How to choose a laboratory autoclave

The right autoclave depends on what you sterilize, how much and how often. These are the main questions.

1. What will you sterilize?

Media, glassware and waste can use a gravity autoclave. Wrapped instruments and porous loads usually need a pre-vacuum model. Liquids need a cycle with slow exhaust.

2. How much, and how often?

Estimate a typical load in litres and the number of loads per day. Use the size estimator to get a rough chamber volume, then add headroom for growth.

3. Check usable size

Look at the usable chamber dimensions and the tallest item you will load, not just the headline volume.

4. Utilities and space

• Does it use a built-in steam generator or an outside steam supply?
• What water quality does the manufacturer require?
• What electrical supply and drain does it need?
• Is there room, ventilation and clearance for the door?

5. Features

Programmable cycles, printouts or data logging, a liquid cycle, a drying stage and safety interlocks. Choose features you will actually use.

6. Verification and records

Plan how you will verify sterilization with chemical indicators and, where required, biological indicators, and how you will keep cycle records.

7. Maintenance and support

Ask about service contracts, spare parts, inspection requirements and training. Autoclaves are pressure vessels and are usually subject to periodic inspection under local rules.

8. Total cost

Add the purchase price, installation, water and power, consumables and servicing over the years you expect to use it.