What You Need to Know to Extend the Lifespan of Your Autoclave

An autoclave is a device designed for preserving meat, fish, mushrooms, vegetables, and fruits. Like any household appliance, an autoclave has specific operating rules, following which will ensure a long lifespan. It's also important to note that autoclaving involves pressure and high temperatures, so it's crucial to follow safety precautions when using the device.

When purchasing an autoclave, we expect to receive reliable equipment that will last for many years. By choosing a UTEHO ("Ukrpromtekh") autoclave, you can be sure of this because our devices undergo 3 stages of testing before being sent to you.

However, not everything depends on the manufacturer. Careless use and failure to follow the user manual can not only shorten the lifespan of the autoclave but also cause it to malfunction. That’s why we strongly recommend thoroughly familiarizing yourself with and adhering to the manual, which always comes with the autoclave.

Loss of Seal Integrity

To prevent issues with seal integrity, it is essential to understand the construction of the autoclave and the principles that ensure its airtightness. The advantage of autoclaving is the ability to reach temperatures higher than the boiling point (100°C). This is achieved by the pressure generated inside, and for this, the autoclave must be airtight.

The autoclave achieves airtightness through its design. Its main element is the body, which is a solid structure with parts joined by TIG welding. This method of connecting metal components provides ultra-strong seams that are resistant to corrosion and defects.

The autoclave is sealed with a lid placed on a sealing gasket, ensuring a tight seal between the lid and the body. The lid is secured with bolts (or a clamping mechanism, depending on the autoclave model). What can cause a loss of seal integrity in an autoclave? The operating pressure of autoclaves is 5 atm, but studies have shown that the device can withstand over 20 atm. Therefore, we recommend not increasing the pressure beyond what the instructions suggest.

Before starting the preservation process, it is also important to inspect the sealing gasket for any damage. If such damage is present, it is prohibited to preserve food. You must replace the gasket immediately, which can be done on our website. Any self-repair of the autoclave in case of a seal breach is prohibited, as it can lead to a serious accident.

Electric Autoclave Breakdowns

For electric autoclaves, the key components are the control unit and the heating element (ten). The control unit ensures the automatic sterilization process with the required time and temperature parameters, while the heating element heats the water inside the autoclave.

Any damage to the electrical cable renders the device unusable, even if it powers on. Ignoring this rule can result in electric shock and burns.

What You Need to Know to Extend the Lifespan of Your Autoclave

If a problem arises with the control unit, you need to contact our manager to identify the cause and send the part in for repair. One consequence of a malfunctioning control unit could be uncontrolled increases in pressure and temperature, leading to damage to the autoclave's structure.

Similar solutions can be found if the heating element fails—order it on our website and replace it.

Usage Recommendations

To ensure your autoclave lasts as long as possible, you should follow simple but very important rules:

strictly follow the instructions;
store the autoclave in a dry, clean place;
dry the autoclave thoroughly after use;
visually inspect the autoclave for defects before use;
do not experiment with the pressure and temperature of the autoclave;
do not use the autoclave for purposes other than its intended use.

In addition to autoclaves, UTEHO ("Ukrpromtekh") manufactures moonshine distillers and rectification columns. Together with distillation cubes, they form a complete set for high-quality moonshine production.

The website also offers a wide range of stainless steel products: electric and wood-burning water heaters, cheese makers, vacuum massagers, smokers, and quail cages, as well as frying pans made from disc harrow blades. You will find products to suit any budget—from large industrial autoclaves to affordable home models.

Our managers are always ready to help you choose an autoclave or another device. You can also get advice on how to use the autoclave and answers to all your questions by contacting us at: (050) 376-60-86, (067) 370-27-22.

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