Melag MELAquick 12 User manual

Operation Manual

Quick autoclave

MELAquick®12

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 business —

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 products — 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 thoroughly read this
Operating Manual. The long-term functional effectiveness and the preservation of the
value of your autoclave will primarily depend on careful preparation of instruments before
sterilization, and on proper care of the unit.

The management and staff of MELAG

since fabr. no. 94 12 5000 subject to technical alterations

Functional effectiveness of the MELAquick12

its value are depending on :

1. Correct preparation of instruments to be sterilized

2. Proper care and maintenance of the autoclave

3. Quality of distilled/demineralized feed water

IMPORTANT! Be sure to observe the safety instructions on page 9!

In the event that your autoclave should not function properly, first read the instructions beginning on page 15

before you notify the MELAG Customer Service Department.

Please note down here the factories number of your device in case you need to identify it for our

Customer Service Department. This number is on the rear side of the unit. Type 12 factory no.:....

Content: Page

1 Description of the autoclave............................................................................................................................1

1.1 View of the apparatus......................................................................................................................1

1.1.1 Front view ........................................................................................................................1

1.1.2 Rear View ........................................................................................................................2

1.1.3 Sectional view - for service only ......................................................................................3

1.2 Technical data .................................................................................................................................4

1.3 Operating scope for sterilization and disinfection............................................................................4

1.4 Electronic-parametric regulation......................................................................................................4

1.5 Printout of the log.............................................................................................................................5

1.6 Water-one-way system....................................................................................................................5

1.7 No start of program if water quality is inadequate...........................................................................5

2 Introduction......................................................................................................................................................6

2.1 Preparation of instruments ..............................................................................................................6

2.2 Formation of rust = foreign rust .......................................................................................................6

2.3 Cleaning and care of the autoclave.................................................................................................6

2.4 Testing the function of the autoclave...............................................................................................7

3 Installation........................................................................................................................................................7

3.1 Positioning the autoclave.................................................................................................................7

3.2 Connection of water discharge........................................................................................................8

3.3 Filling the water reservoir.................................................................................................................8

3.4 Connection of the logging printer.....................................................................................................8

3.5 Setting the time of day and the date................................................................................................9

3.6 Empty sterilization process..............................................................................................................9

3.7 VDE-requirements...........................................................................................................................9

3.8 Safety precautions...........................................................................................................................9

4 For every sterilization / disinfection cycle.................................................................................

4.1 Main switch, pre-heating of the chamber ......................................................................................10

4.2 Selection of program......................................................................................................................10

4.3 Items to be sterilized......................................................................................................................10

4.4 Preparation of instruments ............................................................................................................11

4.5 Loading..........................................................................................................................................11

4.6 Starting the sterilization / disinfection............................................................................................11

4.7 Automatic pressure release...........................................................................................................11

4.8 Automatic printout of the log..........................................................................................................11

4.9 Successful end of a process..........................................................................................................11

4.10 Removal of instruments...............................................................................................................12

4.11 Drying...........................................................................................................................................12

4.12 Particularities of disinfection........................................................................................................12

4.13 Overheat protection.....................................................................................................................12

4.14 Process control............................................................................................................................13

4.15 Sterilizing frequency ....................................................................................................................13

®

and preservation of

.....................10

contents

Operation manual

5 Further informations about sterilization.........................................................................................................13

5.1 Total operating time.......................................................................................................................13

5.2 Accuracy of process regulation .....................................................................................................13

5.3 Use of aqua dest / aqua dem ........................................................................................................14

5.3.1 Amount of consumption.................................................................................................14

5.3.2 Emptying the reservoir...................................................................................................14

5.3.3 Refilling / Replacement..................................................................................................15

6 Putting out of operation / Transport...............................................................................................................15

6.1 Transport under danger of frost.....................................................................................................15

7 Breakdowns without warning light.................................................................................................................15

7.1 No Indication or false indication of the operating state..................................................................16

7.2 Lamp „Ready“ does not light continuously ....................................................................................16

7.3 Impossible to start a program........................................................................................................16

7.4 The water pump does not start when the program begins............................................................17

7.5 Too small indication of pressure and/or temperature....................................................................17

7.6 Excessive indication of pressure and/or temperature ...................................................................17

7.7 Hissing during run / foggy instruments..........................................................................................17

7.8 Sliding door cannot be unlocked ...................................................................................................18

7.9 The sliding door cannot be easily moved......................................................................................18

7.10 Water reservoir goes empty ........................................................................................................18

8 Fault with warning light..................................................................................................................................19

8.1 Fault No. 1 .....................................................................................................................................19

8.2 Fault No. 4 .....................................................................................................................................20

8.2.1 Autoclave insufficiently ventilated..................................................................................20

8.2.2 Pressure switch is wrongly adjusted/defective..............................................................20

8.2.3 Failure of the heating for steam generation...................................................................21

8.2.4 Short circuit of the temperature sensor for steam .........................................................21

8.2.5 Too small dose of water.................................................................................................21

8.2.6 Too much loss of water..................................................................................................22

8.2.7 Steam generator is clogged with boiler scale................................................................22

8.3 Fault No. 5 .....................................................................................................................................22

8.3.1 The amount of water measured out is not sufficient / loss of water ..............................23

8.3.2 Interchange the temperature sensors............................................................................23

8.4 Fault No. 9 .....................................................................................................................................23

8.5 Fault No. 11 ...................................................................................................................................23

8.6 Fault No. 12 ...................................................................................................................................24

8.7 Fault No. 15 ...................................................................................................................................24

9 Spare parts....................................................................................................................................................24

MELAquick®12

contents

1 Description of the autoclave__________________________________________

1.1 View of the apparatus ____________________________________________________

1.1.1 Front view _____________________________________________________________________

Page 1

1 Sliding door 9 Signal lamp “Door open” 16 Signal lamp “Sterilization mode”
2 Locking handle 10 Signal lamp „Fault“ 17 Signal lamp “Disinfection mode”
3 Water storage tankr 11 Signal lamp „Ready“ 18 Connector for waste water hose
4 Power switch 12 Signal lamp „Cycle runs” 19 Water tank drain
5 Pressure gauge 13 Signal lamp „End of cycle” 20 Power Supply for MELAprint
6 Thermometer 14 Signal lamp “Power on” 21 Interface for MELAprint

®

40

®

40

7 Button “Start” 15 Program selector switch 22 Waste water hose
8 Signal lamp “Water” Sterilization/Disinfection 23 Condenser container

Operation manual

1.1.2 Rear View______________________________________________________________________

MELAquick®12

Page 2

1.1.3 Sectional view - for service only ___________________________________________________

Page 3

31 Fuses 39 Temperature sensor thermometer 47 Feed pump with thermal protection
32 Output test button (and others) 40 Measuring block with fine filter 48 Lithium battery
33 Overheat protection steam generator 41 Steam filter before solenoid valve 49 Solenoid valve for pressure release
34 Temperature sensor pre-heating 42 Safety valve 50 Micro switch for door lock
35 Temperature sensor steam 43 Flow nozzle (below nut) 51 Overheat protection for pre-heating
36 Base plate 44 Steam filter before flow nozzle 52 Water storage tank
37 Chamber-block 45 Water level switch 53 Pressure-switch “Sterilization”
38 Steam generator 46 Water filter 54 Pressure-switch “Disinfection”

Operation manual

1.2 Technical data __________________________________________________________
MELAquick®12

Sterilization chamber (diameter x height) 9 cm × 16 cm
Required power-connection ratings: 1100 W, 230 V, AC
Average consumption 400 W
Power costs per sterilization cycle

(at DM 0.25/kWh)

Power costs per disinfection cycle

(at DM 0.25/kWh)

Sterilization: pressure / temperature
maximum load 1 kg (incl. basket etc., no textiles)

Disinfection: pressure / temperature
maximum load (only unpacked) 1 kg (incl. basket etc., no textiles)

.

1.3 Operating scope for sterilization and disinfection _____________________________

with 4 Sterilizations per hour

DM 0.025 (2.5 pfennigs)

(incl. preheating phase, on basis of 8-hour operation with 4 sterilization cycles/h)

DM 0.017 (1.7 pfennigs)

(incl. preheating phase, on basis of 8-hour operation with 4 disinfection cycles/h)

2 bar (134

0.2 bar (105

{

C) -2.1 bar (135{C)

{

C) - 0.3 bar (107{C)

MELAquick®12

This autoclave is designed for quick sterilization. All
instruments must be sterilized if the possibility has
existed that it could possibly have come into contact
with even the smallest amount of blood during its
use. There is only one case a disinfection should

substitutely be used and that is if the composi­tion of the material does not allow a sterilization.

Especially older hand pieces and turbines whose
light conductors can be damaged by repeated ster­ilization, can be disinfected under steam pressure
to ensure at least the disinfection of inner parts.
The „SELECT“ button (15) is located on the control
panel. The operator uses this button to select the
sterilization or disinfection program. Signal lamps
(16 and 17) indicate the selected program.
Before leaving the factory, the autoclave is set to

„

sterilization“.
The operator should select the desired program as
soon as possible after switching on the electrical
power switch „Power on“ (4). If the autoclave has
been already preheated (the „READY“ lamp (11)

glows), and if the program is only then switched
from „Disinfection“ to „Sterilization“, the auto­clave will run through a brief reheating phase of
about 5 minutes. If the program is switched from

„

Sterilization“ to „Disinfection“ after preheating, then
the autoclave will run through a cool-down phase
for the chamber, of up to 45 minutes (see Section

4.2.). during this reheating or cool-down phase, the

„

READY“ lamp (11) will flash, and the autoclave
canot be put into operation.

Important!

• Items for sterilization can also be sealed into

transparent sterilization packages.

• Steam pressure disinfection is permissible only for

instruments which are unpacked.

• This autoclave cannot disinfect or sterilize liquids

or textiles.

• Observe the instructions above on the reheating

and cool-down phase if the program is changed
between sterilization and disinfection after the
autoclave has been preheated.

1.4 Electronic-parametric regulation ___________________________________________

All autoclaves of type 12 are equipped with an elec­tronic regulator. With the implement of microproces­sors it is now possible to control the parameters
pressure and temperature and keep their values
constant during sterilization or disinfection. This con­trol is called electronic-parametric regulation.
The ideal processing time can be adapted according

to load and temperature of the chamber. The sys­tems which control the sterilization and disinfection
processes with respect to limit temperatures and
pressure, and the timed sequences associated with
these variables, consequently ensure as well the re­liability of the sterilization and disinfection results.

Page 4

1.5 Printout of the protocol ___________________________________________________

The autoclave has a serial interface jack (21) for
connection of the protocol printer MELAprint
(order no. 289). Power is also provided to the
MELAprint

®

40 through another connection (20) from

®

the autoclave.
When the printer is connected, a log containing the
process-relevant parameters will be automatically
printed out after each sterilization or disinfection
cycle (see example of printout at the right).
It is normal here that time metering will be briefly
interrupted once or several times during the first
seconds after beginning of the sterilization period,
during heating of the chamber up to sterilization
temperature.
At the bottom of the printout there is a line without
explain text with service information.
In addition, the last log to be printed out is always
permanently stored in the system memory (even if
power fails). To print out the last log again, press the

„

SELECT“ button (15) and hold it down for at least
3 seconds.
In the case of a fault, a protocol will also be printed
out to indicate the time, the temperature, and the
cause of the fault. Section 8 below contains a list of
the fault numbers and their meanings.

------------------------------------------

40

-----------------------------------------­Date : 23.09.1994
Time : 10:37
Charge No.: 4

-----------------------------------------­Program :

MELAquick 12

Sterilization 134°C

-----------------------------------------­Program step Temp. Time
[°C] hh:mm:ss
Preheat Temperaure 132 10:37:39
Start 122 10:37:39
Sterilization start 134 10:39:25
Sterilization hold 134 10:39:27
Sterilization runs 134 10:39:27
Sterilization end 135 10:43:26
End of program 127 10:43:56

------------------------------------------

Program has run

succesfully !

-----------------------------------------­Sterilization time : 04 min 00 s
Sterilization temp.: MIN 134°C, MAX 135°C
total Time : 06 min 17 s

-----------------------------------------­8 2 09940933 3.22 C1 V1 DS1 PS0

1.6 Water one-way system____________________________________________________

A normal circulating water system, used in most
autoclaves where the steam is condensed in the
water reservoir again, has an importan
disadvantage. The instruments must be absolutely
free from dirt and chemicals before
sterilization/disinfection, otherwise not only the
autoclave but also the instruments will be damaged
and become dirty. However, in daily practice, the
instruments are prepared insufficiently. This is
critical especially for the sterilization of turbines and
contra-angles which

have to be oiled before sterilization. Oil, dirt and
other chemicals are getting into the apparatus and
will stay there because of the circulating system.
This can lead to spotty corrosive instruments and
often to a failure of the autoclave.

For this reason the MELAquick

®12

uses the one­way system: all water and steam used for the
process, is discharged into a waste water
container (23).

1.7 No start of program if water quality is inadequate _____________________________

You have purchased a high-quality German
autoclave product. It is designed to ensure a long life
of service, even if the operator makes certain
mistakes. For this reason, the MELAquick

®12

has
an automatic warning system which prevents it from
being operated if, for example, the operator forgets
to use distilled water and fills it with normal tap water
(which would damage it by the formation of boiler
scale). The MELAquick

®12

must be filled with
distilled or demineralized water (aqua dest / dem) in
accordance with DIN/EN 285 or VDE 510. Please
see Section 5.3 on details on water quality and on
the suppliers of the required water.
In order to prevent the instruments or the autoclave
from being damaged from formation of boiler scale
or corrosion, the autoclave has an integrated system
for

testing the quality of the feed water in the water
storage tank (conductivity):
During the first 2 seconds after start of the cycle, the
autoclave automatically tests the quality of the water
in the water storage tank (52). If the water quality is
somewhat poorer than specified in DIN EN 285, but
is still sufficiently good, then the lamp „WATER“ (9)
will flash to warn the operator. The program
continues to run, however. If the water quality is not
adequate, the lamp „WATER“ (9) will flash, and the
lamp „FAULT“ (10) will glow. In such case, in
order to protect the instruments and the autoclave,
the program will not start. The operator must replace
the water in the tank by better (for example,
demineralzed) water and press the „START“ (7)
button again.

Page 5

Operation Manual

2 Introduction _______________________________________________________

2.1 Preparation of instruments ________________________________________________

MELAG - rust-proof materials

All parts of the MELAquick
come into contact with steam are made of rustproof
materials: the pressure chamber of coated
aluminium, the pressure chamber door and steam
generator of stainless steel, pressure lines of Teflon,
and threaded connectors and valves of brass.

Drag-in rust

The use of non-corrosive materials prevents rust in
the autoclave. It is proven that the possible
appearance of rust is caused by rust of foreign
instruments. Formation of rust can even appear on
stainless steel by inappropriate treatment of the
instruments with chemicals and disinfection methods
during preparation.

Preparation of instruments to be sterilized
You see the importance of correct and careful
preparation before sterilization, which shall be
stressed here once again.
Turbines and contra-angles must be cleaned and
oiled according to the manufacturer´s instructions.
Immediately after use, all other instruments must be
disinfected by being placed in a disinfectant solution,
and must be cleaned, according to UVV/VBG 103.

®12

autoclave which

Therefore take care on correct dose of cleaning
agent and correct soaking time of exposure!
We recommend the use of ultrasonic devices,
cleaning devices, and equipment-care systems
especially designed for the cleaning of handpieces
and angular instruments.
The proper cleaning of the instruments is highly
important, in order to prevent debris from separating
from the instruments under steam pressure during
sterilization, and from clogging the filters, nozzles,
and valves of the autoclave. Joints and hinges must
be cleaned thoroughly with a brush. Rinse off all
cleaning and disinfecting agents under running
water by using the brush before the instruments are
loaded in the autoclave. These agents can
otherwise cause corrosion. Make a final rinse with
distilled water and dry the instruments.
Turbines and contra-angles must be oiled according
to manufacturer's instructions to preserve their long
life.

New instruments

The cleaning process as described above has to be
undertaken with new instruments too because they
often are covered with residues of oil, dirt or grease
coming form the production.

MELAquick®12

2.2 Formation of rust = drag-in ________________________________________________

It has already been said that the materials used for
the autoclave prevent any formation of rust.
The appearance of rust marks are caused by
outside sources. It comes from instruments or other
metal objects made of ordinary or stainless steel
where the galvanic coating is damaged. In many
cases, only one faulty instrument can contaminate

many other and finally cause rust corrosion of the
autoclave. With alloy cleaning materials, foreign rust
has to be removed from instruments and from the
basket in which they are loaded. Do not use any
kind of steel wool or brushes. Dirt can be cleaned
with a fluff-free damp cloth. The cloth can also be
soaked with surgical spirit.

2.3 Cleaning and care of the autoclave _________________________________________

Autoclave chamber

The chamberl should be inspected at least once a
week to check for dirt and deposits. Dirt should be
wiped by using a soft fluff-free cloth soaked in
alcohol. If stubborn spots are difficult to remove, we
recommend the use of mild stainless steel cleaning
product such as Sidol or an equivalent (with a pH
range of 5...8). Be sure that no particles of dirt or
other residue remain in the chamber. Finally wipe
the chamber with a damp cloth and run at least one
empty sterilization process. Do not use paper
towels, pot cleaners or brushes for cleaning the
chamber.

Sieve insert for the pressure chamber

The chamber (37) is provided at its bottom with a
sieve insert which can be inserted and removed. It
prevents particles of dirt and debris from entering
the lines which branch off from the bottom of the

chamber. This sieve should be removed only if there
is a great amount of coarse residue in the sieve.
IMPORTANT
replace it, the rest of the autoclave must be
thoroughly cleaned. By no means should particles of
debris be allowed to enter the openings located
under the sieve insert, use a suitable hook to reach
down under its frame and lift it out.

Door gasket

Check the door gasket every week for damage. If it
is dirty, clean it with commercially available mild
liquid cleansers (with a pH between 5 and 8), or with
spirit. Do not use cleansers which contain vinegar
for complete cleaning. The gasket can be pulled out
of the mounting groove and then later pressed back
into place. Replace damaged gaskets immediately.

: Before removing the sieve to clean or

Page 6

Sliding door

Pull out the door gasket. Spread out a non-ravelling
(non-lint, non-fuzzy) cloth which has been soaked in
spirit, onto the rectangular autoclave chamber. Then
carefully use gentle pressure to wipe off the sliding

2.4 Testing the function of the autoclave________________________________________

Regular

As an user of the autoclave, you are able to control
the effectiveness of sterilization with the control
instruments and the sterilizing time. A successful
sterilization is achieved if the pressure gauge shows
a value between 2 and 2.1 bar and the temperature
is within a range from 134°C to 135°C for at least
3½ minutes. For detailed information concerning the
control instruments, see chapter 5.2.
The parameter-control system automatically
monitors these conditions at all times. If the
monitored values exceed the established limits, a
fault will be reported on the autoclave itself, and in
the printout.

Periodic (twice yearly)

The German norm DIN 58 946, part 8, chapter 3.2
recommends:
"A periodic test is performed at place of installation
in intervals of, for example 6 months or after 400
cycles. The test should confirm that the sterilizing
apparatus sterilizes by following the manufacturer's
instructions."
German medical and hygienic institutes are sending
spores in order to test the sterilizing apparatus. They
evaluate the sample and confirm the solution on a
form.
DIN 58 946, Part 4, and the German Pharmacopoeia
(DAB 10) stipulate that special test strips must be
used to check steam autoclaves with spores of
Bacillus stearothermophilus (for example, the
product ATTC 7953, paper Spore Strips, made by
the Oxoid company, Cd. no. BR 23).
For MELAquick

1...3 dm³), DIN 58 946, Part 8 stipulates that three
bio-indicators (plus a positive sample) must be used.

®12

(i.e., chamber volumes of

door on the cloth. After cleaning, press the door
gasket back into its mounting groove.

Housing parts

In order to clean the housing of the autoclave, also
use mild cleansers or alcohol.

A spore test can in any case be used to successfully
verify the sterilisation effectiveness of the autoclave

only in conjunction with the sterilization
program.

Test spores which are already packed (for example,
spore strips in paper packing, test tubes, or the
product Attest) may not be again placed into the
autoclave in a packed state.
It is necessary to make the spore test under sterile
conditions. This means, for example, that it is not
possible after sterilization to put the spore sample in
the same package in which it was sent to you, or to
touch the sample with the same tweezers used
before. Otherwise, recontamination will take place.
We recommend sterilizing the tweezers with the
sample. The positive sample which is not sterilized
must be kept separate from the sterilized samples.

IMPORTANT:

If the spore sample is contained in an tube which is
perforated only on one size (for example, the
product Attest made by company 3M), then follow
the following instructions:
Never place such tubes into the autoclave with the
perforation upward (with the product Attest, the
perforation is in the brown closure cap).
Since our autoclave operates in accordance with the
gravitation principle, in which the required air venting
takes place downward, the perforation must face the
bottom for best results. At the very least, the
perforation must face toward the side, as is the case
for inserted tubes.
If you receive custom-made spore preparations
which are directly sealed in paper / plastic
packages, then make sure that the steam has
unrestricted contact with all paper sides of the
package. Here, it is also necessary that the paper
side of the package face downward or to the side.

3 Installation ________________________________________________________

3.1 Positioning the autoclave _________________________________________________

Side gap

The autoclave must have a distance of at least
10 cm to a wall and 20 cm of free space above.

Setting up

For error-free function, the autoclave must be placed
on a nearly horizontal surface.

Page 7

Installing the autoclave during winter period

If the autoclave is very cold, it is necessary to wait
with the sterilization/disinfection for some hours in
order to make drying of condensation water in the
inner parts possible.

Operation Manual

3.2 Connection of water discharge_____________________________________________

MELAquick®12

The autoclave works with the one-way system.
While processing, water vapour flows with pressure
into the MELAG condensation container No. 120
(23). The steam is condensed in the container via a
cooling tube.

Installation of the condensation container

The container should be placed directly under the
apparatus and enable easy access, but in every
case in a lower position than the autoclave. The
hose can be lead to the autoclave through a hole in
a table with 7 mm in diameter and should have the
shortest length, but not more than 1.5 m. A higher
length does not spoil the function or effectiveness of
the autoclave. The effect of a longer hose is that the
lamp which indicates the "End" of a process, lights
(in combination with a beep) although the pressure
in the chamber has not been completely reduced.
The sliding door can only be opened if the pressure
is 0 bar. This is indicated on the pressure gauge (6).

Connecting the condenser container

The Teflon hose you have obtained with the delivery
of the MELAquick
correct length so that a constant fall is achieved.
Use a sharp knife. If the hose is too long it may
occur a "sack" of water that leads waste water back
to the apparatus.

Please put the hose in a position where it cannot
be touched unintentionally because the hot hose
may cause injuries.

To connect the condenser container, insert the
pressure-safe Teflon hose into the connector (18) at
the back of the autoclave as far as possible.

®12

has to be shortened to the

Therefore you have to overcome a first resistance to
get to the end of the connector. The other end of the
hose is already attached to the lid of the condenser
container (23).
Make sure that the hose is fully inserted, otherwise
this will lead to an escape of steam.

Filling the condenser to the MIN-mark

To prevent the formation of bacteria in the
condenser, the container should be filled with
approximately 150 ml of normal disinfection liquid
and then filled up with tap water to the MIN-mark.
This procedure has to be fulfilled at the first time of
installation and after each time the container was
emptied.

Emptying the condenser container

The condenser (23) should be placed for easy
access in order to check the water level in the
container. If the water reaches the MAX-mark, the
container must be emptied immediately.
We recommend to empty the condenser container
each time purified water is added to the reservoir in
the autoclave. Thus you ensure a regular working
procedure without an overflow of the condenser
container.

Never operate the autoclave without connecting
the required condensate tank.

IMPORTANT: Never empty the condensate tank
while the autoclave is in operation, owing to the
danger of burning the operating personal.
DANGER OF SCALDING!

3.3 Filling the water storage tank ______________________________________________

When turning on the autoclave for the first time
(where the storage tank is empty) or when the
reservoir is not filled with enough water, the light
"WATER" lights on. On lack of water the autoclave
will not work.
For the first filling or refilling of the water storage
tank the black lid (3) at the top of the apparatus must
be removed and the tank has to be filled up with
distilled water until the lower corner of the
trapeziform filling nozzle is reached. This is done
while the sliding door of the autoclave is closed. Use
a funnel if you want to

fill from a large water container.
Total capacity of tank: 4.50 l
Re-filling with water: approx. 4.25 l

Attention:

• Make sure that the water quality is adequate, in
accordance with chapter 5.3.

• do not move or tilt the autoclave when filled with
water.

• Drain water before transport or if the autoclave is
not used for more than 14 days (see
Section 5.3.2.).

3.4 Connection of the MELAprint®40 ___________________________________________

The MELAquick®12 autoclave is equipped on the
equipment side with a serial printer interface (21).
When the MELAprint

1040) is connected, a log is printed out for every
cycle program.
The interfacing cables included in the normal order
for the printer are for power supply and data
transmission, they must be connected between the
printer and the jacks 20 and 21 on the rear side of
the autoclave. When connecting the 24-pole plug of

®

40 dot matrix printer (order no.

the cable (to the printer) and the 9-pole plug of the
cable (to the autoclave)use also the attached
screws. When installing the printer, it is also
necessary to load the paper in accordance with the
instructions supplied with the printer.
When the power switch on the autoclave has been
switched on, and when paper has been loaded into
the printer, the operating-voltage signal lamp „P“ and
the status indication ON/OFF Line „SEL“ will glow.

Page 8

3.5 Setting the time of day and the date_________________________________________

The internal clock of the autoclave has been
correctly set before it leaves the factory. It continues
to run, powered by its battery, even when the
autoclave is switched off. The installed battery has a
service life of 7...10 years.
It is necessary to set time and date only if a printer is
in use, because it will appear only on the printout.
If it becomes necessary to set the internal clock (for
example, for a change between winter and summer
time), then proceed as follows:

• First hold the „SELECT“ button (15) pressed, and
then briefly press the button „START“ (7). Then
release both buttons. The device is now in the
SET mode, and „Set time and date“ is output on
the printer, followed by a table with the current
settings for time and date.

• The „WATER“ lamp (8) will also flash slowly, and
the current value for „hours“ will be printed out by
the printer.

• By pressing the „SELECT“ button (15), it is then
possible to switch consecutively forward
throughout the following sequence:

- To „minutes“ -- the lamp for „DOOR“ (9) will

then flash

- Then to „seconds“ -- the lamp for „FAULT“ (10)
will flash

- Then to „day“ -- the „READY“ lamp (11) will
flash

- Then to „month“ -- the lamp „RUNNING“ (12)
will flash, and then finally

- To „year“ -- the lamp „END“ (13) will flash

After each switching operation, the printer will

output the current setting.

• Use the button „START“ (7) to change each of
the values selected. You can briefly press the

„

START“ button (7) several times in a row, which
will increase the current setting by 1 unit for each
pressing. Or, you can hold down the „START“
button (7) longer, which will cause a rapid
increase in settings. You will hear a short beep
every time the setting increases by one
increment. When the „START“ button (7) is not
pressed for more then 2 seconds, the current
setting will be output by the printer.

• If the „SELECT“ button (15) is pressed again
after the setting opportunity for the „year“, the
date and time of day will printed out again in
tabular form, and the device will leave the SET
mode.

3.6 Empty sterilization process________________________________________________

When the MELAquick®12 is put into operation for the
first time, it is absolutely necessary to run two
consecutive sterilization cycles with no instruments
in the autoclave. This is necessary to remove the air
from tubing system of the autoclave, as well as any
antifreeze agent which may have been installed in
the factory, and which must be removed from the

waterfeed system. During this first (empty)

sterilization cycle, it is normal that the autoclave
will switch to fault no. 4 (see Section 8) to
indicate a lack of water. Should this situation arise,

switch off the autoclave for at least 10 seconds, then
switch on and start a cycle again.

3.7 VDE-requirements _______________________________________________________

Due to the valid VDE-requirements, this autoclave is
not suitable in areas with danger of explosion.
It may be repaired only by the manufacturer or a
licensed service unit.

Electrically powered devices of this nature
should not be operated unless they are under
constant supervision.

3.8 Safety precautions _______________________________________________________

1. Never use the autoclave without the connected waste water hose (22) and the condenser
container.
DANGER OF SCALDING!

2. The hose must be fully inserted into the hose coupling at the back of the autoclave. It also has to
be kept straight and with a drop to the condenser container!

3. During use the hose and the condenser container get hot. DO NOT TOUCH!

4. Empty the condenser container (23) each time the water reservoir is refilled!

5. When opening the sliding door (1), keep your arm to the side. Small quantities of remaining
steam could rise out of the opened door!

6. When the sliding door is open, do not touch the exposed hot metal parts. DANGER OF
BURNING! To take out the basket/instrument carrier, always use the handle provided!

7. Empty water reservoir (3) before transport!

8. Do not tilt the autoclave when filled with water!

9. Do not use the LOCKING HANDLE (2) to lift or transport the autoclave.

10. Do not open the enclosure of the autoclave. The components on the inside of the device can be
serviced only by a trained specialist.

WARNING: It is necessary to remove the power plug of the autoclave from mains power socket

in order to diconnect the device from all poles of the AC power supply.

Page 9

Operation Manual

4 For every sterilization / disinfection cycle_______________________________

4.1 Main switch, pre-heating of the chamber_____________________________________

At the beginning of one working day, press the main
switch to turn on the autoclave and select the
program if necessary. The autoclave's chamber will
automatically get pre-heated. During this heating
period (about 10...15 min. for sterilzation, and less
than 10 min. for disinfection), the lamp „READY“
(11) will flash. When the pre-heat temperature is
reached, the blinking sign changes to a continuous
light. Now the specified program can be started.

4.2 Selection of program _____________________________________________________

The „SELECT“ button (15) on the control panel of
the autoclave is used to choose the desired
program. The program selected is then signalled on
the corresponding signal lamps (16, 17).
Before leaving the factory, the autoclave is set to
sterilization.
Each time that the autoclave is switched on by the
power switch (4), the program selection is the same
as that selected when the device was switched off.

The operator should select the desired program
as soon as possible after switching on the
electrical power. If the autoclave has been already
preheated (the „READY“ lamp (11) glows), and if
the program is only then switched from

„

Disinfection“ to „Sterilization“, the autoclave will

run through a brief reheating phase of about
5 minutes. If the program is switched from

„

Sterilization“ to „Disinfection“ after preheating, then

Once the pre-heat process has been finished, the
pre-heat temperature will be kept on a constant level
so that the autoclave can be used without
interruption until it is turned off.
It is recommended to keep the sliding door closed
during the pre-heat period. Thus the autoclave can
be used earlier due to less heat loss.
At the end of a working day, the power switch should
be pressed to turn the autoclave off.

the autoclave will run through a cool-down phase
for the pressure chamber, of up to 45 minutes (see
Section 4.1). During this reheating or cool-down
phase, the „READY“ (11) lamp will flash, and the
autoclave cannot be put into operation.

IMPORTANT:

• Items for sterilization can also be sealed into
transparent sterilzation packages.

• Steam pressure disinfection is permissible only for
instruments which are unpacked.

• This autoclave cannot disinfect or sterilze liquids
or textiles.

• Observe the instructions above on the reheating

and cool-down phase if the program is changed
between sterilization and disinfection after the
autoclave has been preheated.

MELAquick®12

4.3 Items to be sterilized _____________________________________________________

Carrier basket, instrument carrier

Never use the autoclave without one of the
specifically provided carriers. Otherwise a
malfunction may occur due to lack of ventilation or
blockage of a steam tube. For universal use of your
MELAquick

• For general purposes use the insert basket (part
No. 121). It provides a sterilization of 12 turbines
and contra-angles. Other instruments with a
maximum length of 16cm can be sterilized in this
basket, too. If you want to sterilize instruments
with very small size, e.g. endodonic instruments,
the basket has a half-rounded container which can
be hung either in a higher or lower position.

• The instrument carrier (part No. 122) is fitted
with 7 ISO adapters that can be used with
instruments with ISO connectors. These
instruments can easily be sterilized in the
MELAquick

• The instrument carrier (part No. 123) is fitted
with 7 round holders which can be used with
instruments whose manufacturers recommend a
sterilization with the instrument's head pointing
down.

Sterilization packages

The items to be sterilized can be sealed in a
transparent sterilization package like MELAfol

®

12, you have 3 possibilities:

®12

.

®

(one

side paper, one side film). For sealed items only use
the basket, order no. 121. It is important that you do
not place too many instruments in the basket. They
must be placed in a position where the incoming
steam can reach all paper sides of the sterilization
packages. When sealing the objects inside the
sterilization packages, make sure that the sealing
seam has a width of at least 8 mm in accordance
with DIN 58953, part. 7. The MELAG package
sealing device MELAseal
with a sealing seam of 10 mm.

Temperature sensitive items

Especially plastic articles and turbines or
instruments with fibre optics are very sensitive to
high temperature. So look for the maximum
temperature to which the instruments can be
exposed, according to the manufacturer's
recommendations. Please refer to their specific
instructions. The regulation with microprocessors in
combination with highly sensitive sensors ensure
that the temperature in the chamber and its wall
never exceeds the maximum temperature of 135°C
for sterilization and 107°C for disinfection.

Liquids and textiles

The autoclave is not suitable for sterilization of
liquids or textiles!

®

seals such plastic bags

Page 10

4.4 Preparation of instruments ________________________________________________

The instruments have to be cleaned and cared for
very thoroughly as described in chapter 2.1.

4.5 Loading ________________________________________________________________

The closed and locked sliding door (1) is opened by
turning the knob (2) for 90° counter clockwise.
Shortly before the end of this quarter-turn, the
turning becomes slightly more difficult while the
sliding door is raised. When 90° turn is complete,
the marking on the knob will then point along the
axis of the autoclave. To open the door, push it
toward the rear by using the knob. Do not press
down with the knob: this would apply pressure to
the door gasket and would cause the door gasket to
jam.
Put the loaded basket (No. 121) or instrument
carrier (No. 122/123) into the sterilization chamber
by using

4.6 Starting the sterilization / disinfection_______________________________________

To start the desired program, press the button
“START” (7). This is followed by a short beep which
confirms your request.
During the following 2 seconds, the autoclave
automatically tests the quality of the distilled or
demineralized water in the tank. If the water quality
is not adequate, a warning signal will follow, or in the
worst case a malfunction will be registered. In both
cases, the lamp „WATER“ (9) will flash. See
Section 1.7.
Water will then be automatically pumped into the
steam generator (for 16 seconds); this function is
clearly audible.
At the same time, the steam generator starts and the
air in the chamber will be pushed out through the
flow nozzle.
Pressure and temperature are built up under control
of the microprocessor. A blinking sign of the lamp
'"RUNNING" (12) indicates the momentary
heating-up phase.
When the required pressure (2 bar) and temperature
(134°C) for sterilization (0.2 bar and 105°C for
disinfection) is reached, the lamp "RUNNING"
shows a continuous light which announces that the
actual sterilization time is now in action.

In addition, clean and oil hand pieces according to
the manufacturer's instructions.

the supplied handle.

Never sterilize instruments without using a
basket or carrier.

Now pull the sliding door forward, again by taking
the knob without pressing down, until the end is
reached. For locking the door, turn the knob with 90°
clockwise.
The red lamp "Door" (8) must go out.
If you move the knob with pressure, it may happen
that the door gasket will be shifted or even damaged
which causes a malfunction of the autoclave (see
also chapter 7.7 and 8.2.6).

During the whole process, first air and, after a while,
steam flows via a pressure safe hose from the
chamber to the condenser container.
Attention: hose is getting hot!
Remember that the running program can only be
stopped by pressing the main switch or by trying to
open the sliding door. In the last case, a fault
reaction will be triggered (lamp "FAULT" (10) lights)
which automatically reduces the pressure. The door
can only be unlocked and opened if the pressure
has fallen down to 0 bar (see gauge (5)).
Conditions for ability to start:
The process cannot be commenced, if:

• there is lack of water

• the sliding door is not closed and locked

• the pre-heat process has not finished yet and the

lamp "READY" does not light without interruption

• the quality of the distilled or demineralized water
is not adequate.

• there is a fault

• a program is in progress

If in any cases above the start button is pressed, you
will hear a beep for 2 seconds as a mistake in
operating.

4.7 Automatic pressure release _______________________________________________

At the end of a sterilization process, the autoclave
will automatically let the steam out. Then the lamp
"RUNNING" goes out and the lamp "END" (13)

comes on. The end of each process is confirmed by
4 short and 1 long beep.

4.8 Automatic printout of the log ______________________________________________

After the lamp „END“ (13) glows, and the acoustic
signal sounds five times, the protocol will be printed

out automatically if the printer has been connected
and is ready for operation. See Section 1.5.

4.9 Successful end of a process_______________________________________________

The acoustic signal and the light of lamp "END"
indicate the completion of a successful
sterilization/disinfection process.

This result says that the autoclave's chamber was
sufficiently saturated with steam and the minimum
values for pressure and temperature were definitely
fulfilled during the whole process.

Page 11

This is also documented in the protocol if the printer
has been connected.
However, if the autoclave indicates a fault, the
minimum values were not achieved, even if you
open the door and the lamp "FAULT" does not shine
any more. In this case, you cannot assume a

successful process. The instruments have to be

Operation Manual

regarded as unsterile.

The required protocol will also be printed out in this

4.10 Removal of instruments __________________________________________________

When the pressure is 0 bar and the lamp "END"
lights, the chamber can be opened. To unlock the

sliding door turn the knob 90° counter-clockwise.
Shortly before the end of the turn, you have to
overcome a slight resistance before the door is
completely unlocked.
You can see the lamp "END" (13) go out while lamp
"READY" (11) is lighting again. The autoclave is now
ready for a new start.

4.11 Drying _________________________________________________________________

After sterilization, unsealed sterilization items are
dry and can be taken out immediately.

Sealed items or items to be disinfected should be

4.12 Particuliarities of the disinfection___________________________________________

Packing

Items must not be wrapped.

Selection of the program

The operator must use the „SELECT“ button (15) on
the control panel to switch from sterilization to the
disinfection program. Then the signal lamp for

„

sterilization“ (16) will go out, and the lamp for

„

disinfection“ (17) will glow.

case. See Section 1.5.

If the sliding door cannot be completely unlocked,
there is still pressure in the chamber which is
produced by post-vaporization. Then the pressure
operated safety lock is still in operation. In this case,
lock the door once again and wait for a few seconds
until the pressure on the gauge (5) has fallen to
0 bar. Now unlock the door and pull the knob (2)
without pressing it down.

left in the hot chamber for a few minutes with the
sliding door open. This is recommended for
complete drying.

Cool-down phase

If the autoclave is set to the sterilization program, if it
is fully heated up, and if it is then switched to the
disinfection program, the „READY“ (11) lamp will
flash up to 45 minutes, until the autoclave cools
down to the preheating temperature for disinfection.
Also see section 1.3. During this period, it is not
possible to start the disinfection program.

MELAquick®12

4.13 Overheat protection ______________________________________________________

Overheat excluded

Overheat during error-free process is generally
excluded due to the concept of separate steam
generation in combination with electronic-parametric
regulation. The limit of 135°C (107°C) cannot be
exceeded.

Steam temperature control

Additionally, the temperature of steam is
electronically controlled. If the limit temperature of
140°C (112°C) is exceeded owing to a defect, the
running program will also be interrupted, and the

„

FAULT“ lamp (10) will glow.

Temperature limitation

To avoid (e.g. complete failure of electronic / heater
cut-out) possible overheats and thus endangering
the items to be sterilized even under unusual
conditions, the autoclave has two separate
temperature limitors, one for the chamber and one
for the steam generator. These two work
independently from the safety system described
above and will directly cut power if temperature
exceeds the limit. If the temperature monitor system
triggers, the respective heating system will be
switched off, and the water pump will simulanteously
start to cool the steam generator. If the electronic
system is functional, the lamp „FAULT“ (10) will also

glow, indicating a fault.

Interruption of the sterilization

The light of lamp "FAULT" shows in every case that
the sterilization/disinfection program was not fully
completed. The items have to be considered as
unsterile.
When the “FAULT” light blinks (time is beyond limit)
and goes out if the door is opened, the sterilizing
conditions were not achieved fast enough or did not
remain long enough. The autoclave returns to ready
state after having opened the door. After having
checked the apparatus and removed the cause of
fault (too much load / ventilation holes blocked by
load / sliding door not tight because of improper
closing), you are able to continue your work
immediately with the autoclave.
If the fault message cannot be removed by opening
the sliding door, you either have tried to open the
door during the process or there is a defect in the
apparatus (heating elements / temperature sensors).
After switching off the main switch briefly (at least
10 seconds), the autoclave should be ready again.
For repeated fault messages, the cause of failure
must be found and removed by a service technician;
also pay attention to chapter 8.

Page 12

4.14 Process control _________________________________________________________

The autoclave offers the following possibilities for
controlling a safe sterilization/disinfection process:

Successful conclusion of a process

As soon as a sterilization/disinfection is completed
successfully, i.e. keeping the required parameters
for pressure and temperature in the prescribed time,
the lamp „END“ lights and an acoustic signal can be
heard. If the protocol printer is connected, the
successful end of the cycle will be documented on
the printout.

Pressure-temperature correlation

During process, the correlation of temperature with
pressure can be controlled by observing the
thermometer (6) and the pressure gauge (5),
according to the curve for saturated steam (e.g. 2-

2.1 bar with 134-135°C). The precision of the
indicator instruments must be taken into account
here: see Section 5.2.

Electronic monitoring of parameters

During running of the program, the following
parameters will be automatically monitored under
microprocessor control:
Heat-up time
The maximum heat-up time is normally 3 minutes.
If overloading, insufficient venting, or fault in
operation prevent the autoclave from achieving the
values required by the selected program for

pressure and temperature within 5 min., then the
program will interrupt owing to time overrun, and the
lamps for „FAULT“ (10) and „RUNNING“ (12) will
flash.
Sterilization/disinfection time
During sterilization/disinfection process, the
parameters pressure and temperature are
constantly controlled. The sterilization/disinfection
time of 4 / 6 minutes will only run if both parameters
reach the required values (lamp "RUNNING" lights).
If the autoclave exceeds the monitoring time of

5.5 minutes for sterilization / 7.5 minutes for

disinfection due to faulty run, the program will also
be stopped because of exceeding time. The lamps
for „FAULT“ (10) and „RUNNING“ (12) will flash in
this case.
Exceeding steam temperature
If the autoclave exceeds the steam temperature of
140°C during sterilization or 112°C during
disinfection due to a fault, the program will also
interrupt in such case, and the lamp for „FAULT“
(10) will glow. The lamps for „READY“ (11) and

„

RUNNING“ (12) will flash.

Temperature limitation

The automatic temperature limitation has already
been described (See Section 4.13).

4.15 Sterilizing frequency _____________________________________________________

Because of its parameters control system and its
optimised heating, the MELAG-autoclave
MELAquick

®12

can be used for

sterilization / disinfection without interruption.
So 8-10 sterilizations per hour are possible.

5 Further informations about sterilization ________________________________

5.1 Total operating time______________________________________________________

Operating time

"The operating time is the time needed for
sterilization without taking account of loading and
emptying." (DIN 58900)
Due to the parameter regulation of the autoclave,
the operating time is optimised mainly depending on
the number of items to be sterilized and the
temperature of the apparatus. The minimum
operating time (small load, immediate sterilization
before) needed for sterilization is about 5.5 minutes

5.2 Accuracy of process regulation ____________________________________________

Page 13

The analogue instruments for pressure and
temperature of the MELAquick
independently from the microprocessor regulation
and are only for additional information about the run
state of the autoclave.

Because of their small size, the accuracy of these
instruments is only ± 0,1 bar (pressure gauge) and
± 2°C (thermometer).
Owing to the time delay of the temperature sensor, it
can happen that the indication of the temperature
reaches the correct value only after beginning of the
sterilization or disinfection time: i.e., while the lamp

„

RUNNING“ (12) is glowing, and after the required

temperature has already been reaches in the

®12

work completely

and about 7.5 minutes for disinfection. The
maximum time (maximum load, first process after
complete pre-heat) is about 8 minutes for
sterilization and 9 minutes for disinfection.

Included times

The operating time includes times for pressure
generation, ventilation and heat-up of instruments
and chamber as well as for sterilization which
consists of equalization time, killing time and an
extra charge for safety.

chamber.
It may also happen during continuous operation, as

a result of constant high temperature of the
autoclave, that the temperature indicates on the
thermometer is 2°C higher than the temperature
shown for the first sterilization or disinfection cycle.
In the actual sterilization compartment, however,
there will be no temperature deviation.

Microprocessor control

The electronic control system, on the other hand,
operates with an absolute precision of 0.5°C and
controls the sterilization or disinfection temperature
with a maximum deviation of ± 0.3°C.

The microprocessor regulation in combination with

Operation Manual

separate steam generation excludes an overheat of instruments and of the chamber, too.

5.3 Use of aqua dest / aqua dem_______________________________________________

MELAquick®12

Quality requirements

It is important to use distilled water (aqua dest) or
demineralized water (aqua dem) for steam
sterilization.
As directions for water quality, refer to the values in
the nearby table according to CEN-standard DIN EN

285.
For the operation of the MELAquick

®12

and for all
other MELAG autoclaves, however, battery water
in accordance with VDE 510 is also adequate. The
stipulations of VDE must be strictly observed here,
however: conductivity upon processing of the water

)

≤ 10 µS/cm*

, and upon use ≤ 30 µS/cm*), pH
identical to stipulations of DIN EN 285, and residue
of evaporation comparable.

Automatic testing of conductivity

Immediately after start of he program, the autoclave
tests the water conductivity in the water storage tank
(see Section 1.7).
If the water quality is adequate, the program will run
normally. If the water conductivity is between
approx. 25 and 40 µS/cm*

)

, the lamp „WATER“ (9)
will flash to warn the operator. The program will,
however, continue to run normally. If the water

)

conductivity is greater than approx. 40 µS/cm*

, the

lamp „WATER“ (9) will flash, a fault message will
be triggered, and the lamp „FAULT“ (10) will glow.
In such case, in order to protect the instruments and
the autoclave, the program will not start. The
operator must replace the water in the tank by better
(for example demineralized) water and press the

„

START“ button (7) again.

Suppliers of adequate water

Battery water in accordance with VDE 510 is
economically supplied by all major drug stores,
supermarkets, home-construction marts, as well as
from wholesalers. In Germany, however, the seal for
VDE 510 must be expressly displayed on the label.

Functional effectiveness

If you do not pay attention to the directions above,
deposits of lime in steam pipes, valves and flow
nozzle can impair the autoclave's functional
effectiveness. Aggressive water (pH <5 or >7) can
also damage the apparatus.
It is only for high values of conductivity that the
autoclave triggers a warning or fault alarm. See
Section 1.7.

Steam formation

The extent of stain formation on instruments de­pends on the quality of water used for steam gen­eration.

vapour residues
silica, SiO2
iron
cadmium
lead
heavy metals expect the

10 mg/l

≤
≤
≤
≤
≤
≤

1 mg/l
0,2 mg/l
0,005 mg/l
0,05 mg/l
0,1 mg/l

ones above
chlorides
phosphates

conductivity

≤
≤
≤

2 mg/l
0,5 mg/l

15

µS/cm*

)

pH - value 5 to 7
colour colourless, clear

without residues

hardness

≤

0,02 mmol/l

Note:

Use of the water with elements above the values in

the table can shorten life of the autoclave very much

and can probably eliminate the manufacturer's

warranty.

)

*

µS/cm = Micro Siemens per centimetre

5.3.1 Amount of consumption _________________________________________________________

Water in the reservoir decreases each process with
the amount needed for one sterilization/disinfection
(one-way system).
The MELAquick

®12

requires approx. 150 ml of

distilled or demineralized water per sterilization or

disinfection cycle.
When the water storage tank is full, it is possible to
conduct approx. 28 sterilization cycles until the lamp

„

WATER“ (9) glows. Then the operator must refill the

water tank.

5.3.2 Emptying the water storage tank __________________________________________________

If the autoclave must be transported, or if it will
remain out of operation for a lengthy period of time
(over about 14 days, depending on the water quality
and temperature), then it is necessary to empty the
water storage tank to prevent soiling due to growth
of algae, etc.

For emptying the water storage tank, it is necessary
to turn the autoclave so that the rear part protrudes

about 12...15 cm over the edge of the table. You can
now see a rubber bung (19) under the autoclave.
Pull out the bung and the hose to which the bung is
connected until you can feel a definite resistance.
Then put a container underneath, pull the bung out
of the hose and wait until the reservoir is completely
empty. Stick the bung back into the hose and the
hose back into the autoclave.

Page 14

5.3.3 Refilling / Replacement __________________________________________________________

Lamp „WATER“, indicating lack of water

The light of lamp "WATER" shows that the amount
of water in the reservoir is not sufficient any more.
With this lamp on, there is no possibility to start a
program. The reservoir has to be refilled with aqua
dest/aqua dem until the lamp goes out. The
maximum level is reached with the lower edge of the
trapezi-form filling nozzle.
If lamp "WATER" comes on after a start of a process
and during pumping, it has no influence on running

6 Putting out of operation / Transport

the program.
The remaining amount of water in the water storage
tank is in any case sufficient for the started
sterilisation or disinfection cycle to run to completion.

Replacement in case of pollution

If dirt has come into the water reservoir because of
misoperation, the reservoir has to be rinsed and
cleaned, e.g. with a bottle brush. In every case, let
off the water as described above and refill the
reservoir.

• Switch off main switch.

• Pull out main plug, let autoclave cool down.

• Remove hose to condenser container from

autoclave by pressing hard against the black
ring of the connector (16) and pulling the hose
out of the connector at the same time.

• Empty water reservoir as described in
chapter 5.3.2.

• If possible, use the original packing to
transport the autoclave. Be sure in any case to
additionally seal the autoclave inside plastic
wrapping, in order to prevent packing material
from entering the water storage tank, etc.

6.1 Transport under danger of frost____________________________________________

If freezing temperatures are possible during
transport, any water which may remain in the feed­water system must be removed in order to prevent
damage to the pump and the water lines. A service
technician is required for this work, which includes
the following steps:

• The autoclave must be switched on and
preheated.

• Empty the water storage tank as described in
Section 5.3.2.

• Remove the metal side-enclosure panels from
the autoclave.

• At the bottom left on the electronic circuit board
there are four wire-clasp buttons / switches (22).
The second from the bottom is the Test Button,
which sets all outputs of the control system.
Press this Test Button for the electronic control
system until no more water is pumped on the
output side of the water pump (through the thin,
transparent hose).

• Open and close the sliding door several times
until all the water remaining in the steam
generator is expelled. This action will heat the air
contained in the preheated pressure chamber,
which will cause the air to expand and expel any
water remaining into the condensor container.

• Switch off the power switch and unplug the
power cable.

• Replace the metal side-enclosure panels on the
autoclave.

• Disconnect hose to condenser container from the
autoclave by pressing hard against the black ring
of the autoclave's connector; at the same time
pull the hose.

• Let the autoclave cool down.

7 Breakdowns without warning light

The following instructions for breakdowns are pro­vided to help the user resolve minor trouble himself,
or to allow him a more accurate description of
malfunctions to his authorized dealer, warehouse
agent, or customer-service representative.

Page 15

Bigger faults or damages are repaired only by
appointed service engineers or by the manu­facturer.

Operation Manual

7.1 No Indication or false indication of the operating state_________________________

After having switched on the main switch (4), the
autoclave shows its state of process by the following
indicators:
Door closed and locked:
Lamp "MAIN" lights,
Lamp "READY" blinks (if apparatus is still cold),
Lamp "READY" lights (if apparatus is pre-heated),
Lamp "WATER" lights (if there is lack of water).
Door unlocked:
Lamp "MAIN" lights,
Lamp "DOOR" lights,
Lamp "READY" blinks (if apparatus is still cold),
Lamp "READY" lights (if apparatus is pre-heated),
Lamp "WATER" lights (if there is lack of water).

If no indication of any light:

Is the autoclave plugged in?
Is there current in the socket? When switching the
main switch of the autoclave, lamp „MAIN“ must
come on.
If power is available to the autoclave, and if the

7.2 Lamp

If lamp "READY" blinks more than 20 minutes after
having turned on the main switch, and the chamber
is still hot, you have previously changed from
sterilization to disinfection program so that the
autoclave is still cooling down to pre-heat
temperature for disinfection (see 1.3). This can take
up to 45 minutes.

„

READY“ does not light continuously__________________________________

„

MAIN“ power switch (4) is switched on, but if no
signal is provided, then it is possible that the main
fuse in the autoclave is defective.

You must notify the MELAG Customer Service
Department.

In case of different indication:

Switch off main switch and switch it on again after
10 seconds.
If -- despite attempting the measures described
above -- the autoclave is still not in proper
operational status, as would be indicated by the
proper lamp signals given above, there is probably
an electrical defect within the autoclave. You must
notify the MELAG Customer Service Department. If
the electronic circuit board becomes dirty -- for
example, if disinfecting agent enters the device
through the forward vent slots -- then it may be
cleaned with methylated alcohol (C

If the „READY“ lamp (11) flashes more than
20 minutes while the chamber is cold and no fault
has been signalled, the temperature sensor of the
preheating system is defective. You must notify the
MELAG Customer Service Department.

MELAquick®12

O).

2H6

7.3 Impossible to start a program______________________________________________

Preheat phase / cool-down phase

During the following phases, it is not possible to start
a program:

• During the approx. 10...15-min. preheating
phase (only once, after first switching on the

autoclave)

• During the 5-minute reheating phase when
switching from the disinfection to the sterilization
program

• During the cool-down phase when switching
from the sterilzation to the disinfection program.

During one of these phases, the lamp „READY“ will
glow. The operator must wait until the end of the
preheat, reheating or cool-down phase.

Door contact

A program start is only possible with the sliding door
closed and locked. Lamp "DOOR" will go out when
the sliding door is closed and completely locked.
Check that the door has been pushed to the end.
If the lamp „DOOR“ (8) does not go out through the
door has been correctly locked by a quarter turn,
then the contact has not been correctly set, or it has
been damaged by violent sliding of the door in its
locked position (the pushing rod has been bent in
the door guide).

You must notify the MELAG Service Department
The contact must probably be adjusted by removing

the nut of the microswitch and readjusting the
contact position inside the apparatus (while the
autoclave is hot).

If the door contact rod is bent, the microswitch must
first be removed, and then the contact rod must be
straightened. Then the microswitch must be installed
again (with the round side upward), and the door
contact must be adjusted again (see above).

Lack of water

If the signal lamp "WATER" lights, there is not
enough water in the storage tank so that it is not
possible to start a program.
The water storage tank has to be filled (see chapter

3.3).
If the lamp does not go out when the reservoir is
filled to the lower edge of its trapezi-form inlet, a
service engineer must check the water level switch
of the container.
It may be possible to trigger the switching process
for the water-level indicator switch by tapping lightly
against the autoclave or against the water storage
tank.

Program still running

When a process is running (lamp "RUNNING" lights
or blinks) or the sliding door has not been opened
yet after a completed process (lamp "END" is still
on), it is not possible to start a new process. Wait
until the process is over and open the sliding door.

Note:

If the "START"-button is operated in one of the
above cases, you will hear a beep for 2 seconds
because of misoperation.

Faulty operation

Page 16

If lamp "FAULT" lights, it is not possible to start a program.

7.4 The feed pump does not start when the program begins _______________________

It can happen that the water feed pump (47) starts
with a delay: i.e., only within 30...60 seconds after
pressing the „START“ button (7), and not within two
seconds as normal. Under such conditions, the
program may, however, run normally through to the
end, with the lamp „END“ (13) signalling the proper
end of cycle. In such case, it may be assumed that
the sterilization or disinfection program has
successfully run through to the end, but that the fuse
for the feed pump output is defective.

7.5 Too small indication of pressure and/or temperature __________________________

If the autoclave does not register the prescribed
values for temperature and / or pressure because of
an operator's mistake, a malfunction will reported in
all cases (see Section 8).
If the pressure gauge or thermometer indicates
excessively low values although the program has
been normally completed (lamp „END“ (13) lights at
conclusion of process), you must notify the MELAG
Customer Service Department, and an engineer
must check the instrument involved.

You must notify the MELAG Customer Service
Department.

In such case, the pump (47) has not been properly
activated by it’s output in the electronics system, but
instead via the steam-generator output after
triggering of the overheating protection system for
the steam generator (33). The fuse for the pump
output (33) must be replaced.

However, if the values for temperature and pressure
are slightly too low but do correspond, the
temperature sensor for steam (screwed into the
steam channel of the chamber from the bottom) has
to be checked for resistances on plugs, and contacts
may have to be cleaned or the sensor to be
replaced.
For questions about the precision of pressure gauge
or thermometer refer to chapter 5.2.

7.6 Excessive indication of pressure and/or temperature __________________________

A short rise of pressure up to 2.3 bar, shortly before
the beginning of a sterilization, that is just before the
"Running" light changes from blinking to constant
lighting, serves for a minimization of the equalization
time and for a proper ventilation of the instruments'
inner parts. When regulation starts, pressure falls
down to approximately 2.1 bar. On principle, the

thermometer should indicate values not higher than
137°C.
If pressure rises to over 2.4/0.4 bar for a short time,
but falls down again to values of 2 and 2.1 bar (0.2
and 0.3 bar), call for a service engineer
adjust the pressure switch inside of the autoclave.

who has to

7.7 Hissing during run / foggy instruments______________________________________

If you can clearly hear a hissing noise at the sliding
door after a program was started, either the door
gasket is dirty, damaged or the sliding door was
pressed down during locking which causes an
overturn of the lip of the gasket. For this reason,
steam can escape through the resulting gap.
A damaged gasket has to be replaced (seal is in a
ring groove) and in case of overturned seal, the

sterilization process can be stopped by switching off
the main switch. After pressure drop, open sliding
door and once again close it correctly (do not press
down while closing).
A dirty seal can be cleaned with alcohol on a fluff
free cloth. If the sliding door itself is dirty, put a thin
cloth on top of the chamber, close the sliding door
and open it again. See also chapter 2.3.

Page 17

Operation Manual

7.8 Sliding door cannot be unlocked ___________________________________________

MELAquick®12

Pressure operated lock of sliding door (1)

As soon as the autoclave has reached a pressure of

0.2 bar, a bolt enters the locking mechanism of the

sliding door and prevents its opening during
process. After the pressure drops to "0", this bolt
releases the locking mechanism so that the sliding
door can be unlocked by a 90° turn counter­clockwise and be pushed back (marking on knob is
now along with the apparatus' axis), see also
chapter 4.5. If you try to open the door before
pressure is 0 bar, you will not succeed because the
bolt is still locked in. Thus, the sliding door cannot be
completely unlocked and opened.
In this case, lock the door once again (marking is
now crosswise with the apparatus' axis), wait until
pressure drops to "0" and then unlock and open the
door.
If the sliding door still cannot be opened, then it is
jammed by long instruments which protrude too far
upward -- or the mechanical system of the door is
defective. Try to slide the door backward by applying
slightly more force.

If this is not possible you must notify the MELAG
Customer Service Department.

Pressure release takes too long

During normal operations, the pressure indication
has fallen to „0“ by the time the lamp „END“ (13)
glows and the acoustic signal sounds. If, however,
an extremely great number of unpacked metal
instruments are sterilized together, then re­evaporation of the resulting condensate can cause a
situation in which the operator must wait a few
seconds after the acoustic signal before the
pressure has completely fallen and the door allows
itself to be opened (as described above).
When the pressure gauge shows a value of 0.2 bar
or more at the end of a cycle (light „END“ (13) glows,
with a beep), there is dirt inside the apparatus which
has settled down to the steam filter in front of the
solenoid valve of the pressure release (41).
This filter can be reached from the lower side of the
autoclave without dismantling it (use a spanner with
14 mm).
The filter must be cleaned by a service engineer
replaced. During this service work, the adjacent
openings should be rinsed and blown out before the
autoclave is reassembled. To perform this, first
remove the filter, then close off the outgoing-water
hose to prevent water from flowing through it. Then
pour demineralized or distilled water into the
pressure chamber and allow it to run through. Then
close the sliding door, and blow through the
outgoing waste water hose.

or

7.9 The sliding door cannot be easily moved ____________________________________

Normally, the sliding door (1), when unlocked -- see
Section 4.5 -- can be very easily moved: for
example, with 2 fingers. This is because of the
following: the actual metal closure floats over the
door gasket, the door slides on PTFE bearings, and
the door moves into a recess at the rear area of the
autoclave. If the door, however, is difficult to move,
please consider the following possibilities:

Transport damage

If the autoclave has been subjected to violent impact
from the side during transport, it is possible that the
suspension of the upper autoclave plastic cladding
has been bent. In this case, it is possible that the
collar of the cladding of the sliding door (under the
locking handle) collides toward the rear with a
corner of the opening in the upper part of the
autoclave cladding. You must notify the MELAG
Customer Service Department. The technician must
adjust the suspension of the upper autoclave plastic
cladding in order that the collar runs properly in the
centre of the opening.

The metal closure cover does not completely lift
during unlocking.

If the actual metal closure cover (5 mm thick) does
not lift, or completely lift, although the door is fully
unlocked, then the closure will not float over the
gasket and its upper side will not lie flush at the
upper corner of the guide slot. The operator can
then provisionally lift the closure by pressing on the
plastic cladding of the sliding door, and by pulling on
the locking handle, and can then open the
autoclave.
In every case you must notify the MELAG Customer
Service Department.
The problem may be that a technician has forgotten
to reinstall the PTFE bearing pieces between the
closure cladding and the slide rails after a repair job.
Or, the 4 spring-loaded hexagon socket-heat screws
have jammed because of soiling, debris from paint,
or a crooked position in the guides of the closure
cladding. In such case, unscrew the screws, clean
the guides, and screw the screws back in tight by
hand, using the springs and a thread-locking
adhesive.

7.10 Water reservoir goes empty _______________________________________________

If the water gets from the storage tank to the
condenser container and thus gets empty (over
night), there is a leak in the non-return valve of the
pump.
Inform the service engineer

who will clean or replace

the pump.
The autoclave can be used in the meantime, if the
cycle successfully runs the end: i.e., if the lamp

„

END“ (13) lights up.

Page 18

8 Fault with warning light

The following hints should give you the possibility to
correct small faults or to give an exact description of
the fault to the service engineer. Because the
MELAquick
special way, it is possible to treat faults according to
the table below.

In any case, you must report the following data
to the MELAG Customer Service Department:

• The point in time when the malfunction was
reported (for example, during the preheat phase,
during pressure generation, or during the

Fault

No.

1 blinks off Supervision time for pre-heat exceeded, happens
4 blinks off blinks Supervision time for pressure generation exceeded,

5 blinks off blinks Supervision time for sterilization time exceeded,
9 on blinks Attempt to unlock sliding door during process

11 on blinks blinks Maximum steam temperature exceeded after
12 on blinks off blinks The quality (conductivity) of the feed water in the

15 Shown only on the print-out Power loss during the last cycle

In every of the above cases and in case of "normal"
misoperation (pressing "start" button when autoclave
not "READY" or process already running), you will
hear a beep for 2 seconds. On principle, you

should observe type and time of the fault (e.g.

®12

LED

Fault

indicates the cause of fault in a

LED

Door

LED

Water

LED

Ready

LED
Run

sterilization period).

• The LED signal which reported the malfunction.

• The values for pressure and temperature

indicated at this time.

• Any unusual developments (for example,
repeated starting of the water pump).

The MELAG Customer Service Department requires
this information in order to quickly repair the
autoclave at a cost economical to you.

Cause and time of fault

during pre-heat phase ("Ready" blinks)
happens during pressure generation ("Running"

blinks)
happens during sterilization ("Running" lights)

autoclave was once "Ready"
storage tank is too bad, appears 2 sec. after the

“START” button was pressed to start a program.

during pre-heat phase or during pressure
generation or during sterilization) and inform the
service engineer in order to make a quick and low-

priced repair possible.

The autoclave has to be repaired only by the
manufacturer or by an authorized engineer.

8.1 Fault No. 1______________________________________________________________

Cause of the fault:

The autoclave's chamber has not reached the
necessary pre-heat temperature within the
supervision time of 25 minutes (sterilization),
15 minutes (disinfection) respectively.

Time of fault:

During pre-heat phase (lamp "READY" blinks)
Call for a service engineer.

Diagnosis of fault:

1. If the chamber is warm during fault indication and
the apparatus indicates "READY" after you have
switched off „main“ switch and on again shortly
and waited for a few minutes, there is at least
one heating cartridge of the pre-heating
defective.

2. If the chamber does not get warm, a fuse has
failed or a plug contact is defective.

3. If the chamber heats up to approximately 150°C
(temperature of the overheat protection), there is
a short circuit in the temperature sensor of pre­heating.

Fault correction:

1. Measure and replace heating elements.

2. Measure pre-heat output of the electronic and
replace defective elements. In case of defective
fuse, you must also check the function of
electronic exits. The semiconductor-relay should
only switch if output was directed (e.g. by test
knob, lower left side of the electronic plate). This
can be noticed by the respective lamp of the
output. Otherwise, the relay is defective and the
electronic print has to be replaced.

If somebody had been working on the autoclave

before, you should check whether the cable
shoes of the temperature sensors are sitting on
the right connector (pre-heat sensor to upper
connectors). Measure resistance values.

3. If there is a short circuit in the temperature entry
of the pre-heating, the chamber will heat up to
150°C until overheat protection is released,
without a light of lamp "READY" because the
resistance for pre-heat temperature cannot be
reached. Replace sensor.

Page 19

Operation Manual

8.2 Fault No. 4______________________________________________________________

Cause of fault:

The autoclave did not achieve its parameter for
pressure and/or temperature within the supervision
time of 5.5 minutes.

8.2.1 Autoclave insufficiently ventilated _________________________________________________

In this case, the feed water pump runs only once
after the start of the program.

For proper function of the autoclave (death of
germs), it is necessary to extract air, respectively
air/steam-mixture, out of the chamber. After a
program start or during pressure generation, air is
extracted through a current channel which branches
off in the rear part of the chamber, leads to the
measuring block and then thron a fine filter to the
inside flow nozzle (43). In this channel the steam­temperature sensor for the electronic system (35)
(visable from above in the rear opening of the
chamber bottom, under the sieve insert for the
chamber), as well as the temperature sensor of the
thermometer (39), are contacted by the flowing
steam. In front of the hose connection to the
measuring block is an additional steam filter
screwed inside the chamber block (44).

Fault diagnosis:

The autoclave will not properly vent if any of the
following components are clogged: the sieve insert
for the pressure chamber, the fine filter installed
upstream of the nozzle (43), or the steam filter (44).
The autoclave does achieve a pressure of approx.

2.2 bar (for sterilization), or 0.3--0.4 bar for
disinfection within a period of 1.5...3 min. after the
start of the program. Although it maintains this
pressure, an excessively

Time of fault:

After program start, during pressure generation
(lamp "READY" blinks).
The following reasons can be given:

low temperature (or no temperature at all) is
indicated on the thermometer. The autoclave then
switches over to fault no. 4 after program start, since
the partial pressure of the air is added to that of the
steam, which prevents the saturated-steam
temperature from being achieved at the prescribed
pressure.
Call for a service engineer.
Beyond, every blockage in this area can be
recognised with the transparent Teflon hose which
leads from the measuring block to a T-junction. In
this hose (and thus in the water discharge hose),
you can normally see small amounts of flowing
steam/condensat. The presence of prescribed
temperature (134°C or 105°C) will additionally be
indicated by a LED on the electronic CPU-board.

Fault correction:

Remove the sieve insert. Optical control of
ventilation hole in the chamber (bottom of chamber
at rear rim). This hole should not be covered or
blocked. Check whether somebody has worked
without sieve insert so that instruments have
covered the ventilation hole.
Check flow nozzle (43) and filters (40) and (44), if
necessary also steam filter (34), probably clean or
replace them. Before complete re-assembly it might
be useful to run the autoclave once without fine filter
(40) and flow nozzle (43) to flush the tubing system
and remove any residues.

MELAquick®12

8.2.2 Pressure switch is wrongly adjusted/defective _______________________________________

In this case, the feed water pump runs only once
after the start of the program.

Diagnosis of fault:

If the autoclave achieves a pressure for sterilization
of less than 2.1 bar (or 0.2 bar for disinfection) within

1.5 ... 3 min., if it remains at this insufficient
pressure, and if the thermometer reaches the
corresponding saturated-steam temperature, then
the pressure switch for sterilization (53) or for
disinfection (54) is not properly set -- or, it is
defective.
The autoclave indicates fault no. 4 without a
repeated start of the pump because the prescribed
supervision temperature cannot be achieved.
Call for a service engineer.

Fault correction:

Adjust the respective pressure switch by turning the
justification screw clockwise so that during pressure
generation, a pressure of 2.25...2.3 bar
(0.3...0.4 bar) will be reached. If the adjustment has
no success, replace the pressure switch.
The autoclave must be placed in the pure pressure­control mode in order to adjust the pressure switch.
To make this adjustment, first switch off the power
switch (4). Then hook in the two upper wire-clasp
switches (A and B) of the 4 wire-clasp buttons /
switches (32) on the electronic circuit board, at the
lower left on the circuit board (on a blue plastic
base). The second switch from the top has already
been hooked in at the factory. After adjustment work
is completed, make sure that the power switch is off,
and unhook the upper wire-clasp switch (A). If
adjustment is not possible, the pressure switch must
be replaced, and the new switch must be properly
adjusted.

Page 20

8.2.3 Failure of the heating for steam generator___________________________________________

In this case, the feed water pump runs only once
after the start of the program.

Fault diagnosis:

If the autoclave does not build up any pressure while
lamp "RUNNING" is blinking and the steam
generator under the chamber does not get warm, a
fuse has failed or a contact or the electronic CPU­board is defective.
Call for a service engineer.
Check output of steam generator, fuse and steam

8.2.4 Short circuit of the temperature sensor for steam ____________________________________

In this case, the feed water pump runs only once
after the start of the program.

Fault diagnosis:

The autoclave reaches a pressure of approximately

2.2 bar (sterilization), respectively 0.3-0.4 bar
(disinfection) within 1.5 to 3 minutes after a program
start and keeps the pressure constant, but indicates
fault No. 4 after 5.5 minutes. The thermometer

8.2.5 Too small dose of water__________________________________________________________

In this case, the feed water pump runs several
times after the start of the program.

After a program start, the pump must get into action
and, in the required pumping time of 16 seconds,
about 150 ml of aqua dest/aqua dem must be raised
from water reservoir to the steam generator.

Fault diagnosis:

If this water dose is too small, the pump will start
again at release of the steam generator's overheat
protection and after the end of the real pumping
time. Thus, the correct supervision times for pressu­re generation and killing may be exceeded.
You must notify the MELAG Customer Service
Department.
To check the amount of raised water, loosen the
hose connection from pump to chamber block at the
chamber block, put the hose's end into a measuring
beaker and start the pre-warmed apparatus. After
16 seconds, the pump must stop with an amount of
water in the beaker between 130 and 170 ml. After
this pumping time, immediately switch off the
autoclave, otherwise the pump will start again due to
overheat of the steam generator (in order to avoid
this during the test, you can remove a cable shoe of
the steam generator).

generator itself.

Fault correction:

Replace defective element. In case of defective
fuse, check the output of the electronic. The
semiconductor relay should only operate when the
exit is directed (e.g. by test knob). You can observe
its operation by the light of the respective LED of
output on the electronic circuit. Otherwise, the relay
is defective and the electronic must be replaced.

monitors a temperature of 135°C (105°C) which
means that the flow nozzle is clear.
Call for a service engineer.

Fault correction:

Check temperature sensor for steam (screwed into
the current channel of the chamber block from
underneath) and replace it.

If there are deposits of scale on the top side of the
disassembled hose, then it is necessary to clean
both this hose as well as the steam generator. See
Section 8.2.7.

Fault correction:

1. If the feed water pump (47) does not start, then
the following must be checked: the fuse for the
output for the pump, the cable connections, the
thermalprotection element installed on the pump
(a bimetallic trip), and the pump itself if required.

2. When the amount of water is too small, loosen
silicone hose on the suction side of the pump and
look if water runs out freely.

If insufficient water runs out, or no water at all,

check to see if the hose is clogged (clogging can
perhaps take place in the water storage tank),
and /or change the water filter if required.

Finally, check to make sure that a sufficient

amount of water is being pumped.

3. If there is no blockage on the suction side of the
pump and the amount of raised water is too
small, the pump should be replaced.

4. If the water reservoir is empty, but the autoclave
indicates no lack of water, check all cables and
the pressure switch for level control, perhaps
replace them. The contact of this switch opens
when the minimum amount of water (250-300ml)
is in the reservoir.

Page 21

Operation Manual

8.2.6 Too much loss of water __________________________________________________________

In this case, the water pump runs several times
after the start of the program.

Fault diagnosis:

After a program start, the autoclave ventilates the
chamber through the flow nozzle which is screwed
into the measuring block (see also chapter 8.2.1).
Then steam constantly flows through this jet into the
condenser container. The resulting loss of water is
equalized by the amount of water supplied to the
steam generator at the beginning of a process. If
water gets lost beyond, this can happen due to
enlarged flow nozzle, leak in the chamber seal (see
also 7.9) or at the solenoid valve, the safety valve or
due to a loose coupling.
If the steam generator is calcificated due to bad
water quality, the pump will also start again because
the overheat protection of the steam generator re­leases before heat reaches the water inside.
The pump will start again at release of the steam
generator's overheat protection and after the end of
the real pumping time. Thus, the correct supervision
times for pressure generation and killing may be
exceeded.
Call for a service engineer.

1. If a loud hissing sound can be heard at the
sliding door while the autoclave is under
pressure, or if the indicator instruments are
fogged, then the cause is one of the following:
either the gasket lip has been turned over by
improper closing of the sliding door, or the gasket
for the pressure chamber is defective.

2. Otherwise, loosen the connection of the hose
from the pump to the chamber block, bend hose
into a measuring beaker without kinking it and
start the pre-warmed apparatus. After

16 seconds, the pump must stop with an amount
of raised water between 130 and 170 ml.
Alternatively, you can measure the weight of the
condenser container before and after
sterilization. The increase of weight must be 130­170g.

If there are deposits of scale on the top side of

the disassembled hose, then it is necessary to
clean both this hose as well as the steam
generator. See Section 8.2.7.

Fault correction:

1. The gasket of the sliding door must be cleaned or
replaced (see Section 2.3).

2. If the amount of water is too small, refer to
Section 1.1.1.

If the amount is correct, optically check all joints

for leakage when they are under pressure. Watch
the water discharge hose of the solenoid valve
(short and straight Teflon hose from solenoid
valve to a hose-T-junction, left side of the
apparatus). Here, no steam should flow. Observe
discharge hose of the safety valve (bent Teflon
hose from ground plate to hose-T-junction, right
side of the apparatus). Here, no steam should
flow.

Tighten all joints, clean or replace solenoid valve

or clean safety valve (replace inner parts of it).

If there are no such leakages, check the flow

nozzle and perhaps replace it. The diameter of
the orifice must not be much larger than 0.5 mm.

If the problem is still not solved (but water supply

is okay, no water loss) and the pressure
generation operates slower than usual, check the
steam generator for calcification. It must be
cleaned or changed.

MELAquick®12

8.2.7 Steam generator is clogged with boiler scale ________________________________________

In this case, the feed water pump runs several
times after the start of the program.

Fault diagnosis:

The feed water pump (47) starts several times,
although amount of the water is sufficient (see
Section 1.1.1), and although there are no leaks (see

8.2.6). In addition, the upper side of the hose from

the feed water pump (47) to the chamber block (37)
is covered with scale.
You must notify the MELAG Customer Service
Department.

Correction of the fault:

The hose and the steam generator must be cleaned
or replaced if required.

8.3 Fault No. 5______________________________________________________________

Cause of the fault:

After the autoclave has once achieved the
sterilization or disinfection parameter for pressure
and temperature (as shown by the signal lamp

„

RUNNING“ (12) shining continusly), the system is
not able to maintain these parameters for the
required period of 4 minutes for sterilization, or 6
minutes for disinfection, throughout the monitoring
period of 5.5 minutes for sterilization, or 7.5 minutes
for disinfection.

Time when the malfunction occurs:

After the start, and after 5.5 minutes (for sterilization)
or after 7.5 minutes (for disinfection) after once
achieving the sterilization or disinfection parameters
for pressure and temperature (as shown by the
signal lamp „RUNNING“ (12) shining continuously).
The cause here can be as follows:

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8.3.1 The amount of water measured out is not sufficient / loss of water ______________________

In this case, the feed water pump will start
during the RUNNING phase but will later switch
off again automatically.

This malfunction will cause the pressure and the
temperature to fall, which will in turn cause the lamp

8.3.2 Interchange the temperature sensors_______________________________________________

„

RUNNING“ (12) to flash and the metering of the
sterilization time to stop. See Section 8.2.2 and 8.2.6
for the cause of this malfunction and for its
correction.

Cause of fault:

In this case, the parameters for pressure and
temperature are reached after the program start but
then, after a short time, pressure considerably falls
down to less than 2 bar, without lamp "RUNNING"
starts blinking again.
You must notify the MELAG Customer Service
Department.

Correction of the fault:

Exchange connection cables of the temperature
sensor on the electronic CPU-board (temperature
sensor for pre-heating, built in on the side of the
chamber block, must be connected to the upper two
small connectors; temperature sensor for steam
temperature, screwed into the current channel of the
chamber block from underneath, must be connected
to the lower small connectors).

8.4 Fault No. 9______________________________________________________________

Cause of the fault:

The autoclave releases a fault too, if you have tried
to open the sliding door after the program was
started (indicated first by a blinking light of lamp
"RUNNING" and then by a constant light).
If this fault release happens independently, the
justification of the door contact may be incorrect.

Time of fault:

After the program started and before lamp "END"
lights.
If this fault repeatedly occurs, although the autoclave
is being correctly operated, then you must notify the
MELAG Customer Service Department.

Fault correction:

The setting of the door-contact rod must be checked
after the autoclave has been preheated. If
necessary, the lock nut on the mircoswitch (50) must

be unscrewed, and the position of the switch on the
inside of the autoclave must be readjusted. After the
readjustment has been made, the lock nut must be
tightened again, and the switchpoint (the clickpoint)
must be checked. The correct clickpoint is as
follows: when the autoclave is preheated, and when
the sliding door is locked, the microswitch should
click approximately halfway through the travel of the
door-contact rod. The total travel should be 2 mm. If
the rod which activates the door contact has been
damaged by violent pushing of the door while it is
locked (i.e., the contact rod is bent in the guide),
then this can also lead to malfunction. If the contact
rod is bent, the microswitch must removed, and the
contact rod must be straightened. Then reinstall the
switch, with the round side facing up, and properly
adjust the door contact (see instructions above).

8.5 Fault No. 11_____________________________________________________________

Cause of the fault:

The autoclave registers a steam temperature of
140°C (sterilization), respectively 112°C (disin­fection) which is too high.

Time of fault:

1. After the pre-heat phase is over when lamp
"READY" normally should change form blinking
to a constant light.

2. During operational readiness (the „READY“
lamp (11) is already lit).

3. During pressure generation, above 2 bar
(sterilization) / 0.3 bar (disinfection), just before
lamp "RUNNING" (12) lights constantly.

4. After program started and before lamp "END"
lights.

You must notify the MELAG Customer Service
Department.

Fault diagnosis:

1. If the fault already appears after the pre-heat
phase, either the sensor for steam temperature
is defective (resistance is too high or infinite) or

the transfer resistance at the connecting places

is too high or there is a loose sensor contact
(infinite resistance).

2. In this case, the semiconductor relay of the
output for the preheating system is defective.
The preheating system continues to heat,
although the output has not been activated. As
a result of thermal coupling (i.e., the temerature
sensor is screwed into the preheated pressure­chamber unit), a steam temperature of 140°C is
registrated in this case.

3. If the pressure develops normally increase up
to a maximum of 2.3 bar for sterilization or

0.4 bar for disinfection), then the temperature
sensor has a loose contact, or there is poor
contact at the terminal.

4. The electronic circuit board has become moist
as a result of a leak in the door gasket,
because of the condensate (see Section 3.1),
or because of the moisture which has entered
the autoclave by another route. As a result, the
contact resistance values have changed.

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Operation Manual

Fault correction:

1. Clean sensor contacts, i.e. replace steam
sensors (screwed into the current channel of
the chamber block from underneath).

2. Replace the semiconductors relay for the
preheating system, or replace the entire
electronic circuit board.

8.6 Fault No. 12_____________________________________________________________

3. Clean sensor contacts, i.e. replace steam sen­sors (screwed into the current channel of the
chamber block from underneath).

4. Allow the electronic control system to dry, or
clean it with methylated alcohol (C
Replace if necessary.

MELAquick®12

O).

2H6

Cause of the fault:

The autoclave will go into the malfunction mode
when the quality (conductivity) of the demineralized
or distilled water is so poor that the autoclave and
the instruments could be damaged. (also see
Section 1.7).

Time of the fault:

Two seconds after pressing the „START“ button (7).

Correction of the fault:

Drain the water out of the water reservoir (see
Section 5.3.2). Rinse out the water storage tank with
demineralized or distilled water as described in
Section 5.3. Then fill again with adequate water (see
Section 3.3).

8.7 Fault No. 15_____________________________________________________________

Cause of the fault:

The power switch was turned off during a program
cycle, or there was an interruption of power to the
autoclave. This fault will be printed out on the log
only if the last log is printed out again (see
Section 1.5).

Correction of the fault:

Start the program and sterilize / disinfect the batch
of the instruments again.

9 Spare parts

Art.-no. Description Art.-no. Description

39310 Waste water hose (give length) (22) 31160 Steam filter (41, 44)
12550 Door gasket 31460 Feed water pump (47)
34120 Flow nozzle (43) 38700 Pressure switch sterilization (53)
30720 Ball for safety valve (42) 39690 Pressure switch disinfection (54)
31825 Water filter (46) 40810 Pressure switch water level (45)
31170 Solenoid valve for pressure release (49) 30360 Electronic regulation unit (since fabr. no. 12 5000)
29570 Coil for solenoid valve 30470 Front panel w. electr. indication
39100 Rectifier plug for solenoid valve 31140 Plug for water discharge hose (19)
31090 Pressure gauge (5) 31530 Lid for water reservoir (3)
30640 Thermometer (6) 30480 Cover caps for door face

Notes:

Operating manual MELAquick 12.doc Rev.: 2 - 01/017 Page 28