The Importance of Medical Sterilization

Reusing contaminated medical devices spreads dangerous infections. Sterilization eliminates over 99.9999% of microbes like HIV, hepatitis, hantavirus, and Human Papillomavirus from reused tools and equipment.

Steam and heat sterilizers let facilities reuse everything from scalpels and clamps to operating room furniture safely. Effective sterilization protects staff and patients while enabling affordable reuse of supplies.

All healthcare facilities need properly sized sterilizers matching their caseloads. Lacking capacity in sterile processing departments dangerously bottlenecks workflows. Robust sterilizers improve productivity and outcomes.

Key Types of Sterilizers

Healthcare facilities have two main options for sterilization processes:

Steam Sterilizers

Also called autoclaves or steam autoclaves, these sterilizers use saturated steam under high temperature and pressure. Models may be gravity cycles or utilize vacuum/pre-vacuum cycles for faster throughput. Steam penetrates wrapped instrument trays and lumened devices. These are the most common healthcare sterilizers given their efficacy and speed.

Dry Heat Sterilizers

Dry heat units rely on extremely high temperatures of 320°F to 480°F flowing through closed heating chambers by convection without steam or pressure. Cycles take longer but dry heat can be used for items damaged by moisture. Typical applications include glassware, powered instruments, and implantable items.

Factors Influencing Sterilizer Selection

With countless options, choosing the ideal sterilizer depends on several elements:

Needed Capacity – High volume departments need larger chamber sizes than low volume areas. Consider current and projected daily instrument sets needing processing.

Department Workflows – Will this be a dedicated unit for sterile processing versus distributed sterilization units across ORs, clinics, etc? Central units often require more capacity.

Types of Devices – Some modalities like endoscopes may need special cycles. Ensure the sterilizer accommodates all instrument categories.

Load Configurations – Will it need to process loose instruments or mainly standard wrapped trays? This impacts shelving and cart needs.

Cycle Types – Determine essential cycle options like gravity vs. vacuum, prevacuum, liquid cycles, rapid cycles, and custom programs.

Facility Infrastructure – Evaluate utility needs like electrical, water, drainage, and space requirements. Older facilities may need upgrades.

Budget – Larger steam sterilizers carry higher price tags. But capacity limitations create backlogs. Balance costs against clinical demands.

Taking time upfront to thoroughly evaluate requirements helps identify the optimal sterilizer or portfolio of units.

Steam Sterilizer Options

Steam sterilizers come in a wide variety of models and configurations:

Tabletop Sterilizers – Compact steam sterilizers like the Tuttnauer 2340M are ideal for small clinics and dental offices.

Office Autoclaves – Larger standalone models like the Pelton Crane Magnaclave suit higher volumes in outpatient centers.

Hospital Autoclaves – Giant industrial autoclaves like the Steris 400 Series manages huge instrument sets for sterile processing departments. Chambers can surpass 130 liters.

Combo Washer/Sterilizers – Integrated systems both wash and sterilize instruments automatically like the Belimed WD Series models.

Cassette Autoclaves – Benchtop models like the SciCan Statim sterilize prepacked cassettes for fast instrument turnaround.

Vacuum Autoclaves – Models like the Tuttnauer M Series utilize vacuum pump technology to rapidly remove air before steam injection.

Selecting reliable OEM brands like Steris, Tuttnauer, and Getinge provides quality construction and long-term support.

Dry Heat Sterilizer Options

While less common than steam sterilizers, dry heat models provide specialty capability:

Benchtop Lab Dry Heat Sterilizers – Small capacity sterilizers like the Binder FD Series fit on counters and sterilize glassware, pipettes, and other labware.

Benchtop Dry Heat Ovens – Larger bench models like the Despatch LBB series sterilize medical instruments and implantable devices with adjustable temperatures.

Standalone Electric Dry Heat Sterilizers – Models like the Tuttnauer EHS sterilize a range of medical supplies using convection heating technology in a standalone cabinet.

Industrial Dry Heat Sterilizers – Heavy duty bulk sterilizers like those from Wisconsin Oven quickly process large batches of instruments, gowns, padding, and other medical materials without wetness.

Dry heat provides an important niche capability complementing steam sterilization processes.

Key Sterilizer Brands

Reputable sterilizer manufacturers include:

• Steris – Comprehensive portfolio spanning laboratory to industrial autoclaves. A leading OEM brand.

• Tuttnauer – Offers a full range of steam sterilizers plus specialty options like hydrogen peroxide models. Great for mid-size needs.

• Getinge – Top brand for high-capacity sterile processing departments and fast vacuum autoclave technology.

• Belimed – Intuitive designs optimized for central sterile workflows. Washer/sterilizer combos integrate cleaning.

• Pelton & Crane – Popular for dental, medical, and chiropractic office autoclave needs. Compact and dependable.

• Binder – Specialized lab and benchtop dry heat sterilizers. Wide temperature range options.

• Wisonsin Oven – Heavy duty industrial batch dry heat sterilizers for high throughput.

Sticking with proven OEMs ensures reliable construction, support, and serviceability.

Maintaining Sterilizers

Like any equipment, sterilizers need careful maintenance for peak performance:

• Annual maintenance and calibration to meet healthcare standards

• Regular recordkeeping, alarms, gauges, and components checks

• Proactive filter, gasket, and lamp replacements

• Immediate response to any fault indications or alarms

• Follow all manufacturer cleaning procedures

• Quarterly water line descaling depending on water hardness

Catching minor issues early prevents major disruptions in sterilization capacity. Partners like Auxo Medical offer affordable maintenance programs that optimize lifecycles.

Acquiring the Ideal Sterilizer

Healthcare facilities must carefully evaluate capacity needs, device compatibility, infrastructure, budgets, and more when selecting sterilizers. Ultimately the right portfolio of steam and dry heat sterilizers allows reprocessing diverse medical supplies safely and efficiently. Auxo Medical provides all the major brands and technologies needed to achieve effective sterilization.

The post Choosing the Right Sterilizer for Healthcare Facilities appeared first on Auxo Medical.

Why Choose a Refurbished Steris Sterilizer from Auxo Medical?

At Auxo Medical, quality and performance are our top priorities. Our reconditioned and refurbished Steris sterilizers undergo a rigorous process to ensure they meet original manufacturer specifications. This includes:

• Thorough Inspection: Each sterilizer is carefully inspected to identify any potential issues.
• Cleaning and Disinfection: Sterilizers are meticulously cleaned and disinfected to ensure patient safety.
• Repair and Replacement: Any damaged or worn components are repaired or replaced with high-quality parts.
• Calibration and Certification: Sterilizers are calibrated and certified to meet performance standards.

Featured Refurbished Steris Sterilizers:

Our current inventory of refurbished Steris sterilizers includes a variety of models to suit different needs and budgets. Here are a few examples:

• Steris 250LS 20” Lab Sterilizer: This state-of-the-art steam sterilizer has a spacious 20x20x38 inch interior chamber.
• Steris Amsco 400 Series Sterilizers: Available in various sizes (48″ and 60″ chamber depths), these recessed house steam sterilizers are engineered for efficient, high-volume sterilization. We also offer cabinet packages and cart/carriage systems for the 400 series. Chamber dimensions include 26 x 37.5 inches.
• Steris Amsco Stage 3 Series Sterilizers: Including the 20” 3023 and 16″ 3013 models, these sterilizers offer a robust and reliable solution for demanding sterilization needs with pre-vacuum (Class B) configuration.
• Steris Amsco Century Small Sterilizer (Steris V120 Steam Sterilizer): An advanced solution tailored to meet the demands of today’s operating rooms and various hospital environments, boasting a 20″ x 20″ x 38″ chamber.
• Steris Amsco Eagle 3000 Series: Including models 3053, 3043 and 3033, these sterilizers feature large chambers for high-volume sterilization needs and the advanced Stage 3 controller with a thermal printer.
• Steris Amsco Century V Series: Including models V160, V148, V136 and V116, these sterilizers are designed for fast, efficient sterilization of heat and water-resistant materials with pre-vac, gravity, flash, express, leak test, and daily air removal capabilities.

Benefits of Steris Sterilizers:

Steris sterilizers are known for their:

• Durability
• Ease of Operation
• Corrosion Resistance
• Advanced Features (including hands-free controls, easy-to-read displays, and thermal printing capabilities)

Let Auxo Medical Help You Find the Right Sterilizer

Auxo Medical offers a wide selection of new, reconditioned, and refurbished equipment. Our team can help you determine the best option for your facility’s needs. We also offer service, maintenance, and repairs for sterilizers and other medical equipment in several field service areas.

Contact Auxo Medical today at (888) 728-8448 to request a quote and learn more about our refurbished Steris sterilizer options.

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The Auxo Medical Refurbishment Process: A True Rebuild

Unlike typical refurbishment processes, Auxo Medical’s approach involves a comprehensive rebuild of each steam sterilizer, guaranteeing optimal performance and longevity. This meticulous process includes:

1. Complete Disassembly at the Component Level

Every unit is completely disassembled, allowing for thorough inspection, cleaning, and replacement of worn or damaged parts.

2. Vessel and Frame Refurbishment

• Pressure Vessel Chamber: The pressure vessel chamber (“core”) undergoes bead blasting and hydrostatic pressure testing to ensure structural integrity.
• Frame/Stand: The cast iron framing/stand is bead blasted, repainted with rust-resistant paint, or completely replaced, ensuring a solid foundation.
• Insulation: A new insulation blanket encases the chamber/core, optimizing thermal efficiency.

3. Plumbing Rebuild

Both upper and lower plumbing systems are meticulously rebuilt, with:

• Steam, Exhaust, and Water Manifolds: Rebuilt to ensure optimal flow and pressure.
• New Components (Upper Plumbing): Air filters, pressure gauges, pressure transducers, ball valves, and screens are replaced with new components.
• Rebuilt Components (Upper Plumbing): Pressure regulators and strainers are rebuilt to like-new condition.
• New Components (Lower Plumbing): Chamber sensor, ball valves, pressure switch, screens, o-rings, RTD, jacket, and chamber drain are replaced.
• Rebuilt Components (Lower Plumbing): Check valves, Venturi Water Ejector, heat exchanger, strainers, and steam traps are rebuilt.

4. Door Refurbishment

Doors are disassembled, cleaned, and bead blasted as needed. Specific attention is given to different sterilizer models:

• 400 Series and Century Sterilizers (Vertical Power Door): Rebuilt with new door cable, sensors, stainless components, and a recertified motor.
• Eagle 3000 (Radial Handwheel Door): Rebuilt with refinished nickel-coated door bars, new guides, and a new door cover.

5. Controls Recertification

• Displays/Touchpads: Reconditioned or replaced to ensure clear and responsive operation.
• Printer Components: Replaced for reliable documentation.
• Control Board, Connector Board, Power Supply Board, Control Housing: Tested and recertified using an independent testing station.
• Wiring: All wiring is verified and replaced if necessary.

6. Framing/Stainless Panels

All other stainless and framing side panels are either new or regrained to achieve a “like new” condition, ensuring a professional appearance.

Quality Assurance: Ensuring Reliability and Performance

Auxo Medical’s commitment to quality extends beyond the refurbishment process. Every unit undergoes rigorous testing and calibration:

• Calibration: All units are meticulously calibrated to meet original manufacturer specifications.
• Leak Testing: Each unit must complete 20 cycles without exceeding a manufacturer-accepted leak rate of 1.0.

Benefits of Choosing Refurbished Steam Sterilizers from Auxo Medical

• Cost-Effective Solution: Obtain reliable sterile processing equipment at a fraction of the cost of new units.
• “Like New” Warranties: Enjoy peace of mind with warranties comparable to new equipment.
• Comprehensive Rebuild Process: Benefit from a meticulous refurbishment process that ensures optimal performance and longevity.
• Preventative Maintenance and Repair Support Options: Maximize uptime with available maintenance and repair services.

Contact Auxo Medical Today

Upgrade your sterile processing capabilities with confidence. Contact Auxo Medical to learn more about our refurbished steam sterilizers and explore preventative maintenance and repair support options.

Auxo Medical
Toll-Free: (888) 728-8448

The post Small Steam Sterilizer Refurbishment and Quality Assurance Process at Auxo Medical appeared first on Auxo Medical.

About Steris

Steris is a prominent global provider of infection prevention and other procedural products and services, primarily serving the healthcare, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. Founded in 1985, the company has established itself as a leader in offering innovative solutions designed to meet the critical needs of its customers, ensuring that their operations adhere to the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Steris’s comprehensive portfolio includes sterilization products, surgical equipment, laboratory services, and a range of support services aimed at preventing infection and contamination in clinical and research environments. With a steadfast commitment to improving patient care and outcomes, Steris continues to invest in research and development, expanding its product offerings and leveraging advanced technologies to address the evolving challenges faced by healthcare professionals worldwide. Through its global presence, Steris plays a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiencies and promoting safer practices across the healthcare sector.

Steris Equipment Available at Auxo Medical:

Steris Surgical Tables

Steris offers a range of surgical tables that are designed to provide reliability and versatility in the operating room. The featured Steris general OR table at Auxo Medical is the Steris Amsco Model 3085 Surgical Table. This surgical table is recognized as an industry standard due to its reliability and popularity. It is equipped with various features to ensure patient comfort and surgical precision. To learn more about the Steris Amsco Model 3085 Surgical Table, you can view that model specifical here or view all the available Steris Surgical Tables here.

Steris Steam Sterilizers

Steris steam sterilizers are essential equipment in healthcare facilities for ensuring the sterility of medical instruments and equipment. Auxo Medical offers a variety of Steris steam sterilizers, including the Steris Century Steam Sterilizers and Steris 400 Series Steam Sterilizers. These steam sterilizers are designed to provide efficient and effective sterilization, meeting the highest standards of safety and reliability. To explore the range of Steris steam sterilizers available at Auxo Medical, you can browse through their product catalog.

Steris Surgical Lighting Systems

Proper lighting is crucial in the operating room to ensure optimal visualization during surgical procedures. Steris offers advanced surgical lighting systems that provide exceptional illumination for better patient outcomes. At Auxo Medical, you can find the Steris Harmony Air M Series Dual Head LED Surgical Light and Steris Harmony Air G Series Dual Head LED Surgical Light. These surgical lighting systems are designed to deliver precise and bright illumination, enhancing surgical accuracy. To learn more about the Steris surgical lighting systems available at Auxo Medical, you can view the available Steris surgical lights here.

Steris Washer/Disinfectors

Steris washer/disinfectors are essential for the cleaning and disinfection of reusable medical instruments and equipment. Auxo Medical offers the Steris 2532 Pass-through Washer Disinfector and the Steris Reliance Genfore Washer. These washer/disinfectors are designed to provide efficient and thorough cleaning, ensuring the highest level of hygiene in healthcare facilities. To explore the range of Steris washer/disinfectors available at Auxo Medical, you can browse through their product catalog.

Steris Ultrasonic Cleaners

Ultrasonic cleaners are used for the thorough cleaning of delicate and intricate medical instruments. Steris offers ultrasonic cleaners that provide efficient and gentle cleaning. At Auxo Medical, you can find the Steris Caviwave Single Chamber Ultrasonic Cleaner and Steris Caviwave Pro Single Chamber Ultrasonic Cleaner. These ultrasonic cleaners are equipped with advanced features to ensure effective cleaning while maintaining the integrity of the instruments. To learn more about the Steris ultrasonic cleaners available at Auxo Medical view the catalog of Steris ultrasonic cleaners here.

Additional Steris Items and Accessories

Auxo Medical also offers a range of Steris surgical accessories to complement their surgical equipment. These accessories include the Steris BF717 Arthroscopy Knee Positioner, Steris LED395 Exam Light on Floor Stand, and Rack Return Module for Steris Washers. These accessories are designed to enhance surgical procedures and improve patient outcomes. To explore all the Steris equipment and accessories at Auxo Medical, you can browse through all the Steris products here.

Order your Steris Equipment from Auxo Medical

Auxo Medical is a reliable source for Steris products, offering a comprehensive range of medical equipment for various healthcare needs. Whether you require surgical tables, steam sterilizers, surgical lighting systems, washer/disinfectors, ultrasonic cleaners, or surgical accessories, Auxo Medical has you covered. By partnering with Steris, Auxo Medical ensures that their customers have access to high-quality and reliable medical equipment. To learn more about the Steris products available at Auxo Medical, you can visit their website and explore their product catalog.

The post Steris Products Available at Auxo Medical appeared first on Auxo Medical.

The Benefits of Purchasing a Refurbished Steam Sterilizer from Auxo Medical

Purchasing a refurbished sterilizer from Auxo Medical comes with a variety of benefits. Refurbished units are a cost-effective solution for healthcare facilities, laboratories and Sterile Processing Departments (SPD) that may not have the budget for brand new sterilizers. With over 25 years of process development and improvement, there is only one way to refurbish a steam sterilizer. A true REBUILD of the unit. Each machine goes through a rigorous refurbishment and rebuild process to bring it back to “like new” condition. Upon completion of the refurbishment procedure, each unit goes though a detailed quality assurance process to ensure it meets manufacturer and industry standards for performance and safety. In addition, all of our fully rebuilt steam sterilizers come with like new warranties and preventative maintenance and repair support options, so you can expect the same experience as if it were new.

The Following are the Procedures of the Auxo Medical Refurbishment Process:

Units are completely disassembled at the component level:

Vessel and Frame Refurbishment:

• Pressure Vessel Chamber or “Core” is bead blasted and hydrostatic pressure tested
• Cast Iron Framing/Stand is bead blasted and repainted with rust resistant paint, or replaced completely.
• Unit is fitted with new Insulation Blanket encasing the chamber/core.

High Quality and Reliable Refurbished Medical Equipment

With over a quarter century of experience in rebuilding and refurbishing steam sterilizers, you can rest assured that your purchase of a refurbished sterilizer from Auxo Medical will perform like new at a considerable cost savings without sacrificing quality and effectiveness. View our online catalogue of new and refurbished sterilizers  or contact Auxo Medical today to get your customized quote on a high quality refurbished steam sterilizer.

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The post Auxo Medical’s Refurbishment Process – Steam Sterilizers appeared first on Auxo Medical.