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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is steam sterilization preferable to other forms of medical sterilization?

Autoclaving is faster, more effective and less expensive than other forms of medical sterilization, including ethylene oxide and hydrogen peroxide, making it the most common sterilization method in hospital and other medical facilities.

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What types of medical equipment can you sterilize using a Consolidated autoclave?

Our autoclaves are capable of sterilizing a wide variety of critical, semi-critical and noncritical items, including — but not limited to — surgical instruments, hypodermic needles, implanted devices, endoscopes, stethoscopes and medical waste.

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What type of environment are Consolidated sterilizers designed for?

Our medical autoclaves are suitable for any healthcare environment, including — but not limited to — medical teaching labs, diagnostic labs, ambulatory surgical centers, medical clinics, birth centers, blood banks, doctors’ offices, radiology centers, urgent care facilities and medical research facilities.

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What types of prosthetic materials can be sterilized in an autoclave?

You can safely autoclave most metals, medical-grade plastics, and some composites, but you’ll require material-specific cycle customization to avoid damage or warping. Always confirm that the materials used in a prosthetic are autoclave-safe before sterilization.

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How are autoclaves used for prosthetics?

In addition to sterilization purposes, autoclaves are commonly used for accelerated aging tests. These tests are designed to simulate long-term use, helping manufacturers evaluate performance over time.

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What type of autoclave is best for glassware loads?

Both gravity and vacuum autoclaves are sufficient for sterilizing glassware. For basic glassware sterilization, a gravity autoclave is often adequate. However, if your lab frequently processes large, nested, or wrapped glassware loads, a vacuum autoclave provides more thorough sterilization and faster drying times.

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Can all types of glassware be sterilized in an autoclave?

No. Only durable glass types, such as borosilicate, should be autoclaved. Non-borosilicate glasses (e.g. soda lime or flint glass) may crack or shatter under the intense atmospheric conditions created in the chamber during sterilization cycles.

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Do prosthetics with electronics require special handling?

Some electronic or sensor-integrated prosthetics may not be able to tolerate steam sterilization cycles, requiring alternative low-temperature methods. Be sure to check the instructions for use (IFU) to verify whether the electronic components in any prosthetics you plan to autoclave can safely withstand the process ahead of time.

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How should glassware be loaded into an autoclave?

Always place glassware on racks or trays with enough space between each piece to allow for even steam penetration. Whenever possible, load glassware into an autoclave in a way that ensures natural drainage of water away from the load to aid drying. Additionally, keeping glassware away from the chamber walls helps prevent breakage caused by […]

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What features should I look for in an autoclave for prosthetics?

Look for programmable cycles, precise temperature control, vacuum options, and compatibility with delicate or irregularly shaped items to ensure both safe sterilization and reliable testing.

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CSS News & Events

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12.10.25

AAMI ST108 Compliance

Introducing SterilSteam Sampler, The Steam Condensate Sampler for AAMI ST108 Compliance →

Released in 2023, AAMI/ANSI ST108 establishes water quality requirements for water used in the cleaning, rinsing, disinfection, and sterilization of reusable medical devices. In addition to these requirements, ST108 mandates quarterly testing of steam condensate quality to ensure incoming steam does not stain instruments or pose a risk to patient safety. To help healthcare facilities […]

11.6.25

Critical Water for Autoclaves

AAMI ST108 & Critical Water for Autoclaves: What ASCs Need to Know →

A major step forward in patient safety, ANSI/AAMI ST108 establishes new minimum water quality requirements for water used in the cleaning, rinsing, disinfection, and sterilization of reusable medical devices. Despite providing guidance on water quality management for sterile processing, ST108 has also created confusion, especially regarding test protocols, water treatment, and critical water requirements. In […]

10.20.25

woman with long dark hair wearing a white lab coat and blue rubber gloves removes trays from an autoclave

What Is an Autoclave Machine Really Used for? [Applications, Costs & More] →

Autoclave machines are mission-critical equipment in a variety of industries, from healthcare to biotech, ensuring equipment and materials are sterilized and safe for use. Whether you’re considering purchasing an autoclave for a new facility, replacing a broken one, or expanding your current sterilization capacity, understanding the ins and outs of autoclave technology is key to […]
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