washers.
In order to ensure that condensate can drain out of the autoclave (which is important if it is to operate properly)
the appliance must have be higher at the front than at the back. The autoclave should first be installed in a
horizontal position (this should be checked with a spirit level at the chamber flange) and then the front feet
should be extended by giving them three (3) turns.
1
®
29-S
Rear view
9
8
2
3
4
5
6
7
Fig. 3 Installation of the Euroklav
29-S with wall-mounted trap
1 Tank lid
2 One-way outlet
3 Connection for internal supply of demineralized/distilled water
4 Pipe link for internal supply of demineralized/distilled water
5 Y-connection with non-return valve (included in Item 6 )
6 Wall-mounted trap (MELAG- Art.- No.: 37410)
7 Wall outlet (NW 40)
8 Supply line for external supply of demineralized/distilled water
9 Mains power supply
Page 7
Page 8
2.4 Mains power supply __________________________________________________
The electric cable of the appliance is plugged into a mains socket rated at 230 V, 50 Hz. The power rating of
the autoclave is 2500 W. In order to avoid overloading the electricity supply, we recommend using a separate
electrical circuit fitted with a 16 A fuse and optionally protected with a 30mA circuit breaker.
2.5 Outlet connection for one-way water ____________________________________
The connection for the one-way water outlet at the back of the appliance is connected to the drainage system
of the building by means of the outlet pipe (textile-reinforced transparent pipe, DN16). It is important that the
pipe should have a steady downward gradient, without twists and kinks.
When connecting to a separate outflow pipe NW40, a wall-mounted trap should be used (MELAG Art.-No.
37410, see Fig. 3).
2.6 Internal water supply with demineralized/distilled water ____________________
The internal supply of demineralized/distilled water is used for the autoclave in closed-loop operation (see
page 44, Fig. 4), the water is extracted from the right chamber of internal water storage tank. The autoclave is
supplied with a pipe link with two swivel connections installed to connect the storage tank outlet with the inlet
for demineralized/distilled water. To fill the tank the lid must be removed and the demineralized/distilled water
of suitable purity filled into the right-hand chamber until the Max mark.
2.7 Connection of a water purification system _______________________________
The autoclave can be connected directly to a water purification unit which provides the demineralized or
distilled water required (see page 44, Fig. 4). Instead of connecting the feed water inlet to a storage container,
it is simply connected directly to the water purification unit.
The reverse-osmosis system MELAdem
the quantity and quality of water needed for the Euroklav
Detailed instructions on the installation of these water purification units are provided in their operating
manuals.
When connecting water purification systems from other manufacturers it is very important to ensure that they
are able to provide sufficient amounts of water at the required purity. You are generally advised to consult
MELAG first.
®
47 and the ion-exchanger MELAdem®37 are ideally suited to provide
3.1.1 Connecting the MELAprint®42 ______________________________________________________
The autoclave can be connected to an external printer, the MELAprint
with the autoclave.
In order to connect the printer to the autoclave follow the description in Section 6.3.1.1.1.
3.1.2 Initialisation of the printer / Setting up immediate print-out ______________________________
Initialise the external printer (registering with the processing unit of the autoclave) as described in Section
6.3.1.1.2 .In order to select the immediate print-out option, which means that a record of each sterilization is
printed out automatically as soon as it has finished, proceed as described in Section 6.3.1.3.
3.2 Test run ____________________________________________________________
In order to check the operation of the autoclave under realistic conditions, a test run should be carried out with
the "Universal Program, 134°C wrapped" and a relevant load. After loading the autoclave and selecting the
program with the "Program" button, sterilization is started by pushing the "Start/Stop“ button. If the program
runs correctly, the following message will appear on the display (see Section 4.7):
with the values for the maximum values for pressure and temperature. If the immediate printout option has
been selected for an external printer a record of the program run will be printed.
Universal-Program
successfully
®
42. This is not supplied as standard
Program
Start-Stop
3.3 Installation record ____________________________________________________
As documentation that the autoclave has been set-up properly, an installation record should be produced by
an authorised person and a copy sent to MELAG. This is important in the event that you wish to make claims
under warranty provisions.
When opening the door, particularly after interrupting the drying process, residual steam can escape from
the autoclave chamber.
After opening the door, do not touch any metal surfaces - these will be hot! Danger of burns. Always use
the tray lifter to remove trays, or wear suitable hand protectors when taking out other items
If you install the optional water purifier MELAdem
water leak detector (see installation details Section 2).
If you intend to install a water purification unit from another manufacturer, then consult MELAG before you
do so.
The appliance is not suitable for sterilizing liquids.
Under current VDE-regulations, this appliances is not suited for use in areas where there are risks of
explosion.
The appliance must only be serviced and repaired by MELAG or by its authorised representatives
(specialist dealers or customer services) using only original parts and following service instructions.
Before opening the housing always disconnect from the mains power supply!
In order to ensure effective sterilization with the autoclave observe the instructions in this operating manual,
and in particular ensure that the loading of the autoclave is appropriate for the program select ed.
®
47 or MELAdem®37 we recommend the installation of a
®
29-S
4 Instructions for all sterilization procedures
4.1 Electricity and water supplies __________________________________________
4.1.1 Distilled or demineralized feed water ________________________________________________
The autoclave automatically monitors the availability of cooling water and purified water, as well as the quality
of the distilled / demineralized water before starting a program.
In order to allow an immediate program start and to avoid error reports or interruptions of programs (see
Sections: 7.3 and 7.4) :
Before the first sterilization at the start of the working day, check that the internal water supply has
sufficient water in the right chamber of the double internal tank. If necessary, refill with water of appropriate
quality (see Section 8.3.2).
If the feed water is drawn directly from a MELAdem
on in good time (this may be up to an hour before starting a sterilization program), if the water supply has
been turned off over night, for example.
4.1.2 Power supply ____________________________________________________________________
Switch on the power using the switch on the front of the autoclave (bottom right). About 15 seconds after the
message "Please wait Door release“ the appliance is in the start status:
(Steam)-Temperature (°C)
Time (h:min:s)
Pressure (bar)
®
47 water purifier, check that its water supply is turned
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
0.02bar 25°C
4.2 Preparing instruments for sterilization ___________________________________
MELAG - rust-free materials
All parts of the Euroklav
pressure chamber and the door of stainless steel, steam pipes of Teflon, and screws and magnet-valves of
bronze.
Film rust
The use of these materials means that no parts of the autoclave can initiate rust formation. Where rust does
attack the autoclave or instruments sterilized in it, tests repeatedly show that this has been brought into the
autoclave on instruments (film rust).
Even top-quality stainless steel instruments can form rust if they are not handled properly, e.g. if they are
treated with the wrong chemical cleaning or disinfecting agents.
Preparing items for sterilization
The example of the formation of film rust shows how important it is to prepare items properly before
sterilization.
Handpieces and contra-angles must be cleaned before sterilization and maintained (e.g. by oiling).
Other instruments must be disinfected and cleaned immediately after use in accordance with UVV/VBG 103,
or similarly strict national codes of practice in a disinfectant and/or cleaning solution at the correct
concentration for the correct length of time
®
29-S which come into contact with steam are made on non-rusting materials: the
Page 9
Page 10
MELAG recommends the use of cleaning aids such as ultrasonic baths, cleaning and maintenance equipment
for handpieces for contra-angles, as well as thermo-disinfecting devices.
It is essential that the instruments are well cleaned in order to avoid dirt and contamination being separated
from the load in the autoclave and clogging filters, valves, and nozzles. In particular locks, joints, and hinges
must be cleaned thoroughly with a brush before sterilization. No traces of cleaning and disinfecting agents
should be allowed to enter into the sterilization chamber of the autoclave, since this can give rise to corrosion!
The instruments should be swilled off with demineralized water and then dried off before being loaded in the
autoclave. Turbines and handpieces must be oiled in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions in order
to ensure their long working life.
Brand-new instruments
The cleaning procedures described above must also be followed before sterilizing brand-new instruments.
These often carry small amounts of grease, oil and soiling from the manufacturing process.
Important: Carefully follow all instructions provided by manufacturers of instruments for the preparation of
their products for first-time sterilization and for subsequent sterilizations.
4.3 Loading the autoclave ________________________________________________
It is of crucial importance for effective sterilization and good drying that the autoclave is loaded properly:
When loading the autoclave, take account of the following points:
Tray rack
For the Euroklav
Mount "B" (MELAG-Art.-No.: 40234) for up to 4 trays or 4 standard tray-cassettes.
Mount "C" (MELAG-Art.-No.: 40232) for up to 6 trays or 3 standard tray-cassettes.
Both types of tray rack are also suitable for the MELAG-sterilization containers Type 15K,M,G; Type 17K,
Type 17R; Type 23R Type 28M,G).
Normally, the autoclave should be used in conjunction with a tray rack, since this ensures that steam
penetration and drying are as good as possible. In exceptional situations (e.g. when using sterilization
containers from other manufacturers), and after consultation with your specialist dealer or with MELAG, the
tray rack can be removed and the container can be placed directly in the autoclave chamber.
For the sterilization of instruments sealed in transparent sterilization wrapping, it is recommended that you
use the foil stand MELAG-Art.-No.: 22410. This contributes considerably to the drying process for such
wrapped instruments.
Trays
Trays for objects which are to be sterilized must be perforated, in order to allow condensation to run away.
MELAG-trays are recommended. If you use dishes or trays without perforations, then the objects being
sterilized will not dry properly.
Enclosed sterilization containers
Enclosed sterilization containers must be perforated on at least one side (preferably underneath) or must have
valves, in order to ensure that steam can penetrate and condensate can run out. All MELAG-sterilization
containers meet these requirements with perforations on two sides and filter-clot h- inlays.
Sterilization containers which only have perforations on the top only allow limited drying.
If sterilization containers are stacked in the autoclave, it is important to ensure that the perforations are not
blocked.
Transparent sterilization packaging
If you use transparent sterilization packaging, such as MELAfol
vertically on the tray, or sterilized in foil holders (MELAG-Art.-No.: 22410). They should never be laid flat one
on top of the other.
If seals split open during sterilization it may be necessary to increase the length of the impulse on the sealing
device or to use a double-seal.
Standard tray-cassettes sealed in MELAfol
that the side-seals do not split open.
Multiple wrapping
The pulsed flow method means it is possible to use multiple wrapping.
Maximum loads
Loads should not exceed 3 kg of instruments or 0.5 kg of textiles.
Mixed loads
If mixed loads of textiles and instruments are to be sterilized, then as far as possible the textiles should be
above the instruments and direct contact with the instruments should be avoided.
Inclusion of textiles and instruments in the same sterilization container is not desirable.
Textiles should never come into direct contact with the walls of the chamber.
If different types of packaging are included in a load, then:
Instruments and sterilization containers should be at the bottom
Transparent and paper sterilization packaging should be at the top (but lower than textiles)
®
29-S there are 2 types of tray rack:
®
(250 mm wide) must be taped and clasped additionally to ensure
®
, then the items should if possible be stood
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Operating-manual Euroklav
Liquids
The appliance is not suitable for the sterilization of liquids!
Suitability for sterilization
Relevant information provided by manufacturers of instruments and textiles about sterilization should be
strictly observed.
4.4 Closing the door _____________________________________________________
The door is closed by lightly applying pressure in the direction of the chamber flange and at the same time
pressing down the sliding door catch. The display shows the message:
Door
closed
Program
4.5 Program selection ___________________________________________________
A program should be selected which is appropriate for the physical properties of the items being sterilized (and
in particular their heat resistance) and the type of packaging (if any part of the load is wrapped, then either the
"Universal Program" or the "Gentle Program" must be used).
By pressing the "Program selection" button it is possible to review the display of the following programs for
selection:
Parameter/Application Program name/Display message
Universal program at 134°C, 2 bar, and a
sterilization time of 3.5 min for the sterilization of
wrapped items, in particular instruments (no Hollow
A), or mixed loads (unwrapped/wrapped)
Universal Program
134°C wrapped
Start-Stop
Program
®
29-S
Quick Program at 134°C, 2 bar and a sterilization time of 3.5 min for the sterilization only of
unwrapped instruments (no Hollow A, no textiles)
for rapid re-use (drying can be interrupted manually)
Gentle Program at 121°C, 1 bar , sterilization time
15 min for the sterilization of all types of wrapped
items (except Hollow A), in particular large amounts
of textiles or thermolabile materials (plastic, rubber),
or mixed loads (wrapped/unwrapped)
Bowie & Dick Test Program at 134°C, 2 bar and a
sterilization time of 3.5 min. to check the operation of
the autoclave (Steam penetration of special
indicators)
Prion Program (a special Universal Program) at
134°C, 2 bar, and with sterilization time extended to
20 min, for sterilization of wrapped items, especially
instruments and/or mixed loads (i.e., packed and
unpacked). This program is recommended for
sterilization of instruments used in situations in
which the danger of infection by pathologically
modified proteins is suspected: for example,
Creutzfeld-Jacob and BSE).
MELAsteam Cleaning at 136°C, 2.3 bar, and a
maximum cleaning time of 60 min., for the steam
cleaning of instruments that have already been
disinfected.
CAUTION: Use only together with a permanently
installed MELAsteam
system is disabled.
See the Operator’s Manual for MELAsteam
®
Pistol (otherwise the
®
.
Quick Program
134°C unwrapped
Gentle Program
121°C wrapped
Bowie & Dick Test
134°C 2.2bar 3.5min‘
Prion-program
134°C wrapped 20‘
MELAsteam-Cleaning
2.3bar 60‘
Program
Program
Program
Program
Program
Page 11
Page 12
Parameter/Application Program name/Display message
Basic display (no program selected)
Program
15:31:33
0.02bar 22°C
4.6 Program start________________________________________________________
Press the "Start-Stop" button once the desired program is shown on the display. The availability of cooling
water, and feed water will be checked automatically, with a conductivity measurement.
Start
Program
At the start of the quick program there will be an additional message "Warning: Only unwrapped instruments".
This message must be acknowledged by pressing "Start" again.
4.7 Program progress ____________________________________________________
After starting the program, it will then progress automatically. The display shows the current program status as
follows:
Program status
1. Phase 1 and following
Depending on the program chosen and the
temperature of the chamber at the start of
the program, a number of cycles of steam
inflow and outflow follow to ensure
adequate penetration of super-heated
steam into the items being sterilized.
2. Heating phase
A heating-up phase follows. The continuous
introduction of steam raises pressure and
temperature in chamber to the values
needed for the program
Display message
1.Fractionation
0.69 bar 115°C
Heat up
1.80 bar 117°C
Start-Stop
Program
Program
Start-Stop
Start-Stop
3.Sterilization phase
When the required pressure and
temperature have been reached the
sterilization proper then begins.
The display shows alternately the pressure
and temperature and the time remaining.
4. Pressure release
After completion of the sterilization time, the
pressure is released and the steam
generator emptied.
Pressure and temperature fall.
5.1st drying phase (Flow drying)
After pressure release the drying phase
begins.
Throughout the drying phases the program
can be ended without an error report, since
the sterilization itself has been completed.
However, with the exception of the "Quick
Program" you should normally wait until the
drying is completed..
Program
Start-Stop
Sterilization
2.18 bar 135°C
Program
Start-Stop
Sterilization
Still 2 min 12 sec
Program
Start-Stop
Pressure release
0.85 bar 96°C
Program
Start-Stop
Flow drying
1' 0.9bar 85°C
Program
Start-Stop
Immediate removal
Press 'Stop'
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Page 13
®
29-S
Program status
7.Program end
After ventilation of the chamber the
program is completed.
If a printer is attached and print-out "yes" is
selected, the record will be printed-out
immediately.
After the door has automatically unlocked
the door can be opened to remove the
sterilized objects.
Display message
Operating-manual Euroklav
Program
Start-Stop
Quick Program
Succesfully run
Program
Start-Stop
Please wait
Door unlocking
Program
Start-Stop
Open door
please
Page 13
Page 14
4.8 Print-out record ______________________________________________________
The print-out record contains the following information:
Program
Date
Time of start
Running load number for the day
Pre-heating temperature
Conductivity of purified feed water
Program phases with the values for steam
pressure and temperature, and time (relative to
program start)
Final report
Mean sterilization temperature/ deviations
Mean sterilization pressure / deviations
Duration of sterilization
Time at end of program
Info-line with total number of loads,
Works number and software version.
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Operating-manual Euroklav
4.9 Removing the sterilized items __________________________________________
After opening the door the sterilized items can be removed.
Be careful when removing the sterilized items! Touching the metal surfaces can lead to burns. Always use the
appropriate aids to lift the trays (MELAG-tray lever, standard tray-lifter) or wear suitable hand protection.
After removing wrapped sterile items, the wrapping should be checked for any signs of damage. If it is
defective (e.g. split seals) then the sterilization of the items must be repeated after the items have been rewrapped.
It is important for sterile storage that the items have been properly dried. The Euroklav
good drying if the program has not been interrupted before its completion and the autoclave has been properly
loaded (see Section 4.2). Directly after sterilization there may still be residual condensation on the items or the
container. Because the items are hot on removal, this will usually evaporate quickly. The German industrial
standard DIN 58953 Part 7 Section 7 contains the following comment about residual moisture on paper
wrapping or transparent sterilization paper after sterilization: "...small amounts of water on the wrapping are
unproblematic, provided they have evaporated within 30 minutes after removal from the steam sterilizer....."
After cooling, wrapped sterilized objects should be stored in a place where they are protected from dust (e.g.
instrument cupboard). Given proper storage, DIN 58953 Part 7 gives the following guidelines for the maximum
storage periods for sterilized objects: in basic wrapping (e.g. transparent sterilization foil) up to 6 weeks; in
double-wrapping up to 6 months.
®
29-S provides very
®
29-S
4.11 Sterilization frequency / pauses ________________________________________
After completing or terminating the drying phase, the autoclave can be reloaded and started immediately.
However, continuous operation can lead to increased development of water vapour from the water storage
tank. This is not harmful for the Euroklav
cm) and it is not fully enclosed (e.g. in a cupboard). In order to reduce formation of water vapour it is advisable
to have a 20 min pause between loads.
The Euroklav
around it.
®
29-S should never be installed in an enclosed position, and should always have sufficient space
®
29-S provided there is sufficient space around it for ventilation (10-20
Page 15
Page 16
4.12 Manual termination of program _________________________________________
4.12.1 Termination of sterilization _________________________________________________________
A program can be terminated at any time by pressing the "Start-Stop" button. If the program has not yet
reached the drying phase then the items will be non-sterile! Warning! Steam may escape when the autoclave door is opened.
If the sterilization phase of the program had not been completed, then it is advisable to carry out an empty
sterilization run before reusing the autoclave.
Operation
1. Press the "Start-Stop" button
Display
To confirm, press the "Start-Stop" once
again within 5 seconds.
If no confirmation is given then the
program resumes normally.
Program
Start-Stop
Stop program?
Press 'Stop'
2.
If confirmation is given then the program
stops.
The pressure inside the autoclave will
then be equalised by pressure release.
3. After pressure equalisation, the display
will alternately show the messages
"Terminated" and an offer to quit the
program termination.
4. To undo the program termination, press
the " - " button.
- Otherwise,
After the message "Please wait, Door
unlocking", the display for the selected
program reappears.
A program can also be terminated during the drying phase, Since in this case the sterilization has been
completed, the items in this case can be treated as sterilized.
However, depending on the stage at which the drying program is interrupted, the load may not have dried
sufficiently, and wrapped items in particular may not be dry enough for sterile storage. We therefore
recommend that you do not interrupt the drying process for wrapped items in the "Universal Program" or
"Gentle Program".
With the "Quick Program" it may be desirable to interrupt the drying program so that items can be used again.
The unwrapped items will dry as they are cooling down.
Warning! If the drying process is interrupted than steam may be released when the door of the autoclave is
opened.
Operation
1.
Display
The autoclave is in the drying phase.
The display shows the drying time
alternately with
the option to terminate the drying phase
Program
Start-Stop
Pulsing drying
3' –0.9bar 68°C
Program
Start-Stop
Immediate removal
®
29-S
Press 'Stop'
2. Press the "Start-Stop" button
To confirm, press the "Start-Stop" once
again within 5 secs.
If no confirmation is given then the
program resumes normally.
3.
If the "Start-Stop" button has been
pressed again to confirm then the
program terminates.
4 After the ventilation of the chamber the
display shows that the program has
been successfully completed.:
alternately with:
If a printer is connected and an
immediate report has been selected,
this is printed-out, together with
confirmation that the drying process
has been terminated.
Program
Start-Stop
Stop program
Press 'Stop'
Program
Start-Stop
Drying
stopped
Program
Start-Stop
Quick program
Run succesfully
Program
Start-Stop
Open door
please
Program
Start-Stop
Drying
stopped
Page 17
Page 18
4.13 Reaction to warnings / error messages __________________________________
The Euroklav®29-S has a number of safety features and an extensive integrated control and monitoring
system, in order to ensure the greatest possible level of safety for the sterilization process, and to eliminate
risks for the patients and operators.
Various aspects of the operation of the appliance, such as pressure and temperature sensors are
automatically checked when the autoclave is switched on.
The power supply, and the quantity and quality of the feed water and cooling water are checked before a
program can start.
A successful program start is followed in the next stages by the monitoring of all parameters of relevance for
the sterilization. If any limit values for the individual program phases are exceeded then there is a malfunction
report and the program is automatically interrupted.
In addition to messages, warnings or malfunction reports on the display, if a printer is connected then a printout will provide details of the type of malfunction and when it occurred.
If any such warning message occurs then you should consult Section 7, which provides detailed advice and
possible operational errors.
In general, the door should only be leant to during operational pauses in order to reduce wear on the door seal
and to avoid premature failure or sticking.
In the event of longer breaks, such as during vacations, the cooling water supply should be turned off (and the
feed water supply from the water purifier if one is connected). We recommend that you do not disconnect the
power supply. You should however set the automatic preheating option to "No" (see Section 6.5) . In this way,
the compresser pump will automatically turn over for a short period at midnight every day, which ensures that
the pump will run smoothly even after longer periods of inoperation.
5 Closing down / Transport / Reinstallation
When closing down and transporting the autoclave you should proceed as follows:
Switch off the power.
Disconnect from the mains, allow the autoclave to cool down.
Empty the internal water storage tank
Turn off cooling water and feed water supplies.
Disconnect pipes at rear of autoclave.
If transporting the autoclave with trays and tray rack assemblies in place, then protect the inside
surface of the door by including a sheet of foam or similar material.
Warning! To avoid damage use the original packaging when transporting the autoclave.
If the appliance may be exposed to frost in transit then follow the relevant service instructions!
When setting the appliance up for reuse after transport or repairs then proceed in accordance with
Sections 2 and 3.
Page 18
Page 19
Operating-manual Euroklav
®
29-S
6 Special functions
6.1 Water quality (conductivity) / Chamber preheating temperature ______________
By repeatedly pressing the "-" button, the preheating temperature of the chamber and the conductivity of the
purified feed water used for steam generation can be displayed alternately.
Operation
1.
Display message
Press down the "-" button to display the
conductivity of the feed water µS/cm
Release the "-" button to return to the
basic display (as shown here) or the
program status
Press the "-" button repeatedly and hold
down:Display shows the pre-heating
temperature of the chamber.
Conductivity
15 S/cm
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0.02 bar 25°C
Temp_Preht_Chamb
120°C
6.2 Selecting extra drying_________________________________________________
The standard drying times for the various programs provide adequate drying if the autoclave has been loaded
correctly (see Section 4.2). Nevertheless, with certain loads residual moisture may remain. By selecting the
"Extra drying" function, the drying time can be extended by 50%:
Operation
At the start of the program, press the
"+" button. The display shows a
message confirming the extra drying,
and then the program runs as
described in Section 4.7, but with 50 %
longer drying time.
Display message
Supplent drying
selected
Program Start-Stop
6.3 Records / Load documentation _________________________________________
In order to document the progress of the sterilization program, then the processor memory stores records of
the last 40 cycles. These records can be downloaded at a later stage via the serial interface (RS232).
When the memory is full (40 program runs) then before the start of the next run the oldest record will
automatically be overwritten. If an external printer is connected (and operable) and the option "Immed. printout? No" has been selected, then confirmation will be requested before the oldest record is overwritten (see
Section 7.3).
Hardware details and the nature of the print-out documentation is provided in the following sub-sections.
6.3.1 Record print-out __________________________________________________________________
6.3.1.1.1 Connecting the external MELAprint®42 printer ______________________________________
In order to connect a printer to the autoclave then a printer cable should be connected between the 9-pole
socket on the front of the autoclave (see page: 4, Fig. 1, Pos. 8) and the 25-pole on the back of the printer
(ensuring a good connection and tightening the locking screws).
The power supply to the printer is provided by the power unit supplied with the printer, which connects to the
socket on the rear of the printer.
The printer is ready for operation when the voltage lamp "P" shines and the status display (On line/Off line)
"SEL". The operating manual of the printer includes further details, including the assembly of an external
paper feed, inserting paper, and the general operation of the printer.
Page 19
Page 20
6.3.1.1.2 Initialising the printer ___________________________________________________________
After connecting the printer to the autoclave it must be registered with the autoclave processing unit
(initialised). Proceed as follows:
Operation
1. Switch on autoclave
2. Hold down "+" button and
3. Press "Program" button,
4. Press "Program" button,
5. Press "+" (or "-") button
Display message
Display shows time,
pressure and temperature
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
sub-menu "Print"
Select "Print" menu submenu "File transmission"
Select "File transmission"
Display shows current
status e.g. "No printer"
until display shows
"External printer"
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
0.02 bar 25°C
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program
Start-Stop
File transmission
No printer
Program
Start-Stop
File transmission
External printer
6. Press "Program" button,
Confirm the setting,
return to "Print" menu
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
7. Press "Start-Stop" button,
return to the "Function"
menu
8. Press "Start-Stop" button,
Quit the "Function" menu
and return to the initial
display
6.3.1.2 Connection to an external PC______________________________________________________
Records and archives can also be kept by using an external PC. This requires a suitable connection between
the serial port of the PC and the printer port of the autoclave.
For data transfer and data processing to a PC you must first install the program MELAwin
6.3.1.2.2 Downloading to a PC ___________________________________________________________
After connecting the autoclave to a PC the print-out option for "External PC" must be selected. Proceed as for
an external printer (see Section 6.3.1.1.2), but under Point 5 use the "+" or "-" button to select the "External
PC" option.
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
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0.02 bar 25°C
®
on the PC.
Page 20
Page 21
Operating-manual Euroklav
6.3.1.3 No printer ______________________________________________________________________
In order to select the option "No printer", proceed as described as in Section 6.3.1.1.2. Under Point 5,
however, use the "+" or "-" button to reach the setting "No printer".
®
29-S
6.3.2 Immed. print-out? Yes/No
When an external printer is fully installed, a print-out can be produced automatically at the end of each
program run by selecting the following options after switching on the autoclave:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
2. Press "Program" button,
Display message
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
sub-menu "Print"
Select "Print" menu submenu "File transmission"
Function:
Print
Print
Program
Program
Start-Stop
Start-Stop
File transmission
3. Press "+" button, select
sub-menu "Immed. printout?" Display shows
current option, here e.g.
"No"
4. The button "Program" can
be used to switch
between "Yes" and "No"
Press "Program" button,
Select "Yes" option
5. Press "Start-Stop" button,
Confirm the setting and
return to "Function"
menu, sub-menu "Print"
Program
Start-Stop
Immed. print-out?
No
Program
Start-Stop
Immed. print-out?
Yes
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
6. Press "Start-Stop" button,
Quit the "Function" menu
and return to the initial
display
Program
Start-Stop
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0.02 bar 25°C
Page 21
Page 22
6.3.3 Printing out stored records
When an external printer is fully installed, a print-out of selected records from the memory can be produced by
selecting the following options after switching on the autoclave:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
submenu "Print""
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
2. Press "Program" button,
Select "Print" menu,
submenu "File
transmission"
3. Press "+" (or "-" ) until the
submenu "Print last
cycle" appears on the
display
4. Press "Program" button,
the cycle record number
flashes
5. To select another
number, press the "-" or
"+" button until the right
number is reached, e.g.
here No. 25
6. Press "Program" button
to start the print-out of the
selected record,
(or to terminate press
"Start-Stop" and return to
the "Function" menu)
7. If you wish to print further
records then return to
Point 4, or...
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program
Start-Stop
Print last cycle:
No. 40
Program
Start-Stop
Print last cycle:
No. 40
Program
Start-Stop
Print cycle
No. 25
Program
Start-Stop
Print
Program
Start-Stop
Print last cycle
No. 40
8. ... to terminate press
"Start-Stop" and return to
the "Function" menu
Press the "Start-Stop"
9.
button to return to the
initial display
Page 22
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:30
0.02 bar 25°C
Page 23
Operating-manual Euroklav
6.3.4 Print all stored cycle records
In order to print-out all stored cycle records (with a fully installed external printer) then select the following
options after switching on the autoclave:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
submenu "Print"
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
®
29-S
2. Press "Program" button,
Select "Print" menu,
submenu "File
transmission"
3. Press "+" (or "-" ) until the
submenu "Print all cycles"
appears on the display
4. Press "Program" button
to start the print-out of all
the stored records (up to
40!), or to terminate press
"Start-Stop" and return to
the "Function" menu
(Once printing has started
termination is only
possibly by switching off
the power!)
5. When the print-out is
complete, the display
again shows the
submenu :
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program
Start-Stop
Print
all cycles
Program
Start-Stop
Print
Program
Start-Stop
Print
stored cycles
6. Press the "Start-Stop"
button to return to the
"Function" menu...
7. ...and then press "Start-
Stop" again to return to
the initial display
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
0.02 bar 25°C
Page 23
Page 24
6.3.5 Display printer memory status ______________________________________________________
With a fully installed external printer, the status of the printer memory can be displayed as follows:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
submenu "Print "
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
2. Press "Program" button,
Select "Print" menu,
submenu "File
transmission"
3. Press "+" (or "-" ) button
until the display shows
the memory status, e.g.:
4. Press the "Start-Stop" to
return to the "Function"
menu "
5. and press "Start-Stop"
again to return to the
starting display
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program
Start-Stop
Allocated: 40
Open: 0
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
-0.02 bar 25°C
Page 24
Page 25
Operating-manual Euroklav
6.3.6 Deleting cycle records
In order to delete cycle records (e.g. in the event of the warning message "Printer memory full", with the option
"Immed. print-out? No", selected (see Section 7.3), then after switching on the appliance proceed as follows:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" ,
Select "Function" menu,
submenu "Print"
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
®
29-S
2. Press "Program" button,
Select "Print" menu,
submenu "Data transfer".
3. Press "+" (or "-" ) until the
display shows "Delete all
cycles".
4. Press the "Program"
button to delete all
records
(or press "Start-Stop" to
terminate).
5. Then press "Start-Stop"
to return to "Function"
menu ...
6. ...and press "Start-Stop"
again to return to the
starting point
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program
Start-Stop
All cycles
delete
Program
Start-Stop
Allocated: 0
Open: 40
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
-0.02 bar 25°C
Page 25
Page 26
6.3.7 Test print-out ______________________________________________________________________
In order to check the printer and its connection to the autoclave, a test print-out can be made as follows:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" ,
Select "Function" menu,
submenu "Print"
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
2. Press "Program" button,
Select "Print" menu,
submenu "File
transmission"
3. Press "+" (or "-" ) until the
display shows "Test
print-out"
4. Then press the
"Program" button for a
test print-out (or press
"Start-Stop" to terminate)
5. Then press "Start-Stop"
to return to the
"Function" menu
6. and press "Start-Stop"
again to return to the
starting position
Program
Start-Stop
Print
File transmission
Program
Start-Stop
Test print-out
Program
Start-Stop
Print-out
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
-0.02 bar 25°C
Page 26
Page 27
Operating-manual Euroklav
6.4 Resetting date and time _______________________________________________
The date and time can be reset if necessary (e.g. winter time / summer time) as follows:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
submenu "Print"
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
®
29-S
2. Press "+" (or "-"), until the
display shows the
submenu "Date/Time".
3. Press "Program", the
display shows the current
hour (24-hour clock)
(here for example 17.00)
by pressing the "+" (or "-")
4.
button the following
options can be selected
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Date / Time
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Hour : 17
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Minutes : 23
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Seconds : 13
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Day : 14
5. After finding the required
option, e.g. "Minute",
press the "Program"
button and the current
value flashes
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Month : 05
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Year : 2000
Program
Start-Stop
Date / Time
Minute : 23
Page 27
Page 28
OperationDisplay message
6. Press "+" or "-" to
increase or reduce the
value:
Date / Time
Minute : 28
Program
Start-Stop
7. Press "Program" to
confirm the new value,
which then stops flashing
If more adjustment are
necessary, return to Point
4 and begin again,
The Euroklav29-S has a preheating function by means of which the autoclave chamber can be heated to the
necessary temperature before a program starts, or can be maintained at this temperature between cycles.
This not only shortens the time for each cycle but also reduces condensation on the walls of the chamber
which helps to provide very good drying performance.
If the automatic preheating is activated, then this begins as soon as the power is switched on.
In the default setting on delivery the automatic preheating is on.
The current setting for the automatic preheating can be changed as follows:
Operation
1. Hold down "+" button and
Display message
also press "-" button.
Select "Function" menu,
sub-menu "Print"
Function:
Print
Program
Start-Stop
®
29-S
2. Press "+" (or "-") until the
display shows the
submenu "autom.
preheating" ..
3. Press "Program", and the
display shows the
current option, here
"Preheating Yes"
4. Pressing the "Program"
button now alternates
between the options
"Preheating Yes/No",
here e.g. "No"
5. When the desired option
has been selected press
"Start-Stop" and return to
the "Function" menu,
then
6. ..press "Start-Stop" again
to return to the starting
point
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
autom. preheating
Program
Start-Stop
Preheating
Yes
Program
Start-Stop
Preheating
No
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
autom. preheating
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
-0.02 bar 25°C
Page 29
Page 30
6.6 Total load count______________________________________________________
The Euroklav29-S keeps a running count of the total number of loads sterilized, and this be displayed as
follows:
Operation Display message
1. Hold down "+" button and
also press "-", select
"Function" menu,
submenu "Print"
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
2. Press "+" (or "-") until the
display shows the
submenu "Sum batch
number".
3. Press "Program", the
display shows the current
total load count, e.g.:
4. Close by pressing "Start-
Stop", and return to the
"Function" menu, then
5. Press "Start-Stop" again
to return to the starting
point
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Sum batch number
Program
Start-Stop
Sum batch number
367
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Sum batch number
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
-0.02 bar 25°C
Page 30
Page 31
Operating-manual Euroklav
6.7 Distilled / demineralized water supply ___________________________________
The Euroklav29-S allows a choice between external and internal distilled / demineralized water, the selection
being made as follows:
Operation Display message
1. Hold down "+" button
and also press "-"
button.
Select "Function"
menu, sub-menu "Print"
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
®
29-S
2. Press "+" or "-" button
until the display shows
the submenu "Water
supply".
3. Press "Program"
button, the display will
show the current
option, here "internal"
4. Pressing the "Program“
button switches
between the options
"internal" and "external"
(press again to return)
5. When the correct option
has been selected,
press the "Start-Stop“
button to return to the
Function menu and ..
The Euroklav29-S also allows the choice between closed-loop and one-way system. In the closed-loop
system the demineralized or distilled water is reused. In the one-way system the demineralized/distilled water
is only used once, which is particularly good for the instruments and the sterilizer, but which leads to increased
water consumption (approx. 500 ml). The water system is selected as follows:
Operation Display message
1. Hold down "+" button
and also press "-"
button.
Select "Function"
menu,
submenu "Print"
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Print
2. Press "+" or "-" until the
display shows the
submenu "Water
system".
3. Press "Program" button
and the display shows
the current option, here
"One way“
4. Press the "Program“ to
switch between the
option "One way" and
"Closed loop" (press
again to return)
5. When the desired
option has been
selected, press the
"Start-Stop“ button to
return to the "Function“
menu and
6. Press the "Start-Stop"
button again to return to
the initial position
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Water system
Program
Start-Stop
Water system
One way
Program
Start-Stop
Water system
circle
Program
Start-Stop
Function:
Water system
Program
Start-Stop
14:27:12
-0.02 bar 25°C
6.9 Program modifications ________________________________________________
The standard programs are designed to meet most practical operational needs (pulsed flow, heating,
sterilization, pressure release, drying, and ventilation) and to display the parameters of most interest
(pressure, temperature, time).
The operator is responsible for ensuring that the autoclave is not overloaded , and that the load is arranged
properly to ensure good drying.
There are two standard options "Automatic preheating" and "Additional drying".
Any further program modification to suit specific individual requirements should only be carried out by
authorised personnel, after consultation with your dealer or with the experts at MELAG.
Page 32
Page 33
Operating-manual Euroklav
®
29-S
7 Special functions
7.1 What to do if the autoclave malfunctions _________________________________
If the autoclave does not seem to be working properly (e.g. poor drying, warnings, or error reports) then follow
these instructions in order to exclude possible operational errors. ..Following these instructions continue to
work with the autoclave. If the malfunction occurs repeatedly then contact our dealer, and authorised MELAG
customer service or contact MELAG directly. You should describe the problem precisely and include the works
number of your appliance.
7.2 Malfunctions without display messages__________________________________
7.2.1 No display _______________________________________________________________________
After switching on the autoclave, the display should show the initial setting (see Section 4.1.2).
If there is no display: Check:
Exchange the two power fuses (page 4, Fig. 1, Pos. 9) under the switch as follows: Disconnect the power
cable and remove the screw cap over the fuses using a screwdriver or a coin. Exchange the fuses (two
reserve fuses are on the inside of the door lining) then replace the screw cap and reconnect the autoclave to
the power supply. If there is still no display when the autoclave is switched on, or if the display blacks out
repeatedly, please inform your specialist dealer. If you exchange the fuses, order two new spare fuses through
your dealer (MELAG-Art. No. 57590).
1. Is the cable plugged into the mains?
2. Is the mains supply OK:? (if necessary check with another appliance).
3. Exchange the two power fuses (page 4, Fig. 1, Pos. 9) under the switch as follows: Disconnect the
power cable and remove the screw cap over the fuses using a screwdriver or a coin. Exchange the
fuses (two reserve fuses are on the inside of the door lining) then replace the screw cap and
reconnect the autoclave to the power supply. If there is still no display when the autoclave is switched
on, or if the display blacks out repeatedly, please inform your specialist dealer. If you exchange the
fuses, order two new spare fuses through your dealer (MELAG-Art. No. 57590).
7.2.2 Excessive water consumption ______________________________________________________
The consumption of distilled or demineralized water will vary depending on the program and the load in the
autoclave. If much more water is consumed than the amount specified in the Annex (see Section 9.2), then
you should:
1. Check that the autoclave has been set up correctly, and is higher at the front, so that condensation can
flow out at the back (see Section 2.3).
2. Check that the condensation outflow is not blocked by dropped, instruments, filter paper, etc. on the floor
of the pressure chamber.
3. If neither of these measures help to reduce water consumption, please inform your specialist dealer.
Good drying depends only on the correct operation of the autoclave, but also on the way the autoclave is
loaded. If drying is not satisfactory:
1. Check that the autoclave has been set up correctly, and is higher at the front, so that condensate
can flow out at the back.
2. Check that the condensation outflow is not blocked by dropped, instruments, filter paper, etc. on the
floor of the pressure chamber.
3. Check that the maximum load has not been exceeded (particularly for textiles), that the autoclave
has been loaded properly (no direct contact with the walls of the pressure chamber), and that the
appropriate tray-rack assembly has been used (see Section 4.2).
4. Activate automatic pre-heating (see Section 6.5).
5. Start with "Additional heating" (see Section 6.2).
6. If none of these measures help to reduce water consumption, please inform your specialist dealer.
For the following warning messages, please observe the comments made and restart the program in question.
If the warning occurs repeatedly please consult your specialist dealer.
Warning message Cause/ Remedy
Door not closed properly
WARNING!
Door open
No start
possible
Press grip down until contact is made (display should
then show "Door closed")!
Acknowledge
with button " - "
WARNING!
no water
Refill
demin./dist. water
No start
possible
Acknowledge
with button" - "
WARNING!
no feed water
Check supply
demin./dist. water
No start
possible
Acknowledge
with button " - "
This message appears when the supply of demineralized/
distilled water is set to "internal", so that water is supplied
from the internal tank
If the water level in the storage tank (right chamber) falls
below the minimum mark the signal will be triggered
Check the level of water in the tank, and refill to max.
with distilled or demineralized water of the
appropriate quality
This warning appears when the supply of
demineralized/distilled water is set to "external". IN this
case the water will be supplied from an external water
purifier.
The internal flow monitor for the demineralized/distilled
water supply has not reacted (when filling the steam
generator):
Supply from MELAdem
Check the water purifier. If necessary open the water
intake tap. If the pressure water storage unit is empty
wait approximately 1 hour before restarting the
program. If the message reappears repeatedly, have
the water purifier serviced.
Supply from MELAdem
Check the water purification system. If necessary
open the water intake tap. If the message reappears
repeatedly, have the water purifier serviced
If the autoclave is being used for the first time or is being
restarted after a break then this message may simply be
caused by the fact that the tubes were initially empty - just
repeat the start procedure..
47:
37:
Page 34
Page 35
®
29-S
Warning message Cause/ Remedy
WARNING!
Wastewater tank
Full
No start
possible
Acknowledge
with button " - "
This warning appears if the wastewater chamber (left
tank chamber) is full.
The warning is generated when the water reaches the
maximum level in the container.
Empty the tank as follows:
Pull on the left plug on the front of the autoclave and
withdraw the emptying pipe as far as possible.
Hold the end of the pipe over a container (min.
capacity 5 litre) standing on the floor. pull the stopper
out of the pipe and allow the water to drain out.
When all the water has drained away, replace the
stopper in the pipe, and push the pipe back into the
opening on the front of the autoclave.
The message can then be acknowledged.
Operating-manual Euroklav
Conductivity of the demineralized or distilled water is above
Water quality
Poor
Check
Feed water quality
the first limit value, a start is possible by pressing the "Start"
button once more:
For the one-way option
Empty water from storage container (right chamber),
clean tank with distilled/demineralized water and refill
to max. with purified water to specifications
For the closed-loop option
Empty water from both chambers of the internal
storage tank, clean tank with distilled/demineralized
water and refill to max. with purified water to
specifications.
Water from the MELAdem
cartridge in the ion exchanger may be exhausted.
Exchange in accordance with the operating manual.
Water from the MELAdem
may be exhausted. Exchange in accordance with the
operating manual.
Water from other purification equipment: Exchange the
demineralization / deionisation unit in accordance with
the manufacturer's instructions.
After taking the appropriate steps, carry out the program
start. When starting for the first time after exchanging the
purified water container, or after maintenance of the water
purification equipment, there may be another report because
at first the supply tube and /or measuring cell will not have
been washed out with fresh, pure water.
47: The demineralization
37: The demineralization unit
Page 35
Page 36
Warning message Cause/ Remedy
Conductivity of the demineralized or distilled water exceeds
Water quality
Bad
the second limit value - a program start is no longer
possible:
Proceed as above for "Water quality poor".
No start
possible
Acknowledge
with button " - "
The pressure for the ventilation drying lies outside the
WARNING!
Exchange
permitted range. The report comes at the end of the
program, and as the last line of the print-out:
The sterile filter may be clogged or torn. Exchange the
sterile filter (MELAG Art. No.: 20160).
Sterile filter
Acknowledge
with button " - "
Communication with the printer via the serial interface has
Printer is
not ready
The internal printer memory is full (40 cycles recorded), an
Printer memory
full
been interrupted. This message appears when a report
cannot be printed out. It is displayed for 20 seconds. If the
printer becomes operational during this period the cycle
record prints out:
The autoclave may be operated without a printer. Check
under the "Data transfer" menu that the option "No
printer" has been selected. (see Section 6.3.1.3)
Check the cable connection between the printer and the
autoclave.
Check the power supply to the printer. In the MELAprint
40 the red light should indicate 'power on'
The printer may be "Offline". Select "online" (MELAprint
40, press "SEL" button, green LED "SEL" should shine)
external printer is registered, and in the "Print" menu the
option "Immed. print-out? No" is selected. The message is
displayed when a program is started. Pressing the "Start /
Stop" button again deleted the message and the program
starts:
You can continue operations simply by pressing the
"Start / Stop" button twice when you start a program.
Select "Immed. print-out? Yes" (see Section 6.3.1.3)
Delete stored records (See Section 6.3.6), if necessary
print-out all stored cycle records first (see Section 6.3.4)
In the Data transfer menu, select the "No printer" option (see
Section 6.3.1.3)
Page 36
Page 37
Operating-manual Euroklav
Warning message Cause/ Remedy
The service message is activated after a certain number of
Errors are generally reported by an "Error" on the display with the number of the error and its short name.
Error reports may occur without a program start (when the power is switched on or soon after), or during a
program.
If errors are reported during a program, then in addition to the error report the program will also be stopped.
This may be accompanied by the equalisation of the pressure in the autoclave, and in this case the error
message will alternate with the messages "Pressure release", or "Ventilation", and "End".
After the termination, the display will alternately show the error message and "Quit with "-" button" and then
"Terminate End ". Pressing "-" deleted the error message (if the error is not permanent). Until you have quit
the error message the autoclave door cannot be opened. If a program has been prematurely terminated in this
way the autoclave load must always be regarded as being not sterilized. We recommend that you unload the
autoclave, carry out a sterilization cycle without any load (the drying may be impaired for this first cycle) and
then reload the autoclave and repeat the interrupted operation cycle.
If an external printer is connected and "Immed. print-out? Yes" is selected, a record will automatically be
printed out at the end of the termination.
The print-out shows the full name of the error, and if a program has been interrupted before completion it will
also show "Load not sterile". The following list gives error reports, the cause and possible remedies.
Error report Cause / remedy
The monitored time was exceeded not only for the heating-
Error 2:
Steam Generator
loads or a set operating period, when a service is due. The
message appears before the start of every program. If you
press the "Start / Stop" button again the message is deleted
and the program starts.
1. You can continue operations, by simply pressing the
"Start / Stop" button twice when you start a program.
2. Have a service carried out as recommended by an
authorised MELAG servicing company or your specialist
dealer.
The cycle counter for servicing should be reset during the
service.
up phases during air removal by sub-atmospheric pulsing,
but also for achieving the required sterilization pressure.
Causes of this error may be any of the following:
Maximum loading amounts were exceeded.
Reduced heating output, since the mains voltage was too
low. Please check the electrical power supply from the
building. Try to see if the device works properly when
connected to another electrical circuit.
Loss of water as a result of leaks, or from collection of
water in porous materials.
Do not allow water to collect in the objects to be
sterilized: be sure to turn bowls, cups, glasses, and the
upside down so that their openings are
like
downward. Cassettes perforated on once side must
be turned so that their perforated side faces
downward. Important: It is not allowed to use
cassettes that are completely closed.
It is not allowed to sterilize without using tray racks.
After the above possible causes have been eliminated,
®
29-S
press the reset button on the device. Symbol:
Important: After pressing the reset button, perform
an empty sterilization cycle in the “Fast” program
(sterilization with completely empty sterilization
chamber).
If the problem continues, notify your specialist MELAG
dealer specialist MELAG dealer.
Page 37
Page 38
Error report Cause / remedy
The monitoring time for the ventilation of the pressure
Error 4:
Pressure release
Maximum difference between the program duration and the
Error 8:
Time base
Door not closed properly
Error 9:
Door open
The capillary tube level regulator is open at the start of the
Error 10:
Steamgen. too hot
Maximum permissible time for door locking:
Error 12
Door locking
The flow monitor for the demineralized / distilled water
Error 14:
No feed water
The internal testing of the sensors for temperature, pressure
Error 18:
Sensor: ... Input.: ...
The pre-heating has not reached the necessary temperature
Error 21:
Pre-heating
The maximum preheating temperature was exceeded:
Error 22:
Overheating
The monitoring time for the pressure release in the outflow
Error 23:
Flow
The limit deviation for internal analog/digital signal
Error 26:
A/D-conversion
Error 27:
Temp. sens. def 1,2
chamber was exceeded.:
Check that the pressure releases at the rear of the
chamber are not blocked
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
internal clock exceeded:
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
Press grip down until contact is made (display should
then show "Door closed")!
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
program (error report immediately after start), or the
monitoring time until refilling with demineralized or distilled
water during the program (until the end of sterilization) is
exceeded:
This problem can arise because after stopping a program
and immediately restarting - wait for two minutes and try
starting again.
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
Check the locking bolt can move freely
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
supply does not close during the program (see message
"Warning no feed water" - page 34).
or conductivity showed an excessive deviation, the error can
be reported on switching on the appliance or in the course of
a program:
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
within the specified time limit:
If this occurs repeatedly select the option "Automatic
preheating No" and inform your specialist dealer (see
Section 6.5).
If this occurs repeatedly start the autoclave without
preheating and inform your specialist dealer.
process for the fractionating was exceeded:
Check that the flow filter in the chamber directly behind
the door is not blocked
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
conversion has been exceeded:
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
The limit deviation between the two sensors for the steam
temperature has been exceeded:
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
Page 38
Page 39
Operating-manual Euroklav
Error report Cause / remedy
There is a data inconsistency or a data loss in the
Error 29:
Battery RAM
After starting the program there was a loss of power. The
Error 32:
Power loss
Sterilize
sterile filter
The time limit for the steam generator to reach the
Error 33:
Pressure drop
processing unit memory. This can be the result of a major
disturbance to the mains electricity supply or an insufficient
battery voltage. On quitting, the clock will automatically reset
to 00.00 and the load count will reset to the value from the
EEPROM. At the same time all records in the memory will
be deleted:
After quitting the error report: Reset time and date (see
Section 6.4) and restart.
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
error report is received when the electricity supply is
restored:
Check the mains power supply installation, if no errors
can be found, inform the service agent.
If there is a loss of power when the chamber is under
pressure, then there will be an additional reminder to
sterilize the sterile filter, since this may have become moist
and non-sterile:
Remove the sterile filter at the rear of the autoclave.
Sterilize the filter using the rapid program.
Then replace the filter.
necessary pressure has been exceeded:
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
®
29-S
The minimum sterilization temperature has not been
The maximum sterilization temperature has been exceeded:
Sterilization pressure falls below the minimum level:
The maximum sterilization pressure has been exceeded:
The difference between measured and theoretical
The monitoring period for the pressure release in the flow
The monitoring time for the pressure increase during
Drying press.-pump
Error 34:
Sterilization TU
Error 35:
Sterilization TO
Error 36:
Sterilization PU
Error 37:
Sterilization PO
Error 38:
Sterilization TD
Error 41:
Flow drying
Error 42:
reached:
Reduce the size of the load.
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer
Reduce the size of the load.
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
temperature is too large:
4. If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
release during drying was exceeded:
Check that the flow filter in the chamber directly behind
the door is not blocked
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
pressure drying was exceeded:
Check that the sterile filter is not blocked, if necessary
replace
If this occurs repeatedly, inform your specialist dealer.
Page 39
Page 40
8 Taking care of your autoclave
8.1 Preparation of instruments_____________________________________________
MELAG - rust-free materials
All parts of the Euroklav
pressure chamber and the door of stainless steel, steam pipes of Teflon, and screws and magnet-valves of
bronze.
Film rust
The use of these materials means that no parts of the autoclave can initiate rust formation. Where rust does
attack the autoclave or instruments sterilized in it, tests repeatedly show that this has been brought into the
autoclave on instruments (film rust).
Even top-quality stainless steel instruments can form rust if they are not handled properly, e.g. if they are
treated with the wrong chemical cleaning or disinfecting agents.
Preparing items for sterilization
The example of the formation of film rust shows how important it is to prepare items properly before
sterilization.
Handpieces and contra-angles must be cleaned before sterilization and maintained (e.g. by oiling).
Other instruments must be disinfected and cleaned immediately after use in accordance with UVV/VBG 103,
or similarly strict national codes of practice in a disinfectant and/or cleaning solution at the correct
concentration for the correct length of time
MELAG recommends the use of cleaning aids such as ultrasonic baths, cleaning and maintenance equipment
for handpieces for contra-angles, as well as thermo-disinfecting devices.
It is essential that the instruments are well cleaned in order to avoid dirt and contamination being separated
from the load in the autoclave and clogging filters, valves, and nozzles. In particular locks, joints, and hinges
must be cleaned thoroughly with a brush before sterilization. No traces of cleaning and disinfecting agents
should be allowed to enter into the sterilization chamber of the autoclave, since this can give rise to corrosion!
The instruments should be swilled off with demineralized water and then dried off before being loaded in the
autoclave. Turbines and handpieces must be oiled in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions in order
to ensure their long working life.
Brand-new instruments
The cleaning procedures described above must also be followed before sterilizing brand-new instruments.
These often carry small amounts of grease, oil and soiling from the manufacturing process.
Important: Carefully follow all instructions provided by manufacturers of instruments for the preparation of
their products for first-time sterilization and for subsequent sterilizations.
®
29-S which come into contact with steam are made on non-rusting materials: the
As already explained, the non-rusting materials used in the autoclave cannot cause rust formation in the
autoclave!
Where rust forms this is "drag-in rust". This originates from instruments or other metal items carrying traces of
rust, even though they are made of stainless steel, or which are made of normal steel but which have a
damaged galvanic coating. Often, a single rusty instrument is enough to pass rust on to other instruments or to
lead to film rust forming in the autoclave resulting to corrosion damage. Drag-in rust must be removed from the
affected instruments or from the autoclave and tray assembly using a mild commercial cleaning agent for
stainless steel. (This should not contain of chlorine).. Do not use steel wool, a wire brush or other abrasive
cleaners! Spots can be removed with a damp, lint-free cloth or a cloth with surgical spirits or alcohol.
8.3 Taking care of the Euroklav®29-S _______________________________________
The tray assembly and the autoclave chamber including the contact area of the door gasket and the door
opening should be inspected thoroughly at least once a week for signs of damage or soiling. If necessary,
wipe out the autoclave chamber using a lint-free cloth and surgical spirits. This involves withdrawing the trays
and tray guide assembly. Stubborn spots can be removed using small amounts of a mild commercial steel
cleaning agent (pH-levels from 5 to 8). Care must be taken to ensure that cleaning agent does not get into the
pipes attached to the autoclave chamber. The cleaning agent must not contain chlorine and should not be
alkaline. Do not use abrasive cleaning pads, steel wool, or brushes.
Inspect the door seal every week for signs of damage and soiling, and if necessary clean it with a mild
commercial liquid cleaning agent (pH-levels from 5 to 8) or with surgical spirits. If necessary, the seal can be
removed.
The bolt of the door lock (right side) and the door hinge (left side) must be regularly lubricated with silicone
grease (MELAG Art.No. 24355), in order to ensure that the door can easily be locked and unlocked, without
unnecessary wear.
The outer parts of the autoclave can be cleaned with a mild commercial cleaning agent or with surgical spirits.
Page 40
Page 41
Operating-manual Euroklav
If water is supplied from and returned to the internal tank, then this should be inspected before refilling with
distilled / demineralized water. Whenever necessary it should be cleaned. The wastewater tank on the left
should be emptied at least every two weeks and washed out with clear mains-supply water. Hard stains and
oily residues may have to be removed using a little washing-up liquid and warm mains-supply water with a
suitable soft brush, followed by swilling with distilled / demineralized water. Should the right tank need cleaning
after a lengthy period of close-loop operation then this should be cleaned in the same way, and also
thoroughly swilled.
8.3.2 Use of demineralized or distilled water _________________________________________________
Quality requirements
For steam sterilization it is necessary to use high quality distilled or demineralized water.
The water used should at least comply with the specifications in accordance with CEN-standard EN 285 listed
in the table below.
For the operation of the Euroklav
long as the VDE specifications are strictly adhered to (conductivity on production 10 S/cm*
)
30 S/cm*
, pH-value identical with EN 285, evaporation residues analogous).
Where to purchase the water
Battery water in accordance VDE 510 is widely available in large drug stores, supermarkets and do-it-yourself
stores at low prices. The necessary purity standards must be expressly detailed on the label, because with
insufficiently pure water calcium scaling could form in the steam lines and valves, restricting the operation of
the autoclave. Aggressive water (pH < 5 or > 7) can also lead to damage in the autoclave.
Formation of spots on instruments
The extent to which spots form on the instruments depends on the quality of the water used to produce the
steam.
Specifications for water quality in accordance with the EN 285
Evaporation residue
Silicon oxide, SiO
2
Iron
Cadmium
Lead
Other heavy metals
Chlorides (Cl)
Phosphates (P2O5)
Conductivity at 20°C
pH (degree of acidity) 5 -. 7
Appearance Colourless; clean; without sediment
Hardness ( of ions of alkaline earth) 0.02 mmol/l
Note:
The use of feed water or steam with contaminants at levels exceeding those
given in table can greatly shorten the working life of a sterilizer and can
invalidate the manufacturer's warranty or guarantee.
*) S/cm = micro-Siemens per centimetre
®
29-S, however, battery water in accordance with VDE 510 is sufficient, as
8.4 Checking the operation of the autoclave _________________________________
8.4.1 Safety with automatic monitoring____________________________________________________
The electronic parameter control means that all relevant parameters are constantly monitored a compared
with standard process data, so that error reports can be made immediately. If a program is completed without
problems then on its completion there is an "End" message. The print-out contains a corresponding report.
The operator of the autoclave can check the progress of the program at any time by means of the values
shown on the display (or after its comple tion by means of the print-out).
8.4.2 Periodical bacteriological testing (twice a year) __________________________________________
The German industrial standard DIN 58 946 Part 8 Section 3.2 recommends:
"Periodical testing shall be carried out at the place of installation, e.g. at 6 monthly intervals. They shall
demonstrate that sterilization is carried out satisfactorily when the operating instruction for the small sterilizer
are followed."
Hygiene institutes and regional medical test centres can supply test spores on request and document the
results of sterilization on a test form.
Regular maintenance of the autoclave is important if it is to have a long life and remain in good working order.
MELAG recommends that the Euroklav
maintenance instructions for this autoclave. The annual service includes a visual inspection and a test of
operational functions. As well as all essential components and electrical elements, parts are also inspected for
wear and replaced as necessary.
A maintenance reminder appears on the display every two years or after 1000 sterilizations.
Consult your dealer of the MELAG Customer Service if you have any questions relating to servicing and
maintenance.
®
29-S be serviced annually by a trained technician in accordance with
*1) Alternatively, a separate outflow trap can be installed
29-S (A) with double-chamber trap (B)
B
*1)
Example 1 Example 2
Euroklav29-S (rear view), basic version Euroklav29-S (rear view) with one-way water outflow
Water supply be means of internal double chamber
storage tank Double chamber trap
installed
Example 3Example 4
Euroklav29-S (rear view) with installed
MELAdem
Double chamber trap Double chamber trap
Leak detector with stop valve (optional) Leak detector with stop valve (optional)
MELAdem
MELAjet
37 and MELAjet
37 MELAdem47
(optional)
Euroklav
MELAdem
29-S (rear view) with installed
47
Page 43
Page 44
9.2 Additional technical data ______________________________________________
Mount "B" for max. 4 standard tray-cassettes or 4 MELAG-trays
Mount "C" for max. 3 standard tray-cassettes or 6 MELAG-trays
MELAG - Sterilization containers: 28M,G, 23R, 15K,M,G, 17K
Foil holder
9.2.3.1 Programs / Operation times _______________________________________________________
Program Operation time (without drying): Drying time:
Warm start/
"Quick program unwrapped"
(134°C, 2bar )
"Universal program"
(134°C, 2bar )
"Gentle program"
(121°C, 1bar )
"Prion Program"
(134°C, 2bar )
low load
13 min 17 min 12-15 min
20 min 26 min 24-28 min
32 min 35 min 27-30 min
35 min 52 min. 15 min.
Warm/
max. load
9.2.3.2 Energy / Water consumption ______________________________________________________
"Pre-heating"
Warming up to pre-heating
ca. 0.12 kWh ( = 3 Pf 1) )
temperature (134°C)
"Stand by" mode/ hour ca. 0.2 kWh ( = 5 Pf )
Program + drying 0.3 kWh (= 7.5 Pf ) for "Quick Program", warm start, low load, to
Consumption of distilled /
demineralized water
1.1 kWh (= 27.5 Pf ) for "Gentle program", cold start, full load
400 ml ( = 8 Pf
550 ml ( = 11 pf ) for "Universal program" and "Prion Program"
2)
)for "Quick program"),
650 ml ( = 13 pf ) for "Gentle program"
Based on a price of DM 0.25 / kilowatt-hour
1)
2) Based on a price of DM 0.20 per litre distilled water from the MELAdest
®
65
Page 44
Page 45
Operating-manual Euroklav
9.3 Instructions on drying_________________________________________________
The Euroklav®29-S provides very good drying standards for sterilized items. Particularly difficult drying tasks
(e.g. double wrapping) can also be dried to very good standards with the help of the supplementary drying
function and the automatic pre-heating (see Sections 6.2, 6.5). Please read the following sections, which may
help you to optimise your drying results.
9.3.1 Drying in sterilization containers ______________________________________________________
In the autoclave steam is produced by heating water. The steam transfers heat to the instruments and
sterilization container and warms these. This leads to steam condensing on the instruments and containers.
SteamSteam
Heat
®
29-S
Formation of condensation on the sterilization container
The steam also heats the objects contained in the sterilization containers. Condensation forms on the objects
being sterilized, and some of the condensation drops to the bottom of the sterilization container.
Formation of condensation on sterilized objects
After sterilization, during the drying phase, all the condensation must evaporate from the sterilization container
and from the sterilized items themselves. This is achieved by the transfer to the condensate of heat stored in
the walls of the sterilization container and in the sterilized items themselves. It is preferable that the
sterilization container be made of aluminium, as this metal stores and conducts heat well, ensuring faster
drying than other materials.
Condensate
Steam
Heat
Condensate
Heat
Page 45
Page 46
A
Condensate+Heat=Steam
Heat
Heat
Drying
For good drying it is essential that surplus heat be transferred to the objects which have been sterilized. In
addition, the condensation must be led out of the sterilization containers. The floor of the containers have
channels and the lid has an arched filter area.
When preparing textiles for treatment in the autoclave, care must be taken that the folds in the textiles are
arranged in parallel, and that the items are packed side-by-side. This vertical configuration ensures that
channels can form between the textile folds for the air to flow out and steam to flow in. Do not stack textiles on
top of each other as this hinders the penetration of steam into the packages of textiles.
Heat
HeatHeat
Loading textiles properly
When loading sterilization containers with textile items, care should be taken to ensure that they retain their
vertical orientation, but that the items are not squashed together. This would prevent the formation of flow
channels for air and steam. If the packages of textiles cannot be kept upright, then it might be advisable to
wrap them in sterilization paper.
The textiles must not touch the sides or the base of the sterilization container, since they might become
saturated with condensate.
For good drying results, the textiles should also be as dry as possible when they are placed in the autoclave.
The heat stored in the chamber and sterilization container may not otherwise be sufficient to evaporate both
the moisture and the condensation.
Where appropriate, instruments should be disassembled before placing them in the autoclave, as this will
improve the drying results.
The use of lubricants (such as instrument oil) should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. Prior
confirmation should be obtained from the manufacturer of such agents that they are in fact suitable for steam
sterilization. Substances which are hydrophobic or impenetrable for steam can not only lead to poor drying
results, but may also mean that the steam sterilization is unsuccessful, since not only the instruments are
protected but also micro-organisms..
9.3.4 Loading the autoclave _______________________________________________________________
Textiles and instruments should not be sterilized together in one sterilization container. Textiles and
instruments in separate sterilization containers should as far as possible not be sterilized in the same load.
However, where this is unavoidable for economic or other reasons, the following rules should be observed:
Instruments and sterilization containers should be placed at the bottom
Textiles should always be placed at the top
Transparent sterilization packages and paper sterilization packages should be placed at the top (except
when in combination with textiles, in which case they must be at the bottom).
Textiles
Textiles
®
29-S
Instruments
Instruments
Textiles
Loading the autoclave
9.3.5 Loading containers with soft sterilization packing material ________________________________
"Soft“ sterilization packages such as paper bags or transparent sterilization packages can be sterilized either
in sterilization containers or sterilization baskets. To enable better drying, arrange such soft sterilization
packages side-by-side and close to each other. This allows condensation to run off the packages, while at the
same time preventing them from expanded excessively, and possibly bursting at the seams.
Instruments
Instruments
Textiles
B
Packing "soft“ sterilization packages in sterilization containers
When arranging sterilization containers, care should be taken that drops of condensate do not wet items being
sterilized beneath, but can flow away to the base of the chamber. The best arrangement is a stack of sterilization
containers of the same size, so that condensate can flow down the sides.
®
29-S
Stacked sterilization containers
9.3.7 Removing the sterilized items ________________________________________________________
Immediately after the sterilization process, some condensate may remain on the sterilized items. However, heat
transfer from the sterilized objects can evaporate this after the sterilization process has been completed.
The German standard DIN 58953 Part 7 Section 7 comments on residual moisture on paper bags or transparent
sterilization paper after sterilization:
"...Small amounts of water on the surface of packages do not represent a cause for concern if they dry completely
within thirty minutes after removal from a steam sterilization system....“
9.3.8 Improving the drying ________________________________________________________________
The drying can be improved by the following measures:
Pre-heating the autoclave (empty sterilization)
Arranging transparent sterilization and paper packing vertically
Selecting the program option "Additional drying"
Extending the drying times (please consult your MELAG customer service).