Autoclaving is a sterilization method using high pressure steam. In this process, the steam of the boiling water is used under pressure. The word autoclave is derived from the Latin words auto meaning automatic and clavis meaning self-locking. Actually, the first autoclave is a pressure cooker. However, the first use of autoclaves for medical and scientific purposes was in the early 1880s.

The materials placed in the autoclave are exposed to gradual temperature increases under high pressure at a temperature of around 121 degrees, and then kept in steam for a while. The time and temperature required for the sterilization process vary depending on the materials to be sterilized and whether they are exposed directly to steam. During this time, all bacteria, viruses and bacterial spores are destroyed. In short, autoclaves are mainly used to destroy microorganisms.

Autoclaving is a very reliable method for the sterilization and decontamination of laboratory instruments, medical devices, surgical instruments and media.

Most clinics today have desktop autoclaves almost the size of a microwave oven. Larger autoclaves called horizontal autoclaves are used in hospitals. It is used for sterilization of equipment in operating rooms and emergency services. High temperature steam is the sterilizing agent of the autoclave.

The optimal steam composition in an autoclave is 97 percent gas and 3 percent liquid. Any change in humidity will prolong or reduce the sterilization time. Obtaining these values ​​and using the autoclave effectively at all times depends on regular controls.

The standards that are taken as basis in the control and inspection works carried out by the competent authorities are as follows:

• TS EN 13060 + A1 Small steam sterilizers

• TS EN 285 Sterilization - Steam autoclaves - Large autoclaves

• TS EN ISO 11140-1 Sterilization of healthcare equipment - Chemical indicators - Part 1: General properties

• TS EN 12347 Biotechnology - Performance criteria for steam sterilizers and autoclaves